MONTANA RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: December 22, 2025

Montana's dams and reservoirs play a critical role in water management, supporting agriculture, hydropower, recreation, and ecosystem protection. A recent observation from Flathead Lake at Polson MT indicates that the water surface elevation is currently at 2892 feet, slightly above the average of 2889.51 feet. This elevation is measured from a fixed datum point, providing an accurate representation of the lake's water storage level. While the data reveals only one reservoir's status, this information is crucial for local stakeholders who rely on the lake's consistent water levels for various needs.

The current elevation of Flathead Lake suggests a minor deviation from its average, which could be due to multiple factors, including seasonal variations, precipitation patterns, or changes in upstream river flows influenced by snowpack melting rates. Without corresponding data on snowpack levels and river flows, it is difficult to attribute the cause of the lake's slightly higher water level. Nonetheless, deviations from the norm can impact water allocations, flood risk management, and ecological health. Therefore, cross-referencing with regional hydrological data, such as snowpack measurements and river discharge records, is essential to understand the wider implications of observed reservoir levels. Overall, the Flathead Lake data suggests stable conditions, but the need for continuous monitoring is evident to anticipate and manage potential water-related challenges.

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.