Last Updated: December 31, 2025
The streamflow conditions in New Jersey's rivers present a varied picture, with several waterways showing significantly lower than average flows, which may affect seasonal recreational activities and ecosystems. Notable among these is the Passaic River at Little Falls, which is experiencing an 87.5% reduction in streamflow, currently at 289 cubic feet per second (cfs) and a gage height of just 1.01 feet, indicative of potential flow drought conditions. Similarly, the Raritan River below Calco Dam in Bound Brook shows a substantial decrease (82.54%) from normal levels, reporting a flow of 460 cfs and a gage height of 17.36 feet, which could impact nearby communities like Manville and the surrounding watershed. In contrast, the Delaware and Raritan Canal at Port Mercer reports a slightly above-normal flow at 15.09%, with a current streamflow of 153 cfs, which could be of interest to water enthusiasts for consistent conditions.
On the other hand, the Delaware River at Montague, a popular destination for whitewater enthusiasts, shows a significant 24-hour increase in streamflow at 62.18%, with a current flow of 6260 cfs and a gage height of 6.83 feet, suggesting a potential for exciting river runs but also raising concerns for flooding in nearby areas. The Musconetcong River near Bloomsbury, with a streamflow at a mere 28.51% of normal and a decrease of 8.13% over the last 24 hours, exemplifies a waterway under stress, potentially affecting local angling communities and habitat. Residents and visitors of cities along these rivers, such as Trenton, Bloomsbury, and Montague, should remain informed of current conditions, especially those engaging in river-related activities, as these fluctuations can significantly impact safety and access to water-based recreation.
New Jersey's hydrology is characterized by a humid climate, with frequent precipitation and abundant water resources. Two major surface flows, the Delaware River and the Hudson River, comprise New Jersey's eastern and western borders respectively. The state has numerous reservoirs and dams that are used for water supply, flood control, and recreation. The largest reservoirs include Round Valley Reservoir and Wanaque Reservoir. The state's major rivers and tributaries include the Passaic River, Raritan River, and Hackensack River, which all flow into the Atlantic Ocean. The state's watershed data indicates that the state experiences variable rainfall and snowpack, with some areas experiencing drought conditions while others are prone to flooding. Overall, New Jersey's hydrology is complex and influenced by a range of factors, including climate variability and anthropogenic activities.