COLORADO RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: December 31, 2025

As of the latest observations, Colorado's dams and reservoirs exhibit varied storage levels, some deviating from their historical averages. Notably, Trinidad Lake near Trinidad shows a slight increase in water elevation, registering at 6187 feet compared to its average of 6182.44 feet. However, the storage levels in major reservoirs such as John Martin Reservoir at Caddoa and Blue Mesa Reservoir are significantly lower than their averages, with current storages at 30,315 acre-feet and 412,517 acre-feet, respectively, against averages of 114,012.86 and 547,309.41 acre-feet. This discrepancy is a cause for concern as these numbers indicate potential water resource stress. On the other hand, storage levels in Granby Reservoir and Pueblo Reservoir near Pueblo exceed their averages, standing at 389,229 and 203,245 acre-feet, respectively.

The abnormal conditions in some reservoirs, particularly the lower storage levels, may be related to a lower snowpack and river flows, as highlighted by multiple sources including KJCT and SkyHiNews.com. Reports suggest that Western Colorado faces impacts due to low snowpack levels that affect local water providers. This phenomenon is emphasized by The Cool Down, which warns of an 'unprecedented' situation unfolding across the US, with water resources being pushed closer to the edge than previously realized. Additionally, concerns over snowpack levels in the water year are echoed by KJZZ in relation to the Central Arizona Project. As reservoirs such as Blue Mesa and Paonia show significantly lowered storage, and Silver Jack Reservoir's storage plummets to 1,654 acre-feet from an average of 10,320.3, the necessity for legislative investment in water resources becomes more pressing, as per yourvalley.net. The data reflect a broader regional water reserve challenge, as seen in the dramatic decrease at Lake Powell reported by FOX 13 News Utah. In conclusion, while some Colorado reservoirs maintain healthy levels, others are experiencing troubling deficits that underline the urgent need for informed water management and conservation efforts.

Colorado has over 2,000 reservoirs, with the largest and most notable being Blue Mesa Reservoir, which is fed by the Gunnison River, and Lake Granby, which is fed by the Colorado River. Other major reservoirs include Dillon, Horsetooth, and Pueblo Reservoirs. These reservoirs provide water for irrigation, municipal use, and recreation. The water in these reservoirs primarily comes from snowmelt in the surrounding mountains, with the Colorado River and its tributaries being the largest source. The snowpack is closely monitored, as it is a key factor in determining the water supply for the year. The hydrology of the area is complex due to the high elevation and arid climate, with many streams and rivers running dry during drought conditions. Record levels have been seen in recent years due to heavy snowpack and precipitation, but drought conditions are a recurring issue in the state. Seasonal trends include higher water levels in the spring and early summer due to snowmelt, followed by a gradual decrease throughout the summer and fall. Overall, reservoirs and dams play a crucial role in water management in Colorado, with the state relying heavily on these sources for its water supply.

Colorado has over 2,000 reservoirs, with the largest and most notable being Blue Mesa Reservoir, which is fed by the Gunnison River, and Lake Granby, which is fed by the Colorado River. Other major reservoirs include Dillon, Horsetooth, and Pueblo Reservoirs. These reservoirs provide water for irrigation, municipal use, and recreation.

The water in these reservoirs primarily comes from snowmelt in the surrounding mountains, with the Colorado River and its tributaries being the largest source. The snowpack is closely monitored, as it is a key factor in determining the water supply for the year. The hydrology of the area is complex due to the high elevation and arid climate, with many streams and rivers running dry during drought conditions.

Record levels have been seen in recent years due to heavy snowpack and precipitation, but drought conditions are a recurring issue in the state. Seasonal trends include higher water levels in the spring and early summer due to snowmelt, followed by a gradual decrease throughout the summer and fall. Overall, reservoirs and dams play a crucial role in water management in Colorado, with the state relying heavily on these sources for its water supply.