Lemhi River River Levels

Total streamflow across the Lemhi River was last observed at 365 cfs, and is expected to yield approximately 724 acre-ft of water today; about 68% of normal. River levels are low and may signify a drought. Average streamflow for this time of year is 539 cfs, with recent peaks last observed on 2017-06-07 when daily discharge volume was observed at 3,390 cfs.

Maximum discharge along the river is currently at the Lemhi River Below L5 Diversion Near Salmon reporting a streamflow rate of 189 cfs. However, the streamgauge with the highest stage along the river is the Lemhi River Nr Lemhi Id with a gauge stage of 3.85 ft. This river is monitored from 2 different streamgauging stations along the Lemhi River, the highest being situated at an altitude of 4,912 ft, the Lemhi River Nr Lemhi Id.

It stretches for 60 miles from its source in the Lemhi Range to its confluence with the Salmon River. The hydrology of the Lemhi River is characterized by seasonal fluctuations in flow and high levels of sediment. The river has been the site of several dams and reservoirs, including the North Fork Dam and Reservoir, which was constructed in the 1970s to provide irrigation water for nearby farms. Today, the river is used for agricultural purposes, including irrigation and livestock watering, as well as for recreational activities such as fishing and rafting. The Lemhi River has a rich history, having been explored by Lewis and Clark on their westward expedition in 1805.