What is stream flow and what does it measure?
Stream flow is the volume of water passing a specified point along a river or stream. Stream flow is typically measured in units of cubic feet per second to define instantaneous flow rates, or in acre-feet to define the total volume of water over longer periods of time. Scientists have long established useful relationships between measured snow pack levels and ensuing stream flow volumes so that winter and spring snowpack measurements result in reasonably accurate predictions of spring and summer stream flow from Colorado’s mountain rivers and streams. In Colorado’s water law system, accurate measurements of stream flow are critical for determining how much water is available to each water owner. Hydrologists and engineers also track stream flow carefully in order to determine how large to build structures such as bridges, culverts, canals, dams and spillways to safely convey water from snowmelt and from heavy rains. How will this drought affect the average Colorado resident? The water
