WISCONSIN RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: February 21, 2026

Recent observations of Wisconsin's dams and reservoirs indicate several instances of abnormal water levels when compared against historical averages for this time of year. Specifically, Lake Winnebago at Oshkosh, Lake Mendota at Madison, Lake Monona at Madison, and Lake Waubesa at McFarland showcase decreased gage heights. As of February 21, 2026, Lake Winnebago at Oshkosh's gage height is significantly below its average of 2.61 feet, currently standing at 1 foot. Similarly, Lake Mendota and Lake Monona, both in Madison, are experiencing lower than average levels, with current gage heights recorded at 8 and 3 feet, respectively, compared to their averages of 9.79 and 5.11 feet. Lake Waubesa's current gage height is 3 feet, also below its 4.93 feet average. These low water levels could be indicative of broader environmental factors affecting the state's water systems, such as reduced snowpack and altered river flows, which are critical for maintaining healthy reservoir levels.

Cross-referencing with multiple data sources, including local news and environmental reports, it is apparent that Wisconsin may be experiencing a deficiency in snowfall as suggested by the Duluth News Tribune's call for more snow to support better spawning seasons for fish. This snow scarcity could contribute to the lower reservoir levels, given snowmelt's role in feeding Wisconsin's water bodies. Meanwhile, the DK GreenRoots at Daily Kos does not directly provide hydrological data but underscores the importance of environmental stewardship, which can be implicated in the current water level situation. The lower levels in these major dams and reservoirs could have implications for local water supply, recreational activities, and ecological health. Although not directly related to reservoir levels, the mention of indoor water parks by AOL.com points to recreational water use, an activity also potentially affected by the available water resources. Overall, the observed conditions in Wisconsin's dams and reservoirs reflect a potential need for close monitoring and possible action to manage the state's water resources effectively amidst environmental changes.

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.