The area surrounding the river, originally covered with white pine, is now mainly used for agriculture.

The river drains an almost flat plain, and its lack of gradient makes it prone to flooding.

Dams and other water control measures have been introduced to help reduce the impact of seasonal flooding in the watershed.

Several landslides have occurred over the past century, including a major one near the former town of Lemieux on June 20, 1993.

Four kilometers of river to the south of Spencerville is good for canoeing during most water conditions.