John Williams Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

John Williams Lake Dam, also known as Williams Lake Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Warsaw, Missouri.


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Summary

Built in 1977, this earth dam serves primarily for grade stabilization and irrigation purposes along the TR-East Fork Honey Creek. Standing at a height of 26 feet with a structural height of 27 feet and a length of 660 feet, the dam provides a maximum storage capacity of 286 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 5 acres.

Despite being categorized as having a significant hazard potential and a moderate risk level, John Williams Lake Dam has not been rated for its current condition. With a spillway width of 40 feet and a maximum discharge of 165 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and preventing flooding in the area. While it is not regulated by the state or inspected regularly, the dam remains an essential infrastructure for water resource management in Henry County, Missouri.

For enthusiasts interested in water resources and climate, John Williams Lake Dam offers a fascinating insight into the engineering and management of water infrastructure. By understanding its design, purpose, and risk assessment, individuals can appreciate the importance of structures like this in maintaining water quality, controlling floods, and supporting agricultural activities in the region. With its rich history and functional significance, the dam stands as a testament to human ingenuity in harnessing and managing water resources for the benefit of communities and ecosystems alike.

Year Completed

1977

Dam Length

660

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

TR-EAST FORK HONEY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Hydraulic Height

25

Drainage Area

89.6

Nid Storage

286

Structural Height

27

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

27
       
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.