USGS Hydrologic Data Collection Program in Oregon
Background on the Collection of Water-Resources Data
Hydrologic-data stations are maintained at selected locations throughout Oregon and
constitute the major water-resources data network in the State for obtaining records
on stream discharge and stage, reservoir and lake storage, ground-water levels, well
and spring discharge, and the quality of surface and ground water. Every year some
new stations are added and other stations are terminated; thus, the U.S. Geological
Survey has both a current and a historical file of hydrologic data. Most water-resources
data are stored in the U.S. Geological Survey's National Water Information System (NWIS)
data base and are available on request to water planners and others involved in making
decisions affecting Oregon's water resources. These data can be retrieved in machine-readable
form or in the form of computer-printed tables, statistical summaries, and digital plots.
Local assistance in the acquisition of services or products from NWIS can be obtained by
contacting the District Chief in Portland, Oregon.
Surface-water Data
Surface-water discharge (streamflow), stage (water level) and water-quality data are collected
for general hydrologic purposes, such as assessment of water resources, areal analysis,
determination of long- term trends, research and special studies, or for management and
operational purposes.
Data-collection platforms (DCPs), used for the transmission of
satellite-telemetered river-stage information, have been installed at several sites throughout
the State. Satellite- telemetry Real-time data acquisition of the information is essential
to many agencies for operating reservoirs, predicting river stage and flood conditions,
and optimizing the use of water resources. For further information about the use of streamflow
data click here.
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Last modified: Wed Dec 18 07:24:42 1996