Part 630 Hydrology

National Engineering Handbook

Chapter 5 Streamflow Data

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 76, November 2015)

Chapter 5 Streamflow Data Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Issued November 2015

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination against its customers, em-
ployees, and applicants for employment on the bases of race, color, national origin, age, disabil-
ity, sex, gender identity, religion, reprisal, and where applicable, political beliefs, marital status,
familial or parental status, sexual orientation, or all or part of an individual’s income is derived
from any public assistance program, or protected genetic information in employment or in any
program or activity conducted or funded by the Department. (Not all prohibited bases will apply
to all programs and/or employment activities.)

If you wish to file a Civil Rights program complaint of discrimination, complete the USDA Pro-
gram Discrimination Complaint Form (PDF), found online at http://www.ascr.usda.gov/com-
plaint_filing_cust.html, or at any USDA office, or call (866) 632-9992 to request the form. You may
also write a letter containing all of the information requested in the form. Send your completed
complaint form or letter to us by mail at U.S. Department of Agriculture, Director, Office of Adju-
dication, 1400 Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20250-9410, by fax (202) 690-7442 or
email at program.intake@usda.gov

Individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing or have speech disabilities and you wish to file either an
EEO or program complaint please contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-
8339 or (800) 845-6136 (in Spanish).

Persons with disabilities who wish to file a program complaint, please see information above on
how to contact us by mail directly or by email. If you require alternative means of communication
for program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) please contact USDA’s TARGET
Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TDD).

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 76, November 2015)

Acknowledgments

Victor Mockus (deceased) originally prepared Chapter 5, Streamflow Data”

in 1964 as chapter 5 of the Soil Conservation Service (SCS) National En-
gineering Handbook, Section 4 (NEH–4). This chapter was reprinted with
minor revisions in 1969.

In 1997, an Agricultural Research Service (ARS)–Natural Resources Conser-

vation Service (NRCS) workgroup, under the guidance of Norman Miller
(retired), updated the chapter and NRCS released it as 210–NEH, Part 630,
Chapter 5 in 1997.

Jon Fripp, stream mechanics civil engineer, Fort Worth, TX, under the
guidance of Claudia C. Hoeft, national hydraulic engineer, lead a team
that reviewed and prepared this update to chapter 5. Team members who
provided source information and expert reviews were Karl Visser, hydrau-
lic engineer, Phuc Vu, design civil engineer, and Richard Weber, wetland
hydraulic engineer, all of NRCS, Fort Worth, TX.

The following individuals provided additional reviews and comments:

Bill Merkel, hydraulic engineer, NRCS, Beltsville, MD

Helen Fox Moody, hydraulic engineer, NRCS, Beltsville, MD
Quan D. Quan, hydraulic engineer, NRCS, Beltsville, MD
Thomas Bourdon (retired)
Terry Costner, hydraulic engineer, NRCS, Temple, TX
Scott Gong, design engineer, NRCS, Jackson, MS
Annette Humpal, hydraulic engineer, NRCS, Appleton, WI
Arlis Plummer, hydraulic engineer, NRCS, Lincoln, NE
Jim Stafford, hydraulic engineer, NRCS, Bowling Green, OH
Nathaniel Todea, hydraulic engineer, NRCS, Salt Lake City, UT
Ed Radatz, hydraulic engineer, NRCS, Salina, KS
Tim Ridley, hydraulic engineer, NRCS, Morgantown, WV
Chris Ritz, hydraulic engineer, NRCS, Indianapolis, IN
Barry Rankin (retired)
Ben Smith, hydrologist, NRCS, Tolland, CT

The Technical Publications Work Group, Lynn Owens (retired); Wendy

Pierce, illustrator; and Suzi Self, editorial assistant; all of NRCS, Fort
Worth, TX, prepared the document for publication.

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 76, November 2015) 5–i

Chapter 5 Streamflow Data Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

5–ii (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 76, November 2015)

Chapter 5 Streamflow Data

Contents 630.0500 Introduction 5–1

630.0501 Streamflow data types and sources 5–1

630.0502 Streamflow data collection 5–4

(a) Permanent streamflow gage installations..................................................... 5–4
(b) Temporary streamflow station installations ................................................ 5–4

630.0503 Uses of streamflow data 5–5

(a) Computing storm runoff volumes.................................................................. 5–5
(b) Transposition of streamflow records to estimate flows ............................. 5–6
on ungaged watersheds
(c) Volume-duration-probability analysis ........................................................... 5–7
(d) Probability-duration analysis ......................................................................... 5–7
(e) Flow duration curves ...................................................................................... 5–7
(f) Determination of runoff curve numbers from storm rainfall .................... 5–9
and streamflow data

630.0504 Considerations for use of streamflow data 5–12

(a) Data quality..................................................................................................... 5–12
(b) Data independence......................................................................................... 5–12
(c) Data sufficiency.............................................................................................. 5–13
(d) Climatic cycles and trends............................................................................ 5–13
(e) Watershed changes......................................................................................... 5–13
(f) Mixed populations.......................................................................................... 5–14
(g) Reliability of flow estimates.......................................................................... 5–14
(h) Regulated flows.............................................................................................. 5–14

630.0505 References 5–15

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 76, November 2015) 5–iii

Chapter 5 Streamflow Data Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Tables Table 5–1 Mean daily discharges, annual flood period (excerpt from fig. 5–2) 5–5
Table 5–2 Factors affecting the correlation of data: a Guide to the transposition 5–6
of streamflow
Table 5–3 Curve numbers for events with annual peak discharge for 5–10
Watershed 2 near Treynor, IA

Figures Figure 5–1 Sample of USGS peak flow data from a gage site 5–2
Figure 5–2 Sample of USGS surface water-supply paper summarizing 5–3
discharge records
Figure 5–3 Crest staff gage 5–4
Figure 5–4 Solution for runoff equation 5–8
Figure 5–5 Rainfall versus direct runoff plotted from an experimental 5–11
ARS watershed in Treynor, IA

5–iv (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 76, November 2015)

Chapter 5 Streamflow Data

630.0500 Introduction 630.0501 Streamflow data types

and sources
Streamflow data collected by various agencies de-
scribe the flow characteristics of a stream at a given Published streamflow data for the United States are
point. Normally, data are collected by using a measur- available from many sources. A variety of local, State,
ing device commonly called a stream gage. and Federal agencies operate and maintain stream
gages. The main sources are:
Streamflow data are used to indicate the present
hydrologic conditions and the discharge amounts of a U.S. Geological Survey (USGS)—Department
watershed and to check methods for estimating pres- of Interior—USGS is the major source of stream-
ent and future conditions. Specific uses of streamflow flow data for the United States. Water supply papers
data, presented in 210–NEH, Part 630, Chapter 9, are (WSP) and other publications issued regularly contain
for determining hydrologic soil-cover complex num- records collected from continuously operated gages
bers, frequency analysis (chapter 18), determining at streamflow stations and other crest-stage and low-
water yields (chapter 20), and designing floodwater- flow data. There are thousands of active and inactive
retarding structures (chapter 21). stream gaging stations operated by the USGS across
the country.
This chapter describes ways to use streamflow data to
determine runoff from a specific event, how to use this A variety of statistical data are also available from
information with rainfall data to estimate the water- USGS on the following Web site: http://waterdata.
shed runoff curve number, and how to use the data to usgs.gov/nwis/sw. Information includes mean daily
determine volume duration-probability relationships. data, peak-discharge data, and current conditions.
Data are available and downloadable in tabular or
graphical formats. Figure 5–1 is an example of peak
flow data in a graphical format.

Historical data are generally available in digital for-

mat. However, hard copies are still available in some
offices. Figure 5–1 shows a page from an older WSP
containing summaries of all records for 1951 through
1960. Such older summaries covering long periods
typically do not include daily flow records.

U.S. Bureau of Reclamation (BOR)—Department

of Interior—The Bureau of Reclamation gages and
publishes streamflow data at irregular intervals in
technical journals and professional papers.

U.S. Forest Service (FS)—Department of Agri-

culture—Streamflow data are published at irregular
intervals in technical bulletins and professional pa-
pers.

Agricultural Research Service (ARS)—Depart-

ment of Agriculture—ARS publishes and maintains
compilations of small watershed data. ARS maintains
an online database consisting of precipitation and
streamflow data from its small experimental agricul-

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 76, November 2015)

Chapter 5 Streamflow Data Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

tural watersheds in the United States. More informa- spheric Administration’s National Weather Service
tion on the ARS water database and the data are acces- (NWS) jointly analyze snow and precipitation data
sible through http://www.ars.usda.gov/Main/docs. in the Snow Survey Program. The data are used to
htm?docid=9696. forecast seasonal runoff in the western United States,
which depends on snowmelt for about 75 percent of
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE)—Depart- its water supply. The NRCS National Weather and
ment of Defense—The USACE obtains gage data Climate Center (NWCC) in Portland, Oregon, archives
and publishes streamflow data at irregular intervals in snow course, precipitation, streamflow, reservoir, and
technical journals and professional papers. temperature data for states. The data, which includes
many USGS gage sites, is accessibleonline through the
Natural Resources Conservation Service NWCC web-site at: http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/por-
(NRCS)—Department of Agriculture—NRCS tal/nrcs/main/national/nwcc/.
gages and publishes streamflow data at irregular
intervals in technical journals and professional papers.
NRCS and the National Oceanographic and Atmo-

Figure 5–1 Sample of USGS peak flow data from a gage site (http://waterdata.usgs.gov/tx/nwis/rt)

5–2 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 76, November 2015)

Chapter 5 Streamflow Data Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Figure 5–2 Sample of USGS surface water-supply paper summarizing discharge records (USGS 1964)

Nueces River Basin—2080 Atascosa River at Witsett, TX

Location—Lat. 28°37’20" long. 98°17"05", on right bank 1,400 feet upstream from bridge on Farm Road 99, 0.9 mile west of Whitsett, Live
Oak County, and 4 miles downstream from LaParita Creek.
Drainage area—1,171 mi2.
Records available—September 1924 to May 1926, May 1932 to September 1960.
Gage—Water-stage recorder and artficial control. Datum of gage is 159.04 feet above mean sea level, datum of 1929. Prior to May 8, 1926,
chain gage at bridge 1,600 feet downstream at datu 1.38 feet higher.
Average discharge—29 years (1924-25, 1932-60), 135 ft3/s (97,740 acre-foot per year).
Extremes—1924-26, 1932-60: Maximum discharge, 39,300 ft3/s July 7, 1942 (gage height, 38.3 feet from floodmark), from rating curve
extended above 12,000 ft3/s on basis of slope-area measurement at gage height 38.0 feet; no flow at times. Maximum stage since at
least 1881, about 41 feet in September 1919.
Remarks—Considerable losses of floodflows into various permeable formations occur upstream from station. June 1951 to May 1958 a
considerable part of low flow resulted from flow of several artesian wells near Campbellton, which were drilled by the Lower
Nueces River Water Supply District and turned into river to supplement the supply for city of Corpus Christi. Small diversions
above station.
Monthly and yearly mean discharge, in cubic feet per second
Water year Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep The year

1951 0.47 0.58 2.70 4.88 6.39 10.0 6.98 188 239 1.60 6.49 445 75.5
1952 20.0 20.7 13.9 17.5 48.5 14.9 65.4 39.2 6.76 114 6.74 246 50.7
1953 7.58 16.4 24.6 22.5 17.2 17.4 59.4 542 30.3 32.1 50.4 591 118
1954 76.3 13.9 10.0 9.97 15.6 15.2 62.3 43.8 39.8 7.59 0 3.29 24.8
1955 21.6 27.2 9.27 19.2 128 16.2 12.2 130 60.6 19.2 39.4 19.5 41.3
1956 378 5.21 11.7 11.6 11.3 10.6 31.9 62.8 21.6 14.5 68.0 177 35.5
1957 204 6.86 58.7 14.6 18.6 108 1,208 1,365 321 13.7 8.91 703 336
1958 10 241 23.4 940 1,499 64.7 30.7 208 23.8 4,734 3.09 118 267
1959 386 2,863 87.8 28.8 37.2 19.7 17.1 83.5 24.0 8.55 2.77 7.29 82.8
1960 200 31.2 1,109 16.7 17.2 31.5 22.1 10.1 201 142 135 14.2 69.7

Monthly and yearly discharge, in acre-feet

1951 29 35 166 300 355 615 416 11,550 14,210 98 399 26,460 54,630
1952 1,230 1,230 852 1,080 2,790 915 3,890 2,140 402 7,000 415 14,610 36,820
1953 466 974 1,510 1,381 956 4,071 3,540 33,350 1,800 1,970 3,100 35,170 85,290
1954 4,690 828 617 613 865 936 3,710 2,700 2,370 467 0 196 17,990
1955 1,330 1,620 570 1,180 4,080 996 725 8,000 3,610 1,180 2,420 1,160 29,870
1956 48 310 721 716 649 652 1,900 3,860 1,290 889 4,180 10,530 25,740
1957 12,560 408 3,610 900 1,040 6,610 71,870 83,900 19,080 845 548 41,830 243,200
1958 6,170 14,330 1,440 57,800 83,230 3,980 1,830 12,770 1,410 2,920 190 7,010 193,100
1959 23,750 17,040 5,400 1,770 2,060 1,210 1,020 5,130 1,430 526 171 434 59,940
1960 12,300 1,860 732 1,030 990 1,940 1,620 619 11,970 5,710 8,330 844 50,640

Yearly discharge, in cubic feet per second

Year WSP - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -Water year ending September 30 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -Calendar year- - - -
Momentary maximum Minimum Mean Acre-feet Mean Acre-feet
Discharge Date day
1950 –– –– –– –– –– –– 40.1 29,040
1951 1212 6,060 Sep 14, 1951 0.2 75.5 54,630 79.7 57,720
1952 1242 4,000 Sep 10, 1952 .6 50.7 36,820 50.2 36,460
1953 1282 6,550 Sep 5, 1953 2.6 118 85,290 122 88.470
1954 1342 1,050 Apr 9, 1954 0 24.8 17,990 21.2 15,380
1955 1392 1,570 Feb 7 1955 .7 41.3 29,870 37.9 27,430
1956 1442 2,960 Sep 3, 1956 0 35.5 25,740 56.8 41,240
1957 1512 8,410 May 29, 1957 1.6 336 243,200 343 248,600
1958 1562 17,500 Feb 23, 1958 1.3 267 193,100 300 217,300
1959 1632 3,830 Oct 31, 1958 1.0 82.8 59,940 39.6 28,640
1960 1712 3,210 Jun 27, 1960 .7 69.7 50,640 –– ––

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 76, November 2015) 5–3

Chapter 5 Streamflow Data Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Figure 5–3 Crest staff gage (USGS 1968)

630.0502 Streamflow data

collection 3/16-in vent
hole

Note:
(a) Permanent streamflow gage installa- Assure cap is secured to
pipe, but vent holes are
tions not blocked
2-in pipe
Most reported streamflow measurements are from
locations that are maintained over time. These are set 3/4 by 1 1/2-in
at fairly stable areas where a consistent rating curve measuring stick 50
relating gage height stream discharge can be obtained. 30
Flow
This rating curve has to be checked periodically and
after major events to assure that it has not changed. 30
1/4-in intake
Users can examine historic changes in the rating curve 50 holes
to assess channel behavior and stability over time. Section A-A'

Stream gage locations can be placed at manmade con-

trols such as bridges, crossings, and dams or at natural
controls, such as rock canyons or otherwise stable Perforated
reaches. Stream height is measured and the rating tin cup for
regranulated cork
curve is used to calculate the discharge. The data can
be recorded from field observations or electronically.

(b) Temporary streamflow station instal-

lations A A'

Sometimes streamflow information is needed for a

brief period on a small stream, irrigation ditch, gully,
or reservoir, and the circumstances do not justify the
installation of a permanent recorder. If the flow to be
measured is small, measuring devices described in
210–NEH, Part 623, Chapter 9, Water Measurement,
may be used. If only the maximum stage or peak rate
of flow is needed, a crest staff gage can be used at a
culvert or other existing structure. Figure 5–3 shows
a typical inexpensive staff gage. The pipe of the gage
contains a loose material (usually powdered cork)
that floats and leaves a high-water mark or maximum
stage. The stage is used with a rating curve (210–NEH
Part 630, Chapter 14) to estimate the peak rate of flow.

5–4 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 76, November 2015)

Chapter 5 Streamflow Data Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

0.03719 (1,941) ft 3 /s-day

630.0503 Uses of streamflow 35 mi 2
= 2.0625 in

data
Round this to 2.1 inches.

(a) Computing storm runoff volumes If the flow on the receding side does not come down
far enough, the usual practice is to determine a stan-
An important use of mean daily flows is in computing dard recession curve using well-defined recessions of
storm runoff volumes including baseflow (example several floods, fit this standard curve to the appropri-
5–1) or excluding it (example 5–2). ate part of the plotted record, and estimate the mean
daily flows as far down as necessary.
Example 5–1: Total runoff for an annual flood
If only the direct runoff is needed, the baseflow can
Determine: Use data in figure 5–1 and table 5–1 to be removed by any one of several methods. A simple
determine total runoff (including baseflow) for the an- method assuming continuing constant baseflow may
nual flood and largest peak rate in year.

Solution:
Table 5–1 Mean daily discharges, annual flood period
Step 1 Identify largest mean daily peak flow of (excerpt from fig. 5–2)
the year in figure 5–1 and summarized in table 5–1.
This is 343 cubic feet per second and occurs on Date Mean daily Remarks
December 31. discharge
(ft3/s)
Step 2 Find the low point of mean daily dis- December
charge occurring before the rise of the annual 26 59 Flow from previous rise
flood. This point occurs on December 28 (fig. 5–1). 27 51 Flow from previous rise
28 47 Low point of flow
Step 3 Find the date on the receding side of 29 *63 Rise of annual flow begins
the flood when the flow is about equal to the low
30 *235 Rise of annual flood continues
point of December 28. This occurs on January 9.
31 *343 Date of peak rate
The flows between January 9 and January 14 are
considered the normal river flow, not part of the January
flood flow. 1 *292 Flood receding
2 *210 Flood receding
Step 4 Add the mean daily discharges for the 3 *153 Flood receding
flood period from December 29 through January 4 *209 Flood receding
9 (the starred discharges in table 5–1). The sum, 5 *146 Flood receding
which is the total runoff, is 1,941 cubic feet per 6 *99 Flood receding
second-day. 7 *79 Flood receding
8 *63 Flood receding
Runoff in cubic feet per second per day (ft3/s-d) can be
9 *49 Flood receded to point at begin of rise
converted to other units using appropriate conversion
10 40 End of flood period
factors (Section 630.2203 in Chapter 22). For instance,
to convert the result in example 5–1 to inches, use the 11 35 Normal streamflow
conversion factor 0.03719, the sum of step 4, and the 12 30 Normal streamflow
watershed drainage area in square miles (from figure 13 28 Normal streamflow
5-1): 14 29 New rise begins
*Data used in example 5–1

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 76, November 2015) 5–5

Chapter 5 Streamflow Data Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

be accurate enough for many situations. This method

1, 941 − 576 = 1, 365 ft 3 /s-d
is used in example 5–2.

Example 5–2: Direct runoff for an annual flood Step 4 Convert to inches. Use the conversion
factor 0.03719 (from conversion table at end of
Determine: Use the data in figure 5–1, summarized in 210–NEH, Part 630, Chapter 22), the total direct
table 5–1, to determine direct runoff (excluding base- runoff in cubic feet per second-day from step 3,
flow) for the annual flood. Use total runoff in cubic and the watershed drainage area in square miles
feet per second-day (ft3/s-d) (excluding baseflow) from (from the source of data, figure 5–1):
example 5–1 data.
0.03719 (1, 365 ) ft 3 /s-d
= 1.4504 in
Solution: 35 mi 2

Step 1 Determine the average baseflow for the Step 5 Round this to 1.5 inches.
flood period. This is an average of the flows on
December 28 and January 9:
(b) Transposition of streamflow records
( 47 + 49 ) to estimate flows on ungaged water-
= 48 ft 3 /s-d sheds
2
Transposition of streamflow records is the use of
Step 2 Compute the volume of baseflow. Table records from a gaged watershed to represent the
5–1 shows the flood period (starred discharges) to records of an ungaged watershed in the same climatic
be 12 days; the volume of baseflow is: and physiographic region. Table 5–2 lists some of the
data generally transposed and the factors affecting the
12 ( 48 ) = 576 ft 3 /s-d correlations between data for the gaged and ungaged
watersheds. If a user has the type of data listed on the
Step 3 Subtract total baseflow from total runoff left column, the ease of readily transposing the data to
to get total direct runoff: a watershed with the characteristics listed across the
top is indicated by an A or a blank. The A means that

Table 5–2 Factors affecting the correlation of data: A guide to the transposition of streamflow

Factors—an A indicates an adverse effect on correlations and additional analysis is necessary

to make an adequate transposition. If blank or without the A, the adverse effect is minor.
Data Large distance Large difference Runoff from Large difference Difference in hy-
between in sizes of water- small-area in sizes of drologic soil cover
watersheds shed response lag thunderstorm drainage area complexes (CN)
Flood dates A A A A A
Number of floods per year A A A A A
Individual flood, peak rate A A A A A
Individual flood, volume A A A A
Total annual runoff A A A
Average annual runoff A A A

5–6 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 76, November 2015)

Chapter 5 Streamflow Data Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

a considerable amount of additional analysis may be Transposition of flood data and number of floods per
required to transpose the data. For example, where year is described in 210–NEH, Part 630, Chapter 18,
there are large distances between watersheds (water- and transposition of total and average annual runoff is
sheds with similar characteristics in all respects ex- described in 210–NEH, Part 630, Chapter 20.
cept they are separated by a large distance), transpos-
ing total annual runoff and average annual runoff from Peak discharge frequency values are often needed at
one watershed to another is reasonable since these watershed locations other than the gaged location.
watersheds are in the same climatic and physiographic Peak discharges may be extrapolated upstream or
region. When transposing other data from the column downstream from stream gages for which frequency
on the left where there are large distances between curves have been determined. In addition, peak dis-
watersheds such as individual flood, peak rates should charges may also be transferred or correlated from
not be directly transposed without first analyzing the gage data of a nearby stream with similar basin char-
precipitation amounts on both watersheds along with acteristics. More information on specific techniques
spatial and temporal precipitation distribution. This is is available in 210–NEH, Part 654, Chapter 5 and 210–
general guidance and there are certainly exceptions. NEH, Part 630, Chapter 18.
The Guidelines for Determining Flood Flow Frequency
(Bulletin 17B U.S. Water Resources Council, 1981) (c) Volume-duration-probability analysis
contains information and references on such topics
as comparing similar watersheds and how to handle Daily flow records are also used for volume-duration
flooding caused by different type of events. probability (VDP) analysis (USDA 1966; USACE 1975).
A probability distribution analysis of the annual series
Data may be transposed with or without changes of maximum runoff volumes for 1, 3, 7, 15, 30, 60, and
in magnitude depending on the type of data and the 90 days is made in 210–NEH, Part 630, Chapter 18.
parameters influencing the information. Runoff vol- These values are then used for reservoir storage and
umes from individual storms, for instance, may be spillway design (210–NEH, Part 630, Chapter 21). Low-
transposed without change in magnitude, if the gaged flow VDP analysis is made on minimum volumes over
and ungaged watersheds are alike in all respects. If the selected durations. These values are useful in water
hydrologic soil-cover complexes (CN) differ though, quality evaluations (e.g., for determining the probabil-
it is necessary to use figure 5–4, as shown in example ity that the concentration of a substance will be ex-
5–3. ceeded). They are also used to describe minimum flow
for fisheries (USFWS 1976).
Example 5–3: Prediction of runoff from an un-
gaged site using a similar gaged site (d) Probability-duration analysis
Determine: Determine the runoff volume from an un-
Daily flow records are used for probability-duration
gaged site (CN=83) using a comparable gaged water-
analysis to analyze the effects of inundation on flood-
shed (CN=74) that has a direct runoff of 1.60 inches.
plain and wetland ecosystems. Annual 15-day low-flow
data is used as objective criteria in wetland determina-
Solution:
tions, for instance. Information on the use of daily flow
Step 1 Enter figure 5–4 at direct runoff of 1.60
data for wetland determinations is included in 210–
inches.
NEH, Part 650, Chapter 19.
Step 2 Go across to CN 74 and then upward to
CN 83. (e) Flow duration curves

Step 3 At the runoff scale, read a runoff of 2.29 Daily flow records are also used to construct flow
inches. duration curves. These curves show the percentage of
time during which specified flow rates are exceeded.

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 76, November 2015) 5–7

Chapter 5 Streamflow Data Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Figure 5–4 Solution for runoff equation

(P-0.2 S)2 P=0 to 12 inches

Hydrology: Solution of Runoff Equation Q=
P+0.8 S Q=0 to 8 inches
9
Rainfall (P) (P-Ia)2
Q= With P≥ I a; S≥ Ia+F;
Runoff (Q) P-Ia+S and F+P-Ia-Q
Rate

8
Curves on this sheet are for the
case Ia=0.2 S, so that
F (P-0.2 S)2
Q=
7 P+0.8 S
Initial Time
abstraction Ia
Infiltration 0
curve 10
95
Direct runoff (Q) in inches

5 0
00 90
1, +S
0 85
r = 1
be 80
m
nu 75
4
r ve
Cu 70
65
60
3
55
50
45
2
40

35

1 30

25

20
0
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
Rainfall (P) in inches
REFERENCE Standard Dwg. No.
U.S. Department of Agricultural
Mockus, Victor; Estimating direct runoff amount from storm rainfall: Soil Conservation Service ES- 1001
1 2
Central Technical Unit, October 1955 Sheet_____of_____
Engineering Division – Hydrology Branch 6-29-56
Date______________
Revised 10-1-64

5–8 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 76, November 2015)

Chapter 5 Streamflow Data Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

The flow duration curve is one method used to de- Example 5–5: Statistical approach to establish
termine total sediment load from periodic samples runoff curve numbers
(USDA 1983). It can also be used for determining load-
ing of other impurities, such as total salts, and can be Determine: Determine the CN using statistical meth-
related to fishery values (USFWS 1976). Flow duration ods. Use the rainfall and runoff data of table 5–3 for
curves are sometimes plotted on probability paper. It the ARS Experimental Watershed 2 near Treynor, Iowa
should be noted that the value plotted is the percent- (plotted in figure 5-5).
age of time exceeded, and this should not be confused
with probability of occurrence. Solution: In this approach, the scatter in the data
apparent in figure 5–5 is assumed to be described by a
(f) Determination of runoff curve num- log normal distribution about the median. This ap-
bers from storm rainfall and stream- proach has been explored by Hjelmfelt et al. (1982);
flow data Hjelmfelt (1991); and Hauser and Jones (1991).

Storm rainfall and associated streamflow data for The curve number determined in example 5–4 was the
annual floods can be used to establish runoff curve curve number that divided the points into two equal
numbers, CN. groups. That is, it is the median curve number. This
median value can also be determined using the follow-
Two methods of computing CN from storm rainfall and ing computations:
streamflow data are presented here. The first method
uses a classical graphical approach. The second meth- Step 1 Compute the potential maximum reten-
od uses a statistical approach. tion (S) for each of the annual storms of table 5–3
using:
Example 5–4: Graphical approach to establish  1

runoff curve numbers S = 5  P + 2Q − ( 4Q 2 + 5PQ ) 2 

Determine: Determine the CN using the classic This equation is an algebraic rearrangement of the
graphical method. Use the rainfall and runoff data of runoff equation of 210–NEH, Part 630, Chapter 10,
table 5–3. Estimation of Direct Runoff From Storm Rainfall,
where P is rainfall and Q is runoff.
Solution:
Step 2 The logarithm of each S is taken. Base
Plot the runoff against the rainfall on the graph as 10 was used for table 5–3; however, natural loga-
shown in figure 5–5. rithms can also be used.
Determine the curve of figure 5–5 that divides the Step 3 The mean and standard deviation of
plotted points into two equal groups. That is the me- the logarithms of S are determined. The mean of
dian curve number. It may be necessary to interpolate the transformed values, that is mean of log(S), is
between curves, as was done in figure 5–5. The curve equivalent to the median of the raw values.
number for this watershed is 88.
log ( S ) = mean ( log ( S ))
Figure 5–5 also shows bounding curves for the data.
The curves were determined using the relationship giv-
=
∑ log (S)
en in table 5–3. Note that these curves generally mark N

the extremes of the data except for a few outliers.

∑  log (S) mean ( log (S))

2

std. dev ( log (S )) =

N −1

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 76, November 2015) 5–9

Chapter 5 Streamflow Data Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Table 5–3 Curve numbers for events with annual peak discharge for Watershed 2 near Treynor, IA

5–10 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 76, November 2015)

Chapter 5 Streamflow Data Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Figure 5–5 Rainfall versus direct runoff plotted from an experimental ARS watershed in Treynor, IA

5 CN=95 88 73
Direct runoff (Q), inches

2 Watershed 2
Treynor, Iowa

0
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Rainfall (P), inches

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 76, November 2015) 5–11

Chapter 5 Streamflow Data Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

For the data of table 5–3, the values computed are:

mean log (S ) = 0.1389

630.0504 Considerations for use
of streamflow data
std. dev. log (S ) = 0.3452
210–NEH Part 630, Chapter 18, Selected Statistical
Step 4 The mean of the logarithms of a log Methods, is a guide for applying selected statistical
normally distributed variable is the median of the methods to solve hydrologic problems. It covers, in
original variable. Thus, the antilogarithm of the detail, stream gage frequency analysis according to
result of the standard deviation equation gives a the Guidelines for Determining Flood Flow Frequency,
statistical estimation of the median S. If base 10 Bulletin #17B (U.S. Water Resources Council, 1981).
logarithms are used: Use of the Bulletin 17B procedures are required for
use in all Federal planning involving water and related
( ) land resources projects. While the following consider-
median S = 10 mean log S
ations focus on stream gage frequency analysis, they
= 10 0.1389
are important points to consider whenever working
= 1.3769 with stream gage data.

Step 5 The curve number is then given by: (a) Data quality
1, 000 In performing a frequency analysis of peak discharges,
CN =
10 + S certain assumptions need to be verified including data
1, 000 independence, data sufficiency, climatic cycles and
= trends, watershed changes, mixed populations, and
10 + 1.3769
the reliability of flow estimates. The streamflow gage
= 87.9
records must provide random, independent flow event
data. These assumptions need to be kept in mind,
Round this to 88. otherwise the resultant discharge-frequency distribu-
tion may be significantly biased, leading to inappropri-
Step 6 Curve numbers for 10 percent and 90 ate designs and possible loss of property, habitat, and
percent extremes of the distribution are given by: human life.

log (S10 ) = mean ( log (S )) + 1.282 std. dev. ( log (S )) (b) Data independence
log (S 90 ) = mean ( log (S )) + 1.282 std. dev. ( log (S ))
To perform a valid discharge-frequency analysis, the
data points used in the analysis must be independent
In which 1.282 and –1.282 are the appropriate per- (i.e., not related to each other). Flow events often-
centiles of the normal distribution. For the data of times occur over several days, weeks, or even months,
table 5–3, the results are 73 and 95. as can be the case with snowmelt. Using subsequent
days of high flow from the same event in a frequency
Note: These results are in good agreement with the analysis is not appropriate since these data are depen-
extremes that were determined using the graphical dent upon each other. If subsequent days of high flow
method, which adds additional confirmation that the data are used in a frequency analysis, it would errone-
10 and 90 percent extremes agree with figure 5–5 is ously suggest that the event occurs more frequently.
given by Hjelmfelt et al. (1982) and Hjelmfelt (1991). As a result, the predicted flow would be higher than
than the actual peak flow for a given return interval.
It is common practice to minimize this problem by
extracting annual peak flows from the annual stream-
flow record to use in the frequency analysis. The
annual maximum flow for each water year (October

5–12 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 76, November 2015)

Chapter 5 Streamflow Data Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

1 to September 30) is most frequently used in flow 7-, 13-, 14-, 20-, 22-, 28-, and 29-year cycles of extreme
frequency analyses. Partial duration analysis (with river discharges throughout the world. Some cycles
checks for data independence) can be used especially have been associated with oceanic cycles, such as the
for frequent flow events and to estimate flows with El Niño Southern Oscillation, in the Pacific (Dettinger
recurrence intervals of less than 1year. et al. 2000) and the North Atlantic Oscillation (Pek-
arova et al. 2003). Trends in streamflow volumes and
(c) Data sufficiency peaks are less apparent. However, trends in stream-
flow timing are likely, as has been presented in Cayan
Gage records should contain at least 10 years of et al. (2001) for the Western United States.
consecutive peak flow data and, to minimize bias,
should span both wet and dry years. If a gage record is The identification of both cycles and trends is ham-
shorter, it may be advisable to consider relying more pered by the relatively short records of streamflow
on other methods of hydrologic estimations. When available—as streamflow data increases, more cycles
the desired event has a frequency of occurrence of and trends may be identified. However, sufficient
less than 2 to 5 years, a partial duration series is evidence does currently exist to warrant concern for
recommended. This is a subset of the complete re- the impact of climate cycles on the frequency analysis
cord where the values are above a preselected base of peak flow data, even with 20, 30, or more years of
value. The base value is typically chosen so that there record.
are no more than three events in a given year. In this
manner, the magnitude of events that are equaled or When performing a frequency analysis, it can be im-
exceeded three times a year can be estimated. Care portant to also analyze data at neighboring gages (that
must be taken to ensure that multiple peaks are not as- have longer or differing periods of record) to assess
sociated with the same event so that independence is the reasonableness of the streamflow data and fre-
preserved. The return period for events estimated with quency analysis at the site of interest. Keeping in mind
the use of a partial duration series is typically 0.5 year the design life of the planned project and relating this
less than what is estimated by an annual series (Lins- to any climate cycles and trends identified during such
ley et al. 1975). While this difference is fairly small at a period can identify, in at least a qualitative manner,
large events (100 years for a partial versus 100.5 years the appropriateness of use of streamflow data. Climate
for an annual series), it can be significant at more bias is described in more detail in 210–NEH, Part 654,
frequent events (1 year for a partial versus 1.5 years Chapter 5.
for an annual series). It should also be noted that there
is more subjectivity at the ends of both the annual and Paleoflood studies (studies that use the techniques of
partial duration series frequency curves. geology, hydrology, and fluid dynamics to exploit the
long-lived evidence often left by floods) may lead to a
It is also important to use data that fully captures more comprehensive frequency analyses. Such studies
the peak for peak flow analysis. If a stream is flashy are more relevant for projects with long design lives,
(typical of small watershed) the peak may occur over such as dams. For more information on paleoflood
hours, or even minutes, rather than days. If daily aver- techniques, see the text Ancient Floods, Modern Haz-
ages are used, then the flows may be artificially low ards: Principles and Applications of Paleoflood Hydrol-
and result in an underestimate of storm event values. ogy (House et al. 2001).
Therefore, for small watersheds, it may be necessary
to look at hourly or even 15-minute peak data. (e) Watershed changes

(d) Climatic cycles and trends Changes in watersheds can change the frequency of
high flows in streams. These changes, which are pri-
Climatic cycles and trends have been identified in marily caused by humans, include urbanization; reser-
meteorological and hydrological records. Cycles in voir construction, with the resulting attenuation and
streamflow have been found in the world’s major riv- evaporation; stream diversions; and changes in plant
ers. For example, Pekarova et al. (2003) identified 3.6-, cover as a result from deforestation from logging,
significant insect infestation, high intensity fire, and

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 76, November 2015) 5–13

Chapter 5 Streamflow Data Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

reforestation. Before a discharge-frequency analysis not random but is, instead, a systematic bias that may
is used or to judge how the frequency analysis is to be have resulting ramifications.
used, watershed history and records should be evalu-
ated to ensure that no significant watershed changes (h) Regulated flows
have occurred during the period of record. If such a
significant change has occurred in the record, the pe- Flows below dams are considered to be regulated
riod of record may need to be altered or the frequency flow. The normal statistical techniques in Bulletin 17B
analysis may need to be used with caution, with full can not be used in these situations. However, in some
understanding of its limitations. cases, standard graphic statistical techniques can be
used to determine the frequency curve. A review of the
Particular attention should be paid to watershed reservoir operation plan and project design document
changes when considering the use of data from dis- will provide information on the downstream releases.
continued gages. It was common to discontinue gages
with small (< 10 mi2) drainage areas in the early 1980s.
Aerial photographs can provide useful information in
determining if the land use patterns of today are simi-
lar to the land use patterns during the gage’s period of
record. Each gage site has to be evaluated on an indi-
vidual basis to determine whether the existing cross
sections represent those used to develop the past flow
records for the site.

(f) Mixed populations

At many locations, high flows are created by different

types of events. For example, in mountain watersheds,
high flow may result from snowmelt events, rain on
snow events, or rain events. Also, tropical cyclones
may produce differences from frontal systems. Gages
with records that contain such different types of
events require special treatment such as removing
those events from the record if the report is to only
reflect flows for a particular type of event.

(g) Reliability of flow estimates

Errors exist in streamflow records, as with all mea-

sured values. With respect to USGS records, data
that are rated as excellent means that 95 percent of
the daily discharges are within 5 percent of their true
value, a good rating means that the data are within 10
percent of their true value, and a “fair” rating means
that the data are within 15 percent of their true value.
Records with greater than 15 percent error are consid-
ered poor (USGS 2002).

These gage inaccuracies are often random, possi-

bly minimizing the resultant error in the frequency
analysis. Overestimates may be greatest for larger,
infrequent events, especially the historic events. If
consistent overestimation has occurred, the error is

5–14 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 76, November 2015)

Chapter 5 Streamflow Data Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. 1975. Hydrologic engi-

630.0505 References neering methods for water resource development,
vol. 3. Hydrologic Frequency Analysis, HEC, Davis,
CA.
Cayan, D.R., M. Kammerdiener, D. Dettinger, J.M.
Caprio, and D.H. Peterson. 2001. Changes in the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research
onset of spring in the western United States. Bull. Service. 1979. Field manual for research in agricul-
Am. Met. Soc. 82(3), 399–415. tural hydrology. Agricultural Handbook No. 224.

Copeland, R.R., D.N. McComas, C.R. Thorne, P.J. Soar, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research
M.M. Jonas, and J.B. Fripp. 2001. Hydraulic design Service. 1989. Hydrologic data for experimental ag-
of stream restoration projects, USACE ERDC/CHL ricultural watersheds in the United States, 1978–79.
TR–01–28. Misc. Pub. 1469.

Dettinger, M.D., D.R. Cayan, G.J. McCabe, and J.A. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service. 1964.
Marengo. 2000. Multiscale streamflow variability Stream-gaging stations for research on small water-
associated with El Nino/Southern Oscillation, in El sheds. K.G. Reinhart and R.S. Pierce, Agric. Handb.
Nino and the Southern Oscillation. H.F. Diaz, and V. 268.
Markgraf, eds., Cambridge University Press, New
York, p. 114–147. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources
Conservation Service. 1997. National Engineering
Hauser, V.L., and O.R Jones. 1991. Runoff curve num- Handbook, Part 623, Irrigation, Chapter 9, Water
bers for the southern high plains. Trans. Amer. Soc. Measurement. Washington, DC.
Agricul. Engrs., vol. 3, no. 1. pp 142–148.
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources
Hjelmfelt, A.T. 1991. An investigation of the curve Conservation Service. 2002. National Engineering
number procedure. J. Hydraulic Eng., Amer. Soc. Handbook, Part 630, Hydrology, Chapter 8, Land
Civil Engrs., vol. 117, no. 6, pp 725–737. Use and Treatment Classes. Washington, DC.

Hjelmfelt, A.T., L.A. Kramer, and R.E. Burnwell. 1982. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources
Curve numbers as random variables, rainfall runoff Conservation Service. 2004. National Engineering
relationship. In Resources Publications, V.P. Singh, Handbook, Part 630, Hydrology, Chapter 9, Hydro-
ed., Littleton, CO. pp. 365–370. logic Soil-Cover Complexes. Washington, DC.

House, P.K, R.H. Webb, V.R. Baker, and D.R. Levish U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources
(ed.). 2001. Ancient floods, modern hazards: Prin- Conservation Service. 2004. National Engineering
ciples and practices of paleoflood hydrology. Ameri- Handbook, Part 630, Hydrology, Chapter 10, Estima-
can Geophysical Union. tion of Direct Runoff from Storm Rainfall. Washing-
ton, DC.
Linsley Jr., R.K., M.A. Kohler, J.L. Paulhus. 1975. Hy-
drology for Engineers. 2nd Ed. McGraw-Hill Book U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources
Co. New York, NY. Conservation Service. 2007. National Engineering
Handbook, Part 654, Stream Restoration Design,
Pekarova, P., P. Miklanek, and J. Pekar. 2003. Spatial Chapter 5, Stream Hydrology. Washington, DC.
and temporal runoff oscillation analysis of the main
rivers of the world during the 19th-20th centuries. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources
Journal of Hydrology, vol. 274, issue 1, pp 47–61. Conservation Service. 2009. National Engineering
Handbook, Part 630, Hydrology, Chapter 20, Water-
shed Yield. Washington, DC.

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 76, November 2015) 5–15

Chapter 5 Streamflow Data Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 1976. Methodologies for
Conservation Service. 2012. National Engineering the determination of stream resource flow require-
Handbook, Part 630, Hydrology, Chapter 14, Stage ments: an assessment. C.B. Stalker and J.L. Arnette
Discharge Relations. Washington, DC. (ed.), Office of Biological Services, Utah State Uni-
versity, Logan, UT.
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources
Conservation Service. 2012. Hydrology tools for U.S. Geological Survey. 1964. Compilation of records
wetland determinations, National Engineering of surface waters of the United States, October 1950
Handbook 650, Chapter 19, Washington, DC. to September 1960, 11 Part 8. Water Supply Paper
1732, Western Gulf of Mexico Basin.
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources
Conservation Service. 2012. National Engineering U.S. Geological Survey. 1968. Techniques of water-
Handbook, Part 630, Hydrology, Chapter 22, Glos- resources investigations of the U.S. Geological
sary. Washington, D.C. Survey, chapter A7, stage measurement at gaging
stations. In Book 3, Application of hydraulics, T.J.
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Buchanan and W.P. Somers, U.S. Gov. Print. Of.,
Conservation Service. 2012. Stream restoration Washington, DC.
design handbook 654, Washington, DC.
U.S. Geological Survey. 1979. Flow duration curves.
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Ser- USGS Water Supply Paper 1542–A, J.K. Searcy,
vice. 1972. National Engineering Handbook, Sec- Washington, DC.
tion 4, Hydrology, Chapter 21, Design Hydrographs.
Washington, D.C. U.S. Geological Survey. 1981. WATSTORE users guide.
USGS Open File Report 79–1336, Washington, DC.
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Ser-
vice. 1983. National Engineering Handbook, Section U.S. Geological Survey. 1982. Guidelines for deter-
3, Sedimentation, Chapter 4, Transmission of Sedi- mining flood flow frequency. Office of Water Data
ment by Water. Washington, D.C. Coordination. Bulletin 17B.

U.S. Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation U.S. Geological Survey. 1982. Measurement and com-
Service. 1966. Hydrology study—A multipurpose putation of streamflow, vol. 1: Measurement of
program for selected cumulative probability, dis- stage and discharge, and vol. 2: Computation of
tribution analysis. W.H. Sammons, SCS–TP–148, discharge. S.E. Rantz, et al. USGS Water Supply
Washington, DC. Paper 2175.

U.S. Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Ser- U.S. Geological Survey. 1994. Water resources data for
vice. 1980. National Engineering Manual, part 630, Indiana. 1973. USGS Surface Water-Supply Papers,
Hydrology, Washington, DC. prepared in cooperation with the State of Indiana
and other agencies.
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Ser-
vice. 1983(a). Transmission of sediment by water. U.S. Geological Survey. 1996. Regional equations for
National Engineering Handbook, Section 3, Sedi- estimation of peak-streamflow frequency for natural
mentation, chapter 4, Washington, DC. basins in Texas, W.H. Asquith, and R.M. Slade, Jr.,
Report 96–4307.
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation
Service. 1983(b). Selected statistical methods, Na- U.S. Geological Survey. 2002. Water resources data for
tional Engineering Handbook, Part 630, Hydrology, Colorado, water year 2001, vol. 2. Colorado River
Chapter 18. Basin, Water Resources Division.

5–16 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 76, November 2015)

Chapter 5 Streamflow Data Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

U.S. Geological Survey. 2002. The National Flood

Frequency Program, Ver. 3: A computer program for
estimating magnitude and frequency of floods for
ungaged sites, K.G. Ries, III, and M.Y. Crouse (com-
pilers), Report 02–4168.

U.S. Water Resources Council. 1981. Guidelines for

determining flood flow frequency, Bulletin 17B,
Interagency Committee on Water Data.

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 76, November 2015) 5–17