Williams Reservoir Report
Nearby: Fahi Pond Embden Pond
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Built in 1939, Williams Dam, located in Solon, Maine, is a significant structure on the Kennebec River that serves primarily for hydroelectric power generation and recreation purposes.
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Summary
Owned privately, this Earth dam stands at 45 feet high and spans approximately 680 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 4575 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment is classified as very high, indicating the need for vigilant risk management measures.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Williams Dam is a crucial contributor to the region's energy supply and water resource management. With a controlled spillway width of 508 feet and six Tainter radial gates for water discharge control, the dam plays an essential role in regulating the flow of the Kennebec River. While its condition assessment is currently not available, regular inspections every 3 years help ensure the dam's structural integrity and safety standards are maintained.
The presence of Williams Dam not only highlights the intersection of water resource management and climate considerations but also underscores the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to mitigate potential risks associated with aging infrastructure. As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure resilience, the proactive management of dams like Williams is vital to safeguarding both the environment and local communities from the potential consequences of extreme weather events.
Year Completed |
1939 |
Dam Length |
680 |
Dam Height |
45 |
River Or Stream |
Kennebec River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
446 |
Drainage Area |
2720 |
Nid Storage |
4575 |
Outlet Gates |
Tainter (radial) - 6 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
45 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Kennebec River At Bingham
|
1990cfs |
Austin Stream At Bingham
|
55cfs |
Carrabassett River Near North Anson
|
304cfs |
Sandy River Near Mercer
|
326cfs |
Dead River Near Dead River
|
791cfs |
Piscataquis River At Blanchard
|
67cfs |
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