IDAHO RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: February 12, 2026

Idaho's dams and reservoirs are experiencing varying storage levels, which may indicate abnormal conditions in certain areas. For example, the Priest Lake at Outlet near Coolin, ID, is showing a significant deviation from its average gage height of 1.94 ft, currently standing at 0 ft as of the last observation on February 12, 2026. Similarly, the Salmon River Canal Co Reservoir near Rogerson is at a gage height of 13 ft, markedly below its average of 23.5 ft. Such discrepancies raise concerns about potential water shortages, particularly when considering recent reports of a 'snow drought' affecting regions in the Northwest, including Idaho.

Cross-referencing multiple sources reveals the concerns over the 'snow drought' gripping North Idaho are well-founded, with implications for water levels in reservoirs such as Coeur d'Alene Lake at Coeur d'Alene ID, which is currently at 23 ft, slightly lower than its average of 25.98 ft. The snowpack data from Oregon is particularly troubling, as it is at a record low and unlikely to recover, according to scientists. This may impact river flows feeding into Idaho reservoirs, as reflected by the decreased storage in the Little Wood Reservoir near Carey, ID, which currently holds 13,380 acre-ft against an average of 17,024 acre-ft. While some reservoirs like Mackay Reservoir near Mackay are slightly above their average gage height, the broader regional trends suggest a risk of water shortages and wildfires, as the Western US grapples with record low snowpack levels. Weather forecasts for Idaho predict intense cold and cloudy skies, conditions that could further complicate the snowpack and runoff situation. It's clear that the abnormal conditions found in several of Idaho's reservoirs are likely linked to below-average snowpack and the resulting reduction in river flows, signaling a need for close monitoring and potential water conservation measures.

Idaho has numerous reservoirs and dams that provide irrigation, hydropower, and recreational opportunities. Major reservoirs include Lucky Peak, Anderson Ranch, and American Falls. These reservoirs are fed by streams and rivers such as the Boise River, Snake River, and Portneuf River. The hydrology of the area is heavily influenced by snowfall in the surrounding mountains, particularly the Sawtooth and Rocky Mountains. Snowpack levels are closely monitored as they impact streamflow and reservoir levels. In recent years, drought conditions have led to lower snowpack levels and decreased reservoir levels. Record low levels have been seen in several reservoirs during drought years. Seasonal trends show higher reservoir levels during the spring and early summer due to snowmelt, with levels decreasing through the fall and winter. Overall, reservoirs and dams play a significant role in Idaho's water management and the state's economy.

Idaho has numerous reservoirs and dams that provide irrigation, hydropower, and recreational opportunities. Major reservoirs include Lucky Peak, Anderson Ranch, and American Falls. These reservoirs are fed by streams and rivers such as the Boise River, Snake River, and Portneuf River. The hydrology of the area is heavily influenced by snowfall in the surrounding mountains, particularly the Sawtooth and Rocky Mountains. Snowpack levels are closely monitored as they impact streamflow and reservoir levels. In recent years, drought conditions have led to lower snowpack levels and decreased reservoir levels. Record low levels have been seen in several reservoirs during drought years. Seasonal trends show higher reservoir levels during the spring and early summer due to snowmelt, with levels decreasing through the fall and winter. Overall, reservoirs and dams play a significant role in Idaho's water management and the state's economy.