COLORADO RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: December 24, 2025

The latest observations of Colorado's dams and reservoirs indicate a mixed state of water storage levels, with some exhibiting below-average conditions while others are at or above expected levels. As of December 24, 2025, significant anomalies include the John Martin Reservoir at Caddoa with a storage level of only 28,713 acre-feet compared to its average of 114,053.12 acre-feet, and Vega Reservoir with just 7,181 acre-feet versus its average of 15,612.39 acre-feet, showcasing stark deficits. Conversely, Granby Reservoir is reporting storage levels at 396,502 acre-feet, exceeding its average of 384,888.53 acre-feet. Abnormalities such as these can be attributed to factors like reduced snowpack and river flows, which are crucial for replenishing these water bodies.

The abnormal conditions in Colorado's reservoirs are symptomatic of the broader water crisis in the Colorado River basin, as reported by various news outlets, which highlight the struggles faced by the states relying on this water source. For instance, the Southern Nevada Water Authority's preemptive measures in light of forecasted storms underscore the region's dire need for water conservation. A lack of sufficient winter precipitation, as hinted at by AspenTimes.com, further exacerbates the situation, threatening the delicate balance of water supply and demand. As climate patterns shift, the challenges facing Colorado's water storage infrastructure become more apparent, necessitating immediate and collective action from regional stakeholders to mitigate the impacts of the water crisis.

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.