FLOW ROUTING MODELS FOR STREAM SYSTEM STUDIES¹

Abstract

Studies to determine frequency characteristics of regulated streams at points within a stream system require the use of flow routing models. This study compares several different flow routing methods using data from six river reaches. Results indicate that approximate flow routing methods yield good flow estimates when compared with observed flows. The unit response method, recently introduced, performed as well as other approximate methods for all reaches studied and gave better results for reaches subject to power releases.

Modification of routed streamflow by channel loss and base flow

“…It is evident that channel losses and base flow must be taken into consideration if the discrepancy between routed and actual discharge hydrographs is to be accounted for. The unit response method of flow routing has been applied successfully in previous studies in which channel losses and base flow were of no consequence [Jennings and Sauer, 1972]. For a complete discussion of the flow-routing technique the reader is referred to the paper by Sauer [1973].…”

“…The technique is illustrated with a study of a reservoir release on the North Canadian River in central Oklahoma. THEORY There are several flow-touting techniques presently available for predicting downstream hydrographs [Jennings and Sauer, 1972], some of which are based on numerical solutions to the one-dimensional equations of continuity and momentum and others on simplified solutions to the equations of continuity. In the approach described in this paper a flowrouting technique applicable to rapid changes in flow such as reservoir releases is required.…”

Comparison of linear systems and finite difference flow‐routing techniques

“…The purpose of this paper is to illustrate in a qualitative sense the difference between linear systems and finite difference models and to assess the accuracy of linear models. A somewhat similar study was published by Jennings and Sauer [1972], but less sophisticated routing schemes were compared.…”