Nelson Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 8, 2025
Nelson Lake Dam, also known as Minnkota Power Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Oliver County, North Dakota.
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Summary
Built in 1967 by International Eng Co Inc, this earth dam stands at a height of 66 feet and stretches over 2200 feet along Square Butte Creek. The dam serves multiple purposes including recreation and water storage, with a normal storage capacity of 10,350 acre-feet and a total NID storage of 20,122 acre-feet.
With a hazard potential rated as high and a satisfactory condition assessment, Nelson Lake Dam has undergone modifications in 1974 to enhance its structural integrity. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 850 feet and is equipped with slide gates for outlet control. The surrounding area covers 660 acres, making it a significant water resource for the region. Despite its moderate risk assessment, the dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the North Dakota State Water Commission, ensuring its safety and compliance with state regulations.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Nelson Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study in dam infrastructure management. As a key element in the local water management system, the dam plays a crucial role in flood control, water storage, and recreational activities. With its historical significance dating back to the 1960s and ongoing maintenance efforts, Nelson Lake Dam stands as a testament to the importance of proper dam design, inspection, and regulation in ensuring the safety and sustainability of water resources in North Dakota.
Years Modified |
1974 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1967 |
Dam Length |
2200 |
Dam Height |
66 |
River Or Stream |
SQUARE BUTTE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
660 |
Drainage Area |
146 |
Nid Storage |
20122 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 2 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
66 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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 Lake Dam
Oliver County