LOUISIANA RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: December 29, 2025

As of the latest observations, the national status of dams and reservoirs reflects a varied landscape of water storage levels across the country. Some regions are experiencing abundant water reserves, while others face significant deficits, often correlating with prevailing weather patterns, snowpack conditions, and usage demands. Notably, major water bodies such as Lake Mead in Nevada and Lake Powell in Arizona have reported storage levels far below their historical averages, indicative of the prolonged drought affecting the Southwest. Conversely, northern states such as Montana's Flathead Lake at Polson exhibit storage levels exceeding average figures, possibly benefiting from recent precipitation and runoff influx.

In contrasting examples, California's Lake San Antonio has shown a remarkable increase in storage, surpassing historical averages, while Florida's Ward Lake near Bradenton is at a lower than typical gage height. These snapshots underscore the complexity of water management challenges, as hydrologists and researchers grapple with a dynamic interplay of natural forces and human influence. The data suggests a pressing need for adaptive measures in water resource planning and underscores the importance of ongoing monitoring to inform sustainable management practices. Overall, the current state of the nation's dams and reservoirs serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilant and proactive water stewardship in an era of climate variability.

Louisiana is home to several major reservoirs, including Toledo Bend Reservoir, Catahoula Lake, and Lake Pontchartrain. Toledo Bend Reservoir is one of the largest man-made reservoirs in the country and is fed by the Sabine River. Catahoula Lake is a natural lake that is fed by several creeks and streams, while Lake Pontchartrain is a brackish estuary that is fed by several rivers, including the Mississippi River. Due to its low elevation and flat topography, Louisiana does not receive significant snowfall or have any relevant mountains that contribute to its reservoirs. However, the state experiences a humid subtropical climate, with abundant rainfall throughout the year. In recent years, Louisiana has experienced several record-breaking floods, particularly along the Mississippi River and its tributaries. Drought conditions have also been an issue in certain parts of the state during the summer and fall months. Overall, the hydrology of Louisiana is heavily influenced by its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico and the various rivers and streams that flow through the state.

Louisiana is home to several major reservoirs, including Toledo Bend Reservoir, Catahoula Lake, and Lake Pontchartrain. Toledo Bend Reservoir is one of the largest man-made reservoirs in the country and is fed by the Sabine River. Catahoula Lake is a natural lake that is fed by several creeks and streams, while Lake Pontchartrain is a brackish estuary that is fed by several rivers, including the Mississippi River.

Due to its low elevation and flat topography, Louisiana does not receive significant snowfall or have any relevant mountains that contribute to its reservoirs. However, the state experiences a humid subtropical climate, with abundant rainfall throughout the year.

In recent years, Louisiana has experienced several record-breaking floods, particularly along the Mississippi River and its tributaries. Drought conditions have also been an issue in certain parts of the state during the summer and fall months. Overall, the hydrology of Louisiana is heavily influenced by its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico and the various rivers and streams that flow through the state.