Application of transient-flow model to the Sacramento River at Sacramento, California

The transient-flow simulation model was applied to the Sacramento River at Sacramento, Calif. An alternative is needed to the empirical stage-fall-discharge computational method, which provides only daily mean discharges and requires frequent measurement over a 25- to 26-hour period of the tide-affected flow. Measurement of tide-affected flow involves use of a cable suspended across the river; this presents a hazardous navigational condition. Use of the model does not eliminate the hazardous navigational problem, but it significantly reduces the time that this condition exists. The model has demonstrated that it can provide reliable daily mean as well as instantaneous discharge data. The model also has the capability of providing discharge data for locations farther downstream in the tidal zone from the Sacramento stream gage; this is not possible with the stage-fall-discharge computational method. (Woodard-USGS)