Williams Lake Dam Upper Reservoir Report
Nearby: Laurel Lake Dam Hall Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Located in Clear Run, North Carolina, the Williams Lake Dam Upper is a privately owned earth dam built in 1945 for recreational purposes.
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Summary
Standing at a hydraulic height of 28 feet and a structural height of 14 feet, this dam spans a length of 134 feet and has a storage capacity of 134 acre-feet. Situated on the Little Coharie Creek-Tr river system, the dam serves as a popular spot for outdoor activities and water recreation, with a surface area of 5 acres and a drainage area of 659 acres.
Despite its recreational appeal, the Williams Lake Dam Upper poses a high hazard potential with a poor condition assessment. With the last inspection conducted in January 2021, the dam's maintenance and safety measures are a concern for water resource and climate enthusiasts. The dam's emergency action plan status, risk assessment, and management measures remain unspecified, raising questions about its preparedness in the face of potential hazards and emergencies. Further monitoring and evaluation are necessary to ensure the dam's structural integrity and the safety of surrounding communities.
With its historical significance and environmental impact, the Williams Lake Dam Upper provides an intriguing case study for water resource and climate enthusiasts. The dam's age, condition, and hazard potential underscore the importance of regular inspections, maintenance, and emergency preparedness in safeguarding water resources and mitigating climate-related risks. As stakeholders continue to monitor and assess the dam's safety and operational status, there is a pressing need for proactive measures to address any vulnerabilities and ensure the long-term resilience of this recreational infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1945 |
Dam Length |
134 |
River Or Stream |
Little Coharie Creek-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Hydraulic Height |
28 |
Drainage Area |
659 |
Nid Storage |
134 |
Structural Height |
14 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
28 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Black River Near Tomahawk
|
593cfs |
Cape Fear R At Wilm O Huske Lock Nr Tarheel
|
2030cfs |
Big Swamp Nr Tarheel
|
103cfs |
Little River At Manchester
|
301cfs |
Cape Fear River At Lillington
|
757cfs |
Neuse River Near Goldsboro
|
895cfs |
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 Upper