Florida River River Levels

Total streamflow across the Florida River was last observed at 10 cfs, and is expected to yield approximately 20 acre-ft of water today; about 24% of normal. River levels are low and may signify a drought. Average streamflow for this time of year is 42 cfs, with recent peaks last observed on 2023-04-25 when daily discharge volume was observed at 1,172 cfs.

Maximum discharge along the river is currently at the Florida R Bl Flor Farmers Ditch reporting a streamflow rate of 10.70 cfs. However, the streamgauge with the highest stage along the river is the Florida River At Bondad with a gauge stage of 3.21 ft. This river is monitored from 2 different streamgauging stations along the Florida River, the highest being situated at an altitude of 7,082 ft, the Florida R Bl Flor Farmers Ditch.

It has a length of approximately 45 miles and a drainage area of about 200 square miles. The river has been used for agricultural purposes since the late 1800s, with irrigation ditches constructed to divert water for crops such as alfalfa, wheat, and barley. The construction of the Lemon Dam in 1963 has helped regulate the water flow of the river, ensuring a reliable water supply for agricultural and recreational uses. The reservoir created by the dam, Lemon Reservoir, is a popular destination for fishing and boating. The Florida River also has a history of mining, with several mines located along its banks. The hydrology of the Florida River is influenced by snowmelt and precipitation, with peak flows occurring in the spring and early summer.