The United States Geological Survey (USGS) has collected water-resources data at approximately 1.5 million sites across the United States, Puerto Rico, and Guam. The types of data collected are varied, but generally fit into the broad categories of surface water and ground water. Surface-water data, such as gage height (stage) and streamflow (discharge), are collected at major rivers, lakes, and reservoirs. Ground-water data, such as water level, are collected at wells and springs. Water-quality data are available for both surface water and ground water. Examples of water-quality data collected are temperature, specific conductance, pH, nutrients, pesticides, and volatile organic compounds. The data are available in an online national database called National Water Information System (NWIS). Links to New Hampshire and Vermont NWIS data, plus monthly data summaries and enhanced explanations are presented here.
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