Streamflow Data and its Application to Understanding an Evolving Flow Regime on the Green River
Location
Ellen Eccles Conference Center
Event Website
https://forestry.usu.edu/htm/video/conferences/restoring-the-west-conference-2014/
Abstract
Since 1895, stream flow data has been collected at Green River, UT by the USGS. Complementary data such as total yearly flows and streamflow reconstructions are also available for this site. We present a synthesis and analysis of these datasets to describe the changing annual flow in the Green River over the last century, showing the effects of climatic cycling and anthropogenic influences on the frequency, magnitude and timing of flows in the Green River. Limits to the use of gage data exist, particularly spatially. To combat this, streamflow data from the San Rafael River (a tributary) was analyzed for an assessment of its contribution to flows. Significant decreases in the magnitude of peak flows have been observed on the Green River during the 20th century. Installation of Flaming Gorge Dam does appear to have limited peak flows from the Green River, though within a greater climatic shift. Implementation of releases from the dam under the Endangered Species Act beginning in 1985 did not reverse the trend of decreasing peak flows since 1900.
Streamflow Data and its Application to Understanding an Evolving Flow Regime on the Green River
Ellen Eccles Conference Center
Since 1895, stream flow data has been collected at Green River, UT by the USGS. Complementary data such as total yearly flows and streamflow reconstructions are also available for this site. We present a synthesis and analysis of these datasets to describe the changing annual flow in the Green River over the last century, showing the effects of climatic cycling and anthropogenic influences on the frequency, magnitude and timing of flows in the Green River. Limits to the use of gage data exist, particularly spatially. To combat this, streamflow data from the San Rafael River (a tributary) was analyzed for an assessment of its contribution to flows. Significant decreases in the magnitude of peak flows have been observed on the Green River during the 20th century. Installation of Flaming Gorge Dam does appear to have limited peak flows from the Green River, though within a greater climatic shift. Implementation of releases from the dam under the Endangered Species Act beginning in 1985 did not reverse the trend of decreasing peak flows since 1900.
https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/rtw/2014/Posters/2