Williams Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

Williams Dam, located in Festus, Missouri, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1965 primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 26 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 125 acre-feet and serves the community by providing a surface area of 9 acres for various water-based activities. The dam is situated along the Joachim Creek, within the jurisdiction of Jefferson County, Missouri.

Despite its recreational function, Williams Dam poses a high hazard potential due to its condition being unrated and not inspected since 1978. With no state regulations in place and no enforced inspections, there are concerns about the dam's safety and the potential risks it may pose to the surrounding area in case of failure. Additionally, the dam lacks emergency action plans and updated contact information, highlighting the need for improved risk management measures and adherence to safety guidelines.

Given its critical condition and high hazard potential, there is a pressing need for a comprehensive assessment and maintenance plan for Williams Dam. Climate and water resource enthusiasts should advocate for increased oversight and investment in the dam's infrastructure to ensure public safety, protect the environment, and preserve the recreational opportunities it offers. It is essential to address the existing deficiencies, update emergency preparedness measures, and conduct regular inspections to mitigate risks and enhance the resilience of this vital water resource infrastructure.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

TR-JOACHIM CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9

Drainage Area

143

Nid Storage

125

Structural Height

26

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

26
       
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.