VERMONT RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: March 15, 2026

As of the latest observations, Vermont's dam and reservoir levels exhibit a mix of conditions, with some reservoirs holding water levels slightly above or below their average measurements for this time of year. The East Barre Detention Reservoir at East Barre and the Wrightsville Detention Reservoir at Wrightsville are both reporting water surface elevations above their average, with current levels at 1133 and 638 feet above the National Geodetic Vertical Datum of 1929 (NGVD 1929), respectively, compared to their averages of 1129.45 and 635.38 feet. However, the Waterbury Reservoir near Waterbury is currently recording an air temperature of 10°C, which is lower than its average of 12.43°C, potentially indicating cooler atmospheric conditions affecting the area. Meanwhile, Lake Champlain at Burlington and Lake Memphremagog at Newport are both marginally below their average water surface elevations, standing at 96 and 681 feet above NGVD 1929 against averages of 96.37 and 682.03 feet, respectively.

The deviations in water levels and temperatures could be attributed to a variety of environmental factors, including current snowpack conditions and river flows. The slightly higher elevations in the East Barre and Wrightsville reservoirs suggest that increased runoff, possibly from melting snowpacks, has contributed to higher water storage. This situation might call for careful monitoring of these dams as spring progresses and potential snowmelt increases. Conversely, the lower elevations in Lake Champlain and Lake Memphremagog, although minor, could point to less snowmelt or decreased precipitation contributing to lower inflows. The cooler air temperature at the Waterbury Reservoir might be indicative of a prolonged winter season, affecting both the water temperature and possibly delaying the onset of snowmelt. These conditions require ongoing observation, as they could impact water management decisions and local ecosystems. Cross-referencing with additional data sources, including snowpack analysis and river flow records, would provide a more comprehensive understanding of the current state of Vermont's dams and reservoirs, but such data is not provided in the current dataset.

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.