Methow River River Levels

Total streamflow across the Methow River was last observed at 1,907 cfs, and is expected to yield approximately 3,782 acre-ft of water today; about 96% of normal. Average streamflow for this time of year is 1,980 cfs, with recent peaks last observed on 2023-05-06 when daily discharge volume was observed at 64,920 cfs.

Maximum discharge along the river is currently at the Methow River Near Pateros reporting a streamflow rate of 701 cfs. However, the streamgauge with the highest stage along the river is the Methow River Above Goat Creek Near Mazama with a gauge stage of 13.8 ft. This river is monitored from 4 different streamgauging stations along the Methow River, the highest being situated at an altitude of 2,053 ft, the Methow River Above Goat Creek Near Mazama.

The river was used by the Native American tribes for fishing and irrigation, and later by settlers for agriculture and mining. Today, the river is used primarily for recreational purposes such as fishing, kayaking, and rafting. The river is fed by snowmelt and has a hydrology that varies throughout the year. There are two major dams on the Methow River, the Methow Dam and the Alta Dam, which provide hydroelectric power to the region. The river is also important for agriculture, with farmers using water from the river to irrigate their crops. Overall, the Methow River is an important natural resource for the region, providing both recreational opportunities and essential water resources for agriculture.