Nelson Lake Auxilary Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Nelson Lake Auxiliary, located in Oliver County, North Dakota, is a privately owned earth dam constructed in 1980 by BLACK & VEATCH.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 27 feet and has a storage capacity of 190 acre-feet, serving as a vital resource for water management in the area. Situated on Square Butte Creek, the dam covers a surface area of 19.5 acres and has a drainage area of 10.8 square miles.

With a spillway width of 60 feet and a hazard potential rated as low, Nelson Lake Auxiliary is considered to have a moderate risk level. Although the dam's condition is currently not rated, it is regulated by the North Dakota State Water Commission (NDSWC) and undergoes regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement measures. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks and ensuring water resource sustainability in the region.

Overall, Nelson Lake Auxiliary serves as an essential structure for water resource management in North Dakota, showcasing the importance of private infrastructure in supporting climate resilience efforts. With a focus on safety and regulatory compliance, the dam contributes to the overall risk management strategy for the area, highlighting the critical role of infrastructure in balancing water resource needs with environmental considerations.

Year Completed

1980

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

SQUARE BUTTE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

19.5

Drainage Area

10.8

Nid Storage

190

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

27
       
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.