UTAH RESERVOIR REPORT
Last Updated: December 4, 2025
Utah's dams and reservoirs are experiencing a variety of conditions as of the latest observations from December 4, 2025. The Stewart Lake Outflow near Jensen is reporting streamflow at less than half its average rate, which may indicate below-normal water availability in that area. On the other hand, Utah Lake is slightly above its average storage level, and so is Flaming Gorge Reservoir, which could suggest better water security for their respective regions. However, several other key reservoirs such as Trial Lake, Lost Lake, and Willard Bay are recording storage levels substantially below their averages, which could be a cause for concern. Additionally, reservoirs like Strawberry Reservoir and Upper Stillwater are reporting higher-than-average storage, which could be due to recent precipitation events or controlled water management strategies.
The abnormal conditions in some of Utah's reservoirs may be attributed to various factors, including the first significant snowfall of the season, as reported by KSL.com, which could temporarily boost water levels in some areas. Conversely, drier conditions could be a lingering effect of the ongoing drought, as suggested by a discussion in The Wall Street Journal regarding the drought battle being complicated by conspiracy theories like 'chemtrails.' It's also important to consider that Utah's financial context, such as the tax cuts under Trump's administration discussed by the Utah News Dispatch, could impact the funding available for water management and infrastructure. As the data suggests disparities in storage levels across the state, the upcoming winter weather and its impact on snowpack and river flows will play a critical role in defining water availability and reservoir conditions as the year progresses. It's imperative for stakeholders and residents to stay informed and prepared for the implications of these variations in water storage.
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.