Williams Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Williams Dam, located in Malvern, Iowa, along the TR-Silver Creek, was completed in 1994 for the primary purposes of fire protection, stock, and small fish pond.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Owned and regulated by a private entity, the dam stands at a height of 21 feet and spans 640 feet in length, with a maximum storage capacity of 82 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam's condition remains unrated, and there is a lack of data on its inspection frequency and emergency preparedness.

The structure, designed by NRCS and built with an earth core and soil foundation, serves as an essential water resource for the local area, offering a surface area of 5.4 acres and draining a 0.31 square mile watershed. It is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement by the Iowa DNR, ensuring its safety and compliance with environmental standards. With Cindy Axne (D) as the representative for the district, the dam's role in providing water for irrigation, livestock, and fire suppression underscores its significance in the region's water management infrastructure.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Williams Dam represents a focal point for understanding the intersection of human engineering and environmental stewardship. As a critical component of the local hydrological system, the dam's management, maintenance, and potential risks highlight the ongoing challenges and opportunities in balancing water supply needs with ecological sustainability. By monitoring the dam's condition, operation, and regulatory oversight, stakeholders can contribute to the conservation and responsible utilization of this vital water resource for current and future generations.

Year Completed

1994

Dam Length

640

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

TR- SILVER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5.4

Drainage Area

0.31

Nid Storage

82

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

21
       
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.