Williams Dam S W Reservoir Report
Nearby: Northrup Dam; Max Bosserman Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Williams Dam S W, located in North Dakota along Williams Creek, was completed in 1920 and serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond habitat.
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Summary
Managed by the Forest Service, this earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet with a hydraulic height of 12 feet and a length of 450 feet. The reservoir has a storage capacity of 400 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 23 acres, with a drainage area of 17 square miles.
Despite being classified as low hazard potential, Williams Dam S W underwent hydraulic modifications in 2011 to enhance its functionality. With a moderate risk rating, the dam has not been officially rated for its current condition. Regular inspections occur every 10 years, with the last inspection conducted in June 2016. While emergency action plans and risk management measures are not explicitly documented, the dam continues to play a vital role in water resource management and conservation efforts in the region, offering recreational opportunities and supporting wildlife habitat in addition to its primary functions.
Years Modified |
2011 - Hydraulic |
Year Completed |
1920 |
Dam Length |
450 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
WILLIAMS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
23 |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Drainage Area |
17 |
Nid Storage |
400 |
Structural Height |
15 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
15 |
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 Dam S W