WYOMING RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: December 29, 2025

In Wyoming, a review of the latest reservoir observations reveals some deviations from average storage levels that may be of concern. The Big Sandy Reservoir near Farson shows a slight dip in its surface elevation, registering at 6746 feet compared to the average of 6748.17 feet. While this variation is minor, it reflects a broader trend seen in other key reservoirs. Fontenelle Reservoir, one of the state's major water storage sites, is currently at 190,917 acre-feet, significantly lower than its average storage of 204,838.88 acre-feet. Other reservoirs, including Big Sandy Reservoir, Meeks Cabin Reservoir, and Eden Reservoir, exhibit more pronounced reductions in water storage, with current levels at 16,026, 5,251, and 2,035 acre-feet, respectively, all falling well below their average storages.

These abnormal conditions at Wyoming's reservoirs, particularly the lower storage levels at Fontenelle and Big Sandy, could be attributed to factors such as below-average snowpack, decreased river inflows, or extended periods of drought affecting the region. The substantial drop in Meeks Cabin and Eden Reservoirs, which are both holding less than half of their average storage volumes, points to potential issues with upstream water supply or increased demand downstream. With the last observations reported on December 29, 2025, it is crucial to monitor these reservoirs closely, as their current states could impact water availability for agriculture, municipal use, and ecosystem sustainability in the near future. Further cross-referencing with snowpack data, river flow records, and meteorological reports would be essential to understand the full scope of these conditions and to forecast water management needs for Wyoming's communities and environments.

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.