RIVER LEVEL INFORMATION

The river levels on the James and Maury are constantly changing and ultimately determined by how much rain we have had to date in the watershed area. For your safety we monitor river levels daily to make sure they are with in our predetermined ranges. We will not put boats on the water if the river levels are outside our predetermined amounts.

We calculate boater’s gauge zero for the James by subtracting 2ft 0 inches from the USGS James River Buchanan gauge and 1ft 5 inches from the USGS Maury River - Buena Vista gauge. Zero water level is the lowest a competent boater can run the river without having to get out. This is called the Randy Carter system of gauging or a "boaters' gauge".
CLICK HERE FOR JAMES RIVER LEVEL WEBSITE
CLICK HERE FOR MAURY RIVER LEVEL WEBSITE

We won't put a boat on the river by itself when the combined air and water temperature is under 100 degrees or when the water temperature in the James is under 55 degrees, the Maury 50 degrees. We always reserve the option to move your trip to another if the conditions on your reserved choice are unsafe or the water is too low. We will also move anyone we deem not up to the trip reserved to an easier, safer trip. Remember, the more challenging a trip is, the more opportunity there is for injury or property damage. Customers are responsible for themselves, those in their group, and all personal and rented equipment.