Mark is an Hydrologist with the Colorado Water Science Center, Western Colorado Office
Science and Products
Lower Gunnison River Basin Groundwater Selenium
The east side of the Uncompahgre River Basin has been a known contributor of dissolved selenium to recipient streams. Discharge of groundwater containing dissolved selenium contributes to surface-water selenium concentrations and loads; however, the groundwater system on the east side of the Uncompahgre River Basin is not well characterized.
Selenium on Sediment in Lower Gunnison River Basin Critical Habitat
The Selenium Management Program (SMP) seeks to identify and mitigate selenium sources thereby decreasing levels in endangered fish habitat in the Gunnison River and tributaries. As part of the SMP process, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) was asked to develop a Selenium Science Plan to help identify data gaps and prioritize scientific studies needed.
Real-time Monitoring and Evaluation of Bridge Scour
The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) is tasked with maintaining roadways crossing over large streams and rivers where sediment transport and channel alignment changes can affect the structural stability of bridges. Streambed scour is the leading cause of bridge failure in the United States. The costs associated with restoring damaged structures are substantial, but are less than five...
Effects of Urbanization on Salinity and Selenium Loading in Montrose Arroyo, Western Colorado
Salinity and dissolved selenium are known water-quality impairments in the lower Gunnison River watershed of western Colorado. Salinity is a concern because of its adverse effects on agricultural land and equipment, and on municipal and industrial users. The Montrose Arroyo watershed in Montrose, Colorado, contains agricultural and residential areas as well as undeveloped land and has undergone...
Channel Characteristics, benthic algae, and water quality model data for selected sites in the upper White River Basin, Colorado, 2018-21
This U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) data release provides benthic algae and stream channel characteristics data collected from 20 water-quality sites in the Upper White River Basin, Colorado., during 2018-2021. Also included are input and output data from streamflow and water-quality regression models used to characterize streamflow and water-quality conditions at 3 sites in the Upper White River B
Gage Height data from February through September for years 2016-19 at Gunnison River near Grand Junction, Colorado
Gage height values from U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) streamflow-gaging station 09152500 for the specified period are presented in comma separated value (CSV) format. Values encompass the monthly date range from February 1st to September 30th for each year, 2016 through 2019.
Cross-Section Geometry at Two Bridges over the Gunnison River in Western Colorado, 2016-17
This dataset contains cross-section surveys of the Gunnison River at Colorado Department of Transportation bridges I-04-K and I-03-A, western Colorado, 2016-17. The surveys were performed using a combination of: Trimble R8 Real-Time Kinematic Global Navigation Satellite System (RTK-GNSS) receiver, a USGS bridge crane with sounding weights, and optical levels. During surveys performed in 2016, a ba
Dissolved-Selenium Concentrations and Loads in the Lower Gunnison River Basin, Colorado, as Part of the Selenium Management Program (ver. 2.0, September 2022)
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS ), in cooperation with the Bureau of Reclamation, completed a review of dissolved selenium data collected from the Selenium Management Program network during each water year (WY) in the lower Gunnison River Basin, in western Colorado. The data tables include dissolved-selenium concentrations, selected streamflow data, and computed loads as well as dissolved seleniu
Cross-Section Geometry and Sediment-Size Data from Muddy Creek and North Fork Gunnison River below Paonia Reservoir, western Colorado, 2019
This dataset contains cross-section geometry and sediment-size data collected in the fall of 2019 from Muddy Creek and North Fork Gunnison River below Paonia Reservoir, western Colorado. Six cross sections were surveyed using Real-Time Kinematic Global Navigation Satellite System (RTK-GNSS) methods to document channel geometry below Paonia Reservoir. One cross section was surveyed on Muddy Creek b
Raw Data from Continuous Resistivity Profiles and Electromagnetic Surveys Collected in and adjacent to the Dolores River in the Paradox Valley, Colorado (2017)
This data release includes raw and processed (inverted) data for three different geophysical methods, continuous resistivity profiles (CRP), direct current electrical resistivity tomography (ERT), and frequency domain electromagnetic induction (FDEM) data. These surface geophysical methods were used as a proxy for groundwater salinity in the Paradox Valley in western Colorado to investigate tempor
Cross-Section Geometry and Sediment-Size Distribution Data from Muddy Creek and North Fork Gunnison River below Paonia Reservoir, Colorado, 2018
This dataset contains cross-section geometry and sediment-size distribution data collected in the fall of 2018 from Muddy Creek and North Fork Gunnison River below Paonia Reservoir, western Colorado. Six cross-sections were surveyed using Real-Time Kinematic Global Navigation Satellite System (RTK-GNSS) methods to document channel geometry below the reservoir in 2015. Those same cross-sections wer
Cross-Section Geometry and Sediment-Size Distribution Data from Muddy Creek and North Fork Gunnison River below Paonia Reservoir, western Colorado, 2017
This data set contains cross-section geometry and sediment-size distribution data collected in the fall of 2017 from Muddy Creek and North Fork Gunnison River below Paonia Reservoir, western Colorado. Six cross-sections were surveyed using Real-Time Kinematic Global Navigation Satellite System (RTK-GNSS) methods to document channel geometry below the reservoir in 2015. Those same cross-sections we
Cross-Section Geometry and Sediment-Size Distribution Data from Muddy Creek and North Fork Gunnison River below Paonia Reservoir, Colorado, 2015
This data set contains cross-section geometry and sediment-size distribution data collected in the fall of 2015 from Muddy Creek and North Fork Gunnison River below Paonia Reservoir, Colorado. Six cross-sections were surveyed using Real-Time Kinematic Global Navigation Satellite System (RTK-GNSS) methods to document channel geometry below the reservoir. One cross-section was surveyed on Muddy Cree
Cross-Section Geometry and Sediment-Size Distribution Data from Muddy Creek and North Fork Gunnison River below Paonia Reservoir, Colorado, 2016
This data set contains cross-section geometry and sediment-size distribution data collected in the fall of 2016 from Muddy Creek and North Fork Gunnison River below Paonia Reservoir, Colorado. Six cross-sections were surveyed using Real-Time Kinematic Global Navigation Satellite System (RTK-GNSS) methods to document channel geometry below the reservoir in 2015. Those same cross-sections were re-su
The applicability of time-integrated unit stream power for estimating bridge pier scour using noncontact methods in a gravel-bed river
In near-field remote sensing, noncontact methods (radars) that measure stage and surface water velocity have the potential to supplement traditional bridge scour monitoring tools because they are safer to access and are less likely to be damaged compared with in-stream sensors. The objective of this study was to evaluate the use of radars for monitoring the hydraulic conditions that contribute to
Implementing a rapid deployment bridge scour monitoring system in Colorado, 2019
The U.S. Geological Survey, in cooperation with the Colorado Department of Transportation, installed and operated real-time scour monitoring instrumentation at two bridges in Colorado in 2016 and 2017 to measure streambed elevations in real-time. The instrumentation included acoustic echosounder depth sensors mounted to the bridge substructure units with rigid conduit and fittings. Although functi
Assessment of diel cycling in nutrients and trace elements in the Eagle River Basin, 2017–18
Diel cycles are known to occur in all types of waters, and increasing studies indicate routine water samples may not provide an accurate snapshot in concentrations of trace elements and nutrients. Diel behavior in neutral to alkaline pH ranges is independent of streamflow variability and concentration. Extensive historical U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) water-quality data have been collected in the
Assessment of dissolved-selenium concentrations and loads in the Lower Gunnison River Basin, Colorado, as part of the Selenium Management Program, 2011–17
The Gunnison Basin Selenium Management Program implemented a water-quality monitoring network in 2011 to measure concentrations of selenium in the lower Gunnison River Basin in Colorado. Selenium is a trace element that bioaccumulates in aquatic food chains. Selenium is essential for life, but elevated amounts can cause reproductive failure, deformities, and other harmful effects. The primary goal
Near-field remote sensing of surface velocity and river discharge using radars and the probability concept at 10 USGS streamgages
Near-field remote sensing of surface velocity and river discharge (discharge) were measured using coherent, continuous wave Doppler and pulsed radars. Traditional streamgaging requires sensors be deployed in the water column; however, near-field remote sensing has the potential to transform streamgaging operations through non-contact methods in the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and other agencies
Real-time streambed scour monitoring at two bridges over the Gunnison River in western Colorado, 2016–17
The Colorado Department of Transportation maintains roadways crossing over large streams and rivers where sediment transport and channel alignment changes can affect the structural stability of bridges. Structural stability during and immediately after peak streamflow can be assessed by measuring streambed scour; however, placing personnel or boats in the water during high-streamflow events using
Computing under-ice discharge: A proof-of-concept using hydroacoustics and the Probability Concept
Under-ice discharge is estimated using open-water reference hydrographs; however, the ratings for ice-affected sites are generally qualified as poor. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), in collaboration with the Colorado Water Conservation Board, conducted a proof-of-concept to develop an alternative method for computing under-ice discharge using hydroacoustics and the Probability Concept.The study
Assessment of dissolved-selenium concentrations and loads in the lower Gunnison River Basin, Colorado, as part of the Selenium Management Program, from 2011 to 2016
The Gunnison Basin Selenium Management Program implemented a water-quality monitoring network in 2011 in the lower Gunnison River Basin in Colorado. Selenium is a trace element that bioaccumulates in aquatic food chains and can cause reproductive failure, deformities, and other harmful effects. This report presents the percentile values of selenium because regulatory agencies in Colorado make deci
2014 annual summary of the lower Gunnison River Basin Selenium Management Program water-quality monitoring, Colorado
Dissolved-selenium loading analyses of data collected at 18 water-quality sites in the lower Gunnison River Basin in Colorado were completed through water year (WY) 2014. A WY is defined as October 1–September 30. Selenium is a trace element that bioaccumulates in aquatic food chains and can cause reproductive failure, deformities, and other harmful effects. This report presents information on the
Science and Products
- Science
Lower Gunnison River Basin Groundwater Selenium
The east side of the Uncompahgre River Basin has been a known contributor of dissolved selenium to recipient streams. Discharge of groundwater containing dissolved selenium contributes to surface-water selenium concentrations and loads; however, the groundwater system on the east side of the Uncompahgre River Basin is not well characterized.Selenium on Sediment in Lower Gunnison River Basin Critical Habitat
The Selenium Management Program (SMP) seeks to identify and mitigate selenium sources thereby decreasing levels in endangered fish habitat in the Gunnison River and tributaries. As part of the SMP process, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) was asked to develop a Selenium Science Plan to help identify data gaps and prioritize scientific studies needed.Real-time Monitoring and Evaluation of Bridge Scour
The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) is tasked with maintaining roadways crossing over large streams and rivers where sediment transport and channel alignment changes can affect the structural stability of bridges. Streambed scour is the leading cause of bridge failure in the United States. The costs associated with restoring damaged structures are substantial, but are less than five...Effects of Urbanization on Salinity and Selenium Loading in Montrose Arroyo, Western Colorado
Salinity and dissolved selenium are known water-quality impairments in the lower Gunnison River watershed of western Colorado. Salinity is a concern because of its adverse effects on agricultural land and equipment, and on municipal and industrial users. The Montrose Arroyo watershed in Montrose, Colorado, contains agricultural and residential areas as well as undeveloped land and has undergone... - Data
Channel Characteristics, benthic algae, and water quality model data for selected sites in the upper White River Basin, Colorado, 2018-21
This U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) data release provides benthic algae and stream channel characteristics data collected from 20 water-quality sites in the Upper White River Basin, Colorado., during 2018-2021. Also included are input and output data from streamflow and water-quality regression models used to characterize streamflow and water-quality conditions at 3 sites in the Upper White River BGage Height data from February through September for years 2016-19 at Gunnison River near Grand Junction, Colorado
Gage height values from U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) streamflow-gaging station 09152500 for the specified period are presented in comma separated value (CSV) format. Values encompass the monthly date range from February 1st to September 30th for each year, 2016 through 2019.Cross-Section Geometry at Two Bridges over the Gunnison River in Western Colorado, 2016-17
This dataset contains cross-section surveys of the Gunnison River at Colorado Department of Transportation bridges I-04-K and I-03-A, western Colorado, 2016-17. The surveys were performed using a combination of: Trimble R8 Real-Time Kinematic Global Navigation Satellite System (RTK-GNSS) receiver, a USGS bridge crane with sounding weights, and optical levels. During surveys performed in 2016, a baDissolved-Selenium Concentrations and Loads in the Lower Gunnison River Basin, Colorado, as Part of the Selenium Management Program (ver. 2.0, September 2022)
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS ), in cooperation with the Bureau of Reclamation, completed a review of dissolved selenium data collected from the Selenium Management Program network during each water year (WY) in the lower Gunnison River Basin, in western Colorado. The data tables include dissolved-selenium concentrations, selected streamflow data, and computed loads as well as dissolved seleniuCross-Section Geometry and Sediment-Size Data from Muddy Creek and North Fork Gunnison River below Paonia Reservoir, western Colorado, 2019
This dataset contains cross-section geometry and sediment-size data collected in the fall of 2019 from Muddy Creek and North Fork Gunnison River below Paonia Reservoir, western Colorado. Six cross sections were surveyed using Real-Time Kinematic Global Navigation Satellite System (RTK-GNSS) methods to document channel geometry below Paonia Reservoir. One cross section was surveyed on Muddy Creek bRaw Data from Continuous Resistivity Profiles and Electromagnetic Surveys Collected in and adjacent to the Dolores River in the Paradox Valley, Colorado (2017)
This data release includes raw and processed (inverted) data for three different geophysical methods, continuous resistivity profiles (CRP), direct current electrical resistivity tomography (ERT), and frequency domain electromagnetic induction (FDEM) data. These surface geophysical methods were used as a proxy for groundwater salinity in the Paradox Valley in western Colorado to investigate temporCross-Section Geometry and Sediment-Size Distribution Data from Muddy Creek and North Fork Gunnison River below Paonia Reservoir, Colorado, 2018
This dataset contains cross-section geometry and sediment-size distribution data collected in the fall of 2018 from Muddy Creek and North Fork Gunnison River below Paonia Reservoir, western Colorado. Six cross-sections were surveyed using Real-Time Kinematic Global Navigation Satellite System (RTK-GNSS) methods to document channel geometry below the reservoir in 2015. Those same cross-sections werCross-Section Geometry and Sediment-Size Distribution Data from Muddy Creek and North Fork Gunnison River below Paonia Reservoir, western Colorado, 2017
This data set contains cross-section geometry and sediment-size distribution data collected in the fall of 2017 from Muddy Creek and North Fork Gunnison River below Paonia Reservoir, western Colorado. Six cross-sections were surveyed using Real-Time Kinematic Global Navigation Satellite System (RTK-GNSS) methods to document channel geometry below the reservoir in 2015. Those same cross-sections weCross-Section Geometry and Sediment-Size Distribution Data from Muddy Creek and North Fork Gunnison River below Paonia Reservoir, Colorado, 2015
This data set contains cross-section geometry and sediment-size distribution data collected in the fall of 2015 from Muddy Creek and North Fork Gunnison River below Paonia Reservoir, Colorado. Six cross-sections were surveyed using Real-Time Kinematic Global Navigation Satellite System (RTK-GNSS) methods to document channel geometry below the reservoir. One cross-section was surveyed on Muddy CreeCross-Section Geometry and Sediment-Size Distribution Data from Muddy Creek and North Fork Gunnison River below Paonia Reservoir, Colorado, 2016
This data set contains cross-section geometry and sediment-size distribution data collected in the fall of 2016 from Muddy Creek and North Fork Gunnison River below Paonia Reservoir, Colorado. Six cross-sections were surveyed using Real-Time Kinematic Global Navigation Satellite System (RTK-GNSS) methods to document channel geometry below the reservoir in 2015. Those same cross-sections were re-su - Multimedia
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The applicability of time-integrated unit stream power for estimating bridge pier scour using noncontact methods in a gravel-bed river
In near-field remote sensing, noncontact methods (radars) that measure stage and surface water velocity have the potential to supplement traditional bridge scour monitoring tools because they are safer to access and are less likely to be damaged compared with in-stream sensors. The objective of this study was to evaluate the use of radars for monitoring the hydraulic conditions that contribute toImplementing a rapid deployment bridge scour monitoring system in Colorado, 2019
The U.S. Geological Survey, in cooperation with the Colorado Department of Transportation, installed and operated real-time scour monitoring instrumentation at two bridges in Colorado in 2016 and 2017 to measure streambed elevations in real-time. The instrumentation included acoustic echosounder depth sensors mounted to the bridge substructure units with rigid conduit and fittings. Although functiAssessment of diel cycling in nutrients and trace elements in the Eagle River Basin, 2017–18
Diel cycles are known to occur in all types of waters, and increasing studies indicate routine water samples may not provide an accurate snapshot in concentrations of trace elements and nutrients. Diel behavior in neutral to alkaline pH ranges is independent of streamflow variability and concentration. Extensive historical U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) water-quality data have been collected in theAssessment of dissolved-selenium concentrations and loads in the Lower Gunnison River Basin, Colorado, as part of the Selenium Management Program, 2011–17
The Gunnison Basin Selenium Management Program implemented a water-quality monitoring network in 2011 to measure concentrations of selenium in the lower Gunnison River Basin in Colorado. Selenium is a trace element that bioaccumulates in aquatic food chains. Selenium is essential for life, but elevated amounts can cause reproductive failure, deformities, and other harmful effects. The primary goalNear-field remote sensing of surface velocity and river discharge using radars and the probability concept at 10 USGS streamgages
Near-field remote sensing of surface velocity and river discharge (discharge) were measured using coherent, continuous wave Doppler and pulsed radars. Traditional streamgaging requires sensors be deployed in the water column; however, near-field remote sensing has the potential to transform streamgaging operations through non-contact methods in the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and other agenciesReal-time streambed scour monitoring at two bridges over the Gunnison River in western Colorado, 2016–17
The Colorado Department of Transportation maintains roadways crossing over large streams and rivers where sediment transport and channel alignment changes can affect the structural stability of bridges. Structural stability during and immediately after peak streamflow can be assessed by measuring streambed scour; however, placing personnel or boats in the water during high-streamflow events usingComputing under-ice discharge: A proof-of-concept using hydroacoustics and the Probability Concept
Under-ice discharge is estimated using open-water reference hydrographs; however, the ratings for ice-affected sites are generally qualified as poor. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), in collaboration with the Colorado Water Conservation Board, conducted a proof-of-concept to develop an alternative method for computing under-ice discharge using hydroacoustics and the Probability Concept.The studyAssessment of dissolved-selenium concentrations and loads in the lower Gunnison River Basin, Colorado, as part of the Selenium Management Program, from 2011 to 2016
The Gunnison Basin Selenium Management Program implemented a water-quality monitoring network in 2011 in the lower Gunnison River Basin in Colorado. Selenium is a trace element that bioaccumulates in aquatic food chains and can cause reproductive failure, deformities, and other harmful effects. This report presents the percentile values of selenium because regulatory agencies in Colorado make deci2014 annual summary of the lower Gunnison River Basin Selenium Management Program water-quality monitoring, Colorado
Dissolved-selenium loading analyses of data collected at 18 water-quality sites in the lower Gunnison River Basin in Colorado were completed through water year (WY) 2014. A WY is defined as October 1–September 30. Selenium is a trace element that bioaccumulates in aquatic food chains and can cause reproductive failure, deformities, and other harmful effects. This report presents information on the