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KANSAS RESERVOIR LEVELS

March 28 2025
       

Kansas' major dams and reservoirs currently show a trend of below-average water surface elevations, a condition that could indicate potential water management concerns, especially as the region heads into the warmer months. As of the latest observations on March 28, 2025, several key reservoirs including Milford Lake near Junction City, Cedar Bluff Reservoir near Ellis, and Kanopolis Lake near Kanopolis are reporting levels slightly below their respective historical averages. For instance, Milford Lake's surface elevation stands at 1144 feet, compared to its average of 1145.29 feet. Similarly, Cedar Bluff and Kanopolis Lakes are at 2122 and 1462 feet, respectively, each a few feet shy of their norms. This trend continues in other reservoirs such as Wilson Lake near Wilson, Tuttle Creek Lake near Manhattan, and Perry Lake near Perry, all showing minor deficits. Anomalies also appear in Clinton Lake near Lawrence and Melvern Lake near Melvern with levels just below average. Notably, Pomona Lake near Quenemo reports an invalid reading, which requires immediate verification, while Hillsdale Lake near Hillsdale and Cheney Reservoir near Cheney also record lower than average elevations at 915 feet and 1413 feet, respectively.

The observed lower water levels across Kansas might be attributed to factors such as reduced snowpack, lower river flows, or increased water demand. The current data, when cross-referenced with drought status updates from Drought.gov, suggests that these reservoirs could be experiencing the effects of a drier season. The absence of significant precipitation or snowmelt could exacerbate the situation, potentially impacting water availability for agricultural needs, as indicated by discussions around the permitting of a large feedlot in Larned by the Kansas Reflector. Recreation on water bodies, akin to concerns raised at Flathead Lake as reported by News From The States, could also be affected. Garden maintenance tips by experts on KWCH underscore the importance of water conservation during such periods. These conditions serve as a cautionary reminder for stakeholders and residents to monitor water levels and usage carefully, and to remain prepared for potential water-related challenges in the coming months.

Reservoirs & Dams