NORTH NASHUA RIVER

Last Updated: April 25, 2026

Total streamflow across the North Nashua River was last observed at 233 cfs, and is expected to yield approximately 463 acre-ft of water today; about 47% of normal. River levels are low and may signify a drought. Average streamflow for this time of year is 498 cfs, with recent peaks last observed on 2017-10-30 when daily discharge volume was observed at 7,260 cfs.

Maximum discharge along the river is currently at the North Nashua River Near Leominster reporting a streamflow rate of 120 cfs. However, the streamgauge with the highest stage along the river is the North Nashua River At Fitchburg with a gauge stage of 2.74 ft. This river is monitored from 2 different streamgauging stations along the North Nashua River, the highest being situated at an altitude of 399 ft, the North Nashua River At Fitchburg.

Get the latest River Levels, Streamflow, and Hydrology for in River flows across 2 streamgages of the North Nashua River


15-Day Long Term Forecast


River Details

Last Updated 2026-04-24
Discharge Volume 463 ACRE-FT
Streamflow 233.4 cfs
Past 24 Hours: -6.6 cfs (-2.75%)
Percent of Normal 46.84%
Maximum 7,260.0 cfs
2017-10-30
Seasonal Avg cfs
       
River Streamflow Levels
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Streamgauge Streamflow Gauge Stage 24hr Change (%) % Normal Minimum (cfs) Maximum (cfs) Air Temp Elevation
North Nashua River At Fitchburg
USGS 01094400 		74 cfs 2.74 ft -16.44
North Nashua River Near Leominster
USGS 01094500 		120 cfs 2.55 ft 7.19
Seasonal Discharge Comparison
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Maximum Streamflow Discharge
Streamflow Elevation Profile

It begins in Ashburnham and flows through Ashby, Fitchburg, Leominster, and Lancaster before joining the Nashua River in Lancaster. The river has a long history of industrial use, particularly in the textile industry. The hydrology of the river has been affected by damming and water diversion for industry and agriculture. The river is home to several reservoirs, including the Fitchburg Reservoir and the Lancaster Reservoir, which provide drinking water to surrounding communities. Recreational activities on the river include fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. Agriculture along the river includes dairy farms and apple orchards. The river has been subject to pollution and efforts are being made to improve water quality through conservation and restoration efforts.