WYOMING RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: January 2, 2026

Wyoming's dams and reservoirs play a crucial role in water storage and management for the state. Recent observations indicate that some reservoirs are experiencing conditions that deviate from their historical averages for this time of year. For example, the Big Sandy Reservoir near Farson is slightly below its average lake elevation, reported at 6746 feet, compared to the average of 6748.17 feet. Similarly, the Fontenelle Reservoir is currently holding 187,711 acre-feet of water, showing a substantial decrease from its average storage of 204,835.26 acre-feet. In terms of water quantities, the Big Sandy Reservoir's storage is at 16,145 acre-feet against an average of 20,177.29 acre-feet. Meeks Cabin Reservoir and Eden Reservoir also reflect notable deficits, with current storage levels at 5,452 and 2,016 acre-feet respectively, significantly lower than the average storage figures of 13,996.03 and 5,394.33 acre-feet. These observations, all recorded on January 2, 2026, point to a trend of decreasing water levels in key reservoirs.

These abnormal conditions can be attributed to factors such as lower-than-expected snowpack levels and reduced river flows, which are essential contributors to reservoir replenishment. Snowpack levels are critical as they act like natural reservoirs, slowly releasing water into rivers and streams during the warmer months, which in turn feed into the dams and reservoirs. A decrease in snowpack can lead to reduced inflow and consequently lower reservoir storage levels. In Wyoming, a state that relies heavily on its water resources for agriculture, recreation, and hydroelectric power, such deviations can have significant impacts. Further analysis and continuous monitoring of snowpack trends, weather patterns, and river flows are crucial to anticipate potential water shortages and to manage the available water resources effectively. It is essential for state authorities and stakeholders to keep a close watch on these variables and implement appropriate water conservation measures when necessary.

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.