Nelsons Reservoir Report
Nearby: Vr-72 Dam Frank Jenson #1
Last Updated: December 23, 2025
Nelsons, located in Hinsdale, Montana, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1947 for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes along Jack Creek.
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Summary
The dam has a height of 15 feet and a storage capacity of 77 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 40 acre-feet. While the dam is classified as low hazard potential and has not been rated for condition assessment, it is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement.
The dam, situated in Valley County, Montana, serves as a vital resource for water management in the region. With its strategic location and purpose, Nelsons plays a crucial role in providing fire protection and water storage for agricultural activities, livestock, and recreational fishing. Despite being privately owned, the dam falls under state jurisdiction and is subject to state regulatory agencies for ensuring its safety and compliance with relevant regulations.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Nelsons to be an interesting case study in sustainable water management and the intersection of private ownership with state regulation. As a part of the Omaha District and Congressional District 00 in Montana, the dam showcases the importance of balancing water resource development with environmental protection and safety measures. Its history, purpose, and regulatory oversight offer valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities in managing water resources in a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1947 |
Dam Length |
80 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
JACK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Nid Storage |
77 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
15 |
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.
Nelsons