Pineview Reservoir storage has plummeted to just 2% of its normal capacity as of September 26, 2026, as officials continue to manage critical water levels while long-term infrastructure projects aim to secure the region's drinking water supply. The reservoir currently holds 1,508 acre-feet of water, a 98% decrease from normal seasonal storage levels.
Critical Reservoir Depletion
The current storage levels reflect severe drought conditions for the Northern Utah region. As of September 26, 2026, the reservoir's 1,508 acre-feet represents a massive departure from the seasonal average of 93,571 acre-feet. This represents a 98% deficit compared to the normal storage for this time of year.
Historical Context and Utility
According to data from Snoflo, the reservoir's storage has seen a 24-hour decrease of 10.3%. The reservoir, which was created in 1937 to improve irrigation and flood control in the Ogden River watershed, currently serves a variety of purposes including irrigation for vegetable fields and fruit orchards, as well as supporting recreational activities such as swimming, fishing, and boating.
Water Supply Dynamics
The reservoir's water supply is heavily dependent on snowpack, with most runoff typically occurring during the spring and early summer months. The facility is operated by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation and features a surface area of approximately 2,800 acres with a maximum depth of 130 feet.
Infrastructure Modernization
While reservoir levels remain critically low, work continues on essential infrastructure to prevent future water loss. The Ogden City Corporation is moving forward with the Ogden Wellfield and Canyon 36-Inch Water Line Replacement project to address aging systems that have become a burden on city resources.
Replacing Aging Pipelines
The replacement project targets two primary water lines that are currently beyond their life expectancy. The project involves replacing the primary feed that supplies water to Ogden City and surrounding areas, as well as the transmission line running from the city's water treatment plant to Ogden Canyon. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has invited a WIFIA loan of $42 million to support the effort.
Securing Regional Water Needs
The existing water lines have been experiencing substantial water loss, and the ongoing maintenance and repairs required for the outdated pipes have placed a significant burden on the City of Ogden's resources. The completion of the new pipeline system is intended to ensure a reliable water supply for approximately 111,000 people, businesses, and Weber State University.
River Monitoring and Records
The importance of these water management and infrastructure efforts is underscored by the ongoing monitoring of the Ogden River. According to River Commissioner records, the system for the Ogden City - Pineview WBWCD (RES) remains active, utilizing a totalizing meter to measure mean daily discharge in CFS.
