The pages are in a new format.  Under the drop down list of water levels by choose Rock Island district.  Under the list of water sheds, pick Des Moines River.

Here are some rule of thumb observations about flow rates on various sections of the Des Moines. 

West Fork, Estherville to Gotch Park, below Humboldt  (And any river that is 50-100 feet wide, such as the Skunk, the Raccoon, and the Boone)

Less than 100 cfs, not advisable, much walking
100-500 cfs, gentle float
500-1000 cfs, moving right along
over 1000 cfs, a fast ride

Des Moines River, Gotch Park (north of Ft. Dodge)  to Des Moines

Less than 500 cfs, not advisable
500-1000, gentle float
1000-2000, moving right along
over 2000, fast ride (current 3 mph or more)

Des Moines River, Des Moines to Ottumwa

Less than 1000, not advisable
1000-2000, gentle ride
2000-4000, moving right along
over 4000, fast ride

Des Moines River, Ottumwa to Keokuk

Less than 2000, not advisable, some walking
2000-4000, gentle ride
4000-10000, moving right along
over 10000, fast ride