TOTAL RIVER DISCHARGE
Maximum discharge along the river is currently at the reporting a streamflow rate of cfs. This is also the highest stage along the Hockanum River, with a gauge stage of ft at this location. This river is monitored from 1 different streamgauging stations along the Hockanum River, the highest being situated at an altitude of ft, the .
The Hockanum River is located in Connecticut and flows for approximately 20 miles from Manchester to East Hartford before emptying into the Connecticut River. The river has a rich history, having been used for transportation, as a source of power for mills and factories, and as a dumping site for industrial waste. Today, the river is a popular destination for recreational activities such as hiking, fishing, and kayaking. There are several dams and reservoirs along the river, including the Bolton Notch Pond, East Hartford Reservoir, and the Lower Hockanum Reservoir. These reservoirs provide drinking water for the surrounding communities and also serve as recreational areas for boating and fishing. The river is also used for agricultural purposes, with several farms located along its banks.
YEAR OVER YEAR DISCHARGE (CFS)
Streamflow Conditions
| Streamgauge | Streamflow | Gauge Stage | 24hr Change (%) | % Normal | Minimum (cfs) | Maximum (cfs) | Air Temp | Elevation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Hockanum River Near East Hartford
USGS 01192500 |
70 cfs | 2.14 ft | 26.08 |
History of the River
The Hockanum River is a river in Connecticut. Hockanum is derived from the Native American Podunk people Algonquin language word meaning "hook-shaped", so named because of the course of the river. The Hockanum neighborhood in East Hartford is named after it.
It rises at the outlet of Shenipsit Lake in Rockville, then flows through Vernon, Ellington, Manchester, and East Hartford. Its mouth on the Connecticut River is immediately north of the Charter Oak Bridge and south of and across from the mouth of the Park River.
The Hockanum River runs for about 22.6 miles (36.4 km) until it spills into the Connecticut River. There is a popular paddling route that follows the river for 13 miles (21 km). It begins at the bridge at Pleasant View Drive, one mile west of Vernon Center, and continues to the Connecticut River. This river run is mostly quickwater with one Class II whitewater area that eventually fades to flatwater and tidal water at its mouth at the Connecticut River.
Historically used for industry, the river has in recent years had hiking trails and linear parks developed along its banks. The banks of the river are slowly being cleaned up after years of pollution and dumping.