Williams Creek Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Hinsdale, Colorado, Williams Creek is a state-regulated dam with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Completed in 1958, this earth dam stands at a height of 84 feet and has a storage capacity of 14,543 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Williams Creek, with a drainage area of 36 square miles and a maximum discharge of 4,100 cubic feet per second.

With a spillway width of 40 feet and a surface area of 343 acres, Williams Creek Dam poses a high hazard potential but is currently assessed as satisfactory in condition. The dam features two valve outlet gates and is inspected annually for safety measures. Despite its moderate risk assessment, the dam provides essential benefits for fish and wildlife habitat as well as recreational activities in the area. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Williams Creek offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of human infrastructure and natural ecosystems.

Year Completed

1958

Dam Length

550

Dam Height

84

River Or Stream

WILLIAMS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

343

Hydraulic Height

84

Drainage Area

36

Nid Storage

14543

Structural Height

100

Outlet Gates

Valve - 2

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

100
       
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.