AL05901-BEAR-CREEK-DAM RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: February 17, 2026

The latest observations of the nation's dams and reservoirs reveal a complex picture of water management across the country. While some reservoirs are experiencing higher than average storage levels, others are dealing with significant deficits, highlighting the variable impacts of regional climate patterns, snowpack conditions, and water use demands.

In the northeastern states, reservoirs such as LAKE WINNIPESAUKEE AT WEIRS BEACH in New Hampshire show a decrease in storage, with current levels at 3 ft compared to an average of 3.77 ft. In contrast, the Wanaque Reservoir in New Jersey is also experiencing a notable deficit with current levels at 273 ft, significantly below the average of 293.26 ft. This trend of lower storage levels could be a concern for water supply if it persists, especially in areas without significant snowpack to replenish the reservoirs.

Moving westward, Pennsylvania's General Edgar Jadwin Reservoir is slightly above its average at 991 ft against an average of 989.26 ft, suggesting that recent precipitation or snowmelt has been beneficial. However, in the south, drought conditions are more pronounced with Falls Lake in North Carolina showing reduced levels at 248 ft against an average of 251.67 ft, and the situation is more severe at Maurice R AT UNION LAKE DAM AT MILLVILLE NJ, which is drastically below its average streamflow.

In the Midwest, lakes such as Lake Winnipesaukee and Indian Lake are close to their average levels, indicating stable conditions. However, the situation is different in the Great Plains, where reservoir storage levels, such as those at Cheney Reservoir in Kansas, are facing deficits.

In the West, significant water bodies like Lake Powell at Glen Canyon Dam in Arizona are facing historically low water levels, with current levels at 3534 ft, far below the average of 3568.42 ft. This decrease is indicative of the prolonged drought conditions affecting the Colorado River Basin and has wide-reaching implications for water supply, power generation, and environmental health.

These observations underscore the importance of adaptive water management strategies that consider both current storage and forecasted hydrological conditions. For water management researchers and hydrologists, these varying conditions present challenges and opportunities for innovation in conservation and resource allocation to ensure sustainable water supplies amidst changing climate patterns and usage demands.