A streamflow information system is proposed for Idaho. This proposal resulted from a study in which the basic steps were (1) definition of long-term program goals, (2) examination and evaluation of available data to determine which goals have been achieved, and (3) consideration of alternate programs and techniques for meeting the remaining goals.
The following conclusions are drawn from the study. Goals have been achieved on many of the principal unregulated streams; operation of 11 new or reactivated gages on principal streams are needed to satisfy needs. However, the goals cannot be met on unregulated minor streams with present data and analytical techniques. Few of the goals can be achieved with the available data for major or minor streams which are regulated, which are fed by springs or receive significant return flows, or which are affected by extensive channel losses. These streams will require river-systems studies which necessitate collection of complete records of diversions, return flows, upstream storage, and information relative to exchange between surface flow and ground water. Noteworthy inadequacies include data to define floods at long recurrence intervals, such as 100 year floods, and to define the low-flow characteristics, especially in small streams and in channels affected by springs, return flows, seepage, regulation, or diversions.
The proposed program consists of both data collection and analyses to efficiently provide the streamflow information required for (1) current water use and management, (2) planning and design, (3) determination of long-term trends, and (4) assessment of stream environment.
