MINNESOTA RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: December 20, 2025

The latest observations for key dams and reservoirs in Minnesota indicate that water levels are slightly below average for this time of year, based on gage height measurements. UPPER RED LAKE AT WASKISH and LOWER RED LAKE NR RED LAKE are both down by approximately 1.4 feet from their respective averages of 74.38 and 74.42 feet. LAKE OF THE WOODS AT WARROAD is also experiencing lower levels, with a current gage height at 58 feet, 1.18 feet below the average of 59.18 feet. All measurements were last recorded on December 20, 2025. This information is crucial for water resource management, recreational planning, and ecological conservation in the state.

The deviation from the norm could be attributed to various factors, including regional weather events or environmental policies. For instance, reports such as "From Morris to Burlington: Windstorm leaves trail of damage - New Jersey 101.5" suggest that recent extreme weather could have impacted water levels, though Minnesota is geographically distant from New Jersey. Meanwhile, "E&E News: EPA executes U-turn on Iowa water pollution - POLITICO Pro" indicates shifting environmental regulations, which may also indirectly affect water resources in neighboring states like Minnesota through changes in river flows or water quality. It is worth noting that these conditions can pose challenges for the state's water management, potentially affecting both human activities and local ecosystems. Cross-referencing with additional local and hydrological data sources would be crucial to fully understand the implications of these below-average water levels.

Minnesota has over 15,000 lakes and reservoirs, with the largest being Lake of the Woods, Rainy Lake, and Lake Vermilion. These reservoirs are primarily fed by streams and rivers such as the Mississippi, St. Croix, and Red River. Snowpack in the northern part of the state is crucial for maintaining water levels in these reservoirs during the dry summer months. However, drought conditions can negatively impact water levels, as was the case in the summer of 2021 when Lake Minnetonka recorded its lowest water level in 80 years. The hydrology of the area is influenced by the state's geography, which includes rolling hills and flat plains. Seasonal trends include high water levels in the spring due to snowmelt and lower levels in the summer months. Overall, reservoirs and dams play an important role in providing water for agriculture, industry, and recreation in Minnesota.

Minnesota has over 15,000 lakes and reservoirs, with the largest being Lake of the Woods, Rainy Lake, and Lake Vermilion. These reservoirs are primarily fed by streams and rivers such as the Mississippi, St. Croix, and Red River. Snowpack in the northern part of the state is crucial for maintaining water levels in these reservoirs during the dry summer months. However, drought conditions can negatively impact water levels, as was the case in the summer of 2021 when Lake Minnetonka recorded its lowest water level in 80 years. The hydrology of the area is influenced by the state's geography, which includes rolling hills and flat plains. Seasonal trends include high water levels in the spring due to snowmelt and lower levels in the summer months. Overall, reservoirs and dams play an important role in providing water for agriculture, industry, and recreation in Minnesota.