INDIANA RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: December 28, 2025

As we review the latest data on the nation's dams and reservoirs, it's clear that water storage levels are exhibiting significant variability across different regions. Some areas are experiencing surpluses, while others are facing drought conditions that have led to lower than average water levels.

In particular, regions such as California have seen a mix of conditions, with Lake Almanor and New Bullards Bar showcasing higher-than-average storage, indicative of recent rainfall or snowmelt contributions. On the other hand, Lake Mead in Nevada and Elephant Butte Reservoir in New Mexico are alarmingly below their average storage levels, reflecting the ongoing drought conditions in the Southwest. Additionally, storage levels in Colorado's Vega Reservoir have dipped considerably, suggesting potential water supply concerns if these trends continue.

The picture is not uniformly bleak, as some reservoirs, such as Vallecito Reservoir in Colorado, are currently holding more water than usual, which may provide some cushion against potential dry spells ahead. However, such surpluses are exceptions in the broader context of reservoirs like John Martin Reservoir in Colorado and San Luis Reservoir in California, which are well below their average storage levels, raising concerns about water availability for agriculture and urban needs.

These disparities in reservoir levels can often be traced back to localized weather patterns, river flows, and the impact of climate change, which affects snowpack melt and precipitation rates. For instance, the low levels in Lake Powell and Lake Mead are partly due to reduced snowpack in the Rockies and increased evaporation rates. It is critical for water managers and hydrologists to monitor these trends and plan accordingly to ensure sustainable water resource management and to mitigate the impacts of extreme weather events on water supplies.

Overall, the current data underscore the need for careful monitoring of water levels and proactive planning for water conservation efforts, as well as the need to investigate patterns in snowpack and river flows to better prepare for future environmental and usage demands on these critical resources.

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.