Williams Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Dd No 3-4a Dd No 3-1b
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Williams Dam, located in Dodge City, Kansas, along the Arkansas River, was completed in 1965 by USDA NRCS and stands at a height of 26 feet with a buttress core type.
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Summary
With a storage capacity of 160 acre-feet, it serves as a vital water resource in Ford County. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam remains state-regulated and regularly inspected by the Kansas Department of Agriculture to ensure its structural integrity and safety.
Owned by a private entity, Williams Dam has not been rated for its condition assessment as of the last inspection in 1979. The dam's emergency action plan status and risk assessment measures remain unclear, highlighting the need for updated safety protocols and guidelines. With its close proximity to Dodge City and the critical role it plays in water management along the Arkansas River, continued monitoring and maintenance of Williams Dam are essential for safeguarding the surrounding communities and environment.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the significance of Williams Dam in water storage and flood control cannot be understated. With its strategic location and historical importance in water management, ensuring the dam's resilience and adherence to safety standards is paramount for addressing the evolving challenges posed by a changing climate. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, staying informed about Williams Dam's status and advocating for sustainable management practices will be crucial in safeguarding this vital infrastructure for future generations.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
910 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
ARKANSAS RIVER-TR |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Nid Storage |
160 |
Structural Height |
26 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Pawnee R Nr Burdett
|
0cfs |
Arkansas R At Garden City
|
0cfs |
Pawnee R At Rozel
|
4cfs |
Crooked C Nr Englewood
|
7cfs |
Farmers Ditch Nr Deerfield
|
0cfs |
Cimarron River Near Forgan
|
20cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Williams Dam