Lake Williams Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 20, 2025

Lake Williams Dam in Dent, Missouri, is a private-owned structure completed in 1998 primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

This earth dam with a structural height of 25 feet impounds the waters of the Sinking River, creating a serene lake with a storage capacity of 90 acre-feet. Situated within the picturesque Little Rock District, the dam offers a surface area of 9 acres and a drainage area of 570 square miles, making it a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts.

Despite its private ownership, Lake Williams Dam has a significant hazard potential, emphasizing the importance of regular inspections and maintenance. Currently, the dam's condition is listed as "Not Rated," indicating the need for a comprehensive assessment to ensure its safety and integrity. While the dam does not fall under federal jurisdiction, it serves as a vital recreational resource for the community, attracting visitors for fishing, boating, and other water-based activities.

As climate change continues to impact water resources across the globe, Lake Williams Dam stands as a symbol of both the beauty and vulnerability of our natural landscapes. With its tranquil waters and lush surroundings, this dam serves as a reminder of the need to prioritize conservation and sustainable management practices to safeguard our precious water sources for future generations.

Year Completed

1998

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

SINKING

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9

Drainage Area

570

Nid Storage

90

Structural Height

25

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

25
       
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.