Total streamflow across the American River was last observed at 1,577 cfs, and is expected to yield approximately 3,129 acre-ft of water today; about 92% of normal. Average streamflow for this time of year is 1,718 cfs, with recent peaks last observed on 2016-12-16 when daily discharge volume was observed at 36,208 cfs.

Maximum discharge along the river is currently at the American R A Fair Oaks Ca reporting a streamflow rate of 1,520 cfs. However, the streamgauge with the highest stage along the river is the American River Near Nile with a gauge stage of 72.11 ft. This river is monitored from 2 different streamgauging stations along the American River, the highest being situated at an altitude of 2,789 ft, the American River Near Nile.

The American River is a major waterway in California, running for approximately 120 miles from the Sierra Nevada Mountains to the Sacramento River. The river has a rich history, having played an important role in the Gold Rush of the mid-1800s. Today, the American River is a major source of irrigation water for the Sacramento Valley, and serves as a recreational destination for activities such as fishing, boating, and hiking. Several hydroelectric dams and reservoirs have been built along the river, including the Folsom Dam and Reservoir, which helps to regulate water flow in the Sacramento River. The American River is also home to several species of fish, including Chinook salmon and steelhead trout.