Williams Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 22, 2025
Williams Lake Dam in Franklin, Missouri, is a private-owned structure primarily used for recreation purposes.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
The earth dam, with a height of 30 feet, holds a storage capacity of 193 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 12 acres. Situated on the tributary of Rye Creek, the dam's hazard potential is rated as low, making it a safe and enjoyable spot for water enthusiasts.
Managed by the Kansas City District and not regulated by the state, Williams Lake Dam has not been inspected or assessed for its condition, posing a potential risk for future management. Despite its lack of official ratings, the dam remains a popular destination for outdoor activities and serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding community. As one of the few private dams in the area, its value for recreation and water storage cannot be underestimated.
With no emergency action plan in place and no recent risk assessments conducted, Williams Lake Dam stands as a serene yet potentially concerning element in the water resource and climate landscape. Its unique ownership structure and recreational focus highlight the need for continued monitoring and evaluation to ensure the safety and sustainability of this essential water infrastructure in Missouri.
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB RYE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12 |
Drainage Area |
75 |
Nid Storage |
193 |
Structural Height |
30 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Big River Near Richwoods
|
174cfs |
Bourbeuse River At Union
|
73cfs |
Meramec River At Pacific
|
557cfs |
Big River At Byrnesville
|
176cfs |
Meramec River Near Sullivan
|
369cfs |
Meramec River Near Eureka
|
858cfs |
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 Lake Dam