Remote Sensing of Discharge R&D
The overall objective of this project is to develop a set of operational tools that make USGS stream gaging more cost effective, that help expand network coverage into previously unobserved remote and hazardous locations, and that enable new types of river hydraulics measurements.Abstract
The Remote Sensing of Discharge R&D Project is driven by the need to monitor river discharge more efficiently at a larger number of widely distributed sites across the nation. The USGS network of traditional gaging stations continuously monitors river discharge at about 8,500 sites (as of 2020), which is only 0.3% of the roughly 3 million NHD+2 river reaches. Cost is a barrier to expanding the monitoring network because the average cost of maintaining and operating one gaging station exceeds $20,000/year (Eberts and others, 2018). Other barriers to network expansion include difficult access to remote or hazardous sites. Remote sensing techniques offer outstanding potential to address the issues of high cost and difficult or dangerous site conditions. In addition, satellites can observe any location in the US without the need for on-the-ground personnel whereas airborne platforms allow for more targeted, opportunistic data collection and bridge-mounted sensors enable continuous monitoring.
Products
Contacts
Conaway, Jeff S., 907-786-7041Status: onGoing
Start Year: 2019
End Year: 2024