Nelson Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Nelson Lake Dam, located in Medina County, Texas, was completed in 1970 and serves as a vital water supply infrastructure for the region.
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Summary
The dam, primarily owned and regulated by private entities, stands at a height of 12 feet and stretches over 500 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 65 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and provides essential water supply for the area.
Despite being a privately owned structure, Nelson Lake Dam falls under the purview of state regulatory agencies for permitting and inspection. While the dam is categorized as having a high risk potential, its condition remains unrated. The dam lacks a spillway and associated structures, relying on a single outlet gate for water release. The presence of East Elm Creek nearby underscores the importance of the dam in mitigating flood risks and ensuring water availability for the surrounding communities.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Nelson Lake Dam to be a significant structure in the region's water management system. Its earth-filled design, buttress core, and lack of a spillway pose unique engineering challenges and risk factors. With a strong focus on water supply and limited discharge capacity, the dam serves as a critical asset in maintaining water security and mitigating potential hazards for the residents of Medina County, Texas.
Year Completed |
1970 |
Dam Length |
500 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
TR-EAST ELM CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
13 |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Nid Storage |
65 |
Structural Height |
12 |
Outlet Gates |
None - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
12 |
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 Lake Dam