UTAH RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: January 1, 2026

As of the latest observations in Utah, abnormal conditions in reservoir storage levels are evident for this time of year, suggesting a departure from typical seasonal trends. Utah Lake, for instance, is currently storing 665,231 acre-feet of water, significantly above its average of 629,776.66 acre-feet, while Trial Lake's storage has plummeted to 353 acre-feet, far below the average of 946.27 acre-feet. Similarly, Flaming Gorge Reservoir is exceeding its average storage, with current levels at 2,995,810 acre-feet compared to the average of 2,915,142.52 acre-feet. In contrast, Willard Bay Reservoir is experiencing markedly low levels at 81,772 acre-feet, well under its average of 135,471.12 acre-feet. These disparities could be indicative of broader hydrological challenges, including the impact of a warm and dry start to the winter that has left the snowpack below normal levels, potentially affecting river flows and subsequent reservoir replenishment.

Cross-referencing data from heraldextra.com and Park Record articles points toward a trend of diminished snowpack and altered precipitation patterns in Utah, which are key contributors to the observed reservoir conditions. Reservoirs like Strawberry Reservoir, with storage at 942,621 acre-feet, surpassing the average of 795,122.15 acre-feet, benefit from expanded capacities and possibly localized precipitation, whereas others, such as Steinaker Reservoir at 9,818 acre-feet (far below the average 19,508.63 acre-feet), may be impacted by reduced inflows. The information suggests a critical need to closely monitor and manage water resources in light of evolving climatic conditions. Water authorities might need to employ adaptive strategies for water conservation and allocation to mitigate the repercussions of these atypical reservoir storages, especially as the region continues to face the complexities of water resource management amid fluctuating environmental factors.

Utah has over 100 reservoirs and dams, many of which are used for irrigation, hydroelectric power, and recreation. Major reservoirs in the state include Lake Powell, Flaming Gorge Reservoir, and Strawberry Reservoir. Water for these reservoirs comes from streams and rivers, including the Colorado River and its tributaries, the Green River, and the Provo River. Snowpack from the mountains is a significant source of water for these streams and rivers. Utah experiences a semi-arid climate, with hot summers and cold winters. Drought conditions have been prevalent in recent years, leading to low water levels in some reservoirs. However, record snowfall in 2019 helped to replenish some of these reservoirs. Seasonal trends typically see higher water levels in the spring and early summer due to snowmelt, with levels decreasing in late summer and fall. Overall, reservoirs and dams play a crucial role in managing Utah's water resources and supporting various industries and recreational activities.

Utah has over 100 reservoirs and dams, many of which are used for irrigation, hydroelectric power, and recreation. Major reservoirs in the state include Lake Powell, Flaming Gorge Reservoir, and Strawberry Reservoir. Water for these reservoirs comes from streams and rivers, including the Colorado River and its tributaries, the Green River, and the Provo River. Snowpack from the mountains is a significant source of water for these streams and rivers. Utah experiences a semi-arid climate, with hot summers and cold winters. Drought conditions have been prevalent in recent years, leading to low water levels in some reservoirs. However, record snowfall in 2019 helped to replenish some of these reservoirs. Seasonal trends typically see higher water levels in the spring and early summer due to snowmelt, with levels decreasing in late summer and fall. Overall, reservoirs and dams play a crucial role in managing Utah's water resources and supporting various industries and recreational activities.