WYOMING RESERVOIR LEVELS

Last Updated: November 9, 2025

In Wyoming, a state known for its expansive landscapes and reliance on water storage, reservoir and dam conditions play a vital role in water management. Recent observations indicate that some of the state's major reservoirs are experiencing abnormal conditions. The Big Sandy Reservoir near Farson has a water surface elevation slightly below its average at 6745 feet, compared to the average 6748.19 feet. Fontenelle Reservoir, however, is reporting storage levels above average, with current storage at 209,939 acre-feet, exceeding the average of 204,851.79 acre-feet. This presents a mixed scenario where some reservoirs are below their typical water levels for the season, while others are experiencing surplus storage.

Diving deeper, the Big Sandy Reservoir and Meeks Cabin Reservoir are notably below their average storage levels, with current measurements at 14,473 acre-feet and 3,233 acre-feet, significantly lower than their averages of 20,196.07 acre-feet and 14,025.57 acre-feet, respectively. Eden Reservoir also follows this trend with a current storage of 1,684 acre-feet, well below its average of 5,427.31 acre-feet. These lower-than-average storage levels could be attributed to a variety of factors, including below-normal snowpack, reduced river inflow, or increased water usage. In contrast, Fontenelle Reservoir's higher storage levels suggest regional differences in snowpack or precipitation patterns, or perhaps differences in water management practices. The varied conditions across Wyoming's dams and reservoirs highlight the complex interplay between climatic variables and water management strategies in the region. It's crucial for water managers and stakeholders to continue monitoring these fluctuations to address any potential water scarcity or flood risks and to ensure sustainable water resource management in Wyoming.

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.