Nelson Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Herford Lake Phillips Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Nelson Dam, located in Meade, South Dakota, stands as a testament to engineering excellence and environmental stewardship.
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Summary
Constructed in 2001 by DREAM DESIGN INC., this private-owned Earth dam spans 530 feet in length and reaches a height of 34 feet, providing vital water storage for the surrounding area. Situated on Dry Creek, Nelson Dam has a maximum storage capacity of 255 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 155 acre-feet, serving as a crucial resource for the region.
With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Nelson Dam has not only undergone state regulation, inspection, and enforcement but also meets state permitting requirements, ensuring its safety and functionality. Despite being uncontrolled, the spillway of Nelson Dam boasts a width of 196 feet, ready to handle a maximum discharge of 4720 cubic feet per second. The dam's strategic positioning and design make it a key component in managing water resources and mitigating the effects of climate change in the area.
Managed by the South Dakota Department of Natural Resources, Nelson Dam not only serves as a vital infrastructure for water storage but also as a symbol of responsible dam management. With its impressive capacity and engineering features, Nelson Dam stands as a crucial asset in ensuring water security and environmental sustainability for the community it serves.
Year Completed |
2001 |
Dam Length |
530 |
Dam Height |
34 |
River Or Stream |
DRY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
34 |
Drainage Area |
12 |
Nid Storage |
255 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
34 |
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.
Nelson Dam