Maximum discharge along the river is currently at the reporting a streamflow rate of cfs. This is also the highest stage along the Lower Atchafalaya River, with a gauge stage of ft at this location. This river is monitored from 1 different streamgauging stations along the Lower Atchafalaya River, the highest being situated at an altitude of ft, the .
| Streamgauge | Streamflow | Gauge Stage | 24hr Change (%) | % Normal | Minimum (cfs) | Maximum (cfs) | Air Temp | Elevation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Lower Atchafalaya River At Morgan City
USGS 07381600 |
37300 cfs | 2.6 ft | -27.71 |
The river has a rich history dating back to the 1700s, when it served as an important trade route for European settlers and Native American tribes. The river's hydrology is complex and has been greatly altered by the construction of numerous reservoirs and dams. Some of the most prominent reservoirs on the Lower Atchafalaya River include the Old River Control Structure, the Morganza Spillway, and the Bayou Sorrel Lock. These structures were built to prevent flooding and manage water flow in the area. Today, the Lower Atchafalaya River supports a variety of recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and birdwatching, as well as agricultural uses such as rice farming.