Section 3: Other Data Sources
Anchor: #i1000594Highway Stream Crossing Design Data Sources
Use a combination of the following sources to obtain data in the design of highway stream crossings, including the following:
- site investigations and field surveys
- files of federal agencies such as the National Weather Service, USGS (U.S. Geological Survey), and NRCS. (Note: NRCS was formerly the Soil Conservation Service.)
- files of state and local agencies such as TxDOT files, Texas water agencies, and various regional and municipal planning organizations
- other published reports and documents
- the Texas Natural Resource Information System (TNRIS)
Compile streamflow, land use, and other required data from the sources mentioned above. For a list of appropriate agency addresses, see References.
Anchor: #i1000643Streamflow Data
The primary source of streamflow information in Texas is USGS, the agency charged with collecting and disseminating this data. USGS collects data at stream-gauging stations statewide.
The USGS Internet site provides direct access to stream gauge data.
The Corps of Engineers (USACE) and the Bureau of Reclamation also collect streamflow data. Other sources of data include local utility companies, water-intensive industries, and academic or research institutions.
The International Boundary and Water Commission collects and compiles streamflow data along the Rio Grande and some tributaries.
Anchor: #i1000672Climatological Data
The National Weather Service (NWS) has a wealth of climatological data, specifically rainfall data. NWS issues periodic reports to the public and agencies such as TxDOT. NWS also publishes reports concerning reduced data that the designer can use as analytical tools.