Grand River River Levels

Total streamflow across the Grand River was last observed at 8,402 cfs, and is expected to yield approximately 16,665 acre-ft of water today; about 47% of normal. River levels are low and may signify a drought. Average streamflow for this time of year is 17,868 cfs, with recent peaks last observed on 2017-04-07 when daily discharge volume was observed at 240,121 cfs.

Maximum discharge along the river is currently at the Grand River At Grand Rapids reporting a streamflow rate of 3,630 cfs. However, the streamgauge with the highest stage along the river is the Grand River At Ionia with a gauge stage of 10.2 ft. This river is monitored from 12 different streamgauging stations along the Grand River, the highest being situated at an altitude of 10,170 ft, the Grand River Ditch At La Poudre Pass.

It was an important waterway for Indigenous peoples and European explorers and was later used for transportation and industry. The river originates in the highlands of Dufferin County and flows into Lake Erie at Port Maitland. The river’s hydrology is affected by numerous tributaries and reservoirs, including the Conestogo, Speed, and Eramosa rivers, and the Elora and Guelph Lake reservoirs. There are also several dams along the river, including the Shand Dam and the Guelph Lake Dam. The Grand River is used for water supply, flood control, and hydroelectric power generation. It is also a popular destination for recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and camping. The river is also home to several agricultural operations, including dairy farms and crop production.