Understanding river conditions helps you plan a better day on the water — whether you’re fishing, floating, or simply enjoying the riverfront. Below is a simple guide to how the White River is managed, what affects water levels, and where to check real-time conditions.

How the White River Works

The White River below Bull Shoals Dam is a tailwater river, meaning water levels are controlled by releases from the dam upstream. Because of this, river levels can change throughout the day depending on power generation, rainfall, and flood-control needs.

While the river is managed, conditions are not static. Water levels may rise or fall daily — sometimes significantly — which is why checking current conditions is always important.

What Affects River Levels

Several factors influence how much water is released into the White River:

• Hydropower demand (electricity generation)

• Lake level at Bull Shoals

• Rainfall and tributary inflows

• Flood-control requirements downstream

These factors are managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and the Southwestern Power Administration (SWPA).

Typical Flow Ranges

• Minimum flow: ~850 cubic feet per second (CFS)

• Maximum generation capacity: ~26,400 CFS (all generators running)

Changes in flow can result in noticeable differences in river height, especially farther downstream where tributaries contribute additional water.

Reading River Conditions

Real-Time Conditions

For the most accurate, up-to-date information, always check real-time data:

• Current river level & flow (CFS)

• Water temperature

• Dissolved oxygen levels (important for fishing conditions)

These readings reflect what’s happening right now on the river.

Generation Schedules (Forecasts)

Power generation schedules provide a general outlook, similar to a weather forecast. They are helpful for spotting trends, but not guarantees — schedules can and do change.

We recommend:

• Watching patterns over several days

• Checking conditions again the morning of your trip

• Remaining flexible, especially during spring and high-rain periods

How Fast Does Water Rise or Fall?

Water released from the dam moves downstream over time. As a general rule:

• Rising water moves faster during higher releases

• Falling water takes longer to “drop out,” especially farther from the dam

These are approximations only and should never be relied on for safety decisions.

Safety Reminder

River conditions can change quickly.

• Always be aware of your surroundings

• Avoid lingering in low areas when water is rising

• If wading, give yourself plenty of time to exit safely

• When in doubt, move to higher ground early

No chart or forecast replaces real-time awareness on the river.