Education
The USGS New Jersey WSC preforms a wide range of scientific studies across the state and around the world. One of our missions, though, is providing understanding of the Science we do. Included below are a sampling of the types of science we are involved in here in New Jersey.
How does Ice on Rivers and Streams Affect USGS Streamflow Data How does Ice on Rivers and Streams Affect USGS Streamflow Data
The USSG computes streamflow several different ways at a streamgage. One very common way is to build a stage-discharge relation that computes a discharge (flow) based on a corresponding stage (elevation of the water-surface). This method relies on a hydraulic feature in the river or stream to control that relationship. The control can be a concrete weir, or natural rock outcrop or riffle.
Major aquifers in New Jersey Major aquifers in New Jersey
Major aquifers in New Jersey consist of regionally extensive areas where the geologic formation or group of formations provide sufficient quantity of groundwater to wells for potable water supply.
Groundwater Response to Earthquakes Groundwater Response to Earthquakes
Did you know? Earthquakes can affect groundwater levels? We often see a response to large (and sometimes not so large) earthquakes in groundwater levels in wells. The USGS maintains a network of wells for monitoring various things like natural variability in water levels and response to pumping and climate change across the U.S.
USGS Data Delivery Tools USGS Data Delivery Tools
The USGS provides access to many different data and analytical tools that are useful for understanding the water-resource data that we collect. These tools allow the public, state and local governments and utilities, and other Federal agencies to view and understand the quality, quantity, distribution, and movement of surface and underground waters in New Jersey.
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Data for New Jersey Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Data for New Jersey
Spatial/GIS data sets for New Jersey are available numerous spatial data clearinghouses. Spatial/GIS data sets for USGS studies that include New Jersey or include parts of New Jersey are also available from USGS.
Streamgaging Streamgaging
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) New Jersey Water Science Center (NJWSC) operates a network of 118 streamgages that provide valuable surface-water data for water management including flood prediction, water withdrawal and discharge permitting, engineering and infrastructure design, scientific research, and recreational safety and enjoyment.
Floods: Recurrence intervals and 100-year floods Floods: Recurrence intervals and 100-year floods
How do we know or measure if a flood that could happen tomorrow is worse than one that happened 2, 10 or 50 years ago? If heavy rain is being forecasted does that mean that rivers are going to rise and spill over their banks and flood your neighborhood? These are some of the questions that we think about when flooding or heavy rain is forecast by public media or the National Weather Service (NWS).