Conditions · Fox River

Fox River Historical Analysis

Up to fifteen completed years of seasonal observations, current-year context, and historical ranges from the Fox River monitoring network used to support Conditions products and research.

About the Fox River Monitoring Network

Dive Otter uses a network of USGS mainstem gauges, tributary stations, precipitation stations, dam and tailwater observations, and water-quality measurements to understand conditions across multiple Fox River reaches. The currently collected corridor extends from the upper Fox River through McHenry and Algonquin, then through Elgin, South Elgin, St. Charles, the Geneva and Batavia corridor, and Montgomery.

No single station describes the entire river. Mainstem gauges show how flow and stage change from upstream to downstream, tributary stations identify localized runoff, precipitation stations provide storm context, and water-quality stations supply measurements where continuous evidence is available. Each pool-level Conditions product uses the subset and proxies appropriate to that reach; a station shown here should not be assumed to measure every pool directly.

Long-Term River Context

Historical measurements show seasonal movement, the range observed in individual years, and how the current year compares with available long-term station history.

These charts use the Fox River observation network that supports Dive Otter Conditions products and hydrologic research. Seasonal medians and P25–P75 ranges appear only where a corresponding baseline exists. This is a long-term analytical reference, not a live conditions dashboard.

Monitoring Stations
28
73 historical measurement series
Historical Coverage
Up to 15 years
2011–2025 completed-year reference
Snapshot Generated
Sep 12, 2026 8:48 AM CDT
Current-year data through Sep 12, 2026
Reference Period
2011–2025
Completed calendar years
Need Current River Measurements? View current readings, recent changes, seven-day trends, and feed freshness.
View Current Observations

Historical Reference

Seasonal Patterns by Monitoring Station

These charts compare available annual observations with seasonal medians and P25–P75 reference bands where those baselines exist.

FOX RIVER AT WAUKESHA, WI

USGS 05543830  •  Upper Wisconsin Fox River discharge and stage anchor
USGS monitoring station contributing observations to the broader Fox River monitoring network.

Discharge · 15-Year Reference Window

Discharge is the volume of water moving past the gauge and is the primary measure of river flow.

USGS parameter 00060
2,4791,8291,178528-123JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

Gage Height · 15-Year Reference Window

Gage height is the water-surface elevation at the station and helps confirm whether the river is unusually high or low.

USGS parameter 00065
8.87.25.53.92.3JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

MUKWONAGO RIVER AT MUKWONAGO, WI

USGS 05544200  •  Major Wisconsin tributary runoff entering the Fox corridor
USGS monitoring station contributing observations to the broader Fox River monitoring network.

Discharge · 15-Year Reference Window

Discharge is the volume of water moving past the gauge and is the primary measure of river flow.

USGS parameter 00060
469346224102-20JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

Gage Height · 15-Year Reference Window

Gage height is the water-surface elevation at the station and helps confirm whether the river is unusually high or low.

USGS parameter 00065
4.63.83.12.41.7JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

Stream Water-Level Elevation · 15-Year Reference Window

Stream water-level elevation reports an absolute river or stream surface level relative to NAVD 1988.

USGS parameter 63160
783.7783.0782.3781.6780.9JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

FOX RIVER AT WATERFORD DAM, AT WATERFORD, WI

USGS 05544348  •  Waterford dam and upstream water-level context
USGS monitoring station contributing observations to the broader Fox River monitoring network.

Gage Height · 15-Year Reference Window

Gage height is the water-surface elevation at the station and helps confirm whether the river is unusually high or low.

USGS parameter 00065
3.12.72.21.81.4JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

Stream Water-Level Elevation · 15-Year Reference Window

Stream water-level elevation reports an absolute river or stream surface level relative to NAVD 1988.

USGS parameter 63160
775.0774.6774.2773.8773.3JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

FOX RIVER AT ROCHESTER, WI

USGS 05544475  •  Mainstem stage below the Waterford dam complex
USGS monitoring station contributing observations to the broader Fox River monitoring network.

Gage Height · 15-Year Reference Window

Gage height is the water-surface elevation at the station and helps confirm whether the river is unusually high or low.

USGS parameter 00065
6.55.13.62.20.7JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

Stream Water-Level Elevation · 15-Year Reference Window

Stream water-level elevation reports an absolute river or stream surface level relative to NAVD 1988.

USGS parameter 63160
766.8765.9764.9764.0763.1JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

WHITE RIVER AT CENTER STREET AT LAKE GENEVA, WI

USGS 055451345  •  Historical White River tributary discharge context
USGS monitoring station contributing observations to the broader Fox River monitoring network.

Discharge · 15-Year Reference Window

Discharge is the volume of water moving past the gauge and is the primary measure of river flow.

USGS parameter 00060
517380244107-29JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

Gage Height · 15-Year Reference Window

Gage height is the water-surface elevation at the station and helps confirm whether the river is unusually high or low.

USGS parameter 00065
14.112.310.68.87.1JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

FOX RIVER NEAR NEW MUNSTER, WI

USGS 05545750  •  Wisconsin mainstem flow, precipitation, and water-quality anchor upstream of the Chain
USGS monitoring station contributing observations to the broader Fox River monitoring network.

Discharge · 15-Year Reference Window

Discharge is the volume of water moving past the gauge and is the primary measure of river flow.

USGS parameter 00060
8,1416,0103,8791,748-383JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

Gage Height · 15-Year Reference Window

Gage height is the water-surface elevation at the station and helps confirm whether the river is unusually high or low.

USGS parameter 00065
15.612.810.07.24.4JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

Stream Water-Level Elevation · 15-Year Reference Window

Stream water-level elevation reports an absolute river or stream surface level relative to NAVD 1988.

USGS parameter 63160
751.2748.4745.6742.8740.0JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

Water Temperature · 15-Year Reference Window

Water temperature affects metabolism, dissolved oxygen, fish location and seasonal behavior.

USGS parameter 00010
92.876.760.644.528.4JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

Precipitation · 15-Year Reference Window

Precipitation helps explain runoff pulses entering the Fox River through tributaries across the monitored corridor.

USGS parameter 00045
2.11.51.00.4-0.1JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date
Historical points are daily precipitation totals. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

Specific Conductance · 15-Year Reference Window

Specific conductance reflects dissolved ions in the water and can change with runoff, groundwater influence and seasonal chemistry.

USGS parameter 00095
1,4631,190916643369JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

Dissolved Oxygen · 15-Year Reference Window

Dissolved oxygen indicates how much oxygen is available in the water for fish and other aquatic life.

USGS parameter 00300
20.415.410.45.50.5JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

pH · 15-Year Reference Window

pH describes how acidic or alkaline the water is and provides additional water-quality context.

USGS parameter 00400
8.98.58.17.67.2JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

Phosphate · 15-Year Reference Window

Phosphate provides nutrient context that can help explain biological productivity and algal response.

USGS parameter 00650
0.10.10.10.00.0JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

Chlorophyll Relative Fluorescence · 15-Year Reference Window

Chlorophyll relative fluorescence is a sensor response reported in RFU and is not interchangeable with an estimated chlorophyll concentration.

USGS parameter 32315
28.220.813.56.2-1.1JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

Phycocyanin Relative Fluorescence · 15-Year Reference Window

Phycocyanin relative fluorescence is a sensor response reported in RFU and is not interchangeable with an estimated phycocyanin concentration.

USGS parameter 32321
6.44.73.01.3-0.3JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

Turbidity · 15-Year Reference Window

Turbidity indicates suspended material in the water and serves as a useful visibility and runoff proxy.

USGS parameter 63680
50.037.525.012.50.0JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
For readability, turbidity measurements above 50 FNU are plotted at 50 FNU. This visual cap does not alter archived observations or model calculations. Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

Nitrate Plus Nitrite · 15-Year Reference Window

Nitrate plus nitrite provides nutrient context for runoff, productivity and water-quality interpretation.

USGS parameter 99133
6.54.93.31.80.2JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

CHANNEL LAKE NEAR ANTIOCH, IL

USGS 05547000  •  Upper Chain O’Lakes water-level context
USGS monitoring station contributing observations to the broader Fox River monitoring network.

Gage Height · 15-Year Reference Window

Gage height is the water-surface elevation at the station and helps confirm whether the river is unusually high or low.

USGS parameter 00065
8.56.95.33.72.1JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

FOX LAKE NEAR LAKE VILLA, IL

USGS 05547500  •  Central Chain O’Lakes water-level context
USGS monitoring station contributing observations to the broader Fox River monitoring network.

Gage Height · 15-Year Reference Window

Gage height is the water-surface elevation at the station and helps confirm whether the river is unusually high or low.

USGS parameter 00065
8.46.85.23.51.9JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

NIPPERSINK LAKE AT FOX LAKE, IL

USGS 05548000  •  Chain O’Lakes level context near the Nippersink inflow
USGS monitoring station contributing observations to the broader Fox River monitoring network.

Gage Height · 15-Year Reference Window

Gage height is the water-surface elevation at the station and helps confirm whether the river is unusually high or low.

USGS parameter 00065
8.36.75.03.41.8JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

NIPPERSINK CREEK ABOVE WONDER LAKE, IL

USGS 05548105  •  Upper Nippersink runoff and precipitation above Wonder Lake
USGS monitoring station contributing observations to the broader Fox River monitoring network.

Discharge · 15-Year Reference Window

Discharge is the volume of water moving past the gauge and is the primary measure of river flow.

USGS parameter 00060
1,7621,298833369-95JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

Gage Height · 15-Year Reference Window

Gage height is the water-surface elevation at the station and helps confirm whether the river is unusually high or low.

USGS parameter 00065
10.38.77.25.74.2JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

Precipitation · 15-Year Reference Window

Precipitation helps explain runoff pulses entering the Fox River through tributaries across the monitored corridor.

USGS parameter 00045
3.52.61.70.7-0.2JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date
Historical points are daily precipitation totals. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

NIPPERSINK CREEK NEAR SPRING GROVE, IL

USGS 05548280  •  Integrated Nippersink discharge and precipitation entering the Chain
USGS monitoring station contributing observations to the broader Fox River monitoring network.

Discharge · 15-Year Reference Window

Discharge is the volume of water moving past the gauge and is the primary measure of river flow.

USGS parameter 00060
2,9702,1911,412633-146JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

Gage Height · 15-Year Reference Window

Gage height is the water-surface elevation at the station and helps confirm whether the river is unusually high or low.

USGS parameter 00065
14.211.38.55.62.7JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

Precipitation · 15-Year Reference Window

Precipitation helps explain runoff pulses entering the Fox River through tributaries across the monitored corridor.

USGS parameter 00045
4.33.22.10.9-0.2JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date
Historical points are daily precipitation totals. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

RAIN GAGE AT HEBRON, IL

USGS 422834088255800  •  Long-record regional precipitation west of the Chain
USGS monitoring station contributing observations to the broader Fox River monitoring network.

Precipitation · 15-Year Reference Window

Precipitation helps explain runoff pulses entering the Fox River through tributaries across the monitored corridor.

USGS parameter 00045
3.42.51.60.7-0.2JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date
Historical points are daily precipitation totals. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

Fox River at Johnsburg

USGS 05548500  •  Upstream Fox River mainstem stage context
Fox River mainstem stage at Johnsburg provides upstream context for how water levels are changing before the river reaches the rest of the monitored corridor.

Gage Height · 15-Year Reference Window

Gage height is the water-surface elevation at the station and helps confirm whether the river is unusually high or low.

USGS parameter 00065
7.76.24.73.21.7JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

Fox River near McHenry

USGS 05549500  •  Upstream water quality and turbidity proxy
The McHenry station supplies upstream regional water-quality context, including temperature, dissolved oxygen, turbidity and related measurements. These observations are proxies where equivalent continuous measurements are not available in a downstream pool.

Water Temperature · 15-Year Reference Window

Water temperature affects metabolism, dissolved oxygen, fish location and seasonal behavior.

USGS parameter 00010
89.775.360.946.432.0JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

Gage Height · 15-Year Reference Window

Gage height is the water-surface elevation at the station and helps confirm whether the river is unusually high or low.

USGS parameter 00065
6.14.63.11.60.1JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

Specific Conductance · 15-Year Reference Window

Specific conductance reflects dissolved ions in the water and can change with runoff, groundwater influence and seasonal chemistry.

USGS parameter 00095
1,164978792606419JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

Dissolved Oxygen · 15-Year Reference Window

Dissolved oxygen indicates how much oxygen is available in the water for fish and other aquatic life.

USGS parameter 00300
17.713.38.94.50.1JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

pH · 15-Year Reference Window

pH describes how acidic or alkaline the water is and provides additional water-quality context.

USGS parameter 00400
8.98.58.17.67.2JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

Chlorophyll Fluorescence · 15-Year Reference Window

Chlorophyll fluorescence is a proxy for algal abundance and can help characterize biological productivity.

USGS parameter 32316
170.1126.282.438.5-5.3JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

Phycocyanin Fluorescence · 15-Year Reference Window

Phycocyanin fluorescence is a proxy for cyanobacteria and provides additional biological water-quality context.

USGS parameter 32319
13.810.16.52.9-0.7JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

Turbidity · 15-Year Reference Window

Turbidity indicates suspended material in the water and serves as a useful visibility and runoff proxy.

USGS parameter 63680
50.037.525.012.50.0JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
For readability, turbidity measurements above 50 FNU are plotted at 50 FNU. This visual cap does not alter archived observations or model calculations. Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

Fox River Tailwater near McHenry

USGS 05549501  •  McHenry tailwater stage and dam-operation context
The McHenry tailwater stage station provides dam and downstream water-level context near the upper end of the monitored Fox River corridor.

Gage Height · 15-Year Reference Window

Gage height is the water-surface elevation at the station and helps confirm whether the river is unusually high or low.

USGS parameter 00065
8.06.03.91.8-0.3JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

Fox River at Algonquin

USGS 05550000  •  Algonquin mainstem stage above the dam
The Algonquin mainstem stage station shows water level above the dam and provides upper-corridor hydraulic context.

Gage Height · 15-Year Reference Window

Gage height is the water-surface elevation at the station and helps confirm whether the river is unusually high or low.

USGS parameter 00065
4.53.32.10.9-0.3JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

Fox River Tailwater at Algonquin

USGS 05550001  •  Primary upstream Fox mainstem flow and water quality
The Algonquin tailwater station is an upper mainstem discharge reference. It helps distinguish broad Fox River movement from runoff entering farther downstream.

Water Temperature · 15-Year Reference Window

Water temperature affects metabolism, dissolved oxygen, fish location and seasonal behavior.

USGS parameter 00010
87.074.762.550.338.0JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

Discharge · 15-Year Reference Window

Discharge is the volume of water moving past the gauge and is the primary measure of river flow.

USGS parameter 00060
8,0435,9443,8451,746-353JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

Gage Height · 15-Year Reference Window

Gage height is the water-surface elevation at the station and helps confirm whether the river is unusually high or low.

USGS parameter 00065
13.510.98.35.83.2JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

Specific Conductance · 15-Year Reference Window

Specific conductance reflects dissolved ions in the water and can change with runoff, groundwater influence and seasonal chemistry.

USGS parameter 00095
1,085920754588422JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

Dissolved Oxygen · 15-Year Reference Window

Dissolved oxygen indicates how much oxygen is available in the water for fish and other aquatic life.

USGS parameter 00300
13.711.38.86.43.9JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

pH · 15-Year Reference Window

pH describes how acidic or alkaline the water is and provides additional water-quality context.

USGS parameter 00400
8.88.58.27.87.5JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

Tyler Creek at Elgin

USGS 05550300  •  Tributary runoff and precipitation context near Elgin
Tyler Creek provides tributary-flow and precipitation context near Elgin, helping identify localized runoff entering the Fox River corridor.

Precipitation · 15-Year Reference Window

Precipitation helps explain runoff pulses entering the Fox River through tributaries across the monitored corridor.

USGS parameter 00045
4.43.22.10.9-0.2JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date
Historical points are daily precipitation totals. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

Discharge · 15-Year Reference Window

Discharge is the volume of water moving past the gauge and is the primary measure of river flow.

USGS parameter 00060
1,321973624275-73JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

Gage Height · 15-Year Reference Window

Gage height is the water-surface elevation at the station and helps confirm whether the river is unusually high or low.

USGS parameter 00065
9.28.27.16.05.0JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

Poplar Creek at Elgin

USGS 05550500  •  Local tributary runoff entering below Elgin
Poplar Creek measures tributary runoff entering the Fox River near Elgin and helps identify localized changes below the upper mainstem gauges.

Discharge · 15-Year Reference Window

Discharge is the volume of water moving past the gauge and is the primary measure of river flow.

USGS parameter 00060
1,098808518228-62JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

Gage Height · 15-Year Reference Window

Gage height is the water-surface elevation at the station and helps confirm whether the river is unusually high or low.

USGS parameter 00065
6.55.03.62.10.6JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

Fox River at South Elgin

USGS 05551000  •  Primary integrated mainstem discharge and stage
The South Elgin station is a key observed mainstem discharge and stage reference used by multiple Dive Otter Conditions products.

Discharge · 15-Year Reference Window

Discharge is the volume of water moving past the gauge and is the primary measure of river flow.

USGS parameter 00060
9,8177,2724,7272,182-363JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

Gage Height · 15-Year Reference Window

Gage height is the water-surface elevation at the station and helps confirm whether the river is unusually high or low.

USGS parameter 00065
15.014.213.412.611.7JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

Fox River at South Elgin Tailwater

USGS 05551001  •  Tailwater stage and dam-operation signal
The South Elgin tailwater stage station provides dam and downstream hydraulic context immediately below the South Elgin dam.

Gage Height · 15-Year Reference Window

Gage height is the water-surface elevation at the station and helps confirm whether the river is unusually high or low.

USGS parameter 00065
10.49.17.86.65.3JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

Ferson Creek near St. Charles

USGS 05551200  •  Local tributary runoff and precipitation near St. Charles
Ferson Creek provides tributary-flow and precipitation context near St. Charles and helps identify localized runoff entering the mainstem.

Precipitation · 15-Year Reference Window

Precipitation helps explain runoff pulses entering the Fox River through tributaries across the monitored corridor.

USGS parameter 00045
3.32.41.60.7-0.2JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date
Historical points are daily precipitation totals. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

Discharge · 15-Year Reference Window

Discharge is the volume of water moving past the gauge and is the primary measure of river flow.

USGS parameter 00060
1,4551,071687303-81JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

Gage Height · 15-Year Reference Window

Gage height is the water-surface elevation at the station and helps confirm whether the river is unusually high or low.

USGS parameter 00065
6.95.43.82.30.8JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

Mill Creek near Batavia

USGS 05551330  •  Tributary runoff and precipitation near Batavia
Mill Creek provides tributary-flow and precipitation context in the Geneva and Batavia corridor.

Precipitation · 15-Year Reference Window

Precipitation helps explain runoff pulses entering the Fox River through tributaries across the monitored corridor.

USGS parameter 00045
4.03.01.90.8-0.2JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date
Historical points are daily precipitation totals. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

Discharge · 15-Year Reference Window

Discharge is the volume of water moving past the gauge and is the primary measure of river flow.

USGS parameter 00060
804591379167-45JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

Gage Height · 15-Year Reference Window

Gage height is the water-surface elevation at the station and helps confirm whether the river is unusually high or low.

USGS parameter 00065
7.45.94.42.91.5JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

Fox River at Montgomery

USGS 05551540  •  Downstream Fox mainstem discharge and stage
The Montgomery station is the lower observed Fox River mainstem discharge and stage reference for the monitored corridor.

Discharge · 15-Year Reference Window

Discharge is the volume of water moving past the gauge and is the primary measure of river flow.

USGS parameter 00060
14,60810,7856,9633,140-683JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

Gage Height · 15-Year Reference Window

Gage height is the water-surface elevation at the station and helps confirm whether the river is unusually high or low.

USGS parameter 00065
15.013.812.711.610.5JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

Blackberry Creek near Montgomery

USGS 05551675  •  Tributary runoff and precipitation near Montgomery
Blackberry Creek provides tributary-flow and precipitation context near Montgomery and the lower portion of the monitored corridor.

Precipitation · 15-Year Reference Window

Precipitation helps explain runoff pulses entering the Fox River through tributaries across the monitored corridor.

USGS parameter 00045
6.24.62.91.3-0.4JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date
Historical points are daily precipitation totals. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

Discharge · 15-Year Reference Window

Discharge is the volume of water moving past the gauge and is the primary measure of river flow.

USGS parameter 00060
1,057778499220-59JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

Gage Height · 15-Year Reference Window

Gage height is the water-surface elevation at the station and helps confirm whether the river is unusually high or low.

USGS parameter 00065
9.47.86.14.52.8JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date seasonal P25-P75 band seasonal median (15-year window)
Historical points are daily averages of the archived observations. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

National Accelerator Laboratory near West Chicago, IL

USGS 415131088143600  •  Regional precipitation context near the lower corridor
The National Accelerator Laboratory station supplies regional precipitation context near West Chicago and the lower Fox River corridor. It does not measure river flow.

Precipitation · 15-Year Reference Window

Precipitation helps explain runoff pulses entering the Fox River through tributaries across the monitored corridor.

USGS parameter 00045
11.28.25.32.3-0.6JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date
Historical points are daily precipitation totals. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

DuPage County Airport near St. Charles, IL

USGS 415457088150600  •  Regional precipitation context near St. Charles
The DuPage County Airport station supplies regional precipitation context near St. Charles. It does not measure river flow.

Precipitation · 15-Year Reference Window

Precipitation helps explain runoff pulses entering the Fox River through tributaries across the monitored corridor.

USGS parameter 00045
3.42.51.60.7-0.2JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date
Historical points are daily precipitation totals. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

Elgin Water Treatment Facility at Elgin, IL

USGS 420354088170500  •  Regional precipitation context near Elgin
The Elgin Water Treatment Facility station supplies regional precipitation context near Elgin. It does not measure river flow.

Precipitation · 15-Year Reference Window

Precipitation helps explain runoff pulses entering the Fox River through tributaries across the monitored corridor.

USGS parameter 00045
3.62.71.70.8-0.2JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2011–2025 annual traces 2026 to date
Historical points are daily precipitation totals. Muted lines show available observations within the fifteen-year reference window; newer or seasonal sensors may cover fewer years. The current year is highlighted. Missing observations are not treated as zero.

About These Measurements

Values shown are locally archived USGS observations. USGS observations may be provisional and subsequently revised. Temperature is stored in its original Celsius value and converted to Fahrenheit for display.

Historical charts use up to the fifteen completed years immediately before the current year, with the current year highlighted separately. Continuous measurements are reduced to daily averages and precipitation to daily totals. Where available, the P25–P75 band and seasonal median come from the locally generated seasonal-baseline table. Not every displayed series has or drives a production model baseline.

This page is a generated snapshot. The date shown above identifies how far the current-year overlay extends. Rebuilding the seasonal baselines also regenerates this snapshot.