Stream Gaging Network

Purpose

To support the continuous monitoring of streamflows on key streams and rivers in Kansas. This information serves multiple purposes for public and private entities, and the general public.  

History

Streamflows have been measured and interpreted in Kansas since 1895. 

Streamgaging has a vital role in reservoir operating decisions made by the KWO and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) to most efficiently schedule reservoir releases. Flow data is also used by state agencies to track trends in runoff, sediment transport and water quality parameters. Water right administration relies on accurate streamflow information, as does drought and flood planning.  

Timeline

This is an ongoing project.

Current Updates

KWO continues to contract with U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) to operate 70 continuous record stations (including three reservoir stations and three ground-water monitoring wells) at locations across the state. Access to USGS data is provided through the Internet and includes near real-time information about stream and river conditions across the state of Kansas. 

To access the current water data for Kansas, please click here.

Funding

Stream gages are funded through the State Water Plan Fund receiving $350,000 for FY 2018. USGS also contributes money to the cost of operations of the stream gages. Other federal, state and local agencies contribute cooperative funding, as do some private entities, such as Westar.

Project Manager

Katie Goff