Nelson Dam, located in Des Moines, Iowa, is a privately owned structure designed by USDA NRCS and completed in 1966. With a height of 24 feet and a length of 362 feet, this earth dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock management, and as a small fish pond. The dam has a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 4 acres, with a drainage area of 0.3 square miles.

Managed by the Iowa DNR, Nelson Dam is classified as having a low hazard potential and a moderate risk rating. The spillway type is uncontrolled, with no outlet gates or associated structures. While the condition assessment is currently not rated, the dam is inspected regularly by the state and meets all regulatory requirements. Situated on the TR-Little Flint River near the Mississippi River, Nelson Dam plays a crucial role in the local water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.

Overall, Nelson Dam stands as a vital infrastructure for water resource management in Des Moines, Iowa. Its strategic location and design by USDA NRCS ensure that it serves its purposes effectively while maintaining safety standards. With its low hazard potential and moderate risk rating, the dam remains a key component of the region's water infrastructure, contributing to fire protection, livestock management, and small fish pond activities.