OCONTO RIVER

RIVER LEVELS
January 16, 2025


TOTAL RIVER DISCHARGE

Total streamflow across the Oconto River was last observed at 1,450 cfs, and is expected to yield approximately 2,876 acre-ft of water today; about 84% of normal. Average streamflow for this time of year is 1,723 cfs, with recent peaks last observed on 2019-04-20 when daily discharge volume was observed at 11,130 cfs.

Maximum discharge along the river is currently at the Oconto River Near Gillett reporting a streamflow rate of 1,450 cfs. However, the streamgauge with the highest stage along the river is the Oconto River Near Oconto with a gauge stage of 4.7 ft. This river is monitored from 2 different streamgauging stations along the Oconto River, the highest being situated at an altitude of 741 ft, the Oconto River Near Gillett.

The Oconto River is located in northeastern Wisconsin and flows for approximately 56 miles before emptying into Green Bay. The river has a rich history, with evidence of human habitation dating back at least 10,000 years. Today, the river is used for a variety of purposes, including recreation and agriculture. There are several small reservoirs and dams along the river, including the Bond Falls Reservoir and the Gillett Reservoir. These structures provide hydroelectric power, as well as flood control and recreation opportunities. The river is popular for fishing and kayaking, and supports a variety of wildlife, including muskellunge, walleye, and bald eagles. The Oconto River is an important resource for the surrounding communities, and is managed to balance its many uses.

Last Updated 2024-12-02
Discharge Volume 2,876 ACRE-FT
Streamflow 1,450.0 cfs
+430.0 cfs (+42.16%)
Percent of Normal 84.13%
Maximum 11,130.0 cfs
2019-04-20
Seasonal Avg 1,723 cfs

YEAR OVER YEAR DISCHARGE (CFS)

Streamflow Conditions
Streamgauge Streamflow Gauge Stage 24hr Change (%) % Normal Minimum (cfs) Maximum (cfs) Air Temp Elevation
Oconto River Near Gillett
USGS 04071000
1450 cfs 2.07 ft 42.16
Oconto River Near Oconto
USGS 04071765
912 cfs 4.7 ft 80.24
History of the River

Located in northeastern Wisconsin, the Oconto River is a tributary of Lake Michigan via Green Bay. The Oconto River is 56.9 miles (91.6 km) long, stretching from the confluence of its North and South branches at Suring, Wisconsin, to Green Bay at the city of Oconto. Its drainage basin covers 2,416 square miles (6,260 km2), encompassing most of Oconto County as well as portions of Shawano, Marinette, Menominee, Langlade, and Forest counties.

       

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Weather Forecast

Regional Streamflow Levels