Gauge Description:

The Bureau of Reclamation's Deschutes River near Culver (CULO) gauge applies to this section and is located just upstream of the point where the river hits Billy Chinook Reservoir. Flows around 800 cfs are generally considered the minimum with technical routes through the rapids and slower pools in between that you will need to actively paddle across. You can still get down around 700 cfs but routes through the boulder gardens are very tight. Flows up above 1000 cfs are preferred and 1200 cfs is a nice medium level. You will also hear folks refer to flows on the Deschutes River below Bend (DEBO) gauge which is located several miles upstream but it gives you an idea of what water managers are allowing to pass downstream as irrigation water is diverted just upstream of this gauge. Check out the teacup diagram to determine the status of reservoirs upstream.