| Abstract: | We have conducted a series of proof-of-concept experiments to demonstrate whether it is possible to make completely non-contact open-channel discharge measurements. After an extensive evaluation of potential technologies, we concluded a combination of high-frequency (microwave) radar (for measuring surface velocity) and low-frequency radar (ground-penetrating radar) for measuring channel cross-section, had the best chance for success. The first experiment in 1999 on the Skagit River, Washington, using non-contact methods, produced a discharge value nearly exactly the same as from an ADCP and current meter. Surface-velocity data were converted to mean velocity based on measurements of the velocity profile (multiplied by 0.85), and radar signal speed in impure fresh water was measured to be 0.11-0.12 ft/ns. The weak link was thought to be the requirement to suspend the GPR antenna over the water, which required a bridge or cableway. Two contractors, expert with radar, were unsuccessful in field experiments to measure channel cross-section from the riverbank. Another series of experiments were designed to demonstrate whether both radar systems could be mounted on a helicopter, flown back and forth across a river, and provide data to compute flow. In Sept. 2000 and May 2001, a series of helicopter flights with mounted radar systems successfully measured surface velocity and channel cross-section of the Cowlitz River, Washington. |
| Genre: | Conference Paper |
| ProdID: | 70023973 |
| Citation Author: | Costa, J. E.; Cheng, R. T.; Haeni, F. P.; Melcher, N. B.; Spicer, K. R.; W, J.; Keller, W. C.; Hayes, K. |
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| Citation Editor: | Wahl T.L.Pugh C.A.Oberg K.A.Vermeyen T.B.Wahl T.L.Pugh C.A.Oberg K.A.Vermeyen T.B. |
| Citation End Page: | 9 |
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| Citation Language: | English |
| Citation Larger Work Title: | Hydraulic Measurements and Experimental Methods |
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| Citation Number Of Pages: | 9 |
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| Citation Search Results Text: | Looking to the Future: Non-contact Methods for Measuring Streamflow; 2002; Conference Paper; Hydraulic Measurements and Experimental Methods; Costa, J. E.; Cheng, R. T.; Haeni, F. P.; Melcher, N. B.; Spicer, K. R.; W, J.; Keller, W. C.; Hayes, K. |
| Citation Start Page: | 1 |
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| Citation Year: | 2002 |
| Type: | citation/reference |
| Text: | Looking to the Future: Non-contact Methods for Measuring Streamflow; 2002; Conference Paper; Hydraulic Measurements and Experimental Methods; Costa, J. E.; Cheng, R. T.; Haeni, F. P.; Melcher, N. B.; Spicer, K. R.; W, J.; Keller, W. C.; Hayes, K. |
| URL (THUMBNAIL): | http://pubs.er.usgs.gov/thumbnails/outside_thumb.jpg |
| Date Other: | Tue, 1 Jan 2002 00:00 -0600 |
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