Maximum discharge along the river is currently at the reporting a streamflow rate of cfs. This is also the highest stage along the Little Cottonwood River, with a gauge stage of ft at this location. This river is monitored from 1 different streamgauging stations along the Little Cottonwood River, the highest being situated at an altitude of ft, the .
The Little Cottonwood River is a tributary of the Minnesota River and stretches about 47 miles, running from the southwestern part of Blue Earth County to the eastern part of Brown County. Historically, the river was used by Native Americans for transportation and fishing. Today, it is used for a variety of recreational activities such as canoeing, fishing, and camping. It also provides irrigation for agricultural purposes. The river flows through a number of impoundments and reservoirs, including the Harkin's Slough Reservoir, the Swan Lake Reservoir, and the Little Cottonwood River Watershed Dam. These dams help regulate the water flow and are used for flood control purposes. Despite its importance, the Little Cottonwood River has faced challenges such as pollution and erosion. Efforts have been made to address these issues and protect the river for future generations.
| Streamgauge | Streamflow | Gauge Stage | 24hr Change (%) | % Normal | Minimum (cfs) | Maximum (cfs) | Air Temp | Elevation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Little Cottonwood River Near Courtland
USGS 05317200 |
368 cfs | 4.41 ft | 2.79 |
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