KANSAS RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: January 1, 2026

In Kansas, the monitored dams and reservoirs exhibit a slight variation in water surface elevations compared to their historical averages. The data as of January 1, 2026, indicates that while some reservoirs like Milford Lake near Junction City and Cedar Bluff Reservoir near Ellis are below their average levels, others such as Cheney Reservoir near Cheney are slightly above average. It's essential to consider these figures within the context of expected seasonal fluctuations and environmental factors such as snowpack and river flows that can impact water levels.

Specifically, Milford Lake, a significant reservoir, is currently at an elevation of 1143 feet, which is notably below its average of 1145.26 feet. Similarly, Cedar Bluff Reservoir measures at 2120 feet against an average of 2125.24 feet, while Kanopolis Lake and Wilson Lake are also below their respective averages. However, Cheney Reservoir stands out with a current level of 1422 feet, exceeding its average by a marginal 1.32 feet. These abnormal conditions—decreases and increases in water levels—could potentially relate to lower snowpack levels leading to reduced runoff or changes in precipitation patterns affecting river inflows. The trends observed in these elevations might hint at broader climatic shifts, which require further investigation and continuous monitoring to understand their long-term impacts on water resource management in Kansas.

Kansas has 24 major reservoirs, many of which were created by dams on streams such as the Arkansas, Smoky Hill, and Republican Rivers. The largest reservoirs are Tuttle Creek, Milford Lake, and Cheney Lake. Snowpack and mountains are not significant factors in Kansas hydrology, as the state is relatively flat. Kansas has experienced drought conditions in recent years, with some reservoirs reaching record low levels. In general, seasonal trends see higher water levels in the spring and early summer due to snowmelt and spring rains, with levels decreasing in the late summer and fall. Management of reservoirs and dams is crucial for both water supply and flood control in the state.

Kansas has 24 major reservoirs, many of which were created by dams on streams such as the Arkansas, Smoky Hill, and Republican Rivers. The largest reservoirs are Tuttle Creek, Milford Lake, and Cheney Lake. Snowpack and mountains are not significant factors in Kansas hydrology, as the state is relatively flat. Kansas has experienced drought conditions in recent years, with some reservoirs reaching record low levels. In general, seasonal trends see higher water levels in the spring and early summer due to snowmelt and spring rains, with levels decreasing in the late summer and fall. Management of reservoirs and dams is crucial for both water supply and flood control in the state.