WASTEWATER-STORAGE RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: December 17, 2025

The current state of the nation's dams and reservoirs presents a diverse picture, with some regions experiencing surpluses in storage levels, while others face noteworthy deficits—reflections of the complex interplay between climatic conditions, water management practices, and regional hydrological characteristics. For instance, reservoirs such as Lake Mead in Nevada and Elephant Butte in New Mexico are reporting significantly lower storage levels compared to historical averages, indicative of the ongoing drought conditions affecting the southwestern United States. Conversely, the heightened storage levels in California's Lake Almanor and Berryessa suggest recent successful water accumulation, potentially due to the state's management strategies and favorable precipitation.

Despite the general variability, a pattern emerges where certain areas, particularly those relying on snowpack-fed river systems, are experiencing lower than usual reservoir levels. This is evident at reservoirs like Lake Powell, where storage has dipped alarmingly compared to its average, highlighting the long-term impacts of reduced snowpack and river flows that feed the Colorado River Basin. On the other end of the spectrum, reservoirs such as Lake San Antonio in California have witnessed substantial increases in their storage levels, which could be attributed to targeted conservation efforts and seasonally high rainfall.

This snapshot of the nation's water storage underscores the critical need for adaptive water management that can respond to the dynamic environmental conditions. It's clear that while some regions are successfully navigating the challenges of fluctuating water availability, others require urgent attention and intervention to mitigate the risks associated with prolonged water scarcity. As we continue to gather and analyze data, it becomes increasingly important for water managers and hydrologists to exchange insights and develop strategies that ensure sustainable water resources for the future.