Cottonwood River

Total streamflow across the Cottonwood River was last observed at 1,413 cfs, and is expected to yield approximately 2,803 acre-ft of water today; about 35% of normal. River levels are low and may signify a drought. Average streamflow for this time of year is 3,984 cfs, with recent peaks last observed on 2019-05-22 when daily discharge volume was observed at 42,500 cfs.

Maximum discharge along the river is currently at the Cottonwood River Near New Ulm reporting a streamflow rate of 836 cfs. This is also the highest stage along the Cottonwood River, with a gauge stage of 5.69 ft at this location. This river is monitored from 3 different streamgauging stations along the Cottonwood River, the highest being situated at an altitude of 1,238 ft, the Cottonwood R Nr Florence.

It has been used by Native Americans for hundreds of years for hunting and fishing. The river flows through several counties and its basin is home to many small towns. The river's hydrology is influenced by rainfall and the presence of reservoirs and dams, such as the John Redmond Reservoir, Marion Reservoir, and Chase County Lake. These dams provide flood control, irrigation, and recreational opportunities for fishing, boating, and camping. The Cottonwood River is also an important source of water for agricultural uses such as crop irrigation and livestock watering. Despite occasional flooding, the river remains an important resource for the communities it serves.