NEBRASKA RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: December 24, 2025

The latest observations of the nation's dams and reservoirs present a mixed picture of water storage levels, with some areas experiencing surpluses due to recent inflows, while others face drought conditions with below-average water levels. Notably, major reservoirs such as Lake Powell in Arizona and Lake Mead in Nevada reveal a concerning trend, with storage levels falling significantly short of their historical averages, reflecting extended periods of drought and increased water demand in the Southwest. Conversely, California's Lake San Antonio has seen a surge in water levels, exceeding its average and demonstrating the variability of water supplies across different regions.

For water management researchers and hydrologists, the data underscores the importance of monitoring and adaptive management strategies to address the challenges posed by climate variability and human impact on water resources. Reservoirs like Lake Powell, currently at only 44% of average storage, and Lake Mead with less than half its average, are stark reminders of the long-term water scarcity issues facing the Colorado River Basin. Meanwhile, reservoirs such as California's Lake San Antonio, which now holds over twice its average storage, showcase the benefits of effective catchment during periods of heavy precipitation. The contrasting conditions highlight the need for dynamic management approaches that consider both the immediate and future water needs, in addition to the environmental and economic impacts of fluctuating water levels.

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.