WEST NISHNABOTNA RIVER

Last Updated: May 10, 2026

Total streamflow across the West Nishnabotna River was last observed at 1,122 cfs, and is expected to yield approximately 2,225 acre-ft of water today; about 157% of normal. River levels are high. Average streamflow for this time of year is 713 cfs, with recent peaks last observed on 2025-08-11 when daily discharge volume was observed at 2,639 cfs.

Maximum discharge along the river is currently at the West Nishnabotna River At Randolph reporting a streamflow rate of 766 cfs. This is also the highest stage along the West Nishnabotna River, with a gauge stage of 8.85 ft at this location. This river is monitored from 2 different streamgauging stations along the West Nishnabotna River, the highest being situated at an altitude of 1,089 ft, the West Nishnabotna River At Hancock.

Get the latest River Levels, Streamflow, and Hydrology for in River flows across 2 streamgages of the West Nishnabotna River


15-Day Long Term Forecast


River Details

Last Updated 2026-05-09
Discharge Volume 2,225 ACRE-FT
Streamflow 1,122.0 cfs
Past 24 Hours: -5.0 cfs (-0.44%)
Percent of Normal 157.29%
Maximum 2,639.0 cfs
2025-08-11
Seasonal Avg cfs
       
River Streamflow Levels
Streamgauge Streamflow Gauge Stage 24hr Change (%) % Normal Minimum (cfs) Maximum (cfs) Air Temp Elevation
West Nishnabotna River At Hancock
USGS 06807410
356 cfs 3.02 ft 0
West Nishnabotna River At Randolph
USGS 06808500
766 cfs 8.85 ft -0.65
Seasonal Discharge Comparison
Maximum Streamflow Discharge
Streamflow Elevation Profile

The river has a length of 92 miles and is named after the Nishnabotna Native American tribe. The river's hydrology is largely influenced by precipitation and agricultural practices in the region. There are several small reservoirs and dams along the river, including the Lenox Reservoir, which was built in the 1940s for flood control and irrigation. The river is used for recreational activities such as fishing, canoeing, and camping. Its watershed is also vital for agricultural purposes, providing water for crops and livestock. However, the river has had issues with water quality due to agricultural runoff and erosion. Conservation efforts have been implemented to improve the health of the West Nishnabotna River.