Elkhorn River River Levels

Total streamflow across the Elkhorn River was last observed at 3,298 cfs, and is expected to yield approximately 6,542 acre-ft of water today; about 42% of normal. River levels are low and may signify a drought. Average streamflow for this time of year is 7,810 cfs, with recent peaks last observed on 2019-03-18 when daily discharge volume was observed at 100,230 cfs.

Maximum discharge along the river is currently at the Elkhorn River At Waterloo reporting a streamflow rate of 1,150 cfs. However, the streamgauge with the highest stage along the river is the Elkhorn River At Pilger with a gauge stage of 6.92 ft. This river is monitored from 5 different streamgauging stations along the Elkhorn River, the highest being situated at an altitude of 1,842 ft, the Elkhorn River At Ewing.

The river is approximately 290 miles long and has several reservoirs including Carter Lake, Lake Wanahoo, and Sherman Reservoir. The river was once a major route for fur traders and pioneers heading west. Today, it is an important source of water for irrigation and has several hydroelectric dams along its length. The river is also a popular destination for recreational activities such as fishing, kayaking, and tubing. The Elkhorn River provides habitat for several species of fish, including catfish, bass, and carp, and is a significant source of water for agricultural uses in the region.