Priest River

Total streamflow across the Priest River was last observed at 4,400 cfs, and is expected to yield approximately 8,727 acre-ft of water today; about 94% of normal. Average streamflow for this time of year is 4,685 cfs, with recent peaks last observed on 2023-05-09 when daily discharge volume was observed at 12,290 cfs.

Maximum discharge along the river is currently at the Priest River Nr Priest River Id reporting a streamflow rate of 3,520 cfs. However, the streamgauge with the highest stage along the river is the Priest R Outflow Nr Coolin with a gauge stage of 18.46 ft. This river is monitored from 2 different streamgauging stations along the Priest River, the highest being situated at an altitude of 2,433 ft, the Priest R Outflow Nr Coolin.

The river was named after Father Pierre-Jean De Smet, a Belgian Jesuit missionary who traveled extensively throughout the region in the mid-19th century. Hydrologically, the river is known for its moderate to high flows, with peak runoff occurring in late spring to early summer. The river is home to several reservoirs and dams, including the Boundary Dam, Box Canyon Dam, and Albeni Falls Dam, which provide hydroelectric power to the region. Additionally, the river is used for recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and camping, and supports agriculture in the surrounding areas. The Priest River is an important part of the regional ecosystem and is managed by the U.S. Forest Service and other federal agencies to ensure its ecological health and sustainability.