INDIANA RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: November 15, 2025

Across the national landscape, the latest observations paint a varied picture of the current state of America's dams and reservoirs. While some bodies of water are experiencing levels that closely align with historical averages, others are witnessing significant deviations due to a complex interplay of factors such as precipitation patterns, water management practices, and the impacts of climate change.

Specifically, notable reservoirs such as Lake Powell and Lake Mead in the Southwestern states are grappling with storage levels far below their historical averages, reflecting the region's enduring drought and the increased demands of water usage. In contrast, reservoirs like New Melones in California and Trinity Lake are reporting storage volumes that exceed their long-term norms, thanks in part to effective water management and recent rainfall surpluses. The disparities in reservoir conditions underscore the need for continued research and adaptive strategies in water resource management to address the challenges posed by extreme weather events and changing climate conditions. These findings, representative of a broader trend, suggest that while some regions benefit from abundant water supply, others must contend with the stark realities of scarcity, shaping policies and usage behavior for the foreseeable future.

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.