MONTANA RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: December 24, 2025

Montana's reservoirs and dams play a vital role in water conservation and management within the state, influencing local ecosystems, agriculture, and municipal water supplies. A current review of the latest observations suggests that the majority of these structures are operating within expected parameters for the season, with particular attention drawn to Flathead Lake at Polson, MT. According to the latest data, Flathead Lake's water surface elevation stands at 2892 feet above datum, slightly above the average of 2889.51 feet. This increment, although modest, could be indicative of a range of factors including variations in precipitation, snowpack conditions upstream, and river inflow rates. It is important for local stakeholders, including those in agricultural sectors and urban planning, to monitor these levels as they can have significant implications on water availability and management strategies.

Cross-referencing information from the Flathead Beacon and the Western News, there is no immediate alarm raised about abnormal water levels at Montana's major dams and reservoirs, including Flathead Lake. However, the "Nonprofit set to investigate Chain of Lakes water woes" article suggests some level of concern over water conditions in the interconnected lake system, which may or may not impact the Flathead Lake measurements. While no direct correlation is provided between the conditions at the Chain of Lakes and Flathead Lake, the heightened scrutiny from nonprofit organizations underscores the importance of consistent monitoring and investigation into regional water systems. Such vigilance ensures that any deviations from the norm, whether due to natural fluctuations like snowpack melt and river flows or anthropogenic factors, are identified and addressed promptly to maintain the ecological balance and resource availability for Montanans.

Montana has many reservoirs and dams that provide water for irrigation, hydropower, and recreation. Some notable reservoirs include Fort Peck Lake on the Missouri River, Hungry Horse Reservoir on the Flathead River, and Lake Koocanusa on the Kootenai River. These reservoirs receive water from various streams, rivers, and creeks in the surrounding areas, with snowpack and mountain melt contributing significantly to the water supply. The general hydrology of Montana is influenced by its mountainous terrain, with the western part of the state having a wetter climate and the eastern part being more arid. Record levels have been observed in recent years due to heavy snowfall and precipitation, but the state has also experienced drought conditions in some areas. Seasonal trends show that spring and early summer are the wettest times of the year, while late summer and fall are typically drier. Overall, reservoirs and dams play an important role in managing Montana's water resources and supporting various industries and recreational activities.

Montana has many reservoirs and dams that provide water for irrigation, hydropower, and recreation. Some notable reservoirs include Fort Peck Lake on the Missouri River, Hungry Horse Reservoir on the Flathead River, and Lake Koocanusa on the Kootenai River. These reservoirs receive water from various streams, rivers, and creeks in the surrounding areas, with snowpack and mountain melt contributing significantly to the water supply. The general hydrology of Montana is influenced by its mountainous terrain, with the western part of the state having a wetter climate and the eastern part being more arid. Record levels have been observed in recent years due to heavy snowfall and precipitation, but the state has also experienced drought conditions in some areas. Seasonal trends show that spring and early summer are the wettest times of the year, while late summer and fall are typically drier. Overall, reservoirs and dams play an important role in managing Montana's water resources and supporting various industries and recreational activities.