UTAH RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: February 20, 2026

Utah's reservoirs and dams play a critical role in the state's water management and supply, especially given the region's arid climate and recent concerns over water scarcity. In the latest observations, the data shows variable storage levels across Utah's major reservoirs. For instance, Utah Lake is currently holding 701,281 acre-feet of water, exceeding its average storage of 629,857.96 acre-feet, which can be seen as a positive indication for local water resources. In contrast, Trial Lake's storage is significantly low, with current levels at 447 acre-feet compared to an average of 942.8 acre-feet, hinting at potential water shortages in that area. Flaming Gorge Reservoir, another significant water body, is also above average at 2,999,266 acre-feet against an average of 2,915,316.17 acre-feet. Meanwhile, the outflow of Stewart Lake near Jensen is currently at 1 cubic foot per second, which is less than half of its average of 2.45 cubic feet per second. These discrepancies in storage and outflow levels could be attributed to fluctuating snowpack levels and river flows, as well as recent meteorological events.

Considering the broader context, recent storms have contributed positively to some reservoir levels, but persistent drought conditions and below-average snowfall have led to abnormal conditions in others. For example, the above-average storage in Utah Lake and Flaming Gorge Reservoir may reflect the immediate benefits of stormwater inflow. However, Trial Lake's low storage could signal the insufficiency of precipitation in its watershed. Reservoirs such as Willard Bay, Steinaker, and Upper Stillwater are experiencing lower-than-average storage, which could be a result of reduced snowpack and subsequent runoff. This ties in with reports indicating that Lake Powell, a significant regional water source, may receive less than its normal water supply this year. Such conditions are part of larger water management challenges in the Western US, which include overallocation, drought, and the impacts of climate change. Efforts to conserve water and adapt to these conditions are crucial for building a resilient water future for Utah. Therefore, while some reservoirs are currently at healthy levels, others are warning signs that call for continued conservation and strategic water management initiatives.

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.