U.S. Department of the Interior

U.S. Geological Survey

Open-File Report 2007–1265

Sediment Quality-Assurance Plan for the New Mexico 

Water Science Center of the U.S. Geological Survey
Sediment Quality-Assurance Plan for the 

New Mexico Water Science Center of the 

U.S. Geological Survey

By J. Stiles and D. Michael Roark

Open-File Report 2007–1265

U.S. Department of the Interior

U.S. Geological Survey
U.S. Department of the Interior

DIRK KEMPTHORNE, Secretary

U.S. Geological Survey

Mark D. Myers, Director

U.S. Geological Survey, Reston, Virginia 2007

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Suggested citation:

Stiles, J., and Roark, D.M., 2007, Sediment quality-assurance plan for the New Mexico Water Science Center of the 

U.S. Geological Survey: U.S. Geological Survey Open-File Report 2007-1265, 19 p.

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endorsement by the U.S. Government.

Although this report is in the public domain, permission must be secured from the individual 

copyright owners to reproduce any copyrighted material contained within this report.

ii
iii

Contents

Conversion Factors.......................................................................................................................................iv

Abstract...........................................................................................................................................................1

Introduction.....................................................................................................................................................1

 Responsibilities ......................................................................................................................................1

Collection of Sediment Data ........................................................................................................................3

 Sampling Procedures............................................................................................................................3

 Field Forms........................................................................................................................................3

 Equipment..........................................................................................................................................4

 Sample Handling and Storage.......................................................................................................4

 Cold-Weather Conditions .....................................................................................................................4

 Site Documentation...............................................................................................................................4

Processing and Analysis of Sediment Data ..............................................................................................5

 Compilation of Data ...............................................................................................................................5

 Analysis of Data .....................................................................................................................................5

Sediment Station Analysis............................................................................................................................6

 Quality-Assurance Review of Sediment Records ............................................................................7

 Sediment Analysis Results...................................................................................................................7

 Sediment Data Storage.........................................................................................................................7

References Cited............................................................................................................................................7

Appendix..........................................................................................................................................................8
iv

Conversion Factors

Multiply By To obtain

Length

inch (in.) 2.54 centimeter (cm)

inch (in.) 25.4 millimeter (mm)

foot (ft) 0.3048 meter (m)

mile (mi) 1.609 kilometer (km)

Area

acre 4,047 square meter (m2)

acre 0.4047 hectare (ha)

acre 0.4047 square hectometer (hm2) 

acre 0.004047 square kilometer (km2)

square mile (mi2) 259.0 hectare (ha)

square mile (mi2) 2.590 square kilometer (km2) 

Flow rate

cubic foot per second (ft3/s) 0.02832 cubic meter per second (m3/s)

Temperature in degrees Celsius (°C) may be converted to degrees Fahrenheit (°F) as follows:

°F=(1.8×°C)+32

Vertical coordinate information is referenced to the insert datum name (and abbreviation) here for 

instance, “North American Vertical Datum of 1988 (NAVD 88).”

Horizontal coordinate information is referenced to the insert datum name (and abbreviation) here for 

instance, “North American Datum of 1983 (NAD 83).”
Abstract

This report describes a sediment quality-assurance 

plan for the U.S. Geological Survey, New Mexico Water 

Science Center (WSC), to assure that standard procedures for 

collecting, storing, shipping, and processing are followed. The 

plan also serves as a guide for all WSC personnel involved in 

sediment activities.

Introduction

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) was established by 

an act of Congress on March 3, 1879, to provide a permanent 

Federal agency to perform the systematic and scientific 

“classification of the public lands, and examination of the 

geologic structure, mineral resources, and products of the 

national domain.” Sediment activities in the New Mexico 

Water Science Center (WSC) are part of the overall mission of 

the Water Resources Division (WRD) to assess the Nation’s 

water resources. Sediment information is used at the Federal, 

State, and local levels for resource planning and management.

This report describes the field standards, policies, 

and procedures used by the USGS New Mexico WSC, 

for activities related to the collection, processing, storage, 

analysis, and publication of sediment data and identify 

responsibilities for ensuring that stated policies and procedures 

are carried out. In addition, issues related to the management 

of employee safety and training are presented. Although 

procedures and products of interpretive projects are subject 

to the criteria presented in this report, specific interpretive 

projects are required to have a separate and complete 

Quality Assurance (QA) plan. This QA plan is reviewed and 

revised at least once every 3 years so that responsibilities 

and methodologies are kept current and ongoing procedural 

improvements can be effectively documented.

Responsibilities

Quality assurance is an active process. High-quality 

standards for surface-water data are achieved and maintained 

by specific actions carried out by specific people; errors 

and deficiencies can result when individuals fail to carry 

out their responsibilities. Clear and specific statements of 

responsibilities promote an understanding of each person’s 

duties in the overall process of assuring high-quality sediment 

data. The following is a list of general responsibilities of WSC 

personnel involved in the project management, collection, 

processing, storage, analysis, or publication of sediment data. 

The Water Science Center Director is 

responsible for the following:

•	 Managing and directing the WSC program, including 

all sediment activities.

•	 Ensuring that sediment activities in the WSC meet the 

needs of the federal Government, the New Mexico 

WSC, State and local agencies, other cooperating 

agencies, and the general public.

•	 Ensuring that all aspects of this QA plan are 

understood and followed by WSC personnel by the 

WSC Director’s direct involvement or by clearly stated 

delegation of this responsibility to other personnel in 

the WSC.

•	 Providing final resolution of any conflicts or disputes 

related to sediment activities within the WSC.

•	 Keeping subordinates briefed on procedural and 

technical communications from regional offices and 

headquarters.

•	 Performing quarterly technical reviews of all sediment 

programs.

•	 Ensuring that all publications and other technical 

communications released by the WSC are accurate and 

in accord with USGS policy.

Sediment Quality-Assurance Plan for the New Mexico 

Water Science Center of the U.S. Geological Survey

By J. Stiles and D. Michael Roark 
2 Sediment Quality-Assurance Plan for the New Mexico Water Science Center of the U.S. Geological Survey

The Associate Water Science Center Director 

is responsible for the following:

•	 Making binding commitments for the WSC and 

implementing policies established by the WSC 

Director.

•	 Directing operations in the absence of the WSC 

Director.

•	 Advising the Regional and Chief Hydrologists on all 

phases of water resources in the State of New Mexico.

•	 Ensuring that all sediment data-collection activities 

completed by the Investigations Section meet the 

standards established by the USGS and the New 

Mexico WSC.

The Assistant Water Science Center Director 

(Data Chief) is responsible for the following:

•	 Assisting the WSC Director in the scientific, technical, 

and administrative direction of all sediment-resources 

programs of the WSC.

•	 Maintaining a close working relationship with Field 

Office Chiefs.

•	 Assuring data collection and processing are in 

accordance with WSC, WRD, and USGS policies.

•	 Meeting with cooperators to ensure that the data 

program is viable and fulfills the mission of the USGS.

The Surface Water Specialist is responsible 

for the following:

•	 Technically reviewing project proposals that contain 

sediment data collection or interpretation.

•	 Reviewing sediment data-collection methods of 

the Data and Investigation Sections, and reviewing 

approximately 10 percent of computed sediment 

records each year. 

•	 Providing technical training as needed to personnel of 

the Data and Investigations Sections.

•	 Ensuring personnel are trained in correct procedures to 

collect sediment samples.

•	 Ensuring correct procedures are being used by 

performing a site trip with personnel collecting 

sediment samples or by discussing procedures and 

problems at meetings held once or twice each year. 

Documentation on procedures and problems will be 

distributed to appropriate personnel. 

•	 Providing answers to questions from WSC personnel 

concerning sediment-sampling techniques.

The Field Office Chief is responsible for the 

following:

•	 Designing data-collection activities.

•	 Assuring the accuracy of gaging-station records.

•	 Ensuring personnel use correct procedures to collect 

sediment samples.

•	 Providing leadership for staff members.

•	 Maintaining expertise in all phases of data collection, 

compilation, and computation.

•	 Providing on-the-job training (OJT) and formal training 

for subordinates.

The Sediment Project Chief is responsible for 

the following:

•	 Assisting the Field Office Chief in the design of datacollection activities.

•	 Assisting the Field Office Chief in providing OJT in 

records computation, field work, and surveying.

•	 Ensuring that appropriate equipment is used at all 

sampling sites.

•	 Reviewing the field and records work of field personnel 

and ensuring accuracy of data.

•	 Transferring sample data from Sediment Laboratory 

Environmental Data System (SLEDS) into Water 

Quality System (QWDATA) database.

•	 Reviewing all aspects of sediment data publications, 

including the annual data report and National Water 

Information System (NWIS) web.

The Field Hydrologic Technician or 

Hydrologist is responsible for the following:

•	 Scheduling sediment-collection activities at specific 

sites.

•	 Ensuring that appropriate equipment is used at all 

sampling sites.

•	 Collecting cross-sectional samples using the equal 

width increment (EWI) method.

•	 Installing, serving, and maintaining automatic pump 

samplers.

•	 Logging sample data into QWDATA.

•	 Computing sediment records and writing station 

descriptions and analyses.

•	 Entering daily mean concentrations and loads into 

NWIS and preparing the manuscript for the annual 

data report.
Collection of Sediment Data 3

The Safety Officer is responsible for the 

following:

•	 Disseminating safety information to WSC personnel.

•	 Making periodic inspections of all working areas in the 

WSC and field offices.

•	 Maintaining a WSC library of safety information.

•	 Organizing safety training classes and overseeing the 

WSC Safety Committee.

Collection of Sediment Data

Sediment activities in the New Mexico WSC include the 

collection, processing, analysis, and publication of sediment 

data. The New Mexico WSC operates in adherence to policies 

related to sediment set forth by the Office of Surface Water 

(OSW).

Responsibility for the sediment discipline was transferred 

from the Office of Water Quality (OWQ) to the OSW in 1985 

(Office of Surface Water memorandum 92.08). The policies 

and procedures related to sediment followed by the New 

Mexico WSC are described in selected WRD publications 

and in memorandums issued by OSW, OWQ, and the WRD. 

Techniques adopted by the USGS and followed by this WSC 

are presented in Knott and others (1992). The New Mexico 

WSC also follows procedures presented in three publications 

from the series “Techniques of Water-Resources Investigations 

of the U.S. Geological Survey” (TWRI):

Book 3, Chapter C1--”Fluvial Sediment Concepts” (Guy, 

1969),

Book 3, Chapter C2--”Field Methods for Measurement of 

Fluvial Sediment” (Edwards, and Glysson, 1999).

Book 3, Chapter C3--”Computation of Fluvial-Sediment 

Discharge” (Porterfield, 1972).

Sampling Procedures

The New Mexico WSC has a unique sediment program 

wherein several sites are set up to collect suspended-sediment 

samples every day by using an automatic pump sampler. For 

selection, installation, and use of the automatic samplers, the 

WSC follows the criteria described in Edwards and Glysson 

(1999, p. 32). 

The automatic samplers are serviced approximately 

every 24 days, at which time three manual pump samples are 

collected in addition to two cross-section samples by use of 

the equal width increment (EWI) method. These two crosssection samples are used to determine a reference coefficient 

with the point samples collected from the automatic sampler. 

The cross-section samples are collected by using OSW 

approved samplers. The samples should be taken as close 

as possible to the sampler intake to avoid having the point 

sample and the cross-section samples collected under different 

hydrologic conditions.

At various sites a monthly total-load sediment sample is 

collected. This sample consists of both a suspended-sediment 

size sample and a bed-material sample. Both of these samples 

are collected by using the EWI sampling method and analyzed 

for particle-size distribution. Policy for the collection and 

publication of bedload data is provided in OSW memorandum 

90.08.

Turbidity samples are also collected monthly at various 

sites. Collection consists of a composite cross-section sample 

that is placed in a churn. The composite sample is churned 

at a uniform rate by raising and lowering the disk inside the 

churn splitter with smooth, even strokes. While churning, the 

disk should touch the bottom and should not break the surface 

of the water. The churning rate should be about 9-inches per 

second (U.S. Geological Survey, National Field Manual for 

the Collection of Water-Quality Data, Book 9). The sample is 

then poured through the churn spigot into a 500 mL bottle that 

must be kept cool. An additional cross-section sample must be 

collected for concentration analysis.

Field Forms

The New Mexico WSC has created two field forms that 

technician are required to fill out each time a site is visited 

for the purpose of sediment sampling; one is the Automatic 

Sampler Field Form and the other is Sediment Data Collection 

Field Notes. The forms are available on the New Mexico 

WSC data server. An example of each field form is in the 

Appendix at the end of this report. The technician completes 

each field form in its entirety before leaving the site. Original 

observations written on the field forms are not to be erased; 

data are corrected by crossing out the original observations 

and writing the correct information near the original value. 

The goal of placing information on the field form sheet is to 

describe the equipment and methods used during the site visit 

as well as to describe relevant conditions or changes (Office of 

Surface Water memorandum 91.15). 

For the Automatic Sampler Field Form, information on 

the field form includes, at minimum, site identification, and 

field personnel name, date, and time. If an automatic pump 

sampler is installed, notes should include status of pump 

sampler and whether on standby or in an active program. 

Notes should include number, date, and time of each sample 

collected by the machine. Notes should also indicate if clean 

sample containers were replaced in the machine as well as any 

problems with the pump sampler or sampler intake line.

The Sediment Data Collection Field Notes includes, at 

minimum, site identification; field personnel name, date, and 

time; location of the cross-section sample in relation to the 

pump sampler; sampling equipment; and sampling method. 

The weather conditions and sampling location should also be 

indicated. 
4 Sediment Quality-Assurance Plan for the New Mexico Water Science Center of the U.S. Geological Survey

Upon completion of each field trip, the field forms are 

placed in the site-record folder. Field notes are checked by the 

Sediment Project Chief after each field trip. 

Equipment

Care and maintenance of the sediment data-collection 

equipment are the responsibility of field personnel who 

use the specific equipment. Parts replacement and repair of 

damaged equipment are accomplished by the personnel who 

use the specific equipment. Replacement nozzles and seals 

are obtained from the Sediment Project Chief, and damaged 

equipment is turned over to the Sediment Project Chief for 

repair. It is the responsibility of the Sediment Project Chief 

and field personnel to ensure that appropriate equipment is 

used at all sampling sites. Sampling equipment is selected 

based on the constituents that are being investigated, the type 

of analyses that need to be performed, and site conditions, 

including velocity and maximum depth of water. The WSC 

follows equipment-design criteria and guidelines referenced in 

Office of Surface Water memorandum 93.01.

Sample Handling and Storage

The quality of sediment data provided by a sediment 

laboratory is affected by the quality of the samples received 

from the field. The New Mexico WSC personnel are required 

to prepare sample labels, analysis instructions, and sample 

documentation according to guidelines presented in Knott and 

others (1992).

Prior to being used on field trips, sample containers 

are stored inside boxes in the sediment laboratory. During 

field trips, sample containers are stored in plastic crates or 

sample holders, and bottles are sealed with plastic caps. After 

a sample container has been filled with a sediment sample, 

the container is stored for the remainder of the field trip in a 

plastic crate or sampler holder and is protected from freezing 

temperatures. After the field trip, the sample containers are 

given to the New Mexico WSC Laboratory within 1 week of 

collection for further handling. All sample containers given 

to the laboratory must contain a field-form sheet. After the 

laboratory receives the sample containers laboratory personnel 

decide where the sample containers go next. All concentration 

and sand-fine split samples are processed in the New Mexico 

WSC Laboratory. All full size and bed-material samples are 

shipped to the Iowa WSC Laboratory. The samples that are 

processed in the New Mexico WSC Laboratory are processed 

within 2 weeks; if it will take longer than 2 weeks, the sample 

containers are stored in a cool dark place to prevent algae 

growth and are then processed as soon as possible.

Cold-Weather Conditions

When conditions are cold enough, it may be necessary 

to move the sampling equipment quickly when outside of the 

water to avoid ice build up that could clog the nozzle. Care 

also must be taken to ensure the samples do not freeze while 

being transported to the laboratory. When unloading samples 

from the pump sampler, technicians should note whether or 

not the sample bottles are frozen; the sample intake line should 

also be checked for signs of freezing.

Site Documentation

A station description is prepared in the Station 

Information Management System (SIMS) for each new 

sediment-sampling site. At sampling sites where streamflowgaging activities occur, the description of sediment activities is 

included in the gaging-station description. Elements found in 

the gaging-station description are as follows:

•	 location: latitude, longitude, county, location in 

reference to stream

•	 road log: detailed directions to the site

•	 drainage area

•	 establishment and history

•	 gage: equipment installed

•	 control

•	 discharge measurements- applicable types, wading, 

bridge or cable way

•	 floods

•	 point of zero flow

•	 winter flow: if operational during winter months

•	 regulations and diversions

•	 accuracy of records

•	 cooperation

•	 map: name of the 7-1⁄2 minute topographic map

•	 reference marks

•	 land ownership.

At sites where sediment samples are collected, the station 

descriptions are structured similarly to those for streamflowgaging stations, with the following additional elements 

pertaining to the sediment portion:

•	 establishment

•	 cooperation

•	 equipment

•	 sampling program.
Processing and Analysis of Sediment Data 5

 At sampling sites where gage houses have been installed, 

station descriptions are kept in the gage house to provide field 

personnel with information pertinent to sediment-sampling 

procedures for that particular site. Station descriptions are 

also included in the field folder and are maintained in the 

office files. Each description includes specific information 

explaining where the site samples are to be collected and what 

method is to be used.

The responsibility of ensuring that field copies of station 

descriptions located at gage houses are kept current is held by 

field personnel assigned to regularly run specific field trips. 

Station descriptions are kept current by annual review and 

updating. When a deficiency is identified during the review 

of station descriptions, the deficiency is corrected by the field 

personnel. Field personnel are responsible for ensuring the 

corrected deficiencies have been documented in the sedimentstation descriptions.

At sampling sites with a gage house, a log of sampling 

activities is kept. The log will contain information about 

sample collection, servicing of automatic pump samplers, 

equipment problems, and flow conditions for each visit to the 

site.

Processing and Analysis of Sediment 

Data

Sediment and associated streamflow data are compiled to 

produce sediment records for specific sites. Data processing 

of periodic measurements consists of four steps: tabulation, 

evaluation, editing, and verification (Office of Surface Water 

memorandum 91.15). The WSC follows the considerations 

and guidelines presented in Porterfield (1972), Guy (1969), 

and Office of Surface Water memorandum 91.15 in carrying 

out these four steps.

The Sediment Project Chief is responsible for ensuring 

that appropriate procedures are correctly applied in processing 

sediment data. During the time the sediment data are 

being processed for the year, and after the record has been 

completed, field notes and work sheets for each site are 

maintained in the New Mexico WSC sediment laboratory.

Compilation of Data

The New Mexico WSC laboratory is equipped to 

analyze sediment samples for concentration and percent as 

of sand/silt breaks only. Analyses are performed on samples 

submitted by the New Mexico WSC sediment data-collection 

program, other New Mexico WSC projects, and other Federal 

agencies. The laboratory receives a triennial onsite review 

by appropriate technical or management personnel from 

the OSW. These reviews examine all aspects of laboratory 

operations (Knott and others, 1993, p. 14).

A copy of the New Mexico sediment laboratory QA plan 

is kept in the WSC sediment laboratory. The plan describes 

the equipment, specifications, calibration and maintenance, 

and the protocol for methods used in the analyses of fluvial 

sediment for concentration or sand/silt breaks.

Primary responsibility for ensuring that appropriate 

equipment and procedures are used in this laboratory is held 

by the Laboratory Chief. The laboratory is operated according 

to procedures described in Knott and others (1992) and 

Guy (1969) for calibration and maintenance of equipment, 

analytical procedures, and documentation.

The New Mexico WSC also adheres to policies described 

in memorandums issued by OSW, OWQ, and WRD. Policies 

on accepted methods of sediment-size determinations are 

outlined in Office of Surface Water memorandum 93.11. 

Analysis of Data

Sediment data and records are compiled by using 

procedures described in TWRI Computation of Fluvial 

Sediment Discharge (Porterfield, 1972). Computations are 

made by using the Graphical Constituent Loading Analysis 

System (GCLAS) (Koltun and others, 2006). 

Several preparatory steps must take place before opening 

GCLAS. The first step is to tabulate and evaluate sediment 

samples:

•	 Request retrieval of the Sediment Laboratory 

Environmental Data System (SLEDS) program’s detail 

summary report from sediment laboratory personnel. 

•	 Account for all samples; whether they are an automatic 

pump sample, a cross section sample, or a laboratory 

blank sample. (Laboratory blank samples consist of 

the deionized water the laboratory uses to process 

samples.)

•	 Report any laboratory data-entry errors detected to the 

Sediment Project Chief.

The second step is to retrieve data from SLEDS in a 

format for GCLAS use:

•	 Request retrieval of a BCARD, described in Koltun 

and others (2006), and file of lab concentration data 

from SLEDS.

•	 Edit the BCARD file by removing any blank samples 

and inserting indicators for each automatic sample and 

each cross-section. The automatic sampler samples are 

identifies with a “p” and the cross-section samples are 

identified with an “i.” 

The third step is to create a BCARD format of discharge 

unit values by using U.S. Geological Survey Automated Data 

Processing System (ADAPS):

•	 Create a BCARD file of unit values by using ADAPS 

(OUTWAT).
6 Sediment Quality-Assurance Plan for the New Mexico Water Science Center of the U.S. Geological Survey

•	 Edit the BCARD file by fixing estimated days with the 

correct values. The daily estimate will be entered as a 

series of unit values for the whole day. 

The concentration and discharge BCARD files must 

then be imported into GCLAS, and the next step would be to 

compute the daily values in GCLAS:

•	 Identify in GCLAS any samples that are not going to 

be used to compute record. 

•	 Set the default representation of estimated values to 

either “point” or “single section” depending on the 

type of samples collected. Pump samples should be set 

to “point.”

•	 Determine and enter estimated sediment concentration 

values for use in daily computations by using the 

transport relation window or other tool. 

•	 Compute, analyze, and apply box coefficients to 

sediment data. 

•	 Compute daily mean values for sediment concentration 

and load in GCLAS.

•	 Export daily mean concentration and daily mean 

sediment discharge files for input into ADAPS.

•	 After the record is computed in GCLAS the generated 

daily value BCARD files for concentration and 

sediment discharge must be loaded into ADAPS.

•	 All electronic files used in the computation of the 

sediment record including the BCARD input files, 

GCLAS files, ADAPS input files, and the station 

analysis should be placed in the appropriate folder for 

the year and the station in the sediment records folder 

on the WSC data documents file server.

•	 Once the daily value data are loaded into ADAPS, the 

data should be reviewed for completeness and then set 

to approve status, using the ADAPS data aging.

•	 The manuscript for the annual data report must be 

completed in SIMS.

The sediment-station analysis should be started at the 

beginning of the computation processes and added to during 

the whole process of computing and analyzing the sediment 

record. 

The suspended sediment samples and the bed-material 

samples must be logged into QWDATA. The steps for this are 

as follows:

•	 from Unix enter- qwdata

•	 choose option 1 (log in)

•	 fill out sheet: mandatory fields are, station number, 

begin and end date, begin time and medium code

•	 first question: do you want to add parameters? = Y

•	 second question: do you want to enter data for this 

record? = Y

•	 third question: do you want to enter field or lab data? 

= F

•	 fourth question: field form? = 14 (a special form has 

been created)

•	 fill out sheet

•	 obtain record number and record.

Sediment Station Analysis

A sediment-station analysis is written for each sediment 

station operated by the New Mexico WSC each water year. 

The sediment station analysis is a summary of the sediment 

activities at the station for a given year. The analysis describes 

the coverage of sampling, the types of samples and sampling, 

changes that might affect sediment transport or the record, 

and the methods and reasoning used to compute the record. 

Information included in the sediment-station analysis is 

presented in a thorough manner so that the checker and the 

reviewer can determine from the analysis the adequacy of 

the activities in defining the record and in accomplishing the 

objectives defined for the station (Office of Surface Water 

memorandum 91.15).

Elements included in each sediment-station analysis are 

as follows:

•	 sampling program: establishment and history

•	 equipment

•	 sediment samples: number of each type of samples 

collected

•	 water discharge record

•	 sediment load computations

•	 analysis of daily point samples; if a sample was not 

used then an explanation is needed

•	 analysis of cross-section samples; if a sample was not 

used then an explanation is needed

•	 cross-section coefficients

•	 an explanation of how well the sample cross-sections 

relate to pump samples

•	 estimated concentration and load

•	 remarks.

An example of a station analysis is in the Appendix at the 

end of this report. 
References Cited 7

A copy of the station analyses is filed with the current 

year sediment-sample record. The Sediment Project Chief is 

responsible for ensuring the accuracy of the station analysis at 

each daily sampling site.

Quality-Assurance Review of Sediment Records

All sediment records computed by the New Mexico WSC 

will have at least a two-level review before they are approved 

for publication. After the computation of the sediment record 

is completed, personnel will set the record to “worked” in the 

Records Management System (RMS). Personnel familiar with 

sediment-record computation will check electronic data files 

and GCLAS to insure that the computations and analysis of 

the record are complete and are hydrologically correct. After 

the checker has set the record as “checked” in RMS, the final 

review will be completed by personnel completely familiar 

with sediment-data collection and computation procedures. 

After the final review, the record will be set as reviewed in 

RMS, and the daily values in ADAPS will be set as approved 

by the final reviewer.

Sediment Analysis Results

The end product of sediment computations and analyses 

are daily mean sediment concentration and daily mean load 

that are published in the New Mexico annual data report. The 

Sediment Project Chief is responsible for ensuring the quality 

of these data. The Water Resources Division Data Reports 

Preparation Guide (Novak, 1985) is used for publication 

guidelines.

Sediment Data Storage

All sediment samples analyzed by the New Mexico 

Sediment Laboratory are stored in the New Mexico SLEDS 

system. In addition cross-sectional samples and bed-material 

samples are stored in QWDATA. Field sheets, laboratory 

sheets, SLEDS reports, and notes from the analysis of 

sediment records are stored in water-year folders and 

maintained in the New Mexico Sediment Laboratory. 

All electronic files produced by the analysis of sediment 

records are stored on the New Mexico data file server, Data 

Documents on ‘Filer1’/Sediment/Sediment Records/Station 

Number/WY. After the records have been completed and 

approved, the electronic files are locked. The Sediment Project 

Chief will be responsible for putting electronic files onto a CD 

or other storage media, along with the version of GCLAS and 

JAVA used to compute the record.

References Cited

Edwards, T. K., and Glysson, G. D., 1999, Field methods for 

measurement of fluvial sediment: U.S. Geological Survey 

Techniques of Water-Resources Investigations, book 3, 

chap. C2.

 Guy, H.P., 1969, Laboratory theory and methods for sediment 

analysis: U.S. Geological Survey Techniques of WaterResources Investigations, book 5, chap. C1, online at 

<http://pubs.er.usgs.gov/pubs/twri/twri5c1>, accessed June 

13, 2005.

Guy, H.P., 1970, Fluvial sediment concepts: U.S. Geological 

Survey Techniques of Water-Resources Investigations, book 

3, chap. C1.

Koltun and others, 2006, U.S. Geological Survey User’s 

manual for the Graphical Constituent Loading Analysis 

System (GLCAS), Book 4, Chapter C1.

Knott, J.M., Glysson, G.D., Malo, B.A., and Schroder, 

L.J., 1993, Quality assurance plan for the collection and 

processing of sediment data by the U.S. Geological Survey, 

Water Resources Divisions: U.S. Geological Survey OpenFile Report 92-4999, 18p.

Knott, J.M., Sholar, C.J., Matthes, W.J., 1992, Quality 

assurance guidelines for the analyses of sediment 

concentration by U.S. Geological Survey Sediment 

Laboratories: U.S. Geological Survey Open-File Report 

92-33.

Novak, C.E., 1985, Preparation of water-resources data 

reports: U.S. Geological Survey Open-File Report 85-480, 

331p.

Porterfield, G., 1972, Computation of fluvial sediment 

discharge: U.S. Geological Survey Techniques of WaterResources Investigations, book 3, chap. C3, 66p.

U.S. Geological Survey, 1970, Sedimentation and erosion 

techniques: U.S. Geological Survey Techniques of WaterResources Investigations, book 3, chaps. C1-C2, variously 

paged.

U.S. Geological Survey, National field manual for the 

collection of water-quality data: U.S. Geological Survey 

Techniques of Water-Resources Investigations, book 9, 

chaps. A1-A9.
8 Sediment Quality-Assurance Plan for the New Mexico Water Science Center of the U.S. Geological Survey

Appendix 

Automatic Sampler Field Form.doc 

9/5/2007

AUTOMATIC SAMPLER FIELD FORM 

ST. #_________________ST. NAME_______________________________ DATE COLLECTED ________________ 

DATE SUBMITTED________COLLECTOR____________________ XSECTION1/TURB RECORD # _____________ 

XECTION2/FULL SIZE RECORD # _______________________ BED-MATERIAL RECORD # ___________________ 

BOTTLE

# DATE TIME REMARKS BOTTLE# DATE TIME REMARKS

1 15

2 16

3 17

4 18

5 19

6 20

7 21

8 22

9 23

10 24

11 25

12 26

13 27

14 28

XSECTION 1/ TURBIDITY SAMPLE: 

SAMPLE DATE _______________ Mean TIME __________ # BOTTLES _______ 

LAB # __________ GAGE HT __________ TEMP ____________ 

REMARKS____________________________________________________________________ 

______________________________________________________________________________ 

XSECTION 2/ FULL SIZE SAMPLE: 

SAMPLE DATE _______________ Mean TIME __________ # BOTTLES _______ 

LAB # __________ GAGE HT __________ TEMP ____________ 

REMARKS ______________________________________________________________________ 

IF FULL SIZE: ALSO INCLUDE 

STREAM WIDTH __________________ MEAN VELOCITY __________________ 

MEAN DEPTH _____________________ INST. Q. _____________________ 

BED MATERIAL: TIME________________ # SECTIONS___________________ 
Appendix 9

Automatic Sampler Field Form.doc 

9/5/2007

Physical Description: Weather: Sky – Clear Partly cloudy Cloudy Precip – Light Medium Heavy Snow Rain Mist Wind – 

Calm Light breeze Windy Gusty Est wind speed ____ mph Temp – Very Cold Cool Warm Hot 

Water Flowing: YES NO Approx. Depth __________ 

Stage of Intake Location:_____________________________________________________________________________ 

Stage of actuators locations: __________________________________________________________________________ 

Distance from bed to intake:___________________________________________________________________________ 

Depth of water at intake: ___________________ 

Distance above or below intake from surface of water: ____________________________________________________ 

Equipment Functioning: YES NO Maintenance needed:_________________________________________________ 

Was intake line moved? YES NO Batt. Voltage____________________ 

Check Samples: 

Isco checks taken: YES NO Equipment Blanks taken: YES NO Xsections taken: YES NO 

Any conditions that might affect the record: 

Comments: 
10 Sediment Quality-Assurance Plan for the New Mexico Water Science Center of the U.S. Geological Survey

SEDIMENT DATA COLLECTION FIELD NOTES 

XSECTION1/TURB. RECORD #____________ XSECTION2/TLSIZE RECORD #____________ TL BED RECORD #____________ 

Station Number ______________________ Station Name ________________________________________________________________________ 

Date _______________ Turbidity Time ________ Total Load: Bed Time ________ Size Time________ 

Check Sample/Xsection Times: CS1 ________ XS1 ________ CS2 ________ XS2 ________ CS3 ________ 

Sampling Team ________________________________ Sample Purpose (71999) ______ Sample Type ____ Project No. ______________________

Sample Medium: Turb ____ TL: Size ____ Bed ____ Xsection 1 ____ Xsection 2 ____

SAMPLES COLLECTED 

__ Bed 

__ Suspended Sediment 

__ Turbidity 

Lab Codes (A) Add (D) Delete _2187__

________________________________

FIELD MEASUREMENTS 

Q. Instant (00061) _______ cfs meas. Turbidity (63680) _______ 

Gage Ht (00065) _______ ft rating Mean Depth (00064) _______ 

Water temp (00010) _______ o

C est. Mean Velocity (00055) _______ 

Air Temp (00020) _______ o

C Stream Width (00004) _______ 

pH (00400) _______units Bed Sampling Pts. (00063) _______ 

Sp Cond (00095) _______ uS/cm 25o

C Other: _________________________ 

Dis Oxy (00300) _______ mg/L 

DO Sat (00301) _______ % 

Bar Press (00025) _______ mm Hg 

SAMPLING INFORMATION 

Sampling Method (82398) _______ Sampler Type (84164): DH-48 (3001) DH-59 (3002) BMH-53 (3023) BMH-60 (3027) 

RBM-80 (3029) DH-81 (3044) DH-81 Teflon (3045) DH-95 Teflon (3051) DH-95 Plastic (3052) Other:(________) 

Nozzle Size: 3/16” 1/4" 5/16” Sample/Compositor/Splitter: Churn 4L 

Stream width ______ ft mi Left Bank ______ Right Bank _____ 

Samples points (either spacing or actual point sample collected at) ______ _______ _______ _______ _______ _______ _______ 

_______ _______ _______ _______ _______ _______ _______ _______ _______ _______ _______ _______ _______ _______ 

Sampling Location: Wading Cableway Ice Boat Bridge Upstream Downstream side of bridge _____ ft mi above below gage

Sampling Site: Pool Riffle Open Channel Braided Backwater Bottom: Rock Cobble Gravel Sand Silt Concrete Other _______ 

Sampling Color: Brown Green Blue Gray Clear Other _____ Stream mixing: Excellent Good Fair Poor Stratified Other ______ 

Weather: Sky – Clear Partly cloudy Cloudy Precip – Light Medium Heavy Snow Rain Mist Wind – Calm Light breeze Windy Gusty

 Est wind speed ____ mph Temp – Very Cold Cool Warm Hot Comments:_____________________________________________ 

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

1

Appendix (continued)
Appendix 11

METER CALIBRATIONS AND LOT NUMBERS 

pH Meter Make/Model ____________________ S/N or W/N _____________ Electrode No. ______________ Type: Gel Liquid Other ________

Sample: Filtered Unfiltered Cone Splitter Churn Single Point at _____ ft deep Vertical Ave. of _____ points 

pH

Buffer

Buffer

Temp 

pH value 

from

table 

Initial 

pH

value

Adjusted

pH value 

Slope

Buffer lot number 

Buffer

Expiration

Date

Comments 

pH 7 

pH 10 

Field Readings _______ _______ _______ _______ _______ Use: ________ units REMARK_____ Qualifier ______ 

SPECIFIC CONDUCTANCE Meter Make/Model _______________ S/N or W/N __________________ Sensor Type: Dip Cup Flow-thru Other ______ 

Sample: Filtered Unfiltered Cone Splitter Churn Single Point at _____ ft deep Ave of cross sect _____ points 

Std

Value

Std

Temp 

SC

before

Adj. 

SC after 

Adj. 

Std Lot No. Std

Expiration

Date

Comments 

Field Readings ______ ______ ______ ______ ______ Use: _______ uS/cm REMARK___ Qualifier ___ 

Temperature Compensation: 

Auto

Manual Corr. Factor= ________ 

DISSOLVED OXYGEN Meter Make/Model __________________________ S/N or W/N _______________________ Probe No. ___________________________ 

Sample: Single Point at _____ ft deep Avg of cross sect _____ points BOD Bottle Other ________ Stirrer Used? Y N 

Air calibration: Chamber in Water ___ Air-Saturated Water ___ Air Calibration Chamber in Air ___ Winkler Tritation ___ Other ________________________ 

Battery Check: Redline ____ Range __________ Thermister Check? Y N _____________ Zero DO Check: Y N Solution Date _______________

Water temp 

o

C

Barometric 

Pressure mm 

HG

DO Table 

Reading 

mg/L 

DO before 

adj.

DO after 

adj.

Zero Meter Reading ________ mg/L Adj. to _______________mg/L 

Membrane Changed? N Y Date: ___/___/___ Time: ________ 

Barometer Calibrated? N Y Date: ___/___/___ Time: ________ 

Field Readings _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ Use: _____ mg/L Salinity Corr. Factor ______ Corr. DO ______ REMARK___ Qualifier ___ 

TURBIDITY 

Calibration Criteria: ± 2 NTU or ± 5% 

Calibration Check 

Time _________ 

Recalibration 

Time __________ 

Date Prepared 

CONC

NTU

TEMP 

°C READING

ERROR

%

TEMP 

°C READING

ERROR

%

Stock Turbidity 

Standard

Zero NTU 

Standard (DIW) 

Standard 1 

Comments: 

2
12 Sediment Quality-Assurance Plan for the New Mexico Water Science Center of the U.S. Geological Survey

CROSS SECTION SURVEY INFORMATION 

Method EWI EDI Other __________________________________________ No. of Verticals __________________________________

Measurement Location: ___________ ft upstream downstream of monitor 

Stream Mixing: Excellent Good Fair Poor 

Comments _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

STATION Time 

Ft from left 

bank or from 

right bank 

(00009) 

TEMP o

C

(00010) 

SC

(00095) 

DO mg/L 

(00300) 

pH

(00400) 

Turbidity 

(63680)

DO % DO CH 

3
Appendix 13

Additional Comments: 

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Value Temp Reading Before Reading After Lot # Expiration Date 

Specific 

Conductance 

Value Temp Theoretical Pt. Reading Before Reading After Lot # Expiration Date 

pH 7.0

10.0

Value Date Prepared Temp Reading Before Reading After Lot # Expiration Date 

Turbidity DI Water 

123

Temp Barometric Pressure DO Table Reading Reading Before Reading After 

DO

4
14 Sediment Quality-Assurance Plan for the New Mexico Water Science Center of the U.S. Geological Survey

UNITED STATES 

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR 

GEOLOGICAL SURVEY 

New Mexico Water Science Center 

SEDIMENT STATION ANALYSIS FOR WATER YEAR 2006 

STATION NAME.--08330000 Rio Grande at Albuquerque, NM

SAMPLING PROGRAM.--Partial-record sampling was collected from May 1969 to September 1969, then 

daily suspended sediment sampling began in October 1969 to current year. The stream bed is 

composed of rock, and boulders, with extremely variable amount of sand on top. 

EQUIPMENT.--Daily point samples are collected by an Isco pump sampler (Model 3700) generally at 1300 

hours on right bank approximately 30 feet upstream of the bridge. Equal-width-increment (EWI) 

samples are collected to compare the values obtained by the pump sampler to compute cross-sectional 

coefficients. Samples are collected with a DH-81 hand sampler when wading and with a D-95 sampler 

when using the bridge.

SEDIMENT SAMPLES.--There were 27 cross-section EWI suspended-sediment samples and 309 daily point 

samples collected throughout the year. Periods with missing point sample data are Oct 29 – Nov 3, 

Dec 30 – Jan 3, Jan 28 – Feb 1, Feb 16 – March 21, April 16 – may 8, Sept 19 – Sept 25, Sept 27 – 

Sept 30. All suspended sediment samples were analyzed for suspended sediment concentration by the 

New Mexico Water Science Center’s Sediment Lab, and all suspended sediment total size samples 

were analyzed by the Iowa Water Science Center’s Sediment Lab. The sediment concentration input 

file for GCLAS is “08330000.bcard.2006WY”. 

WATER DISCHARGE RECORD.--Fifteen minute unit-value surface-water discharge was used in this record 

for analysis and computation of daily suspended sediment discharge. The DCP gave a complete and 

satisfactory record for the year except for May 4-5 and May 9-10. The ADAPS “B” card data file used 

in this sediment analysis was modified to add unit discharges for computing sediment loads on days of 

questionable gage height record. Specifically, the average daily discharge value was added into the 

file for each unit value of the day in question. The surface-water discharge record for the water year is 

rated good except estimated daily discharges, which are poor. The file containing the discharge input 

for GCLAS is “08330000.Q.corrected.2006WY”. 

SEDIMENT LOAD COMPUTATIONS.--Computations were made using GCLAS, (Graphical Constituent 

Analysis System) a windows and Java based interactive program, for analyzing water quality timeseries data, and computing daily loads of sediment or other stream-water constituents. The name of the 

sediment analysis GCLAS file is “08330000.2006.final.gpf”. The sediment load was computed using 

the linear algorithm in GCLAS. 

EXTREMES FOR FOR WATER YEAR 2006.-- SEDIMENT CONCENTRATION: Maximum daily mean, 

41,800 mg/L, Aug. 7; minimum daily mean, 67 mg/L, May 9. SEDIMENT LOAD: Maximum daily 

163,000 tons, Aug. 7; minimum daily, 94 tons, March 27. 

ANALYSIS OF DAILY POINT SAMPLES.-- The following summarizes the various adjustments made to 

the point sample record based on analysis of the graph of point samples during the water year: 

Appendix (continued)
Appendix 15

11-02-2005 Did not use point sample taken at 12:35. The values appear high based on the point 

sample graph and may be due to the fact that they were collected after a period of missed record. 

01-04-2006 Did not use point sample for this day. The values appear high based on the point 

sample graph and may be due to the fact that they were collected after a period of missed record. 

01-22-2006 Did not use pump sample for this day. The volume is much lower than samples around 

it.

02-02-2006 Did not use point sample for this day. The values appear high based on the point 

sample graph and may be due to the fact that they were collected after a period of missed record. 

04-11-2006 Did not use point sample 13:45 or 14:00. The values appear low compared to the other 

samples collected that day. 

04-12-2006 Did not use pump sample that day. The volume is real low, at least 200 mL less than 

the other continuous samples. 

05-09-2006 Did not use pump sample that day. The bottle had a slow leak. 

09-26-2006 Did not use point sample for this day. The values appear high based on the point 

sample graph and may be due to the fact that they were collected after a period of missed record. 

ANALYSIS OF CROSS SECTION SAMPLES.--The following summarizes the various adjustments made to 

the cross section sample record based on analysis of the graph of point samples during the water year. 

10-05-2005 Did not use cross section sample. After reviewing the samples surrounding it, it was 

assumed that all the sediment was not used to accurately calculate the total concentration. 

CROSS-SECTION COEFFICIENTS.--The following summarizes the coefficients used throughout the water 

year. The coefficients at this site can vary according to flow. For flows less than 550 cfs, a 1.0 

coefficient was used and flows above 725 cfs, a 1.5 coefficient was used. A coefficient was prorated 

between flows of 550 and 725. 

ESTIMATED CONCENTRATION AND LOADS.--When there are no actual samples, or an inadequate 

number of samples are available, to define a daily sediment transport curve, estimated instantaneous 

sediment values were made using the reference curve graph in GCLAS. Daily estimated point samples 

were made for the following day: 

 Sept 30. 

REMARKS.--The sediment records are fair. 

Work by: Jessica A. Stiles 08-08-2007 

Checked by: Jeb E. Brown 08-10-2007 

Reviewed by: Mike Roark 08-30-2007