WYOMING RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: March 13, 2026

Wyoming's dam and reservoir systems are currently experiencing mixed conditions. As of the latest observations, the Big Sandy Reservoir near Farson is slightly below its average water surface elevation, sitting at 6747 feet compared to the average of 6748.15 feet. While this is a minimal difference, it indicates potential water supply challenges. The Fontenelle Reservoir, one of the larger storage systems in the state, shows a more significant decrease with current storage levels at 152,439 acre-feet, considerably lower than the average of 204,720.14 acre-feet. Similarly, the Big Sandy Reservoir storage is at 18,390 acre-feet, down from its 20,162.25 average; Meeks Cabin Reservoir has just 7,575 acre-feet, significantly below its 13,961.58 average; and Eden Reservoir is at a critically low 2,473 acre-feet compared to an average of 5,357.93.

This disparity in storage levels could be linked to the climate conditions affecting the region. According to Drought.gov, the Western United States is experiencing snow drought, which can reduce the amount of water flowing into reservoirs. The Washington Post has reported an unprecedented heat dome over the West, even in early March, potentially exacerbating evaporation and affecting snowmelt. Meanwhile, the specific weather forecast for Wyoming indicates cold conditions with scattered clouds, which might not contribute significant precipitation to replenish the reservoirs. The combination of reduced snowpack and atypical heat patterns for this time of year appears to be impacting water storage levels across Wyoming's major dams and reservoirs. If such conditions persist, water management challenges could intensify, affecting agriculture, ecosystems, and municipal supplies.

Wyoming has numerous reservoirs and dams that play a critical role in supplying water for irrigation, municipal, and industrial purposes. Some of the major reservoirs in the state include Boysen, Flaming Gorge, Glendo, and Pathfinder. These reservoirs rely on streamflow from various sources, including the North Platte, Green, and Snake Rivers. Snowpack and mountain precipitation are vital to the water supply in these areas, with most reservoirs being fed by snowmelt during the spring and summer months. In recent years, Wyoming has experienced drought conditions, which have affected the water levels in its reservoirs. For example, in 2018, the Flaming Gorge Reservoir recorded its lowest level in over 50 years. Seasonal trends also play a role in the hydrology of the area, with water levels typically peaking in early summer and gradually decreasing throughout the fall and winter months. Despite these challenges, Wyoming's reservoirs and dams continue to provide essential water resources for the state's residents and industries.

Wyoming has numerous reservoirs and dams that play a critical role in supplying water for irrigation, municipal, and industrial purposes. Some of the major reservoirs in the state include Boysen, Flaming Gorge, Glendo, and Pathfinder. These reservoirs rely on streamflow from various sources, including the North Platte, Green, and Snake Rivers. Snowpack and mountain precipitation are vital to the water supply in these areas, with most reservoirs being fed by snowmelt during the spring and summer months.
In recent years, Wyoming has experienced drought conditions, which have affected the water levels in its reservoirs. For example, in 2018, the Flaming Gorge Reservoir recorded its lowest level in over 50 years. Seasonal trends also play a role in the hydrology of the area, with water levels typically peaking in early summer and gradually decreasing throughout the fall and winter months. Despite these challenges, Wyoming's reservoirs and dams continue to provide essential water resources for the state's residents and industries.