Water Stewardship Information Sources
| Citation | Hudson, R and Fraser, J. 2002. Alternative methods of flow rating in small coastal streams. Forest Research Extension Note EN-014. Vancouver Forest Region. |
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| Organization | FLNRO |
| URL | https://www.for.gov.bc.ca/rco/research/hydroreports/EN014.pdf |
| Abstract/Description or Keywords | Dilution is one of three standard methods for measuring streamflow in natural channels. The basic concept is to add a measured quantity of a tracer to the flow and then observe its concentration at a point downstream. The greater the flow, the more dilute the tracer will be for a given quantity added. Although not routinely used at present, dilution may have the potential to be a reliable alternative method of measuring streamflow in turbulent channels. Trials were conducted using salt dilution at several creeks in the Tsitika River watershed of Vancouver Island and the Roberts Creek area on the Sunshine Coast of BC. The methodologies of application and measurement were studied, and the results compared with results achieved using the other two standard methods, current metering and weir rating. For accuracy, the dilution method compared favorably with current metering for measuring small turbulent streams, and offered several practical and cost advantages. Overall, the results validate salt dilution as a viable alternative to use where current metering is not suitable |
| Information Type | report |
| Regional Watershed | Vancouver Island North, Sunshine Coast |
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| Project status | complete |
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