Buckhannon River River Levels

Total streamflow across the Buckhannon River was last observed at 848 cfs, and is expected to yield approximately 1,682 acre-ft of water today; about 39% of normal. River levels are low and may signify a drought. Average streamflow for this time of year is 2,153 cfs, with recent peaks last observed on 2025-02-01 when daily discharge volume was observed at 11,680 cfs.

Maximum discharge along the river is currently at the Buckhannon River At Hall reporting a streamflow rate of 655 cfs. However, the streamgauge with the highest stage along the river is the Buckhannon River At Alton with a gauge stage of 5.78 ft. This river is monitored from 2 different streamgauging stations along the Buckhannon River, the highest being situated at an altitude of 1,785 ft, the Buckhannon River At Alton.

The river was historically used for transportation and logging, and is now popular for recreational activities such as fishing, kayaking, and swimming. The Buckhannon River is fed by numerous smaller streams and creeks and has two major reservoirs, Stonecoal Lake and Buckhannon River Lake, which provide water for drinking, irrigation, and flood control. The river's hydrology has been impacted by coal mining and other industries, leading to pollution concerns. The Buckhannon River is also used for agriculture, with crops such as corn, hay, and soybeans grown in the surrounding areas. Despite these challenges, efforts are being made to protect and restore the Buckhannon River's ecological health and recreational opportunities.