Nelson Dike Da Reservoir Report
Nearby: Nelson Dike C Nelson Dike B
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Nelson Dike Da, located in Saco, Montana, is a federal-owned dam constructed in 1914 by the Bureau of Reclamation with the primary purpose of irrigation.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 21 feet and with a hydraulic height of 28 feet, this earth dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the Milk River OS. With a normal storage capacity of 79,224 acre-feet and a maximum storage capacity of 85,175 acre-feet, Nelson Dike Da covers a surface area of 4,560 acres and serves a drainage area of 35 square miles.
The dam is associated with four other structures and is regulated by the Bureau of Reclamation. Despite its age, Nelson Dike Da remains a vital infrastructure for water management, especially in an area prone to high hazard potential. With recent modifications in 2018 to its foundation, the dam continues to undergo regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The risk assessment for Nelson Dike Da indicates a high risk level, underscoring the importance of effective risk management measures and emergency preparedness.
Overall, Nelson Dike Da stands as a testament to the enduring significance of water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions. As climate enthusiasts and water resource professionals continue to monitor and assess the impacts of climate change on water infrastructure, dams like Nelson Dike Da serve as critical components in safeguarding water resources for irrigation and other essential purposes in the region.
Years Modified |
2018 - Foundation |
Year Completed |
1914 |
Dam Length |
5625 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
MILK RIVER OS |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4560 |
Hydraulic Height |
28 |
Drainage Area |
35 |
Nid Storage |
85175 |
Structural Height |
21 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
28 |
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 Dike Da