Nelson Reservoir No. 1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Nelson Reservoir No.


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Summary

1 in Oregon is a privately owned earth dam constructed in 1957 for irrigation purposes on Coal Mine Creek. With a height of 34 feet and a storage capacity of 92 acre-feet, the reservoir covers a surface area of 7.2 acres and has a normal storage level of 80 acre-feet. The dam has a low hazard potential, with a hydraulic height of 32 feet and a structural height of 35.5 feet, making it a vital water resource for the surrounding area.

Located in Jackson County, Oregon, Nelson Reservoir No. 1 plays a crucial role in providing water for agricultural irrigation in the region. Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this reservoir has a maximum discharge capacity of 80 cubic feet per second and is regulated by the Oregon Water Resources Department. Although the dam's condition is currently not rated, it undergoes inspections every 6 years to ensure its safety and functionality.

With its strategic location and efficient water storage capacity, Nelson Reservoir No. 1 serves as a key piece of infrastructure for sustaining agricultural activities in Gold Hill and its surrounding areas. As part of the federal portfolio under the Portland District, this reservoir exemplifies the importance of water resource management and climate resilience in ensuring a sustainable future for communities dependent on irrigation.

Year Completed

1957

Dam Length

750

Dam Height

34

River Or Stream

COAL MINE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7.2

Hydraulic Height

32

Drainage Area

0.35

Nid Storage

92

Structural Height

35.5

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

36
       
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.