OK, so I've never run the Cooper (why? because i wasn't that good before I left here and didn't run when i came back last season) but am keen to do so!

I was watching the gauge on PP and it says 2150 (above recommended) in the list.   But in looking at the numbers, the inflow to Cle Elum lake is 677.   In reading the gauge description on the page it says:

The gauge listed for this run is the total inflow of the Cle Elum river into Cle Elum reservoir. The Cooper represents a percentage of that flow, as it is one of 3 main tributaries that make up the Cle Elum River, along with the Waptus river and the upper Cle Elum.

Earlier in the season the Cooper contributes a smaller percentage of the flow as all 3 tributaries are melting off snow. However, later in the season as water levels drop, the Cooper holds water longer than the other tributaries and a larger percentage of the water on the gauge will be coming from the Cooper. Roughly speaking, early in the season (May) the Cooper is probably contributing 1/3 of the flow you see on the gauge. Late in the season (July) the Cooper may be contributing more like 1/2 of the flow on the gauge.

In other words, a gauge reading of 1200 cfs in May can be similar to an 800 cfs reading in July.


So, am confused. Is the reading the river page right (too high) or way too low?   And is it then done for the season?   

Thanks.   Argh. Missed it then.   Maybe Tumwater then this weekend. Hall pass for much of Saturday, looking something friendly IV+ for fun. Any recommendations?

Edited by joshcrossman - 14 Jul 2016 at 12:14pm