A pragmatic approach to evaluating a multipurpose stream-gaging network

A method for evaluating the relative worth of individual streamflow gaging stations in a multipupose network is presented. Each individual gaging station in the network is evaluated on the basis of selected rating factors. The factors relate to the need for information at the gaging stations, accuracy of data, economic aspects of operation, and usefulness of data as a basis for estimates at ungaged sites. The total score for the various factors provides a convenient basis for comparing relative importance of individual gaging stations. The rating-factor method is both flexible and definitive, but the point values that are assigned for each rating factor are somewhat subjective. A table of the point values and guidelines for assigning those values is presented. (USGS)