The USGS can install a streamgage almost anywhere, but in most cases we do not choose when and where to do that. We typically install and operate streamgages where other entities ask and reimburse us to do so. We operate streamgages for entities such as cities, towns, counties, state agencies, and other federal agencies to assist with their missions and to provide data for general public use. There are, however, technical and safety considerations that might limit the feasibility of installing a streamgage at a specific location.
If there is need for a streamgage in your area, reach out to a local government agency and ask them to contact the USGS about entering into an agreement to install and operate a new gage.
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How do we benefit from USGS streamgages?
Information on the flow of rivers is a vital national asset that safeguards lives, protects property, and ensures adequate water supplies for the future. The USGS is the federal agency responsible for operating a network of about 7,000 streamgages nationwide. Data from this network are used by water managers, emergency responders, utilities, environmental agencies, universities, consulting firms...
What does the term "stream stage" mean?
Stream stage is an important concept when analyzing how much water is moving in a stream at any given moment. "Stage" is the water level above some arbitrary point in the river and is commonly measured in feet. For example, on a normal day when no rain has fallen for a while, a river might have a stage of 2 feet. If a big storm hits, the river stage could rise to 15 or 20 feet, sometimes very...
Why do some real-time streamgaging stations stop transmitting data for extended periods of time?
The USGS usually corrects any equipment or station problems at our streamgages within a few days of their occurrence. Occasionally, replacement parts or equipment might not be readily available, or a station might be inaccessible due to weather conditions. Most USGS streamgaging stations are operated in cooperation with other agencies. At some stations, the stage transmitting equipment is owned...
Does "stage" tell you how much water is flowing in a stream?
Not directly. You cannot say that because a stream rises (doubles) from a 10-foot stage to a 20-foot stage that the amount of flowing water also doubles. Think of a cereal bowl with a rounded bottom. Pour one inch of milk in it. It doesn't take much milk to make it up to the one inch level because the bowl is at its narrowest near the bottom. Now, pour in milk until it is two inches deep -- it...
Where can I get real-time and historical streamflow information?
The best starting point for USGS streamflow data is the interactive National Water Information System (NWIS): Mapper website. Zoom in to your area of interest or use the search options in the left navigation window. The map displays active surface-water sites by default, but you can change the type of water site (surface-water, groundwater, springs, atmospheric) and select to show inactive sites...
How often are real-time streamflow data updated?
USGS real-time streamflow data are typically recorded at 15-minute intervals, stored onsite, and then transmitted to USGS offices once every hour, depending on the data relay technique used. Recording and transmission times might be more frequent during critical events (floods, for example). Data from current sites are relayed to USGS offices via satellite, telephone, and/or radio telemetry and...
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- FAQ
How do we benefit from USGS streamgages?
Information on the flow of rivers is a vital national asset that safeguards lives, protects property, and ensures adequate water supplies for the future. The USGS is the federal agency responsible for operating a network of about 7,000 streamgages nationwide. Data from this network are used by water managers, emergency responders, utilities, environmental agencies, universities, consulting firms...
What does the term "stream stage" mean?
Stream stage is an important concept when analyzing how much water is moving in a stream at any given moment. "Stage" is the water level above some arbitrary point in the river and is commonly measured in feet. For example, on a normal day when no rain has fallen for a while, a river might have a stage of 2 feet. If a big storm hits, the river stage could rise to 15 or 20 feet, sometimes very...
Why do some real-time streamgaging stations stop transmitting data for extended periods of time?
The USGS usually corrects any equipment or station problems at our streamgages within a few days of their occurrence. Occasionally, replacement parts or equipment might not be readily available, or a station might be inaccessible due to weather conditions. Most USGS streamgaging stations are operated in cooperation with other agencies. At some stations, the stage transmitting equipment is owned...
Does "stage" tell you how much water is flowing in a stream?
Not directly. You cannot say that because a stream rises (doubles) from a 10-foot stage to a 20-foot stage that the amount of flowing water also doubles. Think of a cereal bowl with a rounded bottom. Pour one inch of milk in it. It doesn't take much milk to make it up to the one inch level because the bowl is at its narrowest near the bottom. Now, pour in milk until it is two inches deep -- it...
Where can I get real-time and historical streamflow information?
The best starting point for USGS streamflow data is the interactive National Water Information System (NWIS): Mapper website. Zoom in to your area of interest or use the search options in the left navigation window. The map displays active surface-water sites by default, but you can change the type of water site (surface-water, groundwater, springs, atmospheric) and select to show inactive sites...
How often are real-time streamflow data updated?
USGS real-time streamflow data are typically recorded at 15-minute intervals, stored onsite, and then transmitted to USGS offices once every hour, depending on the data relay technique used. Recording and transmission times might be more frequent during critical events (floods, for example). Data from current sites are relayed to USGS offices via satellite, telephone, and/or radio telemetry and...
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