Williams No. 2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Williams No.


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Summary

2 is a privately owned earth dam located in Sublette, Wyoming, along the West Fork of Dry Sandy river. Completed in 1917, this dam serves primarily for irrigation purposes, with a storage capacity of 117 acre-feet. The dam stands at a height of 14 feet, with a spillway width of 30 feet, and is classified as having a low hazard potential but a poor condition assessment as of the last inspection in August 2018.

Despite its age and condition, Williams No. 2 poses a moderate risk level and is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement. The dam's design includes stone core types and soil foundations, with an uncontrolled spillway type. Its location near Farson, Wyoming, makes it crucial for maintaining water resources in the region for agriculture and fire protection purposes. With a drainage area of 0 and a maximum discharge of 0, this dam plays a significant role in water management in the area.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Williams No. 2 to be an intriguing case study in the management of aging infrastructure and the balance between water storage and safety. As the dam continues to be regulated by the state and inspected regularly, there are opportunities for improvement and potential upgrades to ensure its long-term functionality and resilience in the face of changing climate conditions. Its historical significance and importance for local water resources make it a focal point for understanding the intersection of infrastructure, water management, and climate adaptation in the region.

Year Completed

1917

Dam Length

520

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

WEST FORK OF DRY SANDY

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

16

Hydraulic Height

11

Nid Storage

117

Structural Height

14

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

14
       
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.