NEBRASKA RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

In a comprehensive overview of the nation's dams and reservoirs, the latest observations reveal a diverse array of storage levels, with some water bodies experiencing surpluses and others facing drought-like conditions. Notably, Lake Mead in Nevada and Lake Powell in Arizona are significantly below their average storage levels, reflecting the ongoing water scarcity challenges in the southwestern United States. Conversely, reservoirs such as Lake Almanor and New Bullards Bar in California are reporting storage levels above average, indicating a surplus that benefits local water supply and ecosystem management.

Diving deeper into specifics, Colorado's Blue Mesa Reservoir and New Mexico's Elephant Butte Reservoir are experiencing low storage levels compared to historical averages, underscoring the impact of prolonged drought and climate variability in these regions. On the other hand, reservoirs like California's Lake Almanor and New Bullards Bar have seen an increase in storage, likely influenced by recent precipitation events that have somewhat alleviated the water stress in their respective watersheds. These insights reflect the complex and dynamic nature of water resource management, as hydrologists and researchers work to balance ecological needs with human consumption, agricultural demands, and the challenges posed by changing climatic conditions.

Nebraska has several reservoirs and dams that serve the purpose of storing water for various uses such as irrigation, recreation, and hydroelectric power generation. Some of the major reservoirs in the state include Lake McConaughy, Merritt Reservoir, and Harlan County Reservoir. These reservoirs are fed by streams and rivers such as the North Platte River, the Niobrara River, and the Republican River. The hydrology of the area is primarily influenced by snowpack and mountain runoff from the Rocky Mountains. The state has experienced various drought conditions in recent years, which have affected the water levels in the reservoirs. In 2021, Lake McConaughy reached a record low level due to drought conditions. Seasonal trends show that the reservoirs typically experience higher water levels during the spring and early summer months due to snowmelt runoff. Overall, the reservoirs and dams in Nebraska play a crucial role in providing water for the state's agricultural industry and supporting its recreational activities.

Nebraska has several reservoirs and dams that serve the purpose of storing water for various uses such as irrigation, recreation, and hydroelectric power generation. Some of the major reservoirs in the state include Lake McConaughy, Merritt Reservoir, and Harlan County Reservoir. These reservoirs are fed by streams and rivers such as the North Platte River, the Niobrara River, and the Republican River. The hydrology of the area is primarily influenced by snowpack and mountain runoff from the Rocky Mountains. The state has experienced various drought conditions in recent years, which have affected the water levels in the reservoirs. In 2021, Lake McConaughy reached a record low level due to drought conditions. Seasonal trends show that the reservoirs typically experience higher water levels during the spring and early summer months due to snowmelt runoff. Overall, the reservoirs and dams in Nebraska play a crucial role in providing water for the state's agricultural industry and supporting its recreational activities.