MINNESOTA RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: November 12, 2025

In the state of Minnesota, recent observations indicate that major reservoirs are experiencing lower-than-average water levels as we approach the end of the year. Upper Red Lake at Waskish, Lower Red Lake near Red Lake, and Lake of the Woods at Warroad are all reporting gage heights below their respective averages. Upper Red Lake's current gage height stands at 73 feet, compared to an average of 74.38 feet, while Lower Red Lake is also at 73 feet, down from a 74.43-foot average. Lake of the Woods at Warroad is recording a gage height of 58 feet, which is more than a foot lower than its average of 59.18 feet. These measurements, last observed on November 12, 2025, suggest that the reservoirs are holding less water than usual for this period.

The abnormal conditions at these reservoirs may be linked to a broader environmental context in Minnesota. Research has highlighted the impact of multi-year droughts on grasslands, which could be contributing to lower water levels due to reduced runoff and increased evaporation rates. Furthermore, while Minnesota has been making strides in clean energy and environmental stewardship, these initiatives may not immediately alleviate the water level deficits observed in these water bodies. The state's focus on conservation and wildlife habitat programs, such as those related to bear den locations, underscores the importance of environmental health, which includes maintaining reservoir levels. Although not directly related to reservoir levels, community concerns such as public health issues from substance overdoses or cultural events may also indirectly affect the prioritization and resources allocated for water management. Keeping an eye on these reservoirs is essential, as they play a critical role in local ecosystems, recreation, and water supply. It is important to monitor further data to determine if these conditions are part of a short-term fluctuation or indicative of a longer-term shift in Minnesota's water resource patterns.

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.