Charles River River Levels

Total streamflow across the Charles River was last observed at 1,726 cfs, and is expected to yield approximately 3,423 acre-ft of water today; about 89% of normal. Average streamflow for this time of year is 1,937 cfs, with recent peaks last observed on 2024-01-14 when daily discharge volume was observed at 5,509 cfs.

Maximum discharge along the river is currently at the Charles River At Waltham reporting a streamflow rate of 551 cfs. However, the streamgauge with the highest stage along the river is the Charles River At Wellesley with a gauge stage of 3.92 ft. This river is monitored from 4 different streamgauging stations along the Charles River, the highest being situated at an altitude of 129 ft, the Charles River At Medway.

It has played an important role in the history of Massachusetts, serving as a source of water for early settlers and as a key transportation route for trade. Today, it is also used for recreation, with parks and walking trails lining its banks. The river is managed by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation, which operates several dams and reservoirs along the river, including the Wachusett Reservoir and the Quabbin Reservoir. These reservoirs provide drinking water for Boston and surrounding communities. The river also supports agricultural activities such as cranberry farming, and is home to a variety of fish and wildlife species.