KANSAS RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: December 25, 2025

Kansas's dams and reservoirs play a crucial role in water management, agriculture, and flood control for the state. As of the latest observations dated December 25, 2025, there is a noticeable trend where several reservoirs are reporting water surface elevations below their average levels. Notably, Milford Lake near Junction City is at 1143 feet, which is below its average of 1145.26 feet. Similarly, Cedar Bluff Reservoir near Ellis and Kanopolis Lake near Kanopolis are also below their average elevations, at 2120 feet (average 2125.24 feet) and 1461 feet (average 1464.43 feet) respectively. This indicates a potential decline in water availability in these areas. On the other hand, Cheney Reservoir near Cheney is slightly above its average at 1422 feet compared to the usual 1420.68 feet.

The abnormal conditions at these reservoirs, such as the lower levels at Milford, Cedar Bluff, and Kanopolis, could be attributed to various factors, including reduced snowpack, lower river flows, or increased water usage and evaporation rates. The deviation from the average levels can impact water supply for irrigation, urban use, and ecological balance. The rise in Cheney Reservoir's level could be due to recent precipitation events or operational changes in water management practices. It's essential to consider these reservoir data points in the context of broader climatic patterns and water management policies. Continuous monitoring is key to managing these resources effectively, especially in the face of fluctuating environmental conditions and the demands of Kansas's growing population and agricultural sector.

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.