KANSAS RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: December 20, 2025

In Kansas, the state's major dams and reservoirs play a crucial role in water supply, flood control, and recreation. As of the latest observations on December 20, 2025, data indicates that most reservoirs are holding water levels close to their average. For instance, Tuttle Creek Lake near Manhattan and Perry Lake near Perry are at 1078 ft and 893 ft respectively, which align closely with their averages of 1078.44 ft and 893.31 ft. These levels are considered normal for the season. However, certain reservoirs like Milford Lake near Junction City and Cedar Bluff Reservoir near Ellis are exhibiting lower-than-average levels, with Milford Lake at 1144 ft compared to its average of 1145.26 ft, and Cedar Bluff at 2120 ft, significantly below its average of 2125.25 ft. This might suggest potential concerns regarding water availability or ecological impacts if such trends continue.

Furthermore, Cheney Reservoir near Cheney is showing an unusual increase in water level at 1422 ft, which is above its average of 1420.67 ft. This deviation may be attributed to factors such as above-average precipitation, reduced water usage, or operational adjustments. Other reservoirs, including Wilson Lake near Wilson and Pomona Lake near Quenemo, are also below their average levels, with Wilson Lake at 1510 ft (average 1514.09 ft) and Pomona Lake at 973 ft (average 974.9 ft). These conditions could be related to lower than normal snowpack levels or river flows, which requires further investigation to determine any long-term impacts. It's imperative for water management authorities to monitor these anomalies, assess the causes, and implement measures to mitigate any adverse effects on water supply and ecosystem health.

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.