A graphic presentation of stream gain or loss as an aid in understanding streamflow characteristics

A graphic presentation of cumulative monthly stream gain or loss on a given stream reach is used as a tool to show whether the stream gain or loss is apparent or real, and to determine the magnitude, time, and cause of the gain or loss. The graphic method could also be used to determine how much of the base flow is ground-water discharge. Interpretations of the cumulative gain or loss graph are described for three reaches on the James River in northeastern South Dakota and southeastern North Dakota.