TOTAL RIVER DISCHARGE
Maximum discharge along the river is currently at the reporting a streamflow rate of cfs. This is also the highest stage along the Alafia River, with a gauge stage of ft at this location. This river is monitored from 1 different streamgauging stations along the Alafia River, the highest being situated at an altitude of ft, the .
The Alafia River is located in central Florida and spans approximately 25 miles. The river has a rich history, once serving as a source of transportation for Native Americans and later for military supply shipments during the Seminole Wars. The Alafia River is fed by numerous springs and tributaries, including the Little Manatee River. The Upper and Lower Alafia River are both used for recreation, including fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, and are popular spots for camping and hiking. The river is also used for agricultural purposes, including cattle grazing and citrus farming. There are several reservoirs and dams along the river, including the Lithia Springs Dam and Reservoir, which provides drinking water for the surrounding area. Overall, the Alafia River is an important natural resource for the local community and economy.
YEAR OVER YEAR DISCHARGE (CFS)
Streamflow Conditions
| Streamgauge | Streamflow | Gauge Stage | 24hr Change (%) | % Normal | Minimum (cfs) | Maximum (cfs) | Air Temp | Elevation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Alafia River At Lithia Fl
USGS 02301500 |
126 cfs | 3.76 ft | -1.56 |
History of the River
The Alafia River is 25 miles (40 km) long, with a watershed of 335 square miles (870 km2) in Hillsborough County, Florida, United States, flowing into Tampa Bay. The watershed contains ten named lakes and ponds, and 29 named rivers, streams and canals. During the rainy season, excess water is pumped to the new C.W. Bill Young Regional Reservoir, which opened in 2005.
For centuries the Alafia was home to the Tocobaga Indians. From their settlement at the mouth of the river to their hunting camps upstream, the Indians left traces of their lives and activities.
In the sixteenth century, the expeditions of Pánfilo de Narváez and Hernando de Soto explored the coastal areas of Tampa Bay and visited the Indians, making the first written account and charting the first maps of the Alafia River. On an early map the name 'Alafia' does not appear, but rather the translation, Hunting River. The 'Alafia' is a native word meaning "River of Fire." This is due to the strong red/brown color caused by tiny algae spores in the water.
Part of the river exists within the confines of the Alafia River State Park.