Republican River

Total streamflow across the Republican River was last observed at 2,043 cfs, and is expected to yield approximately 4,053 acre-ft of water today; about 117% of normal. Average streamflow for this time of year is 1,745 cfs, with recent peaks last observed on 2019-07-11 when daily discharge volume was observed at 45,935 cfs.

Maximum discharge along the river is currently at the Republican R At Clay Center reporting a streamflow rate of 970 cfs. This is also the highest stage along the Republican River, with a gauge stage of 9.06 ft at this location. This river is monitored from 11 different streamgauging stations along the Republican River, the highest being situated at an altitude of 2,981 ft, the Republican River At Benkelman.

The river is named after the Republican Indians who inhabited the area before the arrival of European settlers. The river's hydrology has been significantly altered by human activities over the years, including the construction of several dams and reservoirs. Some of the major reservoirs on the Republican River include Harlan County Lake, Lovewell Reservoir, and Milford Lake. These reservoirs provide important water resources for irrigation and recreation in the region. Additionally, the river has played an important role in the agricultural history of the Great Plains, providing water for crops and livestock. Despite facing numerous challenges, the Republican River remains an important natural resource for the communities that depend on it.