Huerfano River

Total streamflow across the Huerfano River was last observed at 25 cfs, and is expected to yield approximately 50 acre-ft of water today; about 95% of normal. Average streamflow for this time of year is 27 cfs, with recent peaks last observed on 2015-10-01 when daily discharge volume was observed at 1,703 cfs.

Maximum discharge along the river is currently at the Huerfano River At Badito reporting a streamflow rate of 14.40 cfs. However, the streamgauge with the highest stage along the river is the Huerfano River Near Boone with a gauge stage of 3.96 ft. This river is monitored from 4 different streamgauging stations along the Huerfano River, the highest being situated at an altitude of 8,202 ft, the Huerfano R At Manzanares Xing.

The river is approximately 70 miles long and has a drainage area of 1,470 square miles. Historically, the river was used by Native American tribes for hunting and fishing. In the early 20th century, the river was dammed to provide irrigation for agriculture. The Huerfano River Watershed Project was established in 1965 to address erosion and water quality issues. Specific reservoirs and dams on the river include Huerfano Lake, Huerfano Valley, and the Huerfano-Cucharas Project. The river supports recreational activities such as fishing, kayaking, and camping. It is also used for agriculture, providing irrigation for crops such as alfalfa, corn, and wheat.