Current Flows of the Owyhee River
View current flows of the Owyhee River here. Staying informed about the river's water conditions is crucial for planning your activities. Here, you'll find real-time data on stream flows, updated directly from the US Geological Survey (USGS) monitoring stations. The interactive graphs and detailed information below ensure you have the most accurate and up-to-date insights into the behavior of the Owyhee River.
Current flows of the Owyhee River near the Owyhee Dam:
Current flows of the Owyhee River near Rome:
What is the Owyhee River
The Owyhee River originates in Elko County, Nevada, flows north along the Independence Mountains, and continues through southwestern Idaho. It joins the South Fork of the Owyhee River before reaching Oregon. In 1984, 120 miles of the river were designated as ‘wild’ by Congress, from the Idaho-Oregon border to the Owyhee Reservoir.
Geology
The Owyhee River exposes rocks from the late Miocene to recent times, including rhyolitic and basalt flows, sedimentary rocks, and alluvial deposits. Volcanic activity formed benchlands and lakes, which later eroded through basalt dams. Faulting and warping have shaped the river's canyon, with colors ranging from buff rhyolite to dark basalt.
Prehistory
The Owyhee watershed was a crucial resource for prehistoric peoples, providing water, food, and campsites. Notable sites include the "Hole in the Ground" petroglyphs, with around 100 recorded campsites along the lower river.
Recreation
The Owyhee River is popular for activities like rafting, kayaking, hiking, photography, fishing, hunting, and camping. Known for its whitewater, the river also offers opportunities for sport fishing and wildlife viewing, including mule deer, bighorn sheep, and various bird species.
Scenery
The Owyhee canyons are dramatic, with canyon walls reaching up to 1,000 feet. The scenery includes reddish-brown canyon walls, colorful chalky cliffs, and diverse rock formations. The river's drop-and-pool nature provides thrilling whitewater and serene pools.
Wildlife
The Owyhee River Canyon hosts over 200 wildlife species, including various birds of prey, songbirds, and upland game birds. Mammals such as bighorn sheep, mule deer, pronghorn, and smaller animals like coyotes and otters thrive in this diverse habitat.
Conservation and Challenges
The Owyhee Canyonlands cover over 2 million acres in eastern Oregon, offering solitude and adventurous recreation. Threats include unmanaged recreation, desecration of sacred sites, wildfires, invasive species, and development pressures. Collaborative efforts aim to protect over 1.2 million acres of public land and 15 miles of the Owyhee River as Wild and Scenic.