Williams
Key Takeaway
Williams is classified as low hazard in California. It was completed in 1895 and is 131 years old. Its primary use is water supply.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 69 ft (taller than 72.6% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 87 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 160 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 3 acres |
| Drainage Area | 6 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1895 (131 years old) |
| NID ID | CA00679 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
San Jose Water Company
Public Utility
Nearby Dams
Austrian
Santa Clara, CA
High Hazard 185 ftGuadalupe
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High Hazard 142 ftAlmaden
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High Hazard 110 ftAlmaden Valley
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High Hazard 38 ftJames J. Lenihan
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High Hazard 208 ftLower Howell
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Significant Hazard 39 ftUpper Howell
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Significant Hazard 36 ftCalero
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High Hazard 90 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Williams?
Williams is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Williams?
Williams is owned by San Jose Water Company (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Williams built?
Williams was completed in 1895, making it 131 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Williams?
Williams serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Williams?
Williams has a dam height of 69 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Williams last inspected?
Williams was last inspected on July 21, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.