COLORADO RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: January 2, 2026

In recent observations of Colorado's dams and reservoirs, a mixed picture of water storage levels emerges. Notably, Trinidad Lake near Trinidad reports a surface elevation of 6187 feet, slightly above the average of 6182.44 feet. On the contrary, the John Martin Reservoir at Caddoa shows a concerning drop in water surface elevation to 3806 feet, which is below its average of 3817.36 feet. Storage measurements reveal disparities as well; Pueblo Reservoir near Pueblo is holding more than its average at 203,900 acre-feet, while John Martin Reservoir's storage plummets to 30,999 acre-feet, drastically lower than its 113,995.85 acre-feet average. These figures indicate abnormal reservoir conditions in some areas, with potential impacts on water availability and ecosystem balance.

Factors such as reduced snowpack, lower river flows, and climatic variances contribute to these abnormal conditions. For example, the Rifle Gap Reservoir near Rifle and Vega Reservoir near Collbran are experiencing significant drops in water storage, aligning with reports of historic snow deficits in Colorado. Meanwhile, storage levels at Granby Reservoir and Carter Lake exceed averages, which could be attributed to recent rainfall and management measures. The variance in reservoir and dam conditions across Colorado signals the need for continued monitoring and adaptation to the state's water management practices amidst changing environmental conditions. Concerns over water scarcity are heightened by the impending 2026 deadline for renegotiating the Colorado River Compact, as pointed out by sources such as the Lake Powell Chronicle and regional news outlets, emphasizing the urgency for sustainable solutions.

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.