NEBRASKA RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: January 5, 2026

The United States' dam and reservoir systems are vital pieces of infrastructure, serving numerous functions from water supply, flood control, recreation, and hydroelectric power generation. A comprehensive analysis of the latest observational data reveals a mixed picture of the nation's water storage levels, which vary significantly across different regions and states.

Many of the nation's reservoirs are experiencing fluctuations in storage levels, with some noting significant divergences from their average measures. For instance, Lake Mead in Nevada, a cornerstone of water supply for the arid Southwest, is currently at a storage level of approximately 8,609,966 acre-feet, a notable decrease from its average of 17,986,418.88 acre-feet, indicating prolonged drought conditions. Conversely, reservoirs like Lake Almanor in California are reporting storage levels significantly above average (1,094,528 acre-feet compared to the average 895,289.67 acre-feet), reflecting abundant inflows. These variations point towards broader climatic trends, including altered precipitation patterns and potential climate change impacts. In areas where reservoir levels are critically low, such as Elephant Butte Reservoir in New Mexico with a current storage of 166,075 acre-feet against an average of 829,488.39 acre-feet, water management strategies and conservation efforts become increasingly urgent to sustain supply and ecosystem health.

Moreover, multipurpose reservoirs like the Flaming Gorge in Utah showcase robust storage at approximately 2,998,229 acre-feet against an average of 2,915,156.59 acre-feet. This suggests effective resource management and possibly higher inflows from upstream snowpack melt or increased precipitation. However, the current conditions of reservoirs like Caballo Reservoir in New Mexico, with storage at 15,556 acre-feet compared to its average of 71,067.83 acre-feet, raise concerns about long-term water availability and the need for stringent water allocations.

In conclusion, while some reservoirs are managing to maintain or exceed average water levels, others are facing critical shortages, underscoring the importance of regional water management practices and the need to adapt to changing hydrological conditions. As stewards of these vital water resources, it is imperative that we continually monitor, analyze, and respond to these trends to safeguard our water supplies for the future.

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.