Redwater River

Total streamflow across the Redwater River was last observed at 112 cfs, and is expected to yield approximately 222 acre-ft of water today; about 40% of normal. River levels are low and may signify a drought. Average streamflow for this time of year is 278 cfs, with recent peaks last observed on 2019-03-23 when daily discharge volume was observed at 5,726 cfs.

Maximum discharge along the river is currently at the Redwater River Above Belle Fourche Sd reporting a streamflow rate of 112 cfs. However, the streamgauge with the highest stage along the river is the Redwater River At Circle Mt with a gauge stage of 4.07 ft. This river is monitored from 2 different streamgauging stations along the Redwater River, the highest being situated at an altitude of 3,018 ft, the Redwater River Above Belle Fourche Sd.

The river is named for the red clay that lines its banks. Historically, the river was used by Native American tribes for transportation, hunting, and fishing. The river is fed by several smaller streams and has a variable flow due to seasonal precipitation patterns. The Fort Peck Dam and Reservoir on the Missouri River is the largest reservoir in the area and has a significant impact on the flow of the Redwater River. The river is used for irrigation and supports agricultural activities in the area. Recreational use of the river includes fishing for trout, walleye, and catfish, as well as hunting and camping in the surrounding area.