VERMONT RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

In Vermont, the management and monitoring of dams and reservoirs are critical, especially as they relate to flood control, water supply, and recreational activities. Recent observations indicate that several major water bodies are showing variances from their average storage levels, which could reflect on the environmental and operational factors impacting them. The East Barre Detention Reservoir at East Barre is currently standing at 1131 feet, slightly above its average of 1129.39 feet, which might suggest either increased inflow or managed retention. Conversely, the Wrightsville Detention Reservoir at Wrightsville is at 634 feet, a bit below the norm of 635.38 feet, potentially indicating lower inflow or increased discharge. Waterbury Reservoir’s air temperature reading is 10°C, which is notably lower than the average 12.43°C, possibly due to a recent drop in regional temperatures.

Lake Champlain at Burlington and Lake Memphremagog at Newport are both slightly below their average surface elevations, at 95 feet and 681 feet respectively compared to their averages of 96.39 feet and 682.04 feet. This could be related to factors such as reduced snowpack contributing to lower river flows or possibly increased water usage or evaporation rates. These abnormal conditions in the reservoirs' levels and temperature could be influenced by a variety of environmental factors, including seasonal climate variation, precipitation patterns, and water management policies. It's important for stakeholders and residents to be aware of these conditions, as they can affect water availability, wildlife habitats, and recreational opportunities. Moreover, monitoring these changes is essential for predicting and mitigating potential issues such as flood risks or water scarcity.

Vermont has numerous dams and reservoirs that serve multiple purposes, including flood control, hydroelectric power generation, and recreation. Some of the major reservoirs in the state include the Lake Champlain, the Green Mountain Reservoir, and the Harriman Reservoir. These reservoirs are fed by various streams, rivers, and creeks, such as the Otter Creek, the Lamoille River, and the West River. The snowpack and mountains are crucial to the hydrology of the area, as snowmelt from the mountains provides a significant portion of the water that feeds the reservoirs. The state has experienced record drought conditions in recent years, with dry spells affecting the water levels in the reservoirs. However, seasonal trends show that water levels typically increase during the spring and summer months when snowmelt and rainfall are more abundant. Overall, the reservoirs and dams in Vermont play a vital role in managing the state's water resources and supporting various industries and activities.

Vermont has numerous dams and reservoirs that serve multiple purposes, including flood control, hydroelectric power generation, and recreation. Some of the major reservoirs in the state include the Lake Champlain, the Green Mountain Reservoir, and the Harriman Reservoir. These reservoirs are fed by various streams, rivers, and creeks, such as the Otter Creek, the Lamoille River, and the West River. The snowpack and mountains are crucial to the hydrology of the area, as snowmelt from the mountains provides a significant portion of the water that feeds the reservoirs. The state has experienced record drought conditions in recent years, with dry spells affecting the water levels in the reservoirs. However, seasonal trends show that water levels typically increase during the spring and summer months when snowmelt and rainfall are more abundant. Overall, the reservoirs and dams in Vermont play a vital role in managing the state's water resources and supporting various industries and activities.