NEW-YORK RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: January 24, 2026

New York's dams and reservoirs are integral to water management, but some are currently experiencing abnormal conditions. Indian Lake, for example, is nearly at its average storage level with a water surface elevation of 1645 feet, just one foot below the average of 1645.01 feet. Owasco Lake is notably lower than its average, standing at 710 feet compared to the usual 711.2 feet. Onondaga Lake and Lake George are maintaining close to average levels, with current elevations at 363 and 319 feet, just slightly below their respective averages of 363.08 and 319.25 feet. First Lake is slightly above its average level at 1706 feet versus 1705.6 feet. Intriguingly, Skaneateles Lake's water temperature reading was not captured due to a data anomaly indicated by the value -999999. Meanwhile, Stillwater Reservoir is experiencing a significant decrease, with a current elevation of 1665 feet - a full 6.84 feet below its average level of 1671.84 feet.

Abnormal conditions may be influenced by factors such as snowpack levels and river flows. While the dataset does not specify these details, deviations from average water levels can often be attributed to variations in precipitation, snowmelt, and human activity. For instance, a reduced snowpack or lower river inflows can lead to decreased reservoir levels. The situation is compounded by global water crises, as studies show that half of the world's 100 largest cities are facing severe water issues, according to sources like Dainik Jagran and Bhaskar English. While New York has not reached such an extreme situation, the data on Stillwater Reservoir, in particular, suggests the need for close monitoring and perhaps water conservation measures if the trend continues. This situation serves as a microcosm of the larger water challenges facing urban centers globally and underscores the importance of sustainable water resource management.

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.