USGS Gauge
Reviewed • Standard Hydrology Definition • WaterLakeLevel
# USGS Gauge
A USGS gauge is an automated physical monitoring installation operated by the U.S. Geological Survey.
1. Still Well or Pressure Transducer: Dampens wave action to measure true static water levels accurately.
2. Shaft Encoder / Submersible Sensor: Translates water height into electronic digital signals.
3. Data Collection Platform (DCP): An on-site microcomputer that logs readings at 15-minute intervals.
4. GOES Satellite Antenna: Transmits telemetry bursts to NOAA satellites for public distribution on the web.
An automated hydrologic monitoring station operated by the U.S. Geological Survey to measure water levels and discharge.
How a USGS Lake Gauge Operates
A USGS gauge is an automated physical monitoring installation operated by the U.S. Geological Survey.
Core Components of a Gauge Station:
1. Still Well or Pressure Transducer: Dampens wave action to measure true static water levels accurately.
2. Shaft Encoder / Submersible Sensor: Translates water height into electronic digital signals.
3. Data Collection Platform (DCP): An on-site microcomputer that logs readings at 15-minute intervals.
4. GOES Satellite Antenna: Transmits telemetry bursts to NOAA satellites for public distribution on the web.
Explore Other Hydrology & Boating Terms
Acre-Foot
A volumetric water unit representing the amount of water required to cover one acre of land to a depth of one foot.
Conservation Pool
The volume of water stored in a reservoir dedicated to beneficial uses such as drinking water, power, and recreation.
Datum
A reference surface or mathematical baseline from which vertical elevations or geographic coordinates are reckoned.
Dead Pool
The critical low-water elevation below which water cannot flow downstream through gravity outlets.
Drawdown
The deliberate or natural reduction of a lake or reservoir water surface elevation.
Evaporation Loss
The invisible volumetric loss of water from a lake surface into the atmosphere caused by heat, sun, and dry winds.