NEW-YORK RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: January 1, 2026

In New York, several key dams and reservoirs serve as critical water storage and management systems, and recent observations indicate that some of these water bodies are experiencing conditions that deviate from their average measurements for this time of the year. The data for Indian Lake near Indian Lake, NY, for instance, shows a slight decrease in water surface elevation, currently at 1645 feet compared to the average of 1645.01 feet. While the change is minimal, it suggests a potential trend that could impact water management decisions. Similarly, Owasco Lake near Auburn, NY, reflects a more noticeable drop with current levels at 709 feet against an average of 711.22 feet. Onondaga Lake at Liverpool, NY, also reports a minor decrease to 362 feet from its usual 363.08 feet. In contrast, First Lake at Old Forge, NY, has seen a slight rise to 1706 feet, just above the average of 1705.6 feet. These variations could be related to factors such as seasonal precipitation, snowpack melt rates, and river flows, which require continuous monitoring to manage water resources effectively and anticipate any potential issues.

Diving deeper into the data, Skaneateles Lake at Skaneateles, NY, presents an anomaly with a reported temperature measurement that is clearly erroneous (indicated by a value of -999999), suggesting a possible sensor malfunction or data entry error that needs correction. Meanwhile, Stillwater Reservoir near Beaver River, NY, appears to be experiencing a more significant decrease, with the level dropping to 1666 feet from the average of 1671.89 feet. This could have implications for water supply in the area if the trend continues. Lake George at Rogers Rock, NY, remains relatively stable with a minor decrease from the average 319.25 feet to 319 feet. It is critical for authorities to verify these observations with multiple data sources and consider the context of current weather patterns, snowpack levels, and regional water needs. Any abnormalities in these water levels could be indicative of broader hydrological issues that may require intervention to ensure the sustainability of these vital water resources.

New York State has several major reservoirs and dams, including the Ashokan Reservoir, the Cannonsville Reservoir, and the Pepacton Reservoir. These reservoirs are fed by several streams, rivers, and creeks, including the Esopus Creek, the West Branch Delaware River, and the Beaver Kill. The hydrology in the area is affected by the snowpack and mountains, which can significantly impact streamflow and water levels in the reservoirs. Record levels have been observed in some reservoirs in the past, but drought conditions have also been a concern, particularly during the summer months. Seasonal trends often show lower water levels in the fall and winter, with increased flows during the spring snowmelt and summer rainfall. Overall, these reservoirs play a vital role in providing clean drinking water to millions of New Yorkers while also providing opportunities for recreation and tourism.

New York State has several major reservoirs and dams, including the Ashokan Reservoir, the Cannonsville Reservoir, and the Pepacton Reservoir. These reservoirs are fed by several streams, rivers, and creeks, including the Esopus Creek, the West Branch Delaware River, and the Beaver Kill. The hydrology in the area is affected by the snowpack and mountains, which can significantly impact streamflow and water levels in the reservoirs. Record levels have been observed in some reservoirs in the past, but drought conditions have also been a concern, particularly during the summer months. Seasonal trends often show lower water levels in the fall and winter, with increased flows during the spring snowmelt and summer rainfall. Overall, these reservoirs play a vital role in providing clean drinking water to millions of New Yorkers while also providing opportunities for recreation and tourism.