VERMONT RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: December 27, 2025

In this latest report on Vermont's dams and reservoirs based on recent observations, there are varying conditions across the state's water storage systems. As of December 27, 2025, the East Barre Detention Reservoir at East Barre exhibits a water surface elevation that is slightly higher than average, being recorded at 1132 feet compared to the average of 1129.4 feet. In contrast, Wrightsville Detention Reservoir at Wrightsville, VT is marginally below its average mark with a current level of 634 feet versus the average of 635.38 feet. Waterbury Reservoir near Waterbury has an air temperature reading of 10°C, which is notably lower than the average of 12.43°C, possibly indicating cooler atmospheric conditions. Lake Champlain at Burlington and Lake Memphremagog at Newport both report surface elevations below their respective averages, with current levels at 95 feet and 681 feet compared to averages of 96.38 feet and 682.04 feet, respectively. These figures suggest that there might be a trend of slightly lower water levels in some of Vermont's major reservoirs.

Delving deeper into the data, the current conditions of the dams and reservoirs raise questions about the factors influencing these measurements. The East Barre Detention Reservoir's higher-than-average water level could be the result of recent precipitation or runoff, while the lower levels in Wrightsville Detention Reservoir, Lake Champlain, and Lake Memphremagog may be associated with decreased inflow due to factors such as below-average snowpack or reduced river flows. The lower air temperature at Waterbury Reservoir could be affecting the thermal profile and evaporation rates in the region. These abnormal conditions could potentially impact water management strategies, recreational activities, and ecological health. It is important to cross-reference with additional data sources, such as local weather stations, river flow records, and snowpack data, to verify these observations and understand the broader climatic or environmental factors at play.

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.