COLORADO RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: January 1, 2026

Colorado's network of dams and reservoirs is experiencing varying conditions as of the latest observations. Notably, certain reservoirs, such as John Martin Reservoir at Caddoa, are recording significantly lower storage levels than average, with current levels at 30,561 acre-feet compared to an average of 114,007.18 acre-feet. Similarly, the Rifle Gap Reservoir near Rifle shows a sharp decrease with only 2,788 acre-feet stored compared to an average of 8,293.6 acre-feet. On the other hand, reservoirs like Lake Nighthorse and Vallecito Reservoir are above their average storage, 112,451 acre-feet and 101,511 acre-feet respectively, compared to averages of 104,024.3 acre-feet and 67,443.06 acre-feet. These figures suggest a mixture of above-normal and critical storage levels across the state.

The abnormal conditions in Colorado's reservoirs can be attributed to factors such as snowpack levels, river flows, and climatic conditions. Notably, the state is close to a record-low snowpack, as reported by the Denver Gazette, which impacts the recharge of reservoirs dependent on runoff. Additionally, the expansion of extreme drought conditions, as referenced by coyotegulch.blog, exacerbates the water scarcity, leading to lower reservoir levels. Conversely, reservoirs such as Lake Nighthorse are experiencing higher storage than average, which may be due to localized precipitation events or management practices. It's important for stakeholders and residents to stay informed on these conditions, as they have direct implications on water availability, agriculture, and ecosystem health in Colorado.

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.