WISCONSIN RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: February 1, 2026

In Wisconsin, the current observations of reservoir and dam storage levels show that several major water systems are experiencing lower-than-average gage heights. For instance, Lake Winnebago at Oshkosh, typically at a height of 2.61 feet, is currently measured at 1 foot, while nearby Lake Winnebago near Stockbridge is at 2 feet, down from its average of 2.57 feet. Similarly, Lac Vieux Desert near Land O'Lakes is about 1.11 feet below its usual 80.11 feet, and Devils Lake near Baraboo is at 7 feet, over a foot below the average of 8.13 feet. The capital's lakes, Lake Mendota and Lake Monona at Madison, are also below their average heights of 9.79 and 5.12 feet, currently at 8 and 4 feet respectively. Lake Waubesa at McFarland is showing a significant decrease at 3 feet compared to its average of 4.93 feet. These levels suggest that Wisconsin's water systems are experiencing abnormal conditions for this time of year.

The abnormally low water levels in these reservoirs and dams could be indicative of a range of factors including reduced snowpack, lower river flows, or potentially longer-term climate trends affecting the region. A cross-reference with multiple data sources, including local news outlets like AOL.com, which highlight the charm and natural beauty of Wisconsin towns surrounded by lakes, suggests that these conditions might impact not only the ecological balance but also the recreational and aesthetic value that these water bodies offer. While the articles from AOL.com do not provide hydrological data, they remind us of the importance of these lakes to Wisconsin's communities. The decreased gage heights may lead to concerns about water availability for local ecosystems, agriculture, and human consumption. It's crucial for authorities and local populations to monitor these levels closely and potentially prepare for water conservation measures if these conditions persist or worsen.

Wisconsin has multiple reservoirs and dams that play a crucial role in providing water for irrigation, hydroelectric power generation, and recreational activities. The major reservoirs and dams in the state include Lake Winnebago, Lake Wisconsin, Castle Rock Lake, and Petenwell Lake. These reservoirs are fed by several rivers and creeks, such as the Wisconsin River, Fox River, Rock River, and Black River. The hydrology in the area is influenced by the snowpack in the northern mountains, particularly during the spring and summer months when snowmelt contributes to the streamflow. In recent years, Wisconsin has experienced both record high and low water levels due to changing climate patterns and extreme weather events. In 2021, drought conditions in the state led to lower than average water levels in some reservoirs and creeks. However, seasonal trends also play a role in water levels, with typically higher levels in the spring and early summer months. Overall, reservoirs and dams remain an important component of the state's water infrastructure, and their management is critical in ensuring sustainable water use and management.

Wisconsin has multiple reservoirs and dams that play a crucial role in providing water for irrigation, hydroelectric power generation, and recreational activities. The major reservoirs and dams in the state include Lake Winnebago, Lake Wisconsin, Castle Rock Lake, and Petenwell Lake. These reservoirs are fed by several rivers and creeks, such as the Wisconsin River, Fox River, Rock River, and Black River. The hydrology in the area is influenced by the snowpack in the northern mountains, particularly during the spring and summer months when snowmelt contributes to the streamflow.

In recent years, Wisconsin has experienced both record high and low water levels due to changing climate patterns and extreme weather events. In 2021, drought conditions in the state led to lower than average water levels in some reservoirs and creeks. However, seasonal trends also play a role in water levels, with typically higher levels in the spring and early summer months. Overall, reservoirs and dams remain an important component of the state's water infrastructure, and their management is critical in ensuring sustainable water use and management.