WISCONSIN RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: January 11, 2026

In Wisconsin, recent data indicates that several major dams and reservoirs are reporting gage heights below their average levels. Lake Winnebago at Oshkosh and near Stockbridge shows current gage heights at 2 feet, slightly lower than the averages of 2.61 and 2.57 feet respectively. Lac Vieux Desert near Land O'Lakes and Devils Lake near Baraboo also display decreased levels, with current measurements at 79 and 7 feet, compared to their averages of 80.11 and 8.13 feet. Similarly, Lake Mendota at Madison, Lake Monona at Madison, and Lake Waubesa at McFarland are all reporting lower than average gage heights at 8, 4, and 3 feet against their respective averages of 9.8, 5.12, and 4.94 feet. These deviations from average measurements suggest that these bodies of water are experiencing abnormal conditions for this time of year.

The lower water levels across Wisconsin's dams and reservoirs could be associated with varying factors such as below-average snowpack, decreased river flows, or possibly increased water usage or evaporation rates. The situation at Lake Mendota, Lake Monona, and Lake Waubesa is particularly noteworthy as they form part of the Yahara River chain of lakes, which are pivotal to Madison's water system. The reduced gage heights could potentially affect local ecosystems, recreation, and water supply. These anomalies warrant close monitoring and investigation to determine the underlying causes and to assess the need for water management interventions. Cross-referencing with multiple data sources would be essential to corroborate these findings and plan for any necessary responses to safeguard against potential adverse impacts of the observed conditions.

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.