Lake Powell faces dual threats: dwindling water levels and reduced capacity

Water Shortages in the Western United States

Impact of Sediments on Lake Powell’s Capacity

A new report by the US Geological Survey and the Bureau of Reclamation found that sediments flowing in from the Colorado and San Juan rivers have decreased the lake’s storage capacity over the years. Since 1963, when Glen Canyon Dam was built, Lake Powell has lost nearly 7% of its potential storage capacity.

Average Annual Loss in Storage Capacity

The report revealed an average annual loss in storage capacity of about 33,270 acre-feet (11 billion gallons) per year between 1963 and 2018. This is equivalent to filling the Reflecting Pool on the National Mall about 1,600 times.

Current Water Levels in Lake Powell

As of Monday, Lake Powell was around 25% full, according to data from the Bureau of Reclamation. The dwindling water supply along the Colorado River poses significant concerns for the region’s water supply and hydropower generation.

Critical Importance of Lake Powell and Lake Mead

Both Lake Powell and nearby Lake Mead provide critical supplies of drinking water and irrigation for millions of people living across seven Western states and Mexico. The system also supports rural farms, ranches, and native communities.

Expected Continued Water Shortages

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration drought experts expect the current conditions to at least continue, if not worsen, in the coming months. This adds to the region’s existing water shortages and extreme wildfires due to drought conditions.

Water Loss Due to Drought and Sediments

Sediments Flowing into Lake Powell

The capacity of the reservoir is shrinking because of sediments flowing in from the Colorado and San Juan rivers. These sediments settle at the bottom of the reservoir and decrease the total amount of water the reservoir can hold.