COLORADO RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: January 11, 2026

In the latest observations of Colorado's dams and reservoirs, there are notable variations in water storage levels and surface elevations compared to historical averages, which could be indicative of broader environmental trends. Trinidad Lake near Trinidad is slightly above its average water surface elevation, recording 6187 feet compared to the average of 6182.44 feet. Conversely, John Martin Reservoir at Caddoa shows a concerning decline, with current storage at 33,058 acre-feet, significantly lower than the average of 113,951.24 acre-feet. Similar deficits are observed in storage at Blue Mesa Reservoir and Rifle Gap Reservoir, currently at 414,228 and 3,108 acre-feet, respectively, both well below their averages. In contrast, Pueblo Reservoir near Pueblo reports an increase in storage, with current levels at 206,070 acre-feet exceeding the average of 172,089.89 acre-feet.

These abnormal conditions may relate to fluctuating snowpack levels and river flows, as mentioned in various news sources discussing the management and challenges of the Colorado River basin. The "Feds release draft long-term plans for Colorado River management" outlines strategic responses to manage these variations, while the observed low levels at Lake Mead, despite California storms, highlight the ongoing water supply issues. Local energy policies, as reported by SkyHiNews.com, might also impact water management strategies in the long term. The broader implications of these findings underscore the importance of continuous monitoring and adaptive water resource management to address the complex interplay between climate variability and human demand.

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.