Nelson Detention Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Nelson Detention Dam, located in Washington County, Nebraska, is a vital infrastructure designed by the USDA NRCS to mitigate flood risks along Turkey Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 1957, this earth dam stands at a height of 50 feet and stretches 282 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 111 acre-feet. Despite its significant hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2020 revealed poor structural integrity, highlighting the need for timely maintenance and risk management measures.

Owned privately, Nelson Detention Dam falls under the regulatory oversight of the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, with state-mandated inspections and enforcement mechanisms in place. The dam's primary purpose is flood risk reduction, serving the local community by protecting against potential inundation events. However, its outdated design and poor condition underscore the importance of regular monitoring and investment in infrastructure resilience to safeguard water resources in the region.

As climate change continues to impact precipitation patterns and intensify extreme weather events, infrastructure like Nelson Detention Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate adaptation efforts. With a drainage area of 0.8 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 645 cubic feet per second, this dam serves as a critical line of defense against flooding in the area. Moving forward, proactive maintenance, risk assessment, and emergency preparedness will be essential to ensure the long-term effectiveness and safety of Nelson Detention Dam in the face of evolving climate challenges.

Year Completed

1957

Dam Length

282

Dam Height

50

River Or Stream

TURKEY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Hydraulic Height

48

Drainage Area

0.8

Nid Storage

111

Structural Height

52

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

52
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.