Williams Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Williams Lake, also known as Williams Dam, is a private fish and wildlife pond nestled in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, within the Dry Creek Community.


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Summary

Built in 1958 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at 33 feet tall and spans 270 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 77 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.43 square miles, Williams Lake serves as a vital resource for the local ecosystem.

The dam, located on the Black Warrior River, is categorized as having a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment. Despite not being state-regulated or inspected, Williams Lake continues to provide essential support for fish and wildlife populations in the region. The uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 40 feet, ensures proper water flow and protection against potential flooding events.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Williams Lake offers a fascinating example of sustainable habitat management and conservation efforts. Its primary purpose as a fish and wildlife pond, coupled with its historical significance and design by the USDA NRCS, make it a valuable asset in maintaining ecological balance and biodiversity in the area. With its serene surroundings and crucial role in supporting local flora and fauna, Williams Lake stands as a testament to the importance of responsible water resource management in safeguarding our natural environment.

Year Completed

1958

Dam Length

270

Dam Height

33

River Or Stream

BLACK WARRIOR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

0.43

Nid Storage

77

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

33
       
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.