CALIFORNIA RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: February 22, 2026

California's dams and reservoirs are currently experiencing varying storage levels, with some showing deviations from their seasonal averages. Across the state, there has been a notable increase in storage compared to historical averages for this time of year, indicating that overall, the state's water storage infrastructure is faring well amidst fluctuating climatic conditions. However, some reservoirs, like Don Pedro Reservoir (current level at 803 feet, average at 774.2 feet) and Berryessa (current storage at 1,469,172 acre-feet, average at 1,251,502.42 acre-feet), are observing above-average water levels, which could be linked to recent heavy rainfalls and a strong snowpack. Conversely, facilities such as the Donnell Lake (current level at 4,769 feet, average at 4,844.08 feet) and Rollins Reservoir (current storage at 46,422 acre-feet, average at 61,433.66 acre-feet) are below their average storage levels, potentially due to regional disparities in precipitation or water management practices.

The variability in storage levels among California's major dams and reservoirs has implications for water supply and flood control as the state navigates its complex water needs. Abnormal conditions in some reservoirs are likely connected to a combination of factors, including this winter's significant snowpack, patterns of river flows, and recent extreme weather events that have impacted the state. For instance, Lake Oroville, a key component of the California State Water Project, has shown an improvement in storage following the past few years of drought conditions. However, Lake Powell's situation remains grim as it trends towards a record low, underscoring the ongoing negotiations and challenges related to the Colorado River drought deal. Meanwhile, statewide efforts to mitigate water scarcity, such as the utilization of desalination and reuse of treated wastewater for agriculture, are ongoing in response to the broader water crisis in the Western United States. While California's current overall reservoir health appears robust, the dynamic nature of climate and water management requires continuous monitoring to ensure resource sustainability.

California has over 1,400 reservoirs and dams, which provide water for agriculture, industry, and households. Some of the major reservoirs in the state include Lake Oroville, Shasta Lake, and San Luis Reservoir. These reservoirs are fed by streams, rivers, and creeks such as the Feather River, Sacramento River, and San Joaquin River. The snowpack in the Sierra Nevada mountains is a crucial source of water for these reservoirs, as it melts during the spring and summer and fills the streams and rivers that flow into the reservoirs. However, drought conditions have been a major concern in recent years, with record low levels in some reservoirs. Seasonal trends show that reservoirs are typically at their lowest levels in the fall and winter, and reach their highest levels in the spring and summer. Overall, California’s reservoirs and dams play a vital role in managing the state’s water resources and ensuring a reliable water supply for its residents.

California has over 1,400 reservoirs and dams, which provide water for agriculture, industry, and households. Some of the major reservoirs in the state include Lake Oroville, Shasta Lake, and San Luis Reservoir. These reservoirs are fed by streams, rivers, and creeks such as the Feather River, Sacramento River, and San Joaquin River. The snowpack in the Sierra Nevada mountains is a crucial source of water for these reservoirs, as it melts during the spring and summer and fills the streams and rivers that flow into the reservoirs. However, drought conditions have been a major concern in recent years, with record low levels in some reservoirs. Seasonal trends show that reservoirs are typically at their lowest levels in the fall and winter, and reach their highest levels in the spring and summer. Overall, California’s reservoirs and dams play a vital role in managing the state’s water resources and ensuring a reliable water supply for its residents.