Appomattox River River Levels

Total streamflow across the Appomattox River was last observed at 824 cfs, and is expected to yield approximately 1,634 acre-ft of water today; about 21% of normal. River levels are low and may signify a drought. Average streamflow for this time of year is 3,906 cfs, with recent peaks last observed on 2018-10-14 when daily discharge volume was observed at 35,350 cfs.

Maximum discharge along the river is currently at the Appomattox River At Matoaca reporting a streamflow rate of 373 cfs. However, the streamgauge with the highest stage along the river is the Appomattox River At Mattoax with a gauge stage of 8.26 ft. This river is monitored from 3 different streamgauging stations along the Appomattox River, the highest being situated at an altitude of 299 ft, the Appomattox River At Farmville.

Historically, the river was significant during the American Civil War as it played a role in the Confederate Army's retreat from Richmond in 1865. Today, the river is primarily used for recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and swimming. It also serves as a source of irrigation for crops in the surrounding agricultural areas. There are several reservoirs and dams along the river, including Lake Chesdin, which is used for hydroelectric power generation and water supply for the city of Petersburg. The Appomattox River has a diverse hydrology, with both slow moving stretches and rapids for kayaking and canoeing. It is a valuable natural resource for the region and an important part of Virginia's history.