Techniques for estimating peak flow on small streams in Minnesota

Water-Resources Investigations Report 97-4249
Prepared in cooperation with the Minnesota Department of Transportation
By: , and 

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Abstract

Two statistically-derived techniques, regional regression equation and region of influence regression, that estimate peak flow on small, ungaged streams in Minnesota were developed. Both techniques relate physical and climatic characteristics to peak flow for 2-, 5-, 10-, 25-, 50-, and 100-year recurrence intervals.

Regional regression equations were developed for each recurrence interval in each of six regions in Minnesota. The region of influence regression technique dynamically selects stations with characteristics similar to a site of interest. Thus, the region of influence regression technique allows use of a potentially unique set of stations for estimating peak flow at each site of interest. Two methods of selecting streamflow gaging stations, similarity and proximity, are recommended for use in the region of influence regression technique.

The regional regression equation technique is recommended as a first estimate of peak flow in regions C, E, and F. The similarity method of the region of influence regression technique should be used as a first estimate in regions A and D. The proximity method should be used as a first estimate in region B.

Tables showing the peak-flow-frequency data and basin characteristics for streamflow gaging stations, and regional peak-flow prediction equations, are documented.

Study Area

Publication type Report
Publication Subtype USGS Numbered Series
Title Techniques for estimating peak flow on small streams in Minnesota
Series title Water-Resources Investigations Report
Series number 97-4249
DOI 10.3133/wri974249
Year Published 1997
Language English
Publisher U.S. Geological Survey
Publisher location Mounds View, MN
Contributing office(s) Minnesota Water Science Center
Description Document: ii, 41 p.; Downloadable zip files
Country United States
State Minnesota
Online Only (Y/N) N
Additional Online Files (Y/N) N
Google Analytic Metrics Metrics page
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