NEW-YORK RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: December 29, 2025

New York State's reservoir and dam infrastructure are critical to water supply, flood control, and ecosystem management. Recent observations indicate that most of New York's major reservoirs, such as Indian Lake, Owasco Lake, Onondaga Lake, First Lake, and Lake George, are maintaining water levels close to their average measures. However, the Stillwater Reservoir has shown a notable drop in water surface elevation, which is 6.9 feet below its average level. Skaneateles Lake's temperature data appears to be erroneous with a placeholder value of -999999.

The decrease in the Stillwater Reservoir's water level could be a sign of abnormal conditions, potentially related to lower-than-average snowpack melting or reduced river flows feeding into the reservoir. This situation warrants further investigation to assess the impact on local water supplies and ecosystems. Meanwhile, the other reservoirs seem to be stable at this time, but ongoing monitoring is essential to ensure they remain within safe and functional parameters, especially in the context of broader environmental concerns such as those highlighted by the New York Post's report of a significant water level drop in a NYC reservoir and the discussion of water use by AI data centers on AOL.com. The data from Mix Vale, illustrating the severe water crisis in Brazil, underscores the importance of vigilant water management practices in New York to avoid similar situations. It is crucial to cross-reference these observations with meteorological data and water usage reports to form a comprehensive picture of New York's reservoir health and to take proactive measures if any adverse trends are identified.

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.