Stream gauge network assessment

The purpose of this chapter is to assess the current (2023) performance and capabilities of the streamgauge network installed for the “Evaluate Improved Streamflow Measurement Technologies at TxDOT Bridges” project.  

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) traditionally employs a method of discharge computation relating continuously measured stage to an associated discharge (Rantz and others, 1982). This stage-discharge relation is built using numerous physical discharge measurements, which is labor-intensive. A primary research objective of this project is to evaluate the feasibility of methods alternative to the traditional USGS stage-discharge relation for computing discharge, namely the computation of discharge using surface velocimetry.