WYOMING RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: January 1, 2026

In Wyoming, a series of critical dams and reservoirs play a significant role in water management, providing water for irrigation, municipal use, and environmental conservation. As of the latest observations, there are noteworthy variances in storage levels that could have implications for the state's water resources. For example, the Fontenelle Reservoir, a major water storage facility, is currently holding 188,675 acre-feet of water, which is significantly below its average storage of 204,836.8 acre-feet. This suggests a potential water shortfall that could affect downstream water users. Similarly, the Big Sandy Reservoir is also reporting storage levels below the average, with the current storage at 16,070 acre-feet compared to its average of 20,177.87 acre-feet.

Diving deeper into the data, Meeks Cabin Reservoir and Eden Reservoir are also experiencing lower than average storage levels, with Meeks Cabin at a mere 5,363 acre-feet against an average of 13,997.18, and Eden Reservoir at 2,009 acre-feet, far below its 5,395.44 average. These abnormal conditions can often be attributed to factors such as reduced snowpack and changes in river flows, which in turn impact the inflow to these reservoirs. For instance, a below-average snowpack can result in diminished runoff during the spring melt, leading to lowered reservoir levels. Additionally, variations in river flows due to altered weather patterns or increased water consumption can further exacerbate these discrepancies. It's essential for water resource managers and users to monitor these levels closely and plan accordingly to mitigate the impacts of these abnormal conditions, which may include water use restrictions or the need for alternative water sources to meet demands. The data presented is alarming, and it underscores the importance of strategic water management practices in the face of variable climatic conditions.

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.