An analysis of stream temperatures, Green River Basin, Wyoming

Water-Resources Investigations Report 78-13
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Abstract

A method for estimating temperatures of streams in the Green River basin, Wyoming, utilizes a regional model for estimating mean daily temperatures of streams at unmeasured sites. The regional model was developed by describing annual temperature patterns at 43 measured sites and by applying the harmonic function T = M + A -sin (0.0172 t + C)- where: T is mean daily temperature; M, A, and C are harmonic coefficients calculated from data for each stream-temperature station; and t is the day of the water year. Application of the equation for estimating temperatures at unmeasured sites requires regionalized estimates of M, A, and C. Regional estimates were developed with the aid of multiple-regression techniques, whereby the calculated harmonic coefficients were regressed against physical and climatic characteristics of the stream-temperature stations. Stream elevation was a significant factor affecting water temperature. Analysis of areal and temporal variations in temperature showed that springs, irrigation return flows, and reservoir storage were affecting reaches of several major streams. (Woodard-USGS)
Publication type Report
Publication Subtype USGS Numbered Series
Title An analysis of stream temperatures, Green River Basin, Wyoming
Series title Water-Resources Investigations Report
Series number 78-13
DOI 10.3133/wri7813
Edition -
Year Published 1978
Language ENGLISH
Publisher U.S. Geological Survey, Water Resources Division,
Description vi, 41 p. :ill., maps ;26 cm.
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