Williams Lake Dam #4 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Williams Lake Dam #4, located in Alma, North Carolina, is a privately owned earth dam constructed in 1968 for irrigation purposes along the Drowning Creek-Os river stream.


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Summary

With a hydraulic height of 33 feet and a structural height of 35 feet, this dam has a normal storage capacity of 185 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 222 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition has not been rated as of the last inspection in December 2019.

Managed by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, Williams Lake Dam #4 is subject to state regulations, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. While the dam primarily serves agricultural irrigation needs, it also offers recreational opportunities. The surrounding area covers 16 acres, providing a serene waterfront for visitors looking to enjoy the natural beauty of the region.

Although the dam has not undergone modifications in recent years and lacks specific hazard and risk assessments, its emergency action plan status and risk management measures remain undisclosed. With its historical significance and vital role in water resource management, Williams Lake Dam #4 stands as a testament to the importance of maintaining and regulating critical infrastructure for sustainable environmental practices in North Carolina.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

420

River Or Stream

Drowning Creek-Os

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

16

Hydraulic Height

33

Nid Storage

222

Structural Height

35

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

35
       
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.