Williams Company Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Williams Company Dam, located in Stutsman, North Dakota, is a privately owned Earth dam designed by USDA NRCS with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Completed in 1968, the dam stands at a height of 16 feet and spans 480 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 52 acre-feet. Despite its relatively low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment rating, the dam is regulated and inspected by the NDSWC, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations.

The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 60 feet and has a surface area of 6 acres, serving as a popular recreational spot for locals and visitors alike. With a drainage area of 0.7 square miles and a normal storage capacity of 34 acre-feet, the dam provides not only recreational opportunities but also contributes to the local water resources and ecosystem. Although the dam's condition is currently rated as "Not Rated," its risk management measures and emergency action plan readiness are areas that may require further attention to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and the integrity of the dam structure.

Overall, Williams Company Dam plays a vital role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in North Dakota. As a key piece of infrastructure in the region, the dam serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and monitoring dams to mitigate risks and ensure the sustainable use of water resources. With proper oversight and regular inspections, Williams Company Dam continues to stand as a testament to the intersection of human ingenuity and environmental stewardship in the face of changing climate patterns.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

480

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

JAMES-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6

Drainage Area

0.7

Nid Storage

52

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

16
       
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.