Mid-Section Measurements — Guidance
The USGS has developed guidance to help ensure that data collected by USGS personnel are consistent and of high quality. The guidance consists of policy specified in technical memorandums (and referenced reports) and other best practices that are provided in published reports, papers, hydroacoustic updates, and information provided on this web site.
Policy
OSW Technical Memo 2007.01--SonTek/YSI FlowTracker firmware version 3.10 and software version 2.11 upgrades and additional policy on the use of FlowTrackers for discharge measurements (html) or (pdf)
OSW Technical Memo 2005.08--Policy and Guidance for Archiving Electronic Discharge Measurement Data (html) or (pdf)
OSW Technical Memo 2004.04--Policy on the use of the FlowTracker for discharge measurements (pdf)
Other Best Practices
Instrument Updates: It is always recommended that instruments used the latest approved Firmware and that data be collected and processed with the latest approved Software .
Methods: When using Hydroacoustics to perform mid-section method discharge measurements most "best practices" used for mechanical meter discharge measurements still apply. These practices, including site selection, are well documented in Water Supply Paper 2175 Measurement and Computation of Streamflow.
Forms: Use of forms and checklists are a good way to help prevent oversights in preparation, collection and processing of data. Several forms are available for download below.
FlowTracker Forms:
� USGS Discharge measurement form (Draft revision of form 9-275-X, not yet available from GPO)Word format PDF format
� Discharge measurement quality assurance and OSW review form.
� FlowTracker quick sheet on discharge measurements.
