Nelson Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Kcs Bridge A-65 Ward Lake Dam-Sec 29
Last Updated: January 12, 2026
Nelson Lake Dam, located in Papinsville, Missouri, is a private-owned structure primarily used for recreation purposes.
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Summary
The dam, classified as an Earth type with a buttress core, stands at a height of 15 feet and has a storage capacity of 169 acre-feet. Situated on TR Mulberry Creek in Bates County, Missouri, this low-hazard dam poses minimal risk according to assessments.
Despite not being regulated or inspected by the state, Nelson Lake Dam serves as a key feature for outdoor enthusiasts in the area. With a surface area of 21 acres and a drainage area of 650 acres, the dam provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and other recreational activities. The dam's condition is currently not rated, but it continues to support the local community's enjoyment of the natural surroundings.
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
TR MULBERRY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
21 |
Drainage Area |
650 |
Nid Storage |
169 |
Structural Height |
15 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Marais Des Cygnes R Nr Ks-Mo St Line
|
1860cfs |
Marais Des Cygnes R At La Cygne
|
1680cfs |
South Grand River At Archie
|
48cfs |
L Osage R At Fulton
|
1cfs |
Little Osage R. At Horton
|
3cfs |
Big Bull C Nr Hillsdale
|
0cfs |
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 Lake Dam