ROLLINS RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: February 19, 2026

In the recent observations of the nation's dams and reservoirs, we are witnessing a diverse array of water storage conditions that reflect the intricate balance between natural water cycles and human management. As of February 19, 2026, some reservoirs are experiencing levels above their historical averages, while others are significantly below.

For instance, California's Lake Berryessa is at 1469172 acre-feet, surpassing its average storage, indicative of successful water conservation efforts or increased precipitation in the region. Contrastingly, New Mexico's Elephant Butte Reservoir's storage is at a mere 227044 acre-feet, far below its average of 828599.28 acre-feet, suggesting drought conditions or increased water usage. Similarly, Arizona's Lake Powell has plummeted to 5993269 acre-feet from an average of 14668017.32 acre-feet, a stark sign of the prolonged drought impacting the Colorado River Basin.

The variability in reservoir levels is influenced by factors such as snowpack conditions, river flows, and regional precipitation patterns. For example, Colorado's John Martin Reservoir is significantly below its average storage capacity, hinting at potential water supply challenges for the local ecosystem and communities. In contrast, Utah Lake boasts a storage level of 704207 acre-feet, rising above its average, which may alleviate some water scarcity concerns in that area.

These observations underscore the importance of continuous monitoring and adaptive water management to ensure the sustainability of water resources. As storage levels fluctuate, water managers must balance ecological needs with agricultural demands and urban consumption. The data paints a complex picture of the nation's water health, where proactive strategies are essential to navigate the ebb and flow of our vital water reserves.