NEW-JERSEY RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

As the latest hydrological data streams in, a broad overview of the nation's dams and reservoirs presents a complex tapestry of water management challenges and triumphs. Across the board, we see a dynamic interplay between natural water inflows, demand for water resources, and the engineering feats that underpin our reservoir systems. In some regions, reservoirs are brimming thanks to strategic management and favorable weather patterns, while others face the strain of drought, with water levels dipping worryingly low.

Notably, Lake Mead in Nevada is experiencing significantly reduced storage, a reflection of the prolonged drought gripping the Southwest. Conversely, reservoirs like Lake Almanor in California are reporting above-average storage, indicative of recent beneficial precipitations. Moreover, facilities such as the Dillon and Granby reservoirs in Colorado show decreased storage levels, which may affect water availability for local communities and ecosystems. In stark contrast, the John Martin Reservoir in Colorado has seen a dramatic drop in storage, underscoring the need for meticulous water resource planning. Similarly, Elephant Butte Reservoir in New Mexico reveals a stark decrease in storage, highlighting the ongoing challenges in water-scarce regions.

In conclusion, the current state of our dams and reservoirs is a delicate balance, with some enjoying surplus and others facing shortages. As such, the importance of sustainable water management practices and infrastructure adaptation in the face of climate variability has never been more apparent. The data underscores the need for continued vigilance and innovation in preserving our precious water resources for future generations.

New Jersey has several major reservoirs, including the Manasquan Reservoir, the Round Valley Reservoir, and the Wanaque Reservoir. These reservoirs are fed by a variety of streams and rivers, including the Manasquan River, the Raritan River, and the Wanaque River. The state's location in the northeastern United States means that snowpack and mountain runoff are important factors in the hydrology of the area. Record levels and drought conditions have been observed in New Jersey in recent years, with severe drought conditions experienced in 2020. Seasonal trends show that streamflow and reservoir levels tend to be highest in the spring and lowest in the fall, with the summer months often experiencing drought conditions. Despite these challenges, New Jersey has worked to improve its water infrastructure, including dam and reservoir management, to ensure a reliable supply of clean water for its residents.

New Jersey has several major reservoirs, including the Manasquan Reservoir, the Round Valley Reservoir, and the Wanaque Reservoir. These reservoirs are fed by a variety of streams and rivers, including the Manasquan River, the Raritan River, and the Wanaque River. The state's location in the northeastern United States means that snowpack and mountain runoff are important factors in the hydrology of the area.

Record levels and drought conditions have been observed in New Jersey in recent years, with severe drought conditions experienced in 2020. Seasonal trends show that streamflow and reservoir levels tend to be highest in the spring and lowest in the fall, with the summer months often experiencing drought conditions. Despite these challenges, New Jersey has worked to improve its water infrastructure, including dam and reservoir management, to ensure a reliable supply of clean water for its residents.