VERMONT RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: December 21, 2025

Vermont's dams and reservoirs serve as critical infrastructure for flood control, water supply, and recreation. Recent observations from Vermont indicate that most reservoirs are at or near their average storage levels, with some exceptions. The East Barre Detention Reservoir in East Barre is slightly above its average water surface elevation at 1133 feet, compared to the typical 1129.4 feet, suggesting an increase in upstream water inflow or reduced outflow management. Wrightsville Detention Reservoir near Wrightsville is also marginally higher than average, at 636 feet versus the usual 635.38 feet. These elevated levels could indicate abnormal conditions such as higher precipitation or snowmelt affecting the catchment areas.

On the other hand, the Waterbury Reservoir near Waterbury is currently at an air temperature of 10°C, lower than the average 12.43°C, which could be attributed to a colder weather pattern affecting the region. Lake Champlain at Burlington and Lake Memphremagog at Newport are both reporting surface elevations slightly below their respective averages, at 95 and 681 feet against the norm of 96.38 and 682.04 feet. This could point to reduced inflows from tributaries or possibly an adjustment in dam management for seasonal conservation efforts. These variations in water levels and temperatures are significant for stakeholders who depend on these water bodies for municipal uses, recreation, and ecosystem sustainability. Abnormal conditions could be the result of an interplay between snowpack conditions, river flows, and weather patterns. It’s essential for ongoing monitoring and analysis to ensure that reservoir management can adapt to changing conditions, thereby safeguarding against potential adverse impacts on water resources and surrounding communities.

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.