Nelson Elam #1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Nelson Elam #1, also known as Nelson Elam Dam, is a private-owned structure located in Bethlehem, Williamson County, Tennessee.


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Summary

Built in 1966 by the USDA NRCS, this Earth-type dam serves primarily as a Fish and Wildlife Pond, with additional purposes including Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond, and Recreation. Situated on the TRIBWEST HARPETH RIVER, the dam stands at a hydraulic height of 22.6 feet and a structural height of 28.4 feet, with a total length of 492 feet. The reservoir has a normal storage capacity of 94 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 10.4 acres, serving as a vital habitat for local wildlife.

With a high hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Nelson Elam #1 remains a critical structure in need of regular inspection and maintenance. Although the dam is not currently rated for its condition, it is essential to ensure its integrity to prevent any potential risks to the surrounding community. Despite not being regulated by the state or federal agencies, the dam's importance in providing wildlife habitat and recreational opportunities underscores the need for continued monitoring and risk management measures. As a valuable asset in the region, Nelson Elam #1 plays a key role in supporting the local ecosystem and enhancing water resource sustainability in the area.

Year Completed

1966

Dam Length

492

River Or Stream

TRIBWEST HARPETH RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10.4

Hydraulic Height

22.6

Drainage Area

0.53

Nid Storage

129

Structural Height

28.4

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

28
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.