Williams Fork Main is a concrete dam located in Parshall, Colorado, along the Williams Fork River. Completed in 1959, this structure serves multiple purposes, including hydroelectric power generation, recreation, and water supply. With a height of 209 feet and a storage capacity of 96,800 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Williams Fork Main is inspected regularly to ensure its safety and compliance with regulatory standards. The dam has a controlled spillway with a width of 7811 feet and three Tainter (radial) outlet gates. Despite its high hazard potential, the condition assessment of the dam is currently unavailable, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and risk management.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Williams Fork Main is a fascinating example of infrastructure designed to fulfill various needs while navigating the challenges of potential hazards and regulatory requirements. Its location in Grand County, Colorado, and its role in water supply make it a critical piece of the region's hydrological landscape, demonstrating the complex interplay between human engineering and natural resources in the face of evolving environmental conditions.