Williams Terminal Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
The Williams Terminal Reservoir Dam in Durham, North Carolina, is a crucial piece of infrastructure owned by the local government and regulated by the state's Dam Safety Program.
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Summary
This earth dam serves the primary purpose of providing water supply, specifically for the Ellerbe Creek. With a high hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment as of March 2021, this dam plays a vital role in ensuring water availability for the city of Durham.
Located at a latitude of 36.02 and longitude of -78.9373, the Williams Terminal Reservoir Dam is under the jurisdiction of the NCDEQ and DEMLR. Despite limited specific data on the dam's height, volume, and other structural details, its significance lies in its contribution to water resource management and climate resilience in the region. With regular state inspections and enforcement measures in place, the dam stands as a critical asset for water security in Durham, reflecting the importance of proactive dam safety regulations and oversight.
As an essential component of North Carolina's water infrastructure, the Williams Terminal Reservoir Dam underscores the intersection of environmental stewardship, public safety, and water supply management. The high hazard potential and state regulation highlight the importance of maintaining and monitoring this earth dam to ensure its continued functionality and resilience in the face of climate-related challenges. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the role of dams like Williams Terminal Reservoir in safeguarding water access and mitigating climate risks is key to promoting sustainable water management practices in the region.
River Or Stream |
Ellerbe Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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 Terminal Reservoir Dam
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