OREGON RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: February 13, 2026

Oregon's dam and reservoir system is currently facing a mix of conditions, with several reservoirs reporting water surface elevations below their average levels, indicating potential water supply concerns. According to the latest observations, Upper Klamath Lake near Klamath Falls is slightly above its average at 4141 feet, while Bull Run Lake near Brightwood is almost at its typical level. However, notable deficits are observed in Hills Creek Lake near Oakridge and Lookout Point Lake near Lowell, which are 37 and 28.89 feet below their respective averages. Similarly, Fall Creek Lake, Cottage Grove Lake, Dorena Lake, Fern Ridge Lake, Detroit Lake, Green Peter Lake, Foster Lake, and Applegate Lake are all reporting below average levels, with deficits ranging from 10 to 48.74 feet. These numbers are concerning as they suggest a trend towards lower water storage in key reservoirs.

The water scarcity is linked to Oregon's record low snowpack, as reported by multiple sources, including NPR for Oregonians and OregonLive.com. The snowpack levels are described by experts as unlikely to recover, with the situation being termed "uncharted territory" due to the severity of the snow drought. This reduced snowpack impacts river flows and reservoir replenishment, directly affecting dam storage capacities. The mild weather patterns, as noted by KDRV, have failed to deliver the needed precipitation to offset these deficits. Furthermore, regional concerns about drought conditions, as indicated in reports by the Oklahoma Farm Report and the Sierra Sun Times, align with the local observations in Oregon. The current state of Oregon's reservoirs can be seen as a microcosm of a broader national issue related to climate variability and water resource management, with the potential for long-term implications if these trends continue.

Oregon has over 1,200 reservoirs and dams, with the largest being the Owyhee Reservoir, which can hold up to 1.1 million acre-feet of water. Other major reservoirs include the Detroit Reservoir, Wickiup Reservoir, and Crane Prairie Reservoir. The sources of water for these reservoirs include the Columbia River, Snake River, Deschutes River, and their tributaries. The snowpack in the mountains is a crucial factor in filling these reservoirs, with the Cascades and Blue Mountains being the primary sources. Record levels for reservoirs and dams vary depending on location, but generally occur during periods of heavy precipitation or snowmelt. Drought conditions are also a concern, as low snowpack and reduced streamflow can impact water availability for irrigation and recreation. Seasonal trends in precipitation and snowpack influence water levels in reservoirs, with lower levels typically seen in late summer and early fall. Overall, the hydrology in Oregon is heavily influenced by the state's topography, with water sources being mainly mountain-fed and dependent on snowpack accumulation.

Oregon has over 1,200 reservoirs and dams, with the largest being the Owyhee Reservoir, which can hold up to 1.1 million acre-feet of water. Other major reservoirs include the Detroit Reservoir, Wickiup Reservoir, and Crane Prairie Reservoir. The sources of water for these reservoirs include the Columbia River, Snake River, Deschutes River, and their tributaries. The snowpack in the mountains is a crucial factor in filling these reservoirs, with the Cascades and Blue Mountains being the primary sources.

Record levels for reservoirs and dams vary depending on location, but generally occur during periods of heavy precipitation or snowmelt. Drought conditions are also a concern, as low snowpack and reduced streamflow can impact water availability for irrigation and recreation. Seasonal trends in precipitation and snowpack influence water levels in reservoirs, with lower levels typically seen in late summer and early fall. Overall, the hydrology in Oregon is heavily influenced by the state's topography, with water sources being mainly mountain-fed and dependent on snowpack accumulation.