Cover.

Surveying stream-bed elevations at a cross section in Cold Spring Brook, Town of China, Delaware County, New York
Photo by Barry P. Baldigo, USGS
Guidelines for Surveying Bankfull Channel Geometry
and Developing Regional Hydraulic-Geometry Relations
for Streams of New York State
By Rocky O. Powell, Sarah J. Miller, Britt E. Westergard , Christiane I. Mulvihill,

Barry P. Baldigo, Anne S. Gallagher, and Richard R. Starr

________________________________________
U.S. GEOLOGICAL SURVEY
Open-File Report 03-92

In cooperation with
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
New York City Department of Environmental Protection

Troy, New York

2004
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR

GALE A NORTON, Secretary

U.S. GEOLOGICAL SURVEY

Charles G. Groat, Director

For additional information Copies of this report can be

write to: purchased from:
U.S. Geological Survey, WRD U.S. Geological Survey
425 Jordan Road Branch of Information Services
Troy, N.Y. 12180 Federal Center
http://ny.usgs.gov Box 25286
Denver, CO 80225-0286
http://www.usgs.gov

ii
CONTENTS

Abstract . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

1. Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

1.1 Need for Predictive Equations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

1.2 Bankfull Discharge and Rosgen Stream Classification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

1.3 Approach . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

1.4 Purpose and Scope. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

1.5 Acknowledgments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

2. Guidelines for Surveying Bankfull Channel Geometry and Developing Regional Hydraulic-Geometry Relations . . . . 4

2.1 Preliminary Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

2.1.1 Select Study Sites. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

2.1.2 Obtain all Necessary Data from the Agency Monitoring the Gage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

2.1.3 Obtain Tax-Map Information on Stream in Vicinity of Gage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

2.2 Field Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

2.2.1 Conduct a Field Reconnaissance and a Preliminary Survey of the Gage Site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

2.2.2 Survey Longitudinal Profile and all Cross Sections in Reach . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

2.2.3 Measure Stream Discharge During the Survey of Channel Cross Sections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

2.2.4 Update the Stage-to-Discharge Rating for Discontinued Gages (if Present) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

2.3 Data-Quality Assurance and Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

2.3.1 Check for Quality Assurance and Quality Control (QA/QC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

2.3.2 Plot Elevations of the Longitudinal Profile . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

2.3.3 Plot all Cross Sections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

2.3.4 Calculate Particle D50 and D84 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

2.3.5 Document Reach-Meander Geometry from Recent Aerial Photographs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

2.3.6 Finalize Field Data. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

2.3.7 Obtain Estimates of Bankfull Discharge Following Several Different Methods, and Compare

these Estimates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

2.3.8 Create Regional Curves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

2.4 Administrative Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

3. References Cited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Appendixes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

A. Field Forms
1. Site Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

2. Site Map. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

3. Longitudinal Profile . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

4. Channel Cross Section. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

5. Pebble Count . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

B. QA/QC Checklist: Field Protocol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Figure
1. Hydrologic flood regions as defined by Lumia (1991) and active and inactive USGS stage-discharge gages for streams

with more than 10 years of flow record in New York State. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Contents iii
 CONVERSION FACTORS AND VERTICAL DATUM

Multiply By To obtain

Length
inch (in.) 25.4 millimeter
foot (ft) 0.3048 meter
mile (mi) 1.609 kilometer

Area
acre 0.40483 hectare
square mile (mi2) 2.59 square kilometer

Flow
cubic foot per second 0.02832 cubic meter per second (m3/s)

Velocity
foot per second 0.3048 meter per second

Sea level: In this report "sea level" refers to the North American Vertical Datum of 1988 (NAVD88)

iv Contents
Guidelines for Surveying Bankfull Channel Geometry
and Developing Regional Hydraulic-Geometry
Relations for Streams of New York State
By Rocky O. Powell1, Sarah J. Miller2, Britt E. Westergard3, Christiane I. Mulvihill3,
Barry P. Baldigo3, Anne S. Gallagher4, and Richard R. Starr5

ABSTRACT channel-bankfull characteristics, (4) conduct lon­

gitudinal and cross-section surveys, (5) measure
Many disturbed streams within New York stream discharge, (6) develop and refine bankfull
State are being restored in an effort to provide hydraulic-geometry equations, and (7) analyze
bank and bed stability and thereby decrease sedi­ and assure data completeness and quality. The
mentation and erosion. Efforts to identify and pro­ techniques primarily address wadeable streams
vide accurate indicators for stable-channel with either active or discontinued surface-water-
characteristics for ungaged streams have been and crest-stage gages. The relations can be
hampered by the lack of regional equations or applied to ungaged or actively gaged streams that
relations that relate drainage area to bankfull dis­ are wadeable, and may be extended to non-wade-
charge and to channel depth, width, and cross-sec- able streams (with some limitations) if they have
tional area (bankfull hydraulic-geometry drainage areas comparable to those used to
relations). Regional equations are needed to con­
develop the relations.
firm bankfull hydraulic-geometry, assess stream
stability, evaluate restoration needs, and verify
restoration design for ungaged streams that lack
1. INTRODUCTION
stage-to-discharge ratings or historic peak-flow
records. Many disturbed stream channels throughout New
This report presents guidelines for surveying York State are being restored in an effort to provide
bankfull channel geometry at USGS stream gages bank and bed stability and thereby decrease unusually
and developing regional hydraulic-geometry rela­ high rates of erosion and sedimentation. Stream
tions (equations) for wadeable streams in New restorations have traditionally relied on straightening,
York. It summarizes methods to (1) compile and widening, deepening, and hardening banks and
assess existing hydrologic, geometric, photo­ channels, and imposing static stream geometry, to
graphic, and topographic data, (2) conduct control erosion and protect private and public lands
and related infrastructure. Recent restoration projects,
stream-reconnaissance inspections, (3) identify
in contrast, have begun to use a natural-channel
approach that is based on models or equations that (1)
1Clear Creeks Consulting, 1317 Knopp Road, Jarrettsville, relate hydraulic-geometry measurements, such as the
MD 21084 channel’s cross-sectional area, depth, and width at
2New York City Department of Environmental Protection, 71
bankfull stage, to drainage-basin size in stable gaged
Smith Ave., Kingston, NY 12401
3U.S. Geological Survey, 425 Jordan Road, Troy, NY 12180 streams, and (2) relate geomorphic characteristics such
4New York Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, 208 as channel dimensions, patterns, and profiles in
Fernow Hall, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853 unstable reaches to those in stable, undisturbed
5Starr Designs, 830 Beetz Road, Mount Airy, MD 21771
reaches. These relations are useful in confirming

Introduction 1
restoration designs that attempt to replicate streams of the same type. A statewide assessment of
geomorphically stable and nearly natural or functional hydraulic-geometry relations, stratified by stream type
ecosystems at unstable reaches in ungaged streams. (across regions), will be done after bankfull geometry
surveys in target streams and reports from all regions
of New York are completed.
1.1 Need for Predictive Equations

Restoration designs commonly use hydraulic- 1.2 Bankfull Discharge and Rosgen
geometry equations that are several decades old, based Stream Classification
on a small number of localized streams, and ascribed
to widespread regions, such as the equations for the Bankfull discharge is the flow that is most
eastern United States (Dunne and Leopold, 1978). The effective in transporting a stream’s bedload and
accuracy of hydraulic geometry predicted from these corresponds to the instantaneous peak flow that occurs
equations can be compromised because characteristics every 1 to 2 years or about every 1.5 years over the
of individual streams typically reflect unique and long term (Leopold, 1994). It may also be defined as
localized conditions, such as precipitation, soils, and the stage or flow at which a stream is about to overtop
physiography, that also change through time. its bank onto the flood plain (Leopold and others,
Therefore, hydraulic-geometry equations that do not 1964; Leopold, 1994). Bankfull discharge represents a
reflect these local or regional conditions may be distinct and identifiable stage in many undisturbed
biased, and restoration designs based on these streams and is considered to be the morphologic
equations could be biased and ultimately result in transition between the active stream channel and the
project failure. flood plain (Leopold and others, 1964).
Efforts to predict, verify, and design stable- Rosgen’s stream-classification system, like many
channel characteristics for ungaged streams of New others, is intended to provide consistent, reproducible
York have been hampered by the lack of regional stream descriptions for evaluation of channel stability
equations that define the relations between drainage- and (or) to calculate and design stable hydraulic
area size and (1) bankfull discharge, and (2) hydraulic- conditions in ungaged streams. Several channel-
geometry variables such as mean depth, width, and geomorphology characteristics that correspond to
cross-sectional area at bankfull discharge. These bankfull stage are key indicators for Rosgen’s stream
hydraulic-geometry relations are relatively constant at classification because they have relatively constant
bankfull stage in stable streams of a given type and relations with drainage area in stable streams of a
within a given hydrophysiographic region (Rosgen, given hydrophysiographic region (Rosgen, 1994a,
1996). Differences in precipitation and runoff rates, 1996). These indicators include the entrenchment ratio
soil depth, elevation, surficial geology, and basin (width of flood-prone channel / width of bankfull
slopes typically produce different discharge channel), bankfull-channel width to depth ratio,
hydrographs and channel geometry in streams from streambed slope, channel sinuosity, and bed material
different hydrophysiographic regions (Lumia, 1991). (Rosgen, 1996). The system consists of 8 major stream
Eight hydrologic regions have been established in types based mainly on the 4 bankfull channel-
New York to predict floodflows of unregulated streams geometry characteristics, which are each further
(Lumia, 1991); their boundaries were used in this segregated into 3-to-6 subcategories based on the
study and will be checked and redefined for bankfull median bed material size (Rosgen, 1994a, 1996).
flows after the completion of stream surveys across
New York, excluding Long Island. Variability in
predictive hydraulic-geometry equations can be 1.3 Approach
further decreased through stratification of the relations
by stream type within, and sometimes across, In 2001, the U.S. Geological Survey, in
hydrophysiographic regions (Rosgen, 1996). Thus, cooperation with the New York State Department of
regional hydraulic-geometry equations that use Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC), began a 5­
bankfull data from streams of a single Rosgen type year study to develop hydraulic-geometry relations for
(explained below) can improve the accuracy of streams in each of the hydrophysiographic regions in
predictive equations, but they are only applicable to New York (excluding Long Island). The study

2 Guidelines for Surveying Bankfull Channel Geometry and Developing Regional Hydraulic-Geometry Relations for Streams
of New York State
addresses wadeable streams of New York that are Ontario, Canada (Annable, 1996) to assess the
actively gaged, or have been gaged in the past, within underlying basis for any observed differences.
8 hydrophysiographic regions (fig. 1). These regions
correspond to the flood regions of Lumia (1991).
1.4 Purpose and Scope
The relations (equations) can be used to assess
stream-channel stability, evaluate bank-restoration This report presents guidelines for surveying
needs, and verify independent restoration designs at bankfull-discharge channel geometry of wadeable
ungaged streams. The data may eventually be used to streams in New York, and for developing regional
test whether streams in differing regions of New York hydraulic-geometry equations. It includes methods to
show unique relations between drainage-area size and (1) compile and assess existing hydrologic, geometric,
bankfull hydraulic-geometry characteristics and photographic, and topographic data, (2) conduct
whether Rosgen stream types (Rosgen, 1996) can be stream-reconnaissance inspections, (3) identify
used to stratify reach relations across regions channel-bankfull characteristics, (4) conduct
longitudinal and cross-section surveys, (5) measure
accurately. Individual hydraulic-geometry equations
stream discharge, (6) develop and refine bankfull
for regions of New York can also be compared to hydraulic-geometry equations, and (7) analyze and
hydraulic-geometry equations for the eastern United assure data completeness and quality. These guidelines
States developed by Dunne and Leopold (1978) and are based primarily on the New York City Department
for adjacent regions, such as Pennsylvania (White, of Environmental Protection (NYCDEP) protocol
2001), Vermont (Jaquith and Kline, 2001), and (Miller and Powell, 1999) and integrate standard

2
1

Rochester

Syracuse
Buffalo

7
Albany
5
4
6
3
Binghamton
Explanation 4A
6 Flood frequency region

Active surface-water gage

Inactive surface-water gage

Active crest-stage gage

Inactive crest-stage gage New York LI

City

Figure 1. Hydrologic flood regions as defined by Lumia (1991) and active and inactive USGS stage-
discharge gages for streams with more than 10 years of flow record in New York State.

Introduction 3
USGS surveying methods (U.S. Geological Survey, • a wide range of drainage-areas, and
1966; Benson and Dalrymple, 1967; Dalrymple and • major land-use categories (urban, suburban, or
Benson, 1967) with those developed by Rosgen, rural).
(1994b, 1996). These methods were used by NYCDEP b. For each selected gage, ascertain that:
to develop hydraulic-geometry equations that apply to • it has at least 10 years of record (minimum number
streams in the Catskill Mountain Region in of years statistically required for Log-Pearson
southeastern New York (Miller and Davis, in press). Type III flood-frequency analysis),
Several regions of New York have few active gages • its stage-to-discharge rating curve has been

with 10 or more years of record; therefore, this report verified recently or still can be verified, and

includes techniques used to develop regional equations • the reach meets minimum requirements for slope-
for streams with discontinued surface-water and crest- area calculation of discharge (Dalrymple and
stage gages as well as actively gaged streams. Benson, 1967), so that surveyed data can reliably
be used in hydraulic analysis and calculation of
bankfull discharge.
1.5 Acknowledgments
2.1.2 Obtain all necessary data from the agency
Thanks are extended to Daniel Davis, Phillip
monitoring the gage:
Eskeli, Mark Vian, and Elizabeth Reichheld of the
New York City Department of Environmental a. the most recent rating table (stage-to-discharge
Protection; William VanDeValk and Scotty Gladstone relation),
of the Delaware County Soil and Water Conservation b. 9-207 Forms (streamflow-measurement summaries)
District; and Rene VanSchaack, Douglas Dekoskie, that correspond to the most recent rating table and
Joel Dubois, and Jake Buchanan of the Greene County include moderate and high flows,
Soil and Water Conservation District for training on c. drainage area and land uses upstream of the study
survey techniques, use of survey data from several site (urban, suburban, or rural),
gages, and advice on data handling, analysis, d. a recent Log-Pearson Type III flood-frequency
interpretation, and presentation methods. analysis. If a Log-Pearson Type III flood-frequency
analysis is unavailable, obtain a list of annual flood
peaks (instantaneous maximum discharge Q), and
2. GUIDELINES FOR SURVEYING conduct a Log-Pearson analysis following
BANKFULL CHANNEL GEOMETRY AND guidelines from the Interagency Advisory
DEVELOPING REGIONAL HYDRAULIC- Committee on Water Data (1982), and
GEOMETRY RELATIONS e. the gage description, including a road log and map,
flood history, and the location and elevation of
These guidelines are presented in the following reference marks and reference points.
sections: preliminary procedures, field procedures,
data-quality assurance and analysis, and 2.1.3 Obtain tax-map information on stream in
administrative procedures. vicinity of gage:
Estimate the approximate length of reach needed.
2.1 Preliminary Procedures If owners are not apparent, determine how much of the
tax map information will be necessary. Notify all
Preliminary procedures consist of the collection of landowners with stream frontage on their property of
all information needed before field studies begin. the intended survey and leave a number they can call
These steps include selection of study sites, and for further information. Obtain verbal or written
assembling site data and tax map information. permission as needed.

2.1.1 Select study sites:

2.2 Field Procedures
a. Select a range of active and discontinued stream
gages that represent: Field procedures are essential to the study. They
• a single hydrophysiographic region, consist of a field reconnaissance and preliminary

4 Guidelines for Surveying Bankfull Channel Geometry and Developing Regional Hydraulic-Geometry Relations for Streams
of New York State
survey, detailed surveys of a longitudinal profile and at b. Select and mark the limits of the reach to be
least one set of three cross sections, a discharge surveyed (upstream and downstream of the gage).
measurement taken at the same time as the survey is The reach should include at least two meander
conducted, and an update of the stage-to-discharge wavelengths or a length equivalent to at least 20
rating at discontinued gages. bankfull widths, whichever is greater. The survey
A field file for each study reach should be should start and end on the same type of feature
available that contains copies of the information stored boundary. Visually check for a change in stream type
within the master file. This information can be within the survey reach, especially at or near the
borrowed for use in the field. gage. If stream type changes, the reach should
Field-data-collection sheets and data-plotting extend far enough to allow identification of the type
spreadsheets should be standardized and have standard of each section of channel, and of the bankfull
key words. indicators in the stream type represented by the gage
As the data are collected, the record keeper should location.
continually verify that the measured values are c. Select and mark bankfull indicators with flagging
consistent with the observed field conditions. All tape and (or) stick flags along both banks of the
survey data should be plotted in the field to verify reach; use similar morphological features to
recording and measurement accuracy. Survey closure establish the estimated bankfull stage. Bankfull
error larger than that allowable (Section 2.2.2, Step a) indicators include: (1) topographic break from
must result in a re-survey. vertical bank to flat flood plain, (2) topographic
A field-data-collection checklist and a set of break from steep slope to gentle slope, (3) change in
standard field-data-collection forms should be vegetation (for example, from no trees to trees), (4)
available to ensure that field personnel have completed textural change in depositional sediment, and (5)
the necessary tasks before leaving the site. elevation below which no fine debris (needles,
leaves, cones, seeds) occurs (Castro and Jackson,
2001). Flag only those indicators that are clearest –
do not struggle to find an indicator at a specific
2.2.1 Conduct a field reconnaissance and a interval or at each break in stream features (top or
preliminary survey of the gage site: bottom of pool, etc.) if no clear mark is present.
See Field Form 1: Site Inspection and Field Form d. Measure the differences in elevation between clear
2: Site Map in Appendix A. The same one or two bankfull indicators and the water surface close to the
people should conduct preliminary surveys for all sites gage. Add the difference between water surface and
to ensure consistency of methods and results. bankfull indicators to the stage to obtain the
a. Evaluate the gaged site for suitability for approximate bankfull stage. This stage will be used
development of regional curve equations. Check the in Section 2.3.7 to estimate the bankfull discharge
condition of the gage. If it is active, note whether the from the stage-to-discharge rating table and the
control is stable. If it has been discontinued, note corresponding flood frequency from the Log-
whether reference marks and reference points are Pearson flood-frequency analysis.
intact and whether elevations are recoverable. e. If (1) the differences between surveyed bankfull­
Identify the location of the gage intake. If possible, indicator and water surface elevations vary by more
enter the gage house and compare the stage inside than a few tenths of a foot within the reach, (2) the
with the stage on the outside staff plate or wire channel widths vary greatly, or (3) the indicators are
weight. Note any channel alterations and previous sparse or unclear, measure at least one test cross-
survey markers. If the station is at or near a bridge or sectional area (Field Form 2, Appendix A) and
culvert, note whether backwater occurs at bankfull compare the value to the area for flows with a 1.1- to
discharge. Evaluate the general stability of the 3.0-year recurrence interval (Form 9-207). Follow
channel and note whether an adequate length of steps outlined in Section 2.2.2, Step b for cross
single-thread channel (20 to 30 bankfull widths in section measurement. Evaluate the height of the
length) is available for the survey. If the site is found indicator and the cross-sectional area in relation to
to be suitable, proceed with the preliminary survey the estimated bankfull discharge, velocity, local
as noted below. channel roughness and slope, and any changes in

Guidelines for Surveying Bankfull Channel Geometry and Developing Regional Hydraulic-Geometry Relations 5
 morphology (such as channel width) that may 2.2.2 Survey longitudinal profile and all cross
account for an unusually high or low bankfull stage sections in reach:
at a particular location. The height of the bankfull Follow general guidelines outlined by the U.S.
indicators above the current water surface may vary Forest Service (Harrelson and others, 1994) using
considerably throughout the reach and should be steps outlined below. The cross sections may be
evaluated at each site in relation to local conditions. surveyed as part of the longitudinal-profile survey or
Always base bankfull elevation on physical independently; however, elevations for each cross-
indicators, not an estimated height above the current section survey need to be associated with local
water surface. elevations measured during the longitudinal-profile
f. Record the number and location of each bankfull survey described below.
flag. Each flag should be numbered and indexed on a. Conduct a longitudinal-profile survey using the
Field Form 2 (Appendix A) to indicate what feature standardized longitudinal-profile Field Form 3
(Appendix A). All blanks on each sheet must be
the flag represents. Record each flagged location on
filled in to ensure that all data have been collected.
the site map, Field Form 2 (Appendix A), and note
Any spaces that are left blank should be marked with
what type of indicator was used to mark the location a dash to show that the omission was intentional. All
(such as breaks in slope or changes in sediment or abbreviated terms must be identified, and any
vegetation), the difference in elevation between the reference to features must be labeled clearly and
indicator and the water surface, and any test cross consistently on all pages of notes and from survey to
sections or calculations used to identify the point. survey. All reference points, rebar monuments,
g. Identify and flag locations for the cross-section reference marks, or other features used to mark
surveys. Select areas at crossovers or riffles that are location and elevation must be described in detail to
representative of the reach. Avoid areas that are ensure that they are recoverable and that surveys are
unstable, affected by debris jams or other channel repeatable.
obstructions, wider than the rest of the channel, or • Always begin the survey with a backsight to an
extremely asymmetrical in cross section. Avoid assumed or known elevation (such as a reference
mark or reference point) that is clearly described
areas where the plan form or profile changes
in the field notes. The survey reach must start and
abruptly. If a cableway or other identifiable
end at the same type of feature boundary to ensure
discharge-measurement location is present, mark accurate slope estimates for reach classification.
this location to be surveyed for comparisons with • Survey the longitudinal profile by marking station
data on Form 9-207. All cross sections should begin positions along the thalweg from the top to the
and end above the estimated flood-prone level bottom of the reach and shooting elevations of
(flood-prone area elevation = bankfull elevation + thalweg, water surface, and bankfull (top of bank
maximum bankfull depth). is optional) at each flagged bankfull indicator.
• For active gages, survey at least two cross sections Add stations between flags to include the
in riffles and optionally one where moderate to following key features, noting the station and
high flows and stages are recorded or discharge elevation of each: gage-staff plate and intake pipe;
measurements are made. cross-section rebar monuments on both banks;
thalweg and water surface at top and bottom of
• For discontinued gages, survey one or two sets
riffles, pools, and steps; and deepest part of each
(depending on available length of suitable reach)
pool.
of three cross sections in one or two riffles and
For each survey point, describe what is being
optionally one cross section where moderate to
surveyed, and clearly label all reference marks or
high flows and stages were recorded or where turning points to distinguish them. Label all
discharge measurements were made. monuments by number, location, station, and
• If using the computer program HEC-RAS bank, and copy all notations on flags to the survey
(discussed in detail later), contiguous cross- notes.
sections should be 1-2 bankfull widths apart and • For field quality assurance/quality control (QA/
cover a drop of at least 1 ft. in elevation. QC), survey a reference mark at the gage, then

6 Guidelines for Surveying Bankfull Channel Geometry and Developing Regional Hydraulic-Geometry Relations for Streams
of New York State
 survey turning points up to the top of the reach. stationing of rebar monuments outside the active
Conduct the complete survey from the top of the channel range.
reach past the gage to the bottom, then survey • Verify that the two to six surveyed cross sections
turning points back to the starting reference mark are representative of the overall reach that will be
to close the survey. The resurveyed USGS used to classify the reach by Rosgen stream type
reference mark elevation and turning points must (Rosgen, 1994a, 1996, 1998).
be within an allowable error, otherwise the survey • While the data are being recorded, the note taker
must be repeated. The allowable error E is should continually compare the measured data
calculated from the following equation: with the observed site condition to ensure
E = 0.007 (TSD/100)1/2 (1) accuracy, plot field data as they are collected, and
where TSD is the total survey distance, in feet. watch for errors in recording or measurements.
Survey closure error larger than that allowable (E) • Photograph cross sections. Stretch a tape across
must result in a resurvey. the cross section(s) at or above bankfull elevation
• Plot field data as they are collected and continually before taking pictures. Photograph the left and
compare these data with the observed site right banks and include upstream or downstream
condition to ensure accuracy. All survey views through each cross section, or through each
calculations should use actual elevations. set of cross sections.
Calculate elevations as the measurements are c. Calculate the particle-size distribution of the bed
taken, or at least before the end of the day. Pay material by conducting a pebble count at each cross
special attention to variations in the difference section or set of cross sections, and over the entire
between water surface and bankfull elevation to reach, using a standardized pebble-count Field Form
ensure that the measured bankfull elevations 5 (Appendix A).
throughout the longitudinal profile are consistent • Conduct the pebble counts according to the
or explainable. Modified Wolman Pebble Count procedure
(Harrelson and others, 1994). Record the
b. Conduct a survey of each cross section using the
measurement (not the size class) of each pebble
standardized cross-section Field Form 4 (Appendix
on the data sheet. All blanks on each sheet must be
A). All spaces on each sheet must be filled in to
filled in to ensure that all data have been collected;
ensure that all data have been collected. Any spaces
mark with a dash any spaces in the survey notes
that are left blank should be marked with a dash to
that are left blank to show that the omission was
show that the omission was intentional.
intentional. In all pebble counts, distinguish bank
• If possible, conduct one cross-section survey at the particles from bed (active-channel) particles by an
location of current or historic USGS discharge asterisk in the field notes so that analyses of
measurements. materials in the active channel and in the bankfull
• For each cross-section, record the longitudinal- channel can be done separately.
profile station number of the transect. Tie each • For the reach pebble count, include at least 100
cross-section survey into a reference mark or particles from the bed material collected from all
reference point surveyed in the longitudinal bed features (riffles and pools) either (1) in
profile, and clearly identify the location. proportion to the percentage of the total reach
• Each cross section surveyed must include the represented by each type of feature (Rosgen,
entire channel (bank to bank) and the adjacent 1996), or (2) from at least 10 cross sections
flood plain and terraces on both sides of the uniformly spaced throughout the study reach.
channel up to and including the top of the bank. • For the cross-section pebble count, include at least
Include the width of the flood-prone area (flood­ 100 particles in bed material of the riffle and (or)
prone area elevation = bankfull elevation + run where each cross section, or each set of three
maximum bankfull depth) in the cross-section cross sections, is surveyed.
survey so that the channel can be classified by the d. Draw a detailed sketch of the gaged study reach on a
entrenchment ratio (the ratio of the width of the standardized site-map field sheet (Field Form 2,
flood-prone area to the width of the bankfull Appendix A) and follow general guidelines
channel) (Rosgen, 1998). Measure elevations and (Harrelson and others, 1994). Include:

Guidelines for Surveying Bankfull Channel Geometry and Developing Regional Hydraulic-Geometry Relations 7
 • the boundaries of the study reach, including top- 2.3 Data-Quality Assurance and Analysis
and bottom-of-reach markers,
• locations of the cross sections, Data-quality assurance and analysis entails
checking field data for accuracy as well as analyzing
• locations of the bankfull flags,
of field data. These steps include quality assurance and
• locations of the gage house, staff plate, intake pipe, quality control (QA/QC), plotting the longitudinal
and benchmarks, profile and cross sections, calculating particle D50 and
• stream features (pools, riffles, bars, bedrock, high D84 values (explained below), documenting reach
vertical banks, flood plains, terraces, vegetation), meander geometry, and validating the bankfull
• manmade features (dams, utilities, bridges, estimate.
culverts, rip-rap),

• locations of photographed areas, and 2.3.1 Check for Quality Assurance and Quality
Control (QA/QC):
• a map scale and clearly defined explanation of map
symbols. Once data have been collected and checked in the
If the stream is large enough to be clearly visible on field, they should be further reviewed in the office to
1-meter-resolution aerial photographs, note the ensure that all required information was collected and
above features on a field copy of the aerial is correct and done in accordance with the field
photograph in addition to the site map. protocol. This check should be done with a
standardized QA/QC checklist (Appendix B). Any
e. Photograph the reach, using as many frames as
discrepancies, errors, or omissions should be corrected
necessary to include the gage house, bankfull by the reviewer alone or in consultation with the leader
indicators, locations of cross sections, and any other of the survey team as needed, and so noted on the
key features. form. All changes should be initialed and dated. For
legal purposes, cross out all mistakes in observed data
2.2.3 Measure stream discharge during the survey with one line, and never erase. All mistakes in
of channel cross sections: computed data should be erased and corrected. Any
further discrepancies should be resolved through a
a. Record stream stage and estimate discharge at active
field visit to verify accuracy of data.
gages from the most current stage-to-discharge
rating table. 2.3.2 Plot elevations of the longitudinal profile:
b. Measure discharge at discontinued gages in
accordance with standard USGS procedures (Rantz, a. Enter the field data into a standardized longitudinal
1983). profile spreadsheet (Reference Reach Spreadsheet,
Version 2.2L, D. Mecklenberg, Ohio Department of
Natural Resources) and plot the longitudinal profile.
2.2.4 Update the stage-to-discharge rating for Identify and label the thalweg, water surface,
discontinued gages (if present): bankfull level(s), and top of bank. The bankfull line
If discontinued (inactive) gages are to be used in should be an average or visually “smoothed” line
regional or localized equations, obtain a copy of the through the points, not a linear regression line or a
gage’s most recent stage-to-discharge rating curve best-fit straight line. Calculate the average bankfull
slope of the reach from the top point to the bottom
from the USGS. Measure a range of discharges and
point (within one stream type) for stream-
plot the measurements on the old rating curve. Update
classification purposes.
the old stage-to-discharge rating curve, or calculate a
b. Examine the profile to identify inconsistencies
new stage-discharge relation at the discontinued gage between the observed and the expected elevations.
through standard USGS procedures (Rantz, 1983). Note whether thalweg, water surface, and bankfull
High flows are difficult to measure with limited elevations vary with changes in bed features. For
resources and time; therefore, stage and discharge at or example, the water-surface profile should steepen in
near bankfull conditions will often need to be riffles and flatten in pools. Inconsistencies can be
extrapolated manually or through USGS software that attributed to changes in channel features (debris or
extends ratings beyond measured data. channel obstructions or changes in plan form or bed

8 Guidelines for Surveying Bankfull Channel Geometry and Developing Regional Hydraulic-Geometry Relations for Streams
of New York State
 profile); check the data to decide whether a 2.3.4 Calculate particle D50 and D84:
discrepancy results from the field notes or data entry,
The D50 is the particle size that exceeds 50
or reflects natural conditions. If the raw field data are
percent of the sampled particles and is excluded by the
corrected, only one person should be authorized to
other 50 percent (Rosgen, 1996). Likewise, the D84 is
make the change. This person should be designated
the particle size that exceeds 84 percent of the sampled
before the project begins.
particles (Rosgen, 1996).
c. Once the profile has been deemed correct, locate the
bankfull profile where it intersects the gage staff a. Reach D50: Enter the pebble-count data from the
plate. Calculate the elevation of the bankfull stage at reach-wide pebble count and plot the particle-size
the staff plate to establish the gage height associated distribution of the bed material onto a standardized
with the bankfull stage. The profile in the vicinity of pebble-count spreadsheet (Rosgen, 1998). Use the
the gage is the section of greatest interest; if the cumulative frequency curve to calculate the D50 for
bankfull indicators in this area are clear, they should the bed material in the reach. This information will
take precedence over the calculated bankfull line. help classify the reach by Rosgen stream type.
d. Use the bankfull gage height to read the b. Cross section D84: Enter the pebble-count data
corresponding discharge from the current rating from the riffle pebble counts at cross-section
table for the gage. locations and plot the particle-size distribution of the
e. Obtain the corresponding probability of exceedance bed material. Use the cumulative frequency curve to
and recurrence interval for this discharge from the calculate the D84 of the bed material for the riffles
Log Pearson Type III flood frequency analysis. and runs. This information will be used to evaluate
f. Calculate the slope of the riffle or run where each bankfull discharge estimates.
cross section (or set of cross-sections) was surveyed.
This information will be used to develop bankfull 2.3.5 Document reach-meander geometry from
discharge estimates for cross checking the discharge recent aerial photographs:
estimate developed from the gage data. Use aerial photographs to calculate the sinuosity
g. Calculate the water-surface slope of the entire reach and, if needed, the meander wavelength and radius of
for use in classifying the reach by Rosgen stream curvature, for the gaged reach according to accepted
type. methods (Rosgen, 1996). The sinuosity will be used to
classify the reach by Rosgen stream type.
2.3.3 Plot all cross sections:
a. Enter the data into a standardized cross-section 2.3.6 Finalize field data:
spreadsheet and plot the cross sections. Identify and
At this point, any outstanding discrepancies in the
label each cross section on the profile and label
data should be resolved and any missing data
water-surface, bankfull, and flood-prone elevations.
collected, through another field visit.
b. For each cross section, calculate the bankfull width,
depth (mean and maximum), width-to-depth ratio,
cross-sectional area, wetted perimeter, hydraulic 2.3.7 Obtain estimates of bankfull discharge
following several different methods, and compare
radius (cross sectional area divided by wetted
these estimates:
perimeter), width of the flood-prone area, and
entrenchment ratio (Rosgen, 1998). These values are a. Compare the field survey cross-sectional area to the
used to develop hydraulic-geometry relations and to cross-sectional areas for discharge measurements
classify the stream according to Rosgen stream type. listed on USGS 9-207 forms. The 9-207 forms
c. If inconsistencies are noted, indicate whether they include actual discharge measurements made over a
can be attributed to changes in channel features range of flows, as well as the gage height, cross-
(debris or channel obstructions or changes in plan sectional area, and width associated with each
form or bed profile) or are a result of error in the discharge. If cross-sectional areas are listed in the 9­
field notes or the data entry. If the raw field data 207s that are comparable to the field survey cross-
warrant change, only one person (as designated in sectional areas, note the associated discharge. This
Section 2.3.2, Step b) should be authorized to make discharge can be compared with other bankfull
the change. discharge estimates.

Guidelines for Surveying Bankfull Channel Geometry and Developing Regional Hydraulic-Geometry Relations 9
b. Calculate the regional 2-year return interval corresponds to the calculated relative roughness
discharge. The USGS has developed regional (d/D84). Then use the curve that relates the friction
regression equations for estimating peak discharges factor to the roughness coefficient (Rosgen, 1998) to
that have recurrence intervals of 2 to 500 years obtain the Manning's n that corresponds to the
(Lumia, 1991). This information can be used to friction factor (u/u*).
provide rough estimates of the bankfull discharge The discharge calculated from the above equation can
(Q2, that discharge with an average 2-year then be compared with other bankfull discharge
recurrence interval) as well as for larger stormflows estimates.
expected to occur along the flood-prone area (e.g., d. Use the stage-to-discharge rating curve to estimate
Q50). New York State (excluding Long Island) is bankfull discharge.
divided into eight hydrophysiographic regions, and • For active gages, calculate the stage of bankfull
unique regression equations have been developed for discharge at the gaging station based on the field
each of the regions (Lumia, 1991). survey (Section 2.2.1, Step d). Use that stage and the
Using the correct regression equation, calculate Q2 current stage-to-discharge rating to find the
and compare this estimate to the discharge that discharge at bankfull stage, and validate by HEC­
corresponds to the 2-year recurrence interval (50 RAS analysis (see below).
percent probability of exceedance) from the Log • For discontinued gages, update and extend the rating
Pearson Type III flood-frequency analysis (Section to bankfull stage using Johnson’s method (Kennedy,
2.1.2, Step d). 1984), then extrapolate bankfull discharge from the
c. Calculate the bankfull discharge through the cross stage calculated at the gaging station. Because the
sections using the following equation: rating table at discontinued gages will likely be
Q = 1.486*A*R2/3*S1/2 (2) based on few (3-5 measurements), validate this
n estimate of bankfull discharge according to the
where Q = bankfull discharge, in cubic feet per second following steps:
A = bankfull cross-sectional area, in square feet 1. Use NCALC to determine Manning’s n at
R = bankfull hydraulic radius, in feet bankfull discharge, based on discharge from the
S = slope of riffle or run through cross section, in feet extended rating, channel bed elevations across each
per foot cross section, bankfull water-surface elevation at
each cross-section, and the distance along the
n = Manning's roughness coefficient
thalweg between cross sections.
Calculate n (roughness coefficient) for the above
2. Input Manning’s n and cross-sectional geometry
equation using one or both of the following two

into the computer program HEC-RAS (Army Corps

methods.

of Engineer’s Hydraulic Engineering Center River

• Hydraulic computations involving flow in open
Analysis System), and input a range of discharges
channels require an evaluation of the roughness
close in value to the original estimate for bankfull
characteristics of the channel (Coon, 1998; Jarrett
discharge. Choose the discharge that produces the
and Petsch, 1985). The selection of roughness
water surface slope closest to that measured in the
characteristics is subjective; therefore, a computer
field for bankfull slope.
program for determining values of n has been
3. If any of these methods of estimating bankfull
written, called NCALC (Jarrett and Petsch, 1985).
discharge does not fall within 10 percent of the
At discontinued gages only, enter the
others, examine the field data, input parameters, and
geomorphology data from each set of three cross
rating. If all of these are correct, compare the
sections and the discharge at the time of the survey
recurrence intervals for the estimated bankfull
into the USGS NCALC program to estimate n.
discharges and choose the discharge that best fits the
• At both active and discontinued gages, use the cross- expected range of bankfull recurrence intervals
section particle sizes to calculate the relative (1-3 years).
roughness (ratio of mean bankfull depth, d, to bed
material size, D84). Use the curve describing the
2.3.8 Create regional curves
relations of bed particle size to hydraulic resistance
(Rosgen, 1998) to obtain the friction factor (u/u*, or a. Once data have been collected from many streams
mean velocity divided by shear velocity) that within a given hydrophysiographic region, develop

10 Guidelines for Surveying Bankfull Channel Geometry and Developing Regional Hydraulic-Geometry Relations for Streams
of New York State
 regional equations for that region using the be allowed to leave the building. A sign-out sheet
following method: should be provided for files removed from the
1. Plot the bankfull discharge of each stream surveyed master file.
against its drainage area on a log-log scale. • Once field data are collected, the original copies of
2. Plot bankfull dimensions (width, depth, and cross- the data sheets should immediately be placed in the
sectional area) against drainage area on a log-log master file and copies made for later quality
scale. assurance and quality control (QA/QC) and analysis.
3. Run power-function regressions for each data set to • Only one person should be authorized to change field
obtain the equations for each curve. data. All changes should be initialed and dated.
Additional gages may be surveyed and added to the • Field personnel should consult a field-equipment
data set if the equation for any curve has an R2 value checklist before going to the field and again before
less than 0.9. Additionally, the range of drainage leaving the study site each day.
areas should be sufficiently large to cover the • Equipment should be inventoried at the beginning
anticipated use of the curves for assessment or and end of the field season and repairs and
management. The curves cannot be extrapolated replacements addressed as necessary.
beyond the range of the data on which they are
based.
b. Classify each gaged reach by Rosgen stream type
3. REFERENCES CITED
(Rosgen, 1996), using the following variables
calculated in Section 2.3: Annable, W.K., 1996, Morphologic relationships of
1. Water surface slope (2.3.2) rural watercourses in southern Ontario and
2. Entrenchment ratio (2.3.3) selected field methods in fluvial geomorphology:
3. Width-to-depth ratio (2.3.3) Queen's Printer for Ontario, 92 p.
4. Particle size distribution (D50) (2.3.4) Benson, M.A., and Dalrymple, Tate, 1967, General
5. Sinuosity (2.3.5) field and office procedures for indirect discharge
Use the classification to separate hydraulic-geometry measurements: U.S. Geological Survey
data by stream type, if appropriate. Techniques of Water Resources Investigations,
c. Once preliminary equations have been calculated, Book 3, Chapter A1,
evaluate the regional curves. Analyze data for 30 p.
outliers, reevaluate discharge estimates, and check Castro, J.M., and Jackson, P.L., 2001, Bankfull
all data and analyses for errors. If necessary, discharge recurrence intervals and regional
conduct a follow-up field visit and site inspection to hydraulic geometry relationships—patterns in the
reevaluate gage suitability and the validity of Pacific Northwest, USA: Journal of the American
bankfull estimates and gage-calibration analyses. If Water Resource Association, v. 37, no. 5, p. 1249­
circumstances are found that make the site unique, 1262.
and if the site is not represented in the regional Coon, W.F., 1998, Estimation of roughness
curves, identify it as such and describe these coefficients for natural stream channels with
conditions in a separate list of gages not used for vegetated banks: U.S. Geological Survey Water-
curve development Supply Paper 2441, 133 p.
Dalrymple, Tate, and Benson, M.A., 1967,
2.4 Administrative Guidelines Measurement of peak discharge by the slope-area
method: U.S. Geological Survey Techniques of
Use the following list of administrative items in Water Resources Investigations, Book 3, Chapter
developing regional curves and to ensure the reliability A2, 12 p.
of the gage-calibration data. Dunne, T., and Leopold, L.B., 1978, Water in
• A master file should be kept for each study reach in a environmental planning: San Francisco, CA, W.H.
central location. The master file should contain all Freeman, 818 p.
the gage data listed in Section 2.1, and all original Harrelson, C.C., Rawlins, C.L., and Potyondy, J.P.,
field data, including plots and analysis. Only 1994, Stream channel reference sites: an
photocopies of the information in these files should illustrated guide to field technique: USDA Forest

References Cited 11
 Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station, soilandwater/streammorphology.htm), accessed
General Technical Report RM-245, 67 p. March 6, 2003.
IACWD, 1982, Guidelines for determining flood flow Miller, S., and Powell, R.O., 1999, Bankfull discharge
frequency: Bulletin 17B of the Hydrology identification surveys for constructing regional
Subcommittee; Interagency Advisory Committee curves: New York City Department of
on Water Data, U.S. Geological Survey, Office of Environmental Protection, 16 p.
Water Data Coordination, 183 p. Miller, S., and Davis, D., in press, Optimizing Catskill
Jaquith, S., and Kline, M., 2001, Vermont regional Mountain regional bankfull discharge and
hydraulic geometry curves: Vermont Water hydraulic geometry relationships.
Quality Division, (http://www.anr.state.vt.us/dec/ Rantz, S.E., 1983, Measurement and computation of
waterq/Rivers/01hydraulicgeometrycurves.PDF), streamflow--volume 1. Measurement of stage and
accessed March 6, 2003. discharge: U.S. Geological Survey Water Supply
Jarrett, R.D., and Petsch, H.E., 1985, Computer Paper 2175, 284 p.
program NCALC user's manual—verification of Rosgen, D.L., 1994a, A classification of natural rivers:
Manning's Roughness Coefficient in channels: Catena, v. 22, no. 3, p. 169-199.
U.S. Geological Survey Water-Resources
Rosgen, D.L., 1994b, River Restoration Utilizing
Investigations Report 85-4317, 27 p.
Natural Stability Concepts: Land and Water, v. 38,
Kennedy, E.J., 1984, Discharge ratings at gaging no. 4, July/August 1994, p. 36-41.
stations: U.S. Geological Survey Techniques of
Rosgen, D.L., 1996, Applied River Morphology:
Water Resources Investigations, Book 3, Chapter
Pagosa Springs, CO, Wildland Hydrology, 388 p.
A10, 59 p.
Leopold, L.B., Wolman, M.G., and Miller, J.P., 1964, Rosgen, D.L., 1998, The reference reach field book:
Fluvial processes in geomorphology: San Pagosa Springs, CO, DLR Wildland Hydrology,
Francisco, CA, Freeman, 522 p. 209 p.
Leopold, L.B., 1994, A view of the river: Cambridge, U.S. Geological Survey, 1966, Topographic
MA, Harvard University Press, 298 p. instructions of the U.S. Geological Survey:
Lumia, R., 1991, Regionalization of flood discharges Leveling: Book 2, Part 2E1-2E5, 63 p.
for rural, unregulated streams in New York, White, K.E., 2001, Regional curve development and
excluding Long Island: U.S. Geological Survey selection of a references reach in the non-urban
Water-Resources Investigations Report 90-4197, lowland sections of the piedmont physiographic
119 p. province, Pennsylvania and Maryland:
Mecklenburg, Daniel, 2003, Reference Reach U.S. Geological Survey Water-Resources
Spreadsheet v2-2L (MS-Excel): Ohio Department Investigations Report 01-4146, 20 p.
of Natural Resources, (http://www.dnr.state.oh.us/

12 Guidelines for Surveying Bankfull Channel Geometry and Developing Regional Hydraulic-Geometry Relations for Streams
of New York State
 APPENDIXES

A. Field forms
1. Site inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

2. Site map. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

3. Longitudinal profile . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

4. Channel cross section.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

5. Pebble count . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

B. Quality-assurance/quality-control checklist:

Field Protocol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Appendixes 13
 A. Field Form 1: Site Inspection

Stream name ______________________________ Preliminary Reach Sketch *

at/near (location) __________________________
USGS Station no. __________________________
Date _____________________________________
Field crew (initials) ________________________
_________________________________________
Gage: continuous record crest-stage
Rating table available? yes no
Active gage? yes no
Regulated? yes no
Reference marks? yes no
Staff gage yes no
Other reference marks ______________________
_________________________________________
_________________________________________

SITE-RATING CRITERIA
0 = no or none 1 = slightly
2 = moderately 3 = yes or mostly

alluvial channel (bedrock negligible) ______

single channel ______
20 channel widths long ______
conforms to single stream type ______
channel in equilibrium ______
bankfull indicators present ______
gage in reach ______
TOTAL ______

NOTES
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
0
FEET
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________ * Include:
_____________________________________________
- North arrow - locations of reference marks and points
- staff - direction of flow
- intake - reach landmarks
- structures - gage house
- crest-stage gages - other pertinent features

14 Guidelines for Surveying Bankfull Channel Geometry and Developing Regional Hydraulic-Geometry Relations for Streams
of New York State
 A. Field Form 2: Site Map

Stream name ___________________________

at/near (location) _______________________
Date __________________________________
Team member _________ task ____________
_________ ____________
_________ ____________
_________ ____________
_________ ____________

Total number of bankfull flags: ____________

Key to site map :

__________ __________________________
__________ __________________________
__________ __________________________
__________ __________________________

Test Cross Sections

Test 1 Test 2 Test 3
Width: ________ _________ __________
Depth: ________ ________ __________

________ ________ __________

________ ________ __________
________ ________ __________
________ ________ __________
________ ________ __________
________ ________ __________
________ ________ __________
________ ________ __________
________ ________ __________
________ ________ __________
________ ________ __________
________ ________ __________
________ ________ __________
________ ________ __________
Mean
depth ________ ________ __________
AREA ________ ________ __________

Appendixes 15
p. _____of_____
A. Field Form 3: Longitudinal Profile
Stream name at/near (location) ____________________________________________________________________________
Date: ____________________________________________ Team member ______________ Task ____________________
Level position number: ____________________________ Team member ______________ Task ____________________
Notes ___________________________________________ Team member ______________ Task ____________________

Station
(feet from top of Backsight Height of Foresight
reach) (+) instrument (-) Elevation (ft) Description Comments

LBF left bankfull RBF right bankfull LEW left edge of water LFP left floodprone area
LBFH left bankfull high RBFH right bankfull high REW right edge of water RFP right floodprone area
LBFM left bankfull middle RBFM right bankfull middle LTOB left top bank RM reference mark
LBFL left bankfull low RBFL right bankfull low RTOB right top bank RP reference point
TOR top of riffle BOR bottom of riffle R rebar TH thalweg
TOP top of pool BOP bottom of pool TP turning point WS water surface

16 Guidelines for Surveying Bankfull Channel Geometry and Developing Regional Hydraulic-Geometry Relations for Streams
of New York State
p._____of_____
A. Field Form 4: Channel Cross Section
Stream name at/near (location) _____________________________________________________________________
Date:_________________________________________ Team member ____________ Task _________________
Cross section station:____________________________ Team member ____________ Task _________________
Level position number: __________________________ Team member ____________ Task _________________
Notes __________________________________________________________________________________________

Station Backsight Height of Foresight

(feet from tape) (+) instrument (-) Elevation (ft) Description Comments

LBF left bankfull RBF right bankfull LEW left edge of water LFP left floodprone area
LBFH left bankfull high RBFH right bankfull high REW right edge of water RFP right floodprone area
LBFM left bankfull middle RBFM right bankfull middle LTOB left top bank RM reference mark
LBFL left bankfull low RBFL right bankfull low RTOB right top bank RP reference point
TOR top of riffle BOR bottom of riffle R rebar TH thalweg
TOP top of pool BOP bottom of pool TP turning point WS water surface

Appendixes 17
p. _____of_____
A. Field Form 5: Pebble Count
Stream name at/near (location) _____________________________________________________________________
Date: Team member ________________________ Task __________________
Notes ______________________________________ Team member _____________ Task __________________

Enter intermediate axis (mm) for each field except as noted below:
F, fine (< 1 mm) C, clay or mud BR, bedrock * on bank
Riffle Count #1
Cross
section
(feet)

______

______

______

Riffle Count #2
Cross
section
(feet)

______

______

______

Station Longitudinal Profile

(feet)
______
______
______
______
______
______
______
______
______
______

18 Guidelines for Surveying Bankfull Channel Geometry and Developing Regional Hydraulic-Geometry Relations for Streams
of New York State
 B. QA/QC Checklist: Field Protocol

Reviewer: _______________________________ Date:

Stream _________________________________ USGS gage no.

Preliminary reconnaissance (Section 2.1.1 - 2.2.1):

Verify that all necessary data have been recorded or are filed in the site folder.

Site map (Field Form 2):

• The site map should include:

boundaries of study reach and locations of cross sections
location of gage house, staff plate, reference marks
locations of flagged features
locations of stream features (pools, riffles, bars, bedrock, high vertical banks, flood plains,

terraces, vegetation, etc.)

manmade features (dams, utilities, bridges, culverts, rip-rap, etc.)

clear explanation of map symbols
distance scale and north arrow
NOTES

Longitudinal profile (Field Form 3):

• The longitudinal profile should:

start on USGS reference mark
be stationed along thalweg
include elevation of thalweg, water surface, and bankfull for all flagged bankfull indicators described on
the site map (Field Form 2, Appendix A)

• Survey must:
start and and end at the same type of feature
include at least two meander wavelengths, or two sequences of pool/riffle features, or the surveyed
channel segments should be at least 20 average bankfull widths in length

• All surveyed points should have an adequate description (Field Form 3, Appendix A)

Appendixes 19
 B. QA/QC Checklist: Field Protocol (continued)

Longitudinal profile (Field Form 3-continued):

• Survey should include key features such as:

USGS reference mark with elevation
top and bottom of geomorphic features
maximum pool depths
staff plate
gage intake pipe
closeout point
cross-section reference mark

• Closeout survey must be within allowable error: E = 0.007 (total survey distance / 100) 1/2
NOTES

Channel cross section (Field Form 4):

1 2 3 4 5 6 7
At least one cross section has been surveyed in riffle/run areas
The cross section begins with a backsight to a reference mark or a point of known elevation
The cross section includes the entire channel and the adjacent flood-prone area
The cross section has been photographed (both banks; also from up- and downstream)
All points have been described in Field Form 4
NOTES

Pebble counts (Field Form 5):

One pebble count includes sampling of 100 particles from bed material collected from all bed features
(riffles/pools) from at least 10 cross sections that are uniformly spaced throughout the study reach
Other pebble counts include a sampling of 100 particles from bed material in riffles/runs where cross
sections were surveyed.
NOTES

20 Guidelines for Surveying Bankfull Channel Geometry and Developing Regional Hydraulic-Geometry Relations for Streams
of New York State