IDAHO RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: December 24, 2025

Idaho's reservoirs and dams are essential for water storage, flood control, and recreation. Recent data from December 24, 2025, indicates that several of these water bodies are experiencing variations in storage levels and gage heights when compared to historical averages. Notably, the Coeur d'Alene Lake's current gage height stands at 28 feet, significantly above the average of 25.98 feet. This increase could be attributed to factors such as above-average precipitation or snowmelt. Conversely, the Salmon River Canal Co reservoir near Rogerson presents a stark contrast, with a current gage height of 9 feet, considerably lower than the average of 23.78 feet, which may signal potential issues with water supply or management. The Little Wood Reservoir near Carey is also below average, with 13,380 acre-feet of storage against the typical 17,024 acre-feet, potentially affecting local water availability and ecosystem health.

Analyzing data from multiple sources, including environmental reports and recent litigation concerning Trestle Creek, suggests that human activities and environmental challenges could be influencing these abnormal conditions. While the dataset does not directly connect with the Florida-based "5 Snake-Filled Waters" article from WorldAtlas, it underscores the importance of healthy water systems, as ecosystems are interconnected and sensitive to changes in water management practices. Climatic factors like snowpack levels and river flows are likely contributing to the observed discrepancies, but further research is necessary to determine specific causes and plan for mitigative or adaptive strategies to balance human needs with environmental sustainability. The condition of Idaho's water bodies is a complex interplay of natural variability and anthropogenic influence, with some reservoirs like Coeur d'Alene exhibiting higher than normal levels, while others like the Salmon River Canal Co are notably lower, calling for a comprehensive understanding and management to ensure the resilience of these critical resources.

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.