Williams Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Williams is a private water resource located in Venango Township, Erie, Pennsylvania, along the TR West Branch French Creek.


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Summary

This earth dam, with a height of 10 feet, serves primarily for recreation purposes and is regulated by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. With a drainage area of 0.53 square miles, Williams has a significant hazard potential and is classified as not rated in terms of its condition assessment.

Despite lacking specific details on its construction, storage capacity, and discharge capabilities, Williams presents a unique opportunity for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore the intersection of human intervention in natural water systems. As a privately-owned structure with state jurisdiction, this dam serves as a prime example of the complexities involved in managing and regulating water resources for recreational use while also addressing potential hazards and environmental impacts.

With its location in a picturesque area of Pennsylvania and under the regulatory oversight of the state's environmental agency, Williams offers a case study for understanding the importance of balancing human needs with ecological considerations in water resource management. This dam's significance lies not only in its recreational value but also in the broader implications for sustainable water management practices in the face of climate change challenges.

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

TR WEST BR FRENCH CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

0.53

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

10
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.