Milwaukee River River Levels

Total streamflow across the Milwaukee River was last observed at 166 cfs, and is expected to yield approximately 329 acre-ft of water today; about 9% of normal. River levels are low and may signify a drought. Average streamflow for this time of year is 1,915 cfs, with recent peaks last observed on 2018-05-14 when daily discharge volume was observed at 24,870 cfs.

Maximum discharge along the river is currently at the Milwaukee River Near Cedarburg reporting a streamflow rate of 337 cfs. However, the streamgauge with the highest stage along the river is the Milwaukee R @ Jones Island Mouth-At Milwaukee with a gauge stage of 6.96 ft. This river is monitored from 3 different streamgauging stations along the Milwaukee River, the highest being situated at an altitude of 672 ft, the Milwaukee River Near Cedarburg.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the river was heavily polluted due to industrialization, but has since been cleaned up and is now popular for recreational activities such as kayaking and fishing. The river's hydrology is managed by several man-made reservoirs and dams, including the Menomonee and Kinnickinnic Rivers, which were dammed to create power for industrial use. These reservoirs also help control flooding in the area. The river is used for agricultural irrigation and is important for the region's economy. Today, the Milwaukee River is a symbol of the city's ongoing revitalization and commitment to environmental sustainability.