Nelson Pond Reservoir Report
Nearby: Stinking Lake Marshall Lake
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Nelson Pond, also known as August Nelson Fish & F Pond, is a privately owned water resource located in Becker County, Minnesota.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
This earth dam structure, designed by MNDNR-DOW, was completed in 1957 and serves multiple purposes, including providing water storage for irrigation, wildlife habitat, and recreational activities. The pond has a storage capacity of 225 acre-feet, with a surface area of 240 acres and a drainage area of 11.1 square miles.
Situated along the Buffalo River, Nelson Pond has a low hazard potential but is in poor condition as per the last inspection in August 2014. Despite its condition, the pond continues to play a vital role in the local ecosystem and community. With a maximum discharge of 160 cubic feet per second, it serves as a valuable water resource in the region. However, it is important for regulatory agencies like MNDNR EWR to continue inspecting, maintaining, and enforcing regulations to ensure the safety and sustainability of Nelson Pond for future generations.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the significance of Nelson Pond as a privately owned structure contributing to water management in Minnesota. Its location, historical background, and purposes make it a unique and valuable asset in the region. As climate change impacts water resources, the maintenance and proper management of structures like Nelson Pond become increasingly crucial to ensure water availability, habitat preservation, and recreational opportunities for the community.
Year Completed |
1957 |
Dam Length |
98 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
BUFFALO RIVER-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
240 |
Drainage Area |
11.1 |
Nid Storage |
225 |
Structural Height |
17 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
17 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
Nelson Pond