Nelson Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Nelson Pond, located in Iowa County, Wisconsin, is a privately owned water resource managed by the USDA NRCS.


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Summary

This earth dam structure was completed in 1974 and serves purposes such as fire protection and small fish pond maintenance. With a dam height of 26 feet and a storage capacity of 130 acre-feet, this reservoir covers an area of 10 acres and has a drainage area of 0.5 square miles. The pond also has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating.

The primary source agency for Nelson Pond is the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, which regulates and inspects the dam regularly for safety compliance. Despite being non-federally owned, the pond is state-regulated and permitted, showcasing a commitment to water resource management and environmental protection. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a maximum discharge capacity of 75 cubic feet per second, ensuring proper water flow management during heavy rainfall events.

Overall, Nelson Pond presents an important fire protection and aquatic habitat management feature in the area, with a focus on maintaining its structural integrity and operational efficiency. The collaboration between private owners and state agencies highlights the significance of sustainable water resource management practices in the face of climate change challenges. For enthusiasts interested in water resource conservation and climate resilience, Nelson Pond serves as a valuable case study in responsible dam operation and maintenance.

Year Completed

1974

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

TR-E BRANCH PECATONICA

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Hydraulic Height

22

Drainage Area

0.5

Nid Storage

130

Structural Height

26

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

26
       
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.