RHODE-ISLAND RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

In a comprehensive overview of the nation's dams and reservoirs, the latest observations reveal a diverse array of storage levels, with some water bodies experiencing surpluses and others facing drought-like conditions. Notably, Lake Mead in Nevada and Lake Powell in Arizona are significantly below their average storage levels, reflecting the ongoing water scarcity challenges in the southwestern United States. Conversely, reservoirs such as Lake Almanor and New Bullards Bar in California are reporting storage levels above average, indicating a surplus that benefits local water supply and ecosystem management.

Diving deeper into specifics, Colorado's Blue Mesa Reservoir and New Mexico's Elephant Butte Reservoir are experiencing low storage levels compared to historical averages, underscoring the impact of prolonged drought and climate variability in these regions. On the other hand, reservoirs like California's Lake Almanor and New Bullards Bar have seen an increase in storage, likely influenced by recent precipitation events that have somewhat alleviated the water stress in their respective watersheds. These insights reflect the complex and dynamic nature of water resource management, as hydrologists and researchers work to balance ecological needs with human consumption, agricultural demands, and the challenges posed by changing climatic conditions.

Rhode Island has several major reservoirs, including Scituate Reservoir, Big River Reservoir, and Meshanticut Lake. These reservoirs are fed by various streams, rivers, and creeks, including the Pawtuxet River, Blackstone River, and Moswansicut River. The hydrology of the area is influenced by the nearby mountains, including the Berkshires and the Green Mountains. Snowpack in these mountains can contribute to streamflow and water levels in the reservoirs. In recent years, Rhode Island has experienced both record high and low water levels in its reservoirs. In 2016, Scituate Reservoir reached its highest level in over two decades due to heavy rainfall. However, in 2020, drought conditions led to low water levels in several reservoirs, prompting water restrictions in some areas. Seasonal trends also impact water levels, with typically lower levels in the summer months. Overall, reservoirs and dams provide crucial water resources for Rhode Island and the surrounding areas.

Rhode Island has several major reservoirs, including Scituate Reservoir, Big River Reservoir, and Meshanticut Lake. These reservoirs are fed by various streams, rivers, and creeks, including the Pawtuxet River, Blackstone River, and Moswansicut River. The hydrology of the area is influenced by the nearby mountains, including the Berkshires and the Green Mountains. Snowpack in these mountains can contribute to streamflow and water levels in the reservoirs.

In recent years, Rhode Island has experienced both record high and low water levels in its reservoirs. In 2016, Scituate Reservoir reached its highest level in over two decades due to heavy rainfall. However, in 2020, drought conditions led to low water levels in several reservoirs, prompting water restrictions in some areas. Seasonal trends also impact water levels, with typically lower levels in the summer months. Overall, reservoirs and dams provide crucial water resources for Rhode Island and the surrounding areas.