Owyhee River River Levels

Total streamflow across the Owyhee River was last observed at 226 cfs, and is expected to yield approximately 449 acre-ft of water today; about 104% of normal. Average streamflow for this time of year is 217 cfs, with recent peaks last observed on 2024-04-06 when daily discharge volume was observed at 18,607 cfs.

Maximum discharge along the river is currently at the Owyhee River Nr Rome Or reporting a streamflow rate of 172 cfs. However, the streamgauge with the highest stage along the river is the Owyhee R Nr Mountain City with a gauge stage of 3.77 ft. This river is monitored from 4 different streamgauging stations along the Owyhee River, the highest being situated at an altitude of 6,129 ft, the Owyhee R Nr Gold Creek.

The river was named after the Hawaiian fur trappers who worked in the area in the early 19th century. The Owyhee River basin is one of the least developed and most remote areas in the western United States. The river is fed by snowmelt and rainfall and is known for its steep canyons and rugged terrain. There are several reservoirs and dams along the river, including the Owyhee Dam, which creates Lake Owyhee, and the Unity Dam, which creates Unity Reservoir. These reservoirs are used for irrigation, flood control, and hydroelectric power generation. The Owyhee River is also a popular destination for fishing, kayaking, and rafting. The river flows through the Owyhee Canyonlands, which is home to a variety of wildlife, including bighorn sheep, golden eagles, and pronghorn antelope.