Publication Summary

This is the study plan for the Nooksack Basin prediction of gaged flows by modeling.

The Washington State Department of Ecology (Ecology) is proposing a study to evaluate Ecology streamflow monitoring gages in the Water Resource Inventory Area (WRIA) 1 watershed. This watershed is also referred to as the Nooksack watershed planning area. It is located in the northwest corner of Washington State.

To predict flows at those stations, simple regression-based models will be developed and applied. In addition, regulatory flow control stations will be evaluated to determine the feasibility of applying simple models to estimate flow at the control stations where current or historic flow data are available. The existing TOPNET hydrologic model will also be evaluated for possible use to predict flows at Ecology flow monitoring and control stations.

The quality of all models applied will be evaluated, and recommendations will be made for use of the models for water management by Ecology and the WRIA 1 Planning Unit. The Planning Unit is comprised of representatives of local tribes, governments, and citizens.

Each study conducted by Ecology must have an approved Quality Assurance Project Plan. The plan describes the objectives of the study and the procedures to be followed to achieve those objectives. After completion of the study, a final report describing the study results will be posted to the Internet.