PEAK-FLOW DATA-COLLECTION METHODS FOR STREAMS IN ARID AREAS
This paper describes methods of determining peak streamflows in arid areas, where unstable channels and ephemeral flows characterize many streams. Where these exist, special methods of obtaining peak flows are needed. Usually, flow is detemined from a recorded stage and a relational curve of stage and discharge. In unstable channels, it may be difficult to obtain a peak stage because the flow may move horizontally away from the gage, or the sediment in the flow may bury the stage sensor. It the peak stage is measured, the flow may be difficult to determine because of the unstable rating. As a result, the peak flow determination for streams with unstable channels commonly has a high degree of uncertainty. A variety of techniques are used to reduce the uncertainty of peak-flow data. A variety of instruments that are used to measure a peak stage, streambed elevations, and velocities can improve data collection in some, but not all, streams. Attempts can be made to stabilize some channels in the area of measurement. Systems that alert field personnel when stream flow is high allow time for site measurement of discharge and verification of stage measurements. Ephemeral streams create special problems in maintaining the equipment during the dry season so that it will operate during periods of flow. Also, human activities such as bridge maintenance in the dry channels can add to the instability of the channel.
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Availability:
- Find a library where document is available. Order URL: http://worldcat.org/isbn/0309047625
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Supplemental Notes:
- This paper appears in Transportation Research Record No. 1201, Arid Lands: Hydrology, Scour, and Water Quality. Distribution, posting, or copying of this PDF is strictly prohibited without written permission of the Transportation Research Board of the National Academy of Sciences. Unless otherwise indicated, all materials in this PDF are copyrighted by the National Academy of Sciences. Copyright © National Academy of Sciences. All rights reserved
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Authors:
- Cobb, Ernest D
- Publication Date: 1988
Media Info
- Features: Figures; References;
- Pagination: p. 30-36
- Monograph Title: Arid lands: hydrology, scour and water quality
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Serial:
- Transportation Research Record
- Issue Number: 1201
- Publisher: Transportation Research Board
- ISSN: 0361-1981
Subject/Index Terms
- TRT Terms: Arid land; Channels (Waterways); Data collection; Equipment maintenance; Peak discharge; Reduction (Chemistry); Stability (Mechanics); Streams; Uncertainty
- Uncontrolled Terms: Stream channels
- Old TRIS Terms: Arid region; Ephemeral streams; Reduction
- Subject Areas: Highways; Hydraulics and Hydrology; Maintenance and Preservation; I26: Water Run-off - Freeze-thaw;
Filing Info
- Accession Number: 00489702
- Record Type: Publication
- ISBN: 0309047625
- Files: TRIS, TRB, ATRI
- Created Date: Nov 30 1989 12:00AM