Water-resources investigations of the U.S. Geological Survey in Arkansas; fiscal years 1982 and 1983

Abstract

Surface-water information is needed for surveillance, planning, design, hazard warning, operation, and management in water-related fields such as water supply, hydroelectric power, flood control, irrigation, bridge and culvert design, wildlife management, pollution abatement, flood-plain management, water-resources development, and waste disposal. An appropriate data base is necessary to provide this information. Objectives. Collect surface-water data to satisfy needs for current-purpose uses, such as assessment of water resources, operation of reservoirs or industries, forecasting, disposal of wastes and pollution controls, discharge data to accompany water-quality measurements, compact and legal requirements, and research or special studies. Collect data necessary for analytical studies needed to understand cause-effect relations and define the trends and statistical properties of streamflow. Approach. Standard methods of data collection will be used as described in the publication series "Techniques of Water Resources Investigations of the United States Geological Survey." Partial-record gaging will be used instead of complete-record gaging where it serves the required purpose. Progress. The statewide network of streamflow stations was continued and records were published. The network consisted of 85 stream-gaging stations (fig. 1) and stage and content records were prepared for 10 lakes and reservoirs. Data necessary to provide flood profiles of 17 sites on the Buffalo River are being collected and analyzed. Plans. Continue present network of 85 stream-gaging stations and records for 4 lakes and reservoirs. Prepare report describing Buffalo River flood profiles.