NEBRASKA RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: February 21, 2026

Across the nation, dams and reservoirs play a crucial role in water supply, flood control, irrigation, and hydroelectric power generation. The latest observations suggest that while some reservoirs are experiencing high storage levels, others are grappling with below-average water volumes, indicating localized surpluses and droughts.

For instance, Lake Winnipesaukee in New Hampshire is currently below its average gage height, sitting at 3 feet compared to the average of 3.77 feet. Similarly, the Wanaque Reservoir in New Jersey shows a notable deficit with current levels at 273 feet against an average of 293.25 feet. In contrast, the General Edgar Jadwin Reservoir in Pennsylvania is slightly above its average water surface elevation, suggesting an abundance in that region. Maurice R. at Union Lake Dam in New Jersey is experiencing significantly reduced streamflow, with a current flow of 192 ft³/s compared to the average of 296.72 ft³/s. In the West, Lake Powell, a critical water source spanning Arizona and Utah, is facing severe shortages with its storage plummeting to almost 40% of its average capacity. Similarly, California's Lake Mead, a barometer for the Southwest's water health, is also recording storage levels significantly below average.

These abnormal conditions can be attributed to a variety of factors, including fluctuating snowpack levels, river flows, and prolonged periods of dry weather affecting water inflow. The data underscores the importance of efficient water management strategies and the need for continued monitoring and adaptation to ensure water security amidst changing climatic conditions. As researchers and hydrologists seek to balance water needs with ecological conservation, these observations offer a snapshot of the ongoing challenges faced by the nation's reservoirs and dams.

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.