Wanaque River River Levels

Total streamflow across the Wanaque River was last observed at 60 cfs, and is expected to yield approximately 118 acre-ft of water today; about 65% of normal. River levels are low and may signify a drought. Average streamflow for this time of year is 92 cfs, with recent peaks last observed on 2011-09-09 when daily discharge volume was observed at 3,790 cfs.

Maximum discharge along the river is currently at the Wanaque River At Awosting Nj reporting a streamflow rate of 59.5 cfs. This is also the highest stage along the Wanaque River, with a gauge stage of 2.35 ft at this location. This river is monitored from 2 different streamgauging stations along the Wanaque River, the highest being situated at an altitude of 603 ft, the Wanaque River At Awosting Nj.

The river was named by the Lenape people, who called it "Wan-e-ki," meaning "place of the sassafras." The river flows through a heavily populated urban and suburban area and is prone to flooding. The Wanaque Reservoir, completed in 1928, is located on the river and is the second-largest reservoir in New Jersey. The reservoir provides water to more than two million people in northern New Jersey. The Monksville Reservoir, completed in 1987, is also located on the river and is used for recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and hiking. The Wanaque River is an important source of water for agriculture in the region, with many farms located along its banks. Despite its importance, the Wanaque River has faced pollution and environmental challenges over the years, including industrial waste and sewage discharges.