Dolores River River Levels

Total streamflow across the Dolores River was last observed at 95 cfs, and is expected to yield approximately 189 acre-ft of water today; about 93% of normal. Average streamflow for this time of year is 103 cfs, with recent peaks last observed on 2023-05-19 when daily discharge volume was observed at 33,680 cfs.

Maximum discharge along the river is currently at the Dolores River Near Gateway reporting a streamflow rate of 4,890 cfs. This is also the highest stage along the Dolores River, with a gauge stage of 14.44 ft at this location. This river is monitored from 7 different streamgauging stations along the Dolores River, the highest being situated at an altitude of 8,421 ft, the Dolores River Below Rico.

The river is approximately 250 miles long and has a drainage area of about 4,000 square miles. The river was historically used by the Ancestral Puebloans and later by Spanish explorers. The Dolores River has several reservoirs and dams, including the McPhee Dam and Reservoir which provides water for agricultural use in the area. The river also has significant recreational use, including rafting and fishing. The Dolores River is known for its scenic beauty and is an important habitat for wildlife, including several species of fish and birds. The river has faced environmental threats from oil and gas development, along with drought and climate change.