INDIANA RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: December 29, 2025

As of the latest observations, the national status of dams and reservoirs reflects a varied landscape of water storage levels across the country. Some regions are experiencing abundant water reserves, while others face significant deficits, often correlating with prevailing weather patterns, snowpack conditions, and usage demands. Notably, major water bodies such as Lake Mead in Nevada and Lake Powell in Arizona have reported storage levels far below their historical averages, indicative of the prolonged drought affecting the Southwest. Conversely, northern states such as Montana's Flathead Lake at Polson exhibit storage levels exceeding average figures, possibly benefiting from recent precipitation and runoff influx.

In contrasting examples, California's Lake San Antonio has shown a remarkable increase in storage, surpassing historical averages, while Florida's Ward Lake near Bradenton is at a lower than typical gage height. These snapshots underscore the complexity of water management challenges, as hydrologists and researchers grapple with a dynamic interplay of natural forces and human influence. The data suggests a pressing need for adaptive measures in water resource planning and underscores the importance of ongoing monitoring to inform sustainable management practices. Overall, the current state of the nation's dams and reservoirs serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilant and proactive water stewardship in an era of climate variability.

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.