INDIANA RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: January 1, 2026

In the latest observations across the nation's dams and reservoirs, a comprehensive assessment reveals a mixed landscape of water storage levels, with variances that reflect the diverse climatic conditions and water management strategies at play. Some regions are experiencing surpluses, while others face droughts, underscoring the importance of adaptive water management.

Among the reservoirs recording higher than average storage levels are Lake Almanor in California, which currently holds over a million acre-feet more than its average, signifying a surplus that benefits local ecosystems and water supply. Conversely, Lake Powell in Arizona reflects a stark deficit, with its storage levels falling approximately 8 million acre-feet short of the average, indicative of the prolonged drought affecting the Colorado River Basin. Similarly, New Mexico's Elephant Butte Reservoir storage is significantly below its historical average, echoing water scarcity concerns in the Southwest. These conditions not only impact water availability for human consumption but also have far-reaching effects on agriculture, hydroelectric power generation, and natural habitats. The variances in reservoir levels can often be traced back to factors such as snowpack levels, river flows, and regional precipitation patterns, which are influenced by broader climatic shifts and require ongoing monitoring and responsive water management strategies to ensure sustainable use and conservation of this vital resource.

Indiana has several major reservoirs and dams used for flood control, water supply, and recreation. Some of the notable reservoirs include the Brookville Lake, Cecil M. Harden Lake, Patoka Lake, and Monroe Lake. These reservoirs rely on streamflow from nearby rivers and creeks such as the White River and its tributaries, the Patoka River, and the Salt Creek. The state's terrain is relatively flat, and there are no significant mountains or snowpack that contribute to the hydrology of the area. Record levels and drought conditions are relatively rare in Indiana, although occasional droughts have affected some regions. The state typically experiences a humid continental climate with warm summers and cold winters, and seasonal trends in precipitation can affect the water levels in reservoirs. Overall, Indiana's reservoirs and dams play a crucial role in managing the state's water resources, providing essential water supply and recreational opportunities while mitigating flood risk.

Indiana has several major reservoirs and dams used for flood control, water supply, and recreation. Some of the notable reservoirs include the Brookville Lake, Cecil M. Harden Lake, Patoka Lake, and Monroe Lake. These reservoirs rely on streamflow from nearby rivers and creeks such as the White River and its tributaries, the Patoka River, and the Salt Creek. The state's terrain is relatively flat, and there are no significant mountains or snowpack that contribute to the hydrology of the area.

Record levels and drought conditions are relatively rare in Indiana, although occasional droughts have affected some regions. The state typically experiences a humid continental climate with warm summers and cold winters, and seasonal trends in precipitation can affect the water levels in reservoirs. Overall, Indiana's reservoirs and dams play a crucial role in managing the state's water resources, providing essential water supply and recreational opportunities while mitigating flood risk.