DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR

UNITED STATES GEOLOGICAL SURVEY

GEORGE OTIS SMITH, DIRECTOR

WATER-SUPPLY PAPER 246

SURFACE WATER SUPPLY OF THE 

UNITED STATES

1907-8

PART YL MISSOURI RIVER BASIN

PREPARED UNDER THE DIRECTION OF M. 0. LEIGHTON

BY 

ROBERT FOLLANSBEE AND J. E. STEWART

WASHINGTON

GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE

1910
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR

UNITED STATES GEOLOGICAL SURVEY

GEORGE OTIS SMITH, DIRECTOR

WATER-SUPPLY PAPER 246

SURFACE WATER SUPPLY OF THE 

UNITED STATES

1907-8

PART VI. MISSOURI RIVER BASIS

PREPARED UNDER THE DIRECTION OF M. 0. LEIGHTON

BY 

ROBERT FOLLANSBEE AND J. E. STEWART

Water Resources Branch^ 

Geological Survey, 

POX 3 105, Capitol Static* 

kkfacraa City, Okla.

WASHINGTON

GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE 

1910
CONTENTS.

Page.

Introduction..................................................'............ 7

Authority for investigations............................................. 7

Scope of investigations.................................................. 8

Purposes of the work.................................................. 9

Publications.......................................................... 10

Definition of terms..................................................... 13

Convenient equivalents................................................ 14

Explanation of tables................................................... 15

Field methods of measuring stream flow................................. 16

Office methods of computing and studying discharge and run-off......... 21

Accuracy and reliability of field data and comparative results............ 27

Use of the data........................................................ 28

Cooperation and acknowledgments....................................... 29

Division of work...................................................... 29

Missouri River drainage basin............................................... 30

General features....................................................... 30

Missouri River proper................................................... 31

Description........................................................ 31

Red Rock River at Lima, Mont..................................... 33

Beaverhead River at Barratts, Mont................................ 34

Beaverhead River at Dillon, Mont.................................. 37

Missouri River at Cascade, Mont..................................... 38

Missouri River near Williston, N. Dak.............................. 41

Prickly Pear Creek drainage basin................................... 43

Description .................................................. 43

Prickly Pear Creek near Clancy, Mont........................... 43

Prickly Pear Creek at East Helena, Mont....................... 44

Lump Gulch Creek near Clancy, Mont.......................... 45

Tenmile Creek near Helena, Mont.............................. 46

Sevenmile Creek near Helena, Mont............................ 47

Dearborn River drainage basin.......................................... 48

Description...................................................... 48

Dearborn River near demons, Mont................................ 48

Falls Creek near demons, Mont..................................... 49

Smith River drainage basin............................................. 50

Smith River at Truly, Mont......................................... 50

Sun River drainage basin............................................... 52

Description........................................................ 52

North Fork of Sun River near Augusta, Mont ....................... 53

Sun River at Sun River, Mont...................................... 56

South Fork of Sun River at Augusta, Mont.......................... 60

Willow Creek near Augusta, Mont................................... 63

Ford Creek near Augusta, Mont.................................... 66

Smith Creek near Augusta, Mont................................... 69

3
4 CONTENTS.

Missouri River drainage Continued. Page.

Marias River drainage basin............................................ 72

Description........................................................ 72

Cutbank Creek at Cutbank, Mont................................... 73

Marias River near Shelby, Mont..................................... 76

Two Medicine River at Family, Mont................................ 79

Badger Creek near Family, Mont.................................... 82

Birch Creek near Dupuyer, Mont.................................... 85

Dupuyer Creek at Dupuyer, Mont.................................. 87

Teton River near Belleview, Mont................................... 89

Musselshell River drainage basin....................................... 91

Description........................................................ 91

North Fork of Musselshell River near Martinsdale, Mont.............. 92

Musselshell River at Harlowton, Mont............................... 94

Musselshell River at Shawmut, Mont................................ 97

South Fork of Musselshell River near Martinsdale, Mont............. 98

American Fork near Harlowton, Mont............................... 100

Lebo Creek near Harlowton, Mont.................................. 103

Milk River drainage basin............................................. 104

Description........................................................ 104

South Fork of Milk River near Browning, Mont....................... 106

Milk River at Havre, Mont......................................... 108

Milk River at Malta, Mont.......................................... 113

Milk River at Hinsdale, Mont...................................... 116

West Fork of Milk River at Chinook, Mont.......................... 117

North Fork of Milk River near Chinook, Mont....................... 120

Beaver Creek near Ashfield, Mont.................................. 123

Beaver Creek Overflow near Bowdoin, Mont.......................... 124

Rock Creek near Hinsdale, Mont................................... 125

Porcupine Creek at Nashua, Mont.................................. 126

Private canals in Milk River valley ................................. 127

Description.................................................... 127

Paradise Valley canal near Chinook, Mont....................... 128

Cook canal near Chinook, Mont.................................. 129

Matheson canal near Chinook, Mont............................ 131

Harlem canal near Zurich, Mont................................ 132

Agency ditch near Harlem, Mont................................ 133

Fort Belknap canal near Chinook, Mont.......................... 134

Winter-Anderson canal near Chinook, Mont...................... 136

Rock Creek canal near Hinsdale, Mont........................... 137

Little Porcupine Creek drainage basin.................................. 138

Little Porcupine Creek near Frazer, Mont............................ 138

Wolf Creek drainage basin............................................. 139

Wolf Creek at Wolf Point, Mont.................................... 139

Poplar Creek drainage basin............................................. 140

Poplar Creek near Poplar, Mont.................................... 140

Big Muddy River drainage basin....................................... 141

Big Muddy River near Culbertson, Mont............................. 141

Yellowstone River drainage basin...................................... 141

Description........................................................ 141

Yellowstone River at Huntley, Mont............................... 144

Yellowstone River at Junction, Mont............................... 146

Yellowstone River at Glendive, Mont............................... 148

North Fork of Big Timber Creek near Big Timber, Mont ............. 151
CONTENTS. 5

Missouri River drainage Continued.

Yellowstone River drainage basin Continued. Page.

South Fork of Big Timber Creek near Big Timber, Mont............. 153

East Fork of Boulder River near McLeod, Mont....................... 156

West Fork of Boulder River near Bruffeys, Mont................... 158

West Fork of Boulder River at McLeod, Mont ...................... 163

Sweetgrass Creek above Melville, Mont............................. 165

Sweetgrass Creek below Melville, Mont............................. 169

Clark Fork at Fromberg, Mont.................................... 172

Pryor Creek at Huntley, Mont.................................... 175

Bighorn River drainage basin. . . .................................. 178

Description.................................................. 178

Big Wind River near Riverton, WT yo .......................... 180

Bighorn River near Hardin, Mont. ............................ 182

Little Wind River at Fort Washakie, Wyo..................... 185

Little Wind River above Arapahoe, Wyo....................... 186

Little Wind River below Arapahoe, Wyo....................... 189

Little Popo Agie River at Hudson, Wyo........................ 191

Shoshone River at Cody, Wyo................................ 194

Shoshone River at Corbett Dam, Wyo. ........................ 197

South Fork of Shoshone River at Marquette, Wyo. ............. 199

Little Muddy River drainage basin. ................................... 201

Description...................................................... 201

Little Muddy River near Williston, N. Dak......................... 202

Little Missouri River drainage basin................................... 205

Description...................................................... 205

Little Missouri River at Medora, N. Dak. .......................... 206

Knife River drainage basin............................................ 209

Description....................;................................. 209

Knife River at Broncho, N. Dak................................... 210

Heart River drainage basin............................................ 214

Description...................................................... 214

Heart River near Richardton, N. Dak............................. 214

Cannon Ball River drainage basin...................................... 217

Description. ..................................................... 217

Cannon Ball River at Stevenson, N. Dak. ......................... 217

Grand River drainage basin........................................... 220

North Fork of Grand River near Haley, N. Dak .................... 220

Niobrara River drainage basin......................................... 221

Description...................................................... 221

Niobrara River near Spencer, Nebr............................... 222

Platte River drainage basin........................................... 223

General features................................................. 223

North Platte River drainage basin.................................. 223

Description.................................................. 223

North Platte River at Pathfinder, Wyo. ....................... 227

North Platte River at Guernsey, Wyo.......................... 23X)

North Platte River near Mitchell, Nebr. ...................... 234

North Platte River at North Platte, Nebr...................... 237

Platte River drainage basin....................................... 241

Description.................................................. 241

Platte River at Columbus, Nebr................................ 242

Loup River at Columbus, Nebr................................ 245
6 CONTENTS.

Missouri River drainage Continued.

Platte River drainage basin Continued. Page.

South Platte River. ............................ ................ 247

Description. . ................................................ 247

South Fork of South Platte River at South Platte, Colo.......... 251

South Platte River at South Platte, Colo........................ 255

South Platte River near Kersey, Colo.......................... 259

South Platte River near Julesburg, Colo....................... 265

North Fork of South Platte River at Cassells, Colo.............. 268

Geneva Creek near Grant, Colo. ............................... 269

Clear Creek at Forkscreek, Colo................................ 271

Boulder Creek at Orodell, Colo. ............................... 275

Boulder Creek near Boulder, Colo. ............................ 278

Kansas River drainage basin........................................... 282

Description...................................................... 282

Republican River at Bostwick, Nebr .............................. 284

Little Blue River near Fairbury, Nebr............................. 287

Gasconade River drainage basin...................................... 290

Description...................................................... 290

Piney Fork of Gasconade River near Houston, Mo................... 291

Miscellaneous measurements in Missouri River drainage basin........... 291

Index.................................................................... 297

ILLUSTRATIONS.

Page.

PLATE I. A, Current-meter rating station at Los Angeles, Cal.; B, Bridge station and cross section of stream illustrative of 0.2 and 0.8 depth 

method....................................................... 18

II. Price penta-recording current meters.............................. 20

III. Kepler Cascade, Firehole River................................... 30

IV. A, Sun River canyon above point of diversion; B, Sun River canyon

diversion site, Sun River project, Montana...................... 52

V. Lower Falls of the Yellowstone.................................... 142

VI. A, Main canal, Huntley project, Montana; B, Pryor Creek weir during spring flood, Huntley project, Montana....................... 144

VII. Portion of completed main canal, lower Yellowstone project, Montana. 148 

VIII. A, Shoshone dam, Wyoming; B, Shoshone dam site, Wyoming...... 180

IX. A, Box Canyon immediately below Shoshone dam site; B, Corbett

tunnel, Corbett diversion dam, Shoshone project, Wyoming....... 196

X. A, Pathfinder dam; B, Pathfinder dam site before construction,

North Platte project, Nebraska-Wyoming......................... 224

XI. A, Interstate canal wasteway at Mollies Fork, North Platte project, 

Nebraska-Wyoming; .B, Grain field under the Interstate canal, 

North Platte project, Nebraska-Wyoming......................... 226

XII. A, Portion of Elkhorn reservoir site on Cache la Poudre River; B,

Continental Divide near Tolland, Colo.......................... 250

XIII. A, Diversion dam, Belle Fourche project, South Dakota; B, Diversion dam and head-gates, Belle Fourche project, South Dakota.... 282

FIGURE 1. Discharge curves of Smith Creek near Augusta, Mont............. 23

2. Discharge curves of Marias River near Shelby, Mont............... 24
SURFACE WATER SUPPLY OF THE MISSOURI RIVER

BASIN, 1907-8.

By ROBERT FOLLANSBEE and J. E. STEWART.

INTRODUCTION.

AUTHORITY FOR INVESTIGATIONS.

This volume contains results of flow measurements made on certain streams in the United States. The work was performed by 

the water-resources branch of the United States Geological Survey, 

either independently or in cooperation with organizations mentioned 

herein. These investigations are authorized by the organic law of 

the Geological Survey (Stat. L., vol. 20, p. 394), which provides, 

among other things, as follows:

Provided that this officer [the Director] shall have the direction of the Geological 

Survey and the classification of public lands and examination of the geological structure, mineral resources, and products of the national domain.

Inasmuch as water is the most abundant and most valuable 

mineral in nature, the investigation of water resources is included 

under the above provision for investigating mineral resources. The 

work has been supported since the fiscal year ending June 30, 1$95, 

by appropriations in successive sundry civil bills passed by Congress 

under the following item:

For gaging the streams and determining the water supply of the United States, and 

for the investigation of underground currents and artesian wells, and for the preparation of reports upon the best methods of utilizing the water resources.

The various appropriations that have been made for this purpose 

are as follows:

Annual appropriations for the fiscal year ending June 30 

1895................................................................. $12, 500

1896................................................................. 20, 000

1897 to 1900, inclusive............................................... 50, 000

1901 to 1902, inclusive............................................... 100, 000

1903 to 1906, inclusive............................................... 200, 000

1907................................................................. 150,000

1908 to 1910, inclusive............................................... 100,000

7
8 SURFACE WATER-SUPPLY, 1907-8. 

SCOPE OF INVESTIGATIONS.

These investigations are not complete, nor do they include all the 

river systems or parts thereof that might purposefully be studied. 

The scope of the work is limited to that which can be provided with 

the appropriations available. The field covered and the character 

of the work are believed to be the best that could be accomplished 

under the controlling conditions. It would undoubtedly be of more 

scientific importance and ultimately of more practical value if the 

money now applied to wide areas were concentrated on a few small 

basins. Such a course is impossible, because general appropriations 

made by Congress are applicable to all parts of the country. Each 

part demands its proportionate share of the benefits.

It is essential that records of stream flow shall be maintained during a period of years sufficient to cover all stages, in order that within 

reasonable limits the entire range of flow from the absolute maximum 

to the absolute minimum may be determined. The length of such a 

period manifestly varies for different streams and can not be absolutely determined. Experience has shown that the records should 

cover from five to ten years, or for some streams twenty years or 

more, the limit being determined by the relative importance of the 

stream and the interdependence of the results and other long-time 

records on adjacent streams.

In the performance of this work the Geological Survey endeavors 

to approach as nearly as possible the highest degree of precision 

which a rational expenditure of time and a judicious expenditure of 

a small amount of money will allow. In all engineering work there 

is a point of refinement beyond which it is needless and wasteful to 

proceed, and this principle applies with especial force to stream-flow 

measurements. It is confidently believed that with some unavoidable exceptions the stream-flow data presented in the publications of 

the Survey are sufficiently accurate for all practical purposes. Many 

of the records are, however, of insufficient length, owing to the unforeseen reduction of appropriations and consequent abandonment of 

many stations. All persons are cautioned to exercise the greatest 

care in the utilization of such incomplete records.

Records of varying lengths have been obtained at about 1,400 different points in the United States, and in addition the surface water 

supply of small areas in Seward Peninsula and the Yukon-Tanana 

region, Alaska, has been investigated. During 1907 and 1908 regular 

gaging stations were maintained by the Survey and cooperating 

organizations at about 740 points in the United States, and in addition numerous miscellaneous measurements were made. Data were 

also obtained in regard to precipitation, evaporation, storage reservoirs, river profiles, and water power in many sections of the country.
INTBODUCTION. 9

These data will be made available in the regular surface water-supply 

papers and in special papers from, time to time.

PURPOSES OF THE WORK.

Among the purposes for which the results contained in this volume 

are requisite are navigation, irrigation, domestic water supply, water 

power, swamp and overflow land drainage, and flood prevention. 

The demands of all these interests are immediate.

Navigation. The Federal Government has expended more than 

$250,000,000 for the improvement of inland navigation, and prospective expenditures will approximate several times this amount. 

It is obvious that the determination of stream flow is necessary to 

the intelligent solution of the many problems involved.

Irrigation. The United States is now expending $42,000,000 on 

federal irrigation systems, and this amount is far exceeded by the private expenditures of this nature in the arid West. The integrity of 

any irrigation system is based absolutely on the amount of water 

available. Therefore investigations of stream flow in that portion 

of the country are of first importance in the redemption of the lands, 

as well as constituting an insurance of federal and private investments.

Domestic water supply. The highest use of water is that of domestic supply, and while the federal interest in this aspect of the 

matter is less direct than in the aspects already named this use of 

water nevertheless has so broad a significance with respect to the 

general welfare that the Federal Government is ultimately and intimately concerned.

Water power. The time is rapidly approaching when the development of the water power of the country will be an economic necessity. 

Our stock of coal is being rapidly depleted and the cost of steam 

power is increasing accordingly. Industry will cease its growth if 

cheap power is not available, and in that event the United States as a 

nation will cease to progress. Water power is the only avenue now 

open. When the electric transmission of power was accomplished, 

the relation of our water powers to national economy changed entirely. Previous to the day of electric transmission the importance 

of a water power was largely confined to the locality at which it was 

generated, but it has now become a public utility in which the individual citizen is vitally interested. Inasmuch as the amount of 

water power that may be made available is dependent on the flow 

of rivers, the investigation of flow becomes a prerequisite in the 

judicious management of this source of energy.

Drainage of swamp and overflowed lands. More than 70,000,000 

acres of the richest land in this country are now practically worthless, or of precarious value, by reason of overflow and swamp conditions. When this land is drained it becomes exceedingly productive and its value increases many fold. Such reclamation would
10 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

add to the national assets at least $700,000,000. The study of runoff is the first consideration in connection with drainage projects. 

If, by the drainage of a large area into any particular channel, that 

channel becomes so gorged with water which it had not hitherto been 

called upon to convey that overflow conditions are created in places 

where previously the land was not subject to inundation, then drainage results merely in an exchange of land values. This is not the 

purpose of drainage improvement.

Flood prevention. The damage from floods in the United States 

exceeds $100,000,000 annually, and in the year 1908 the aggregate 

damage, based on reliable data, approximated $250,000,000. Such 

an annual tax on the property of great regions should be reduced in 

the orderly progress of government. It goes without saying that any 

consideration of flood prevention must be based on a thorough 

knowledge of stream flow, both in the contributing areas which furnish the water and along the great lowland rivers.

PUBLICATIONS.

The data on stream flow collected by the United States Geological 

Survey since its inception have appeared in the annual reports, 

bulletins, and water-supply papers. Owing to natural processes of 

evolution and to changes in governmental requirements, the character 

of the work and the territory covered by these different publications 

has varied greatly. For the purpose of uniformity in the presentation of reports a general plan has been agreed upon by the United 

States Reclamation Service, the United States Forest Service, the 

United States Weather Bureau, and the United States Geological 

Survey, according to which the area of the United States has been 

divided into twelve parts, whose boundaries coincide with certain 

natural drainage lines. The areas so described are indicated by the 

following list of papers on surface-water supply for 1907 and 1908. 

The dividing line between the North Atlantic and South Atlantic 

drainage areas lies between York and James rivers.

Papers on surface water supply of the United States, 1907-8.

Part.

I

II

III

IV

V

No.

241

242

243

244

245

Title.

North Atlantic coast.

South Atlantic coast and eastern

Gulf of Mexico.

Ohio River basin.

St. Lawrence River basin.

Upper Mississippi River and Hudson

Bay basins.

Part.

VI

VII

VIII

IX

X

XI

XII

No.

246

247

248

249

250

251

252

Title.

Missouri River basin.

Lower Mississippi River basin.

Western Gulf of Mexico.

Colorado River basin.

Great Basin.

California.

North Pacific coast.
INTRODUCTION. 11

The following table gives the character of data regarding stream 

flow at regular stations to be found in the various publications of the 

United States Geological Survey exclusive of all special papers. 

Numbers of reports are inclusive, and dates also are inclusive, so far as 

the data are available.

Stream-flow data in reports of the United States Geological Survey. 

[Ann.=Annual Report; B.= Bulletin; W. S.=Water-Supply Paper.]

Report.

10th Ann., pt. 2........

llth Ann., pt. 2........

12th Ann. pt. 2........

13th Ann., pt.3.. ......

14th Ann., pt. 2........

B. 131............... .

16th Ann., pt. 2........

B.140.............. ..

W. S. 11...............

18th Ann.,pt.4........ 

W.S. 15. ........... .

W.S. 16.... ...........

19th Ann., pt. 4.......

W. S. 27. .............

W. S. 28.....

20th Ann., pt. 4........

W.S. 35 to 39... .......

21st Ann., pt. 4......

W.S. 47 to 52..........

22d Ann., pt. 4.....

W. S. 65, 66..........

W.S. 75. ..............

W. S. 82 to 85..

W. S. 97 to 100....

W. S. 124 to 135...

W. S. 165 to 178...

W.S. 201 to 214........

W.S. 241 to 252........

Character of data.

.....do......................... ...............................

discharge (also many data covering earlier years).

Descriptions, measurements, ratings, and monthly discharge 

(also similar data for earlier years).

States, eastern Mississippi River, and Missouri River above 

junction with Kansas.

sippi River below junction of Missouri and Platte, and western United States.

(also some long-time records). 

Measurements, ratings, and gage heights, eastern United States,

eastern Mississippi River, and Missouri River.

western United States.

iMonthlv discharge

.... .do .........................................................

..... do....................................... ..................

Year.

1890.

1891. 

1884 to Dec. 31,

1892.

1893.

1895.

1896

1895 and 1896. 

1897.

1897.

1897.

1898.

1898.

1898.

1899.

1899.

1900.

1901.

1901.

1902.

1903.

1904.

1905.

1906.

1907-8.

NOTE. No data regarding stream flow are given in the 15th and 17th annual reports.

The records at most of the stations discussed in these reports 

extend over a series of years. An index of the reports containing 

records prior to 1904 has been published in Water-Supply Paper 119. 

The first table which follows gives, by years and drainage basins, the 

numbers of the papers on surface-water supply published from 1899 

to 1908. Wherever the data for a drainage basin appear in two 

papers the number of one is placed in parentheses and the portion of 

the basin covered by that paper is indicated in the second table. For 

example, in 1904 the data for Missouri River were published in WaterSupply Papers 130 and 131, and the portion of the records contained 

in Water-Supply Paper 131, as indicated by the second table, is that 

relating to Platte and Kansas rivers.
12 SUBFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Numbers of water-supply papers containing results of stream measurements, 1899-1908.

Atlantic coast and eastern 

Gulf of Mexico: 

New England rivers 

Hudson River to Delaware River, inclusive . . 

Susquehanna River to 

York River, inclusive . . 

James River to Yadkin 

Rivfir inclusivG

Santee River to Pearl 

River, inclusive .....

Mississippi River: 

Ohio River..............

Upper Mississippi River.

Lower Mississippi River.

Pacific coast and Great Basin:

South Pacific coast to 

Klamath River, inclu1899.1

35 

35 

35 

(35), 36

36 

36

36 

36

(36), 37

37 

37

(37), 38 

38, (39)

(38), 39 

38

1900.6

47 

47, (48) 

48 

48

48 

49

48, (49) 

49

49, (50)

50 

50

50 

51

51 

51

1901.

65,75 

65,75 

65,75 

65,75

65,75 

65,75 

66,75

65,75 

65,75

66,75

/ (65), 

\ 66,75 

66,75

66,75 

66,95

66,75 

66,75

1902.

82 

82 

82 

(82), 83

83 

(82), 83 

85

83 

83

84

}(83),84

84

85 

85

85 

85

1903.

97 

97 

97 

(97), 98

98 

97 

100

98 

98, (99)

99

(98), 99 

99

100 

100

100 

100

1904.

124 

125 

126 

126

127 

129 

130

128 

128, 

(130) 

130, 

(131) 

(128), 

131 

132

/ 133, 

I (134) 

/ 133, 

I (134)

134 

135

1905.

165 

166 

167 

167

168 

170 

171

169

} '"

} 172

(169), 

173 

174

175, 

(177) 

176, 

(177)

177 

/ (177), 

\ 178

1906.

201 

202 

203 

203

204 

206 

207

205 

207

208

(205), 

209 

210

211, 

(213) 

212, 

(213)

213 

| 214

1907-8.

241 

241 

241 

242

242 

244 

245

243 

245

246

| 247 

248

249, 

(251) 

250, 

(251)

251 

252

Number of water-supply papers containing data covering portions of drainage basins.

No.

83

97

98

99

128

130

131

134

169

177

205

213

251

River basin. Tributaries included.

James.......

Missouri.....

Colorado....

Sacramento. 

Great Basin. 

Delaware... 

Ohio........

Missouri....

Lower Mississippi...........

James.......................

St. Lawrence...............

Lower Mississippi................. j Yazoo.

James.......................

Lower Mississippi...........

Upper 

Lower 

Upper 

Missouri....................

/Colorado....................

(Great Basin.................

Lower Mississippi...........

{

Colorado.................... 

Great Basin................. 

North Pacific coast..........

Lower Mississippi...........

/Colorado....................

\Great Basin.................

/Colorado....................

\Great Basin.................

Gallatin.

Green, Gunnison, Grand above junction with Gunnison.

Except Kings and Kern.

Mqhave.

Wissahickon and Schuylkill.

Scioto.

Loup and Platte near Columbus, Nebr. All tributaries below

junction with Platte. 

Yazoo.

Lake Ontario, tributaries to St. Lawrence River proper.

Do.

Tributaries from the west. 

Yazoo.

Tributaries from the west. 

Platte, Kansas.

Data near Yuma, Ariz., repeated. 

Susan, Owens, Mohave. 

Yazoo.

Below junction with Gila. 

Susan repeated, Owens, Mohave. 

Rogue, Umpqua, Siletz. 

Yazoo, Homochitto.

Data at Hardyville repeated; at Yuma, Salton Soa 

Owens, Mohave.

A11 stations in Colorado and Great Basin drainages lying in 

/ California repeated.
INTKODUCTIOIT. 13

The order of treatment of stations in any basin in these papers is 

downstream. The main stem of any river is determined on the 

basis of drainage area, local changes in name and lake surface being 

disregarded. After all stations from the source to the mouth of the 

main stem of the river have been given, the tributaries are taken up 

in regular order from source to mouth. The tributaries are treated 

the same as the main stream, all stations in each tributary basin 

being given before taking up the next one below.

The exceptions to this rule occur in the records for Mississippi 

River, which are given in four parts, as indicated above, and in the 

records for large lakes, where it is often clearer to take up the streams 

in regular order around the rim of the lake than to cross back and 

forth over the lake surface.

DEFINITION OF TERMS.

The volume of water flowing in a stream the "run-off" or "discharge" is expressed in various terms, each of which has become 

associated with a certain class of work. These terms may be divided 

into two groups: (1) Those which represent a rate of flow, as secondfeet, gallons per minute, miner's inches, and run-off in second-feet 

per square mile, and (2) those which represent the actual quantity 

of water, as run-off in depth in inches and acre-feet. They may be 

denned as follows:

"Second-foot" is an abbreviation for cubic foot per second and is 

the rate of discharge of water flowing in a stream 1 foot wide, 1 foot 

deep, at a rate of 1 foot per second. It is generally used as a fundamental unit from which others are computed by the use of the factors 

given in the following table of equivalents.

"Gallons per minute " is generally used in connection with pumping 

and city water supply.

The "miner's inch" is the rate of discharge of water that passes 

through an orifice 1 inch square under a head which varies locally. 

It is commonly used by miners and irrigators throughout the West 

and is defined by statute in each State in which it is used.

"Second-feet per square mile" is the average number of cubic feet 

of water flowing per second from each square mile of area drained, 

on the assumption that the run-off is distributed uniformly both as 

regards time and area.

"Run-off in inches" is the depth to which the drainage area would 

be covered if all the water flowing from it in a given period were 

conserved and uniformly distributed on the surface. It is used for 

comparing run-off with rainfall, which is usually expressed in depth 

in inches.

"Acre-foot" is equivalent to 43,560 cubic feet, and is the quantity 

required to cover an acre to the depth of 1 foot. It is commonly 

used in connection with storage for irrigation work.
14 STJEFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8. 

CONVENIENT EQUIVALENTS.

The following is a list of convenient equivalents for use in hydraulic 

computations:

1 second-foot equals 40 California miner's inches (law of March 23, 1901). 

1 second-foot equals 38.4 Colorado miner's inches. 

1 second-foot equals 40 Arizona miner's inches.

1 second-foot equals 7.48 United States gallons per second; equals 448.8 gallons per 

minute; equals 646,272 gallons for one day.

1 second-foot equals 6.23 British imperial gallons per second.

1 second-foot for one year covers 1 square mile 1.131 feet or 13.572 inches deep.

1 second-foot for one year equals 31,536,000 cubic feet.

1 second-foot equals about 1 acre-inch per hour.

1 second-foot for one day covers 1 square mile 0.03719 inch deep.

1 second-foot for one 28-day month covers 1 square mile 1.041 inches deep.

1 second-foot for one 29-day month covers 1 square mile 1.079 inches deep.

1 second-foot for one 30-day month covers 1 square mile 1.116 inches deep.

1 second-foot for one 31-day month covers 1 square mile 1.153 inches deep.

1 second-foot for one day equals 1.983 acre-feet.

1 second-foot for one 28-day month equals 55.54 acre-feet.

1 second-foot for one 29-day month equals 57.52 acre-feet.

1 second-foot for one 30-day month equals 59.50 acre-feet.

1 second-foot for one 31-day month equals 61.49 acre-feet.

100 California miner's inches equal 18.7 United States gallons per second.

100 California miner's inches equal 96.0 Colorado miner's inches.

100 California miner's inches for one day equal 4.96 acre-feet.

100 Colorado miner's inches equal 2.60 second-feet.

100 Colorado miner's inches equal 19.5 United States gallons per second.

100 Colorado miner's inches equal 104 California miner's inches.

100 Colorado miner's inches for one day equal 5.17 acre-feet.

100 United States gallons per minute equal 0.223 second-foot.

100 United States gallons per minute for one day equal 0.442 acre-foot.

1,000,000 United States gallons per day equal 1.55 second-feet.

1,000,000 United States gallons equal 3.07 acre-feet.

1,000,000 cubic feet equal 22.95 acre-feet.

1 acre-foot equals 325,850 gallons.

1 inch deep on 1 square mile equals 2,323,200 cubic feet.

1 inch deep on 1 square mile equals 0.0737 second-foot per year.

1 foot equals 0.3048 meter.

1 mile equals 1.60935 kilometers.

1 mile equals 5,280 feet.

1 acre equals 0.4047 hectare.

1 acre equals 43,560 square feet.

1 acre equals 209 feet square, nearly.

1 square mile equals 2.59 square kilometers.

1 cubic foot equals 0.0283 cubic meter.

1 cubic foot equals 7.48 gallons.

1 cubic foot of water weighs 62.5 pounds.

1 cubic meter per minute equals 0.5886 second-foot.

1 horsepower equals 550 foot-pounds per second.

1 horsepower equals 76.0 kilogram-meters per second.

1 horsepower equals 746 watts.
INTEODUCTION. 15

1 horsepower equals 1 second-foot falling 8.80 feet. 

1J horsepower equal about 1 kilowatt.

, , -n Sec.-ft.Xfall in feet To calculate water power quickly: - y^ =net horsepower on water

wheel realizing 80 per cent of theoretical power.

EXPLANATION OF TABLES.

For each drainage basin there is given a brief description of 

general conditions covering such features as area, source, tributaries, topography, geology, conditions of forestation, rainfall, ice 

conditions, irrigation, storage, power possibilities, and other special 

features of importance or interest.

For each regular current-meter gaging station are given in general, 

and so far as available, the following data: Description of station, 

list of discharge measurements, table of daily gage heights, rating 

table, table of monthly and yearly discharges and run-off. For 

stations located at weirs or dams the gage-height and rating tables 

are omitted and a table of daily discharge is substituted. For 

stations where the flow is computed by shifting-channel methods, a 

table of daily discharge is given in place of rating tables, wT hich are 

not used in these methods of computation.

In addition to statements regarding the location and installation 

of current-meter stations the descriptions give information in regard 

to any conditions which may affect the constancy of the relation of 

gage height to discharge, covering such points as ice, logging, shifting 

conditions of flow, and backwater; also full information regarding 

diversions which decrease the total flow at the measuring section. 

Statements are also made regarding the accuracy and reliability of 

the data.

The discharge-measurement table gives the results of the discharge 

measurements made during the year, including the date, name of 

hydrographer, width and area of cross section, gage height, and 

discharge in second-feet.

The table of daily gage heights gives the daily fluctuations of 

the surface of the river as found from the mean of the gage readings 

taken each day. At most stations the gage is read in the morning 

and in the evening. The gage height given in the table represents 

the elevation of the surface of the water above the zero of the gage. 

All gage heights during ice conditions, backwater from obstructions, 

etc., are published as recorded, with suitable footnotes. The rating 

is not applicable for such periods unless the proper correction to 

the gage heights is known and applied. Attention is called to the 

fact that the zero of the gage is placed at an arbitrary datum and has 

no relation to zero flow or the bottom of the river. In general, the 

zero is located somewhat below the lowest known flow, so that 

negative readings shall not occur.
16 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

The discharge measurements and gage heights are the base data 

from which the rating tables and monthly-discharge tables are 

computed.

The rating table gives, either directly or by interpolation, the 

discharge in second-feet corresponding to every stage of the river 

recorded during the period for which it is applicable. It is published 

to enable engineers to determine the daily discharge by its application to the table of gage heights or to check results in the table 

of monthly discharge.

In the table of monthly discharge the column headed "Maximum" 

gives the mean flow, as determined from the rating table, for the day 

when the mean gage height was highest. As the gage height is the 

mean for the day, it does not indicate correctly the period when the 

water surface was at crest height and the corresponding discharge 

consequently larger than given in this, column. Likewise, in the 

column of "Minimum" the quantity given is the mean flow for the 

day when the mean gage height was lowest. The column headed 

"Mean" is the average flow in cubic feet for each second during the 

month. On this the computations for the remaining columns, which 

are defined on page 13, are based.

FIELD METHODS OF MEASURING STREAM FLOW.

There are three distinct methods of determining the flow of openchannel streams: (1) By measurements of slope arid cross section 

and the use of Chezy's and Kutter's formulas; (2) by means of a 

wT eir or dam; (3) by measurements of the velocity of the current and 

of the area of the cross section. The method chosen depends on the 

local physical conditions, the degree of accuracy desired, the funds 

available, and the length of time that the record is to be continued.

Slope method. Much information has been collected relative to the 

coefficients to be used in the Chezy formula, v = c ^Rs. This has 

been utilized by Kutter, both in developing his formula for c and in 

determining the values of the coefficient n which appears therein. 

The results obtained by the slope method are in general only roughly 

approximate, owing to the difficulty in obtaining accurate data and 

the uncertainty of the value for n to be used in Kutter's formula. 

The most common use of this method is in estimating the flood discharge of a stream when the only data available are the cross section, 

the slope as shown by marks along the bank, and a knowledge of the 

general conditions. It is seldom used by the United States Geological Survey. For full information regarding this method the 

reader is referred to the various text-books on hydraulics.

Weir method. Relatively few stations are maintained at weirs or 

dams by the United States Geological Survey. Standard types of 

sharp-crested and broad-crested weirs within the limits for which
INTRODUCTION. 17

accurate coefficients have been experimentally obtained give very 

accurate records of discharge if properly maintained. At practically 

all broad-crested weirs, however, there is a diversion of water either 

through or around the dam, usually for the purpose of development 

of water power. The flow is often complicated and the records are 

subject to errors from such sources as leakage through the dam, 

backwater at high stages, uncertainty regarding coefficient, crest 

which is not level, obstructions from logs or ice, use of flashboards, 

old turbines with imperfect ratings, and many others, depending on 

the type of development and the uses of the diverted water.

In general, records of discharge at dams are usually accurate enough 

for practical use if no others are available. It has been the general 

experience of the United States Geological Survey, however, that 

records at current-meter gaging stations under unobstructed channel 

conditions are more accurate than those collected at dams, and where 

the conditions are reasonably favorable are practically as good as 

those obtained at sharp-crested weirs.

The determination of discharge over the different types of weirs 

and dams is treated fully in "Weir experiments, coefficients, and 

formulas" (Water-Supply Paper 200a ) and in the various textbooks on hydraulics. "Turbine water-wheel tests and power tables" 

(Water-Supply Paper 180) treats of the discharge through turbines 

when used as meters. The edition of the latter water-supply paper 

is nearly exhausted. It can, however, be consulted at most of the 

larger libraries of the country or can be obtained from the Superintendent of Documents, Washington, D. C., at a cost of 20 cents. 

Remittances must be made by postal money order, express order, or 

New York draft.

Velocity method. Streams in general present throughout their 

courses to a greater or less extent all conditions of permanent, semipermanent, and varying conditions of flow. In accordance with the 

location of the measuring section with respect to these physical 

conditions, current-meter gaging stations may in general be divided 

into four classes (1) those with permanent conditions of flow;

(2) those with beds which change only during extreme high water;

(3) those with beds which change frequently but which do not cause 

a variation of more than about 5 per cent of the discharge curves 

from year to year; and (4) those with constantly shifting beds. 

In determining the daily flow different office methods are necessary 

for each class. The field data on which the determinations are 

based and the methods of collecting them are, however, in general 

the same.

a Water-Supply Paper 200 is a revision of No. 150, the edition of which is exhausted. 

31260 IRR 246 10 2
18 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Great care is taken in the selection and equipment of gaging 

stations for determining discharge by velocity measurements, in 

order that the data may have the required degree of accuracy. 

They are located, as far as possible, at such points that the relation 

between gage height and discharge will always remain constant 

for any given stage. The experience of engineers of the Geological 

Survey has been that permanency of conditions of flow is the prime 

requisite of any current-meter gaging station when maintained for 

several years unless funds are available to cover all changes in conditions of flow. A straight, smooth section without cross currents, 

backwater, boils, etc., at any stage is highly desirable, but on most 

streams is not attainable except at the cost of a cable equipment. Rough, permanent sections, if measurements are properly made by experienced engineers, taking measuring points at 

a distance apart of 2 to 5 per cent or less of the total width, 

will within reasonable limits yield better results for a given outlay 

of money than semipermanent or shifting sections with smooth, 

uniform current. So far as possible, stations are located where the 

banks are high and not subject to overflow at high stages and out 

of the influence of tributary streams, dams, or other artificial obstructions which might affect the relation between gage height and 

discharge.

A gaging station consists essentially of a gage for determining 

the daily fluctuations of stage of the river and some structure or 

apparatus from which discharge measurements are made, usually 

a bridge or cable.

The two factors required to determine the discharge of a stream 

past a section perpendicular to the mean .direction of the current 

are the area of the cross section and the mean velocity of flow normal 

to that section.

In making a measurement with a current meter a number of 

points, called measuring points, are measured off above and in the 

plane of the measuring section at which observations of depth and 

velocity are taken. (See PI. I, B.) These points are spaced equally 

for those parts of the section where the flow is uniform and smooth 

and are spaced unequally for other parts according to the discretion 

and judgment of the engineer. In general the points should not 

be spaced farther apart than 5 per cent of the distance between 

piers, nor farther apart than the approximate mean depth at the 

time of measurement.

The measuring points divide the total cross section into elementary 

strips, at each end of which observations of depth and velocity 

are made. The discharge of any elementary strip is the product 

of the average of the depths at the two ends times the width of the 

strip times the average of the mean velocities at the two ends of the
A. CURRENT-METER RATING STATION AT LOS ANGELES, CAL.

B. BRIDGE STATION AND CROSS SECTION OF STREAM. 

Illustrating 0.2 and 0.8 depth method.
INTRODUCTION. 19

strip. The sum of the discharges of the elementary strips is the total 

discharge of the stream. (For a discussion of methods of computing the discharge of a stream, see Engineering News, June 25, 

1908.)

Depths for the determination of the area are usually obtained 

by sounding with the current meter and cable. In rough sections 

or swift current an ordinary weight and cable are used, particular 

care being taken that all observations shall be in the plane of the 

cross section.

Two methods of determining the velocity of flow of a stream are 

in general use the float method and the current-meter method.

The float method, with its various modifications of surface, subsurface, and tube or rod floats, is now considered obsolete in the ordinary practice of the United States Geological Survey. The use 

of this method is limited to special conditions where it is impracticable 

to use the current meter, such as in places where large quantities of 

ice or debris which may damage the meter are flowing with the current, and for miscellaneous measurements or other work where a 

high degree of accuracy is not necessary. Tube floats are very satisfactory for use in canals with regular bottoms and even flow of current. Measurements by the float method are made as follows: 

The velocity of flow of the stream is obtained by observing the time 

which it takes floats set free at different points across the stream 

to pass between two range lines about 200 feet apart. The area 

used is the mean value obtained from several cross sections measured 

between the two range lines. The chief disadvantages of this method 

are difficulty in obtaining the correct value of mean area for the 

course used and uncertainty regarding the proper coefficient to 

apply to the observed velocity. For further information regarding 

this method the reader is referred to Water-Supply Paper 95 and to 

the various text-books covering the general subject of stream flow.

The Price current meter is now used almost to the exclusion of 

other types of meters by the United States Geological Survey in the 

determination of the velocity of flow of water in open channels, a 

use for which it is adapted under practically all conditions. Plate 

II shows in the center the new type of penta-recording current meter 

equipped for measurements at bridge and cable stations. On the 

sides the same type of meter is shown equipped for wading measurements to record by the acoustic method on the left and by the electric 

method on the right. Briefly, the meter consists of six cups attached 

to a vertical shaft which revolves on a conical hardened steel point 

when immersed in moving water. The number of revolutions is 

indicated electrically. The rating, or relation between the velocity 

of the moving water and the revolution of the wheel, is determined 

for each meter by drawing it through still water for a given distance
20 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

at different speeds and noting the number of revolutions for each 

run. (See PI. I, A.) From these data a rating table is prepared 

which gives the velocity per second of moving water for any number 

of revolutions in a given time interval. The ratio of revolutions per 

second to velocity of flow in feet per second is very nearly a constant 

for all speeds and is approximately 0.45.

Three classes of methods of measuring velocity with current meters 

are in general use multiple-point, single-point, and integration.

The two principal multiple-point methods in general use are the 

vertical velocity curve and 0.2 and 0.8 depth.

In the vertical velocity curve method a series of velocity determinations are made in each vertical at regular intervals, usually about 

10 to 20 per cent of the depth apart. By plotting these velocities as 

abscissas and their depths as ordinates and drawing a smooth curve 

among the resulting points, the vertical velocity curve is developed. 

This curve shows graphically the magnitude and changes in velocity 

from the surface to the bottom of the stream. The mean velocity 

in the vertical is then obtained by dividing the area bounded by this 

velocity curve and its axis by the depth. This method of obtaining 

the mean velocity in the vertical is probably the best known, but 

on account of the length of time required to make a complete measurement its use is largely limited to the determination of coefficients 

for purposes of comparison and to measurements under ice.

In the second multiple-point method the meter is held successively 

at 0.2 and 0.8 depth, and the mean of the velocities at these two points 

is taken as the mean velocity for that vertical. (See PI. I.) On the 

assumption that the vertical velocity curve is a common parabola 

with horizontal axis, the mean of the velocities at 0.22 and 0.79 depth 

will give (closely) the mean velocity in the vertical. Actual observations under a wide range of conditions show that this multiple-point 

method gives the mean velocity very closely for open-water conditions and that in a completed measurement it seldom varies as much 

as 1 per cent from the value given by the vertical velocity curve 

method. Moreover, the indications are that it holds nearly as well 

for ice-covered rivers. It is very extensively used in the regular 

practice of the United States Geological Survey.

The single-point method consists in holding the meter either at the 

depth of the thread of mean velocity or at an arbitrary depth for 

which the coefficient for reducing to mean velocity has been determined or must be assumed.

Extensive experiments by means of vertical velocity curves show 

that the thread of mean velocity generally occurs between 0.5 and 

0.7 total depth. In general practice the thread of mean velocity is 

considered to be at 0.6 depth, and at this point the meter is held in 

most of the measurements made by the single-point method. A
U. 8. GEOLOGICAL SURVEY WATER-SUPPLY PAPER 246 PLATE II

PRICE PENTA-RECORDING CURRENT METERS.
INTKODUCTION. 21

large number of vertical velocity curve measurements, taken on 

many streams and under varying conditions, show that the average 

coefficient for reducing the velocity obtained at 0.6 depth to mean 

velocity is practically unity. The variation of the coefficient from 

unity in individual cases is, however, greater than in the 0.2 and 

0.8 method and the general results are not as satisfactory.

In the other principal single-point method the meter is held near 

the surface, usually 1 foot below, or low enough to be out of the effect 

of the wind or other disturbing influences. This is known as the subsurface method. The coefficient for reducing the velocity taken at 

the subsurface to the mean has been found to be in general from 

about 0.85 to 0.95, depending on the stage, velocity, and channel 

conditions The higher the stage the larger the coefficient. This 

method is especially adapted for flood measurements, or when the 

velocity is so great that the meter can not be kept in the correct 

position for the other methods.

The vertical integration method consists in moving the meter at a 

slow uniform speed from the surface to the bottom and back again 

to the surface and noting the number of revolutions and the time 

taken in the operation. This method has the advantage that the 

velocity at each point of the vertical is measured twice. It is useful 

as a check on the point methods. In using the Price meter great 

care should be taken that the vertical movement of the meter is not 

rapid enough to vitiate the accuracy of the resulting velocity.

The determination of the flow of an ice-covered stream is difficult, 

owing to diversity and instability of conditions during the winter 

period and also to lack of definite information in regard to the laws of 

flow of water under ice. The method now employed is to make frequent discharge measurements during the frozen periods by the 0.2 

and 0.8 and the vertical velocity curve methods, and to keep an 

accurate record of the conditions, such as the gage height to the surface of the water as it rises in a hole cut in the ice, and the thickness 

and character of the ice. From these data an approximate estimate 

of the daily flow can be made by constructing a rating curve (really 

a series of curves) similar to that used for open channels, but considering, in addition to gage heights and discharge, the varying thickness of ice. For information in regard to flow under ice cover, see 

Water-Supply Paper 187.

OFFICE METHODS OF COMPUTING AND STUDYING DISCHARGE AND

RUN-OFF.

At the end of each year the field or base data for current-meter 

gaging stations, consisting of daily gage heights, discharge measurements, and full notes, are assembled. The measurements are plotted 

on cross-section paper and rating curves are drawn wherever feasible.
22 SURFACE WATEE SUPPLY, 1907-8.

The rating tables prepared from these curves are then applied to 

the tables of daily gage heights to obtain the daily discharges, and 

from these applications the tables of monthly discharge and run-off 

are computed.

Rating curves are drawn and studied with special reference to 

the class of channel conditions which they represent. (See p. 17.) 

The discharge measurements for all classes of stations when plotted 

with gage heights in feet as ordinates and discharges in second-feet 

as abscissas define rating curves which are more or less generally 

parabolic in form. In many cases curves of area in square feet and 

mean velocity in feet per second are also constructed to the same 

scale of ordinates as the discharge curve. These are used mainly 

to extend the discharge curves beyond the limits of the plotted discharge measurements, and for checking purposes to avoid errors in 

the form of the discharge curve and to determine and eliminate 

erroneous measurements.

For every published rating table the following assumptions are 

made for the period of application of the table: (a) That the discharge is a function of and increases gradually with the stage; (ft) 

that the discharge is the same whenever the stream is at a given 

stage, and hence such changes in conditions of flow as may have occurred during the period of application are either compensating or 

negligible, except that the rating as stated in the footnote of each 

table is not applicable for known conditions of ice, log jams, or other 

similar obstructions; (c) that the increased and decreased discharge 

due to change of slope on rising and falling stages is either negligible 

or compensating.

As already stated, the gaging stations may be divided into several 

classes, as indicated in the following paragraphs:

The stations of class 1 represent the most favorable conditions for 

an accurate rating and are also the most economical to maintain. 

The bed of the stream is usually composed of rock and is not subject 

to the deposit of sediment and loose material. This class includes 

also many stations located in a pool below which is a permanent 

rocky riffle that controls the flow like a weir. Provided the control 

is sufficiently high and close to the gage to prevent cut and fill at the 

gaging point from materially affecting the slope of the water surface, 

the gage height will for all practical purposes be a true index of the 

discharge. Discharge measurements made at such stations usually 

plot within 2 or 3 per cent of the mean-discharge curve and the rating 

developed from that curve represents a very high degree of accuracy. 

For illustrative example of a station of this type see Water-Supply 

Paper 241.

Class 2 is confined mainly to stations on rough mountainous streams 

with steep slopes. The beds of such streams are as a rule compara-
MEASUREMENTS IN 1906 NO.1 TO 8 

 " " 1907 NO.9 TO 13 

11 11 1908 NO.14 TO 19

140 160 180 200 

DISCHARGE IN SECOND-FEET

fiGURE 1. Discharge curves of Smith Creek near 
24 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

tively permanent during low and medium stages and when the flow 

is sufficiently well defined by an adequate number of discharge 

measurements before and after each flood the stations of this class

GAGE HEIGHT IN FEET

S 55 =8 g

3 o

S m

S J

<' m en

o> m g

> 2 -

CO O -

give nearly as good results as those of class 1. (See figs. 1 and 2.) 

As it is seldom possible to make measurements covering the time of 

change at flood stage, the assumption is often made that the curves
INTBODUCTION. 25

before and after the flood converged to a common point at the highest gage height recorded during the flood. Hence the only uncertain 

period occurs during the few days of highest gage heights covering 

the period of actual change in conditions of flow.

Class 3 includes most of the current-meter gaging stations maintained by the United States Geological Survey. If sufficient measurements could be made at stations of this class results would be obtained 

nearly equaling those of class 1, but owing to the limited funds at the 

disposal of the survey this is manifestly impossible, nor is it necessary 

for the uses to which discharge data are applied. The critical points 

are as a rule at relatively high or low stages. The percentage error, 

however, is greater at low stages. No absolute rule can be laid down 

for stations of this class. Each rating curve must be constructed 

mainly on the basis of the measurements of the current year, the 

engineer being guided largely by the past history of the station and 

the following general law: If all measurements ever made at a station 

of this class are plotted on cross-section paper, they will define a mean 

curve, which may be called a standard curve. It has been found in 

practice that if after a change caused by high stage a relatively constant condition of flow occurs at medium and low stages, all measurements made after the change will plot on a smooth curve which is 

practically parallel to the standard curve with respect to their ordinates or gage heights. This law of the parallelism of ratings is the 

fundamental basis of all ratings and estimates at stations with 

semipermanent and shifting channels. It is not absolutely correct 

but, with few exceptions, answers all the practical requirements of 

estimates made at low and medium stages after a change at a high 

stage. This law appears to hold equally true whether the change 

occurs at the measuring section or at some controlling point below. 

The change is of course fundamentally due to change in the channel 

caused by cut, or fill, or both, at and near the measuring section. 

For all except small streams the changes in section usually occur at 

the bottom. The following simple but typical examples illustrate 

this law:

(a) If 0.5 foot of planking were to be nailed on the bottom of a 

well-rated wooden flume of rectangular section there would result, 

other conditions of flow being equal, new curves of discharge, area, 

and velocity, each plotting 0.5 foot above the original curves when 

referred to the original gage. In other words, this condition would 

be analogous to a uniform fill or cut in a river channel, which either 

reduces or increases all three values of discharge, area, and velocity 

for any gage height. In practice, however, such ideal conditions 

rarely exist.

(?>) In the case of a cut or fill at the measuring section there is a 

marked tendency toward decrease or increase, respectively, of the
26 SUBFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

velocity. In other words, the velocity has a compensating effect and 

if the compensation is exact at all stages the discharge at a given 

stage will be the same under both the new and the old conditions.

(c) In the case of uniform change along the crest of a weir or 

rocky controlling point, the area curve will remain the same as 

before the change, and it can be shown that here again the change 

in velocity curve is such that it will produce a new discharge curve 

essentially parallel to the original discharge curve with respect to 

their ordinates.

Of course in actual practice such simple changes of section do not 

occur. The changes are complicated and lack uniformity, a cut at 

one place being largely offset by a fill at another, and vice versa. 

If these changes are very radical and involve large percentages of 

the total area as, for example, on small streams there may result 

a wide departure from the law of p'arallelism of ratings. In complicated changes of section the corresponding changes in velocity 

which tend to produce a new parallel discharge curve may interfere 

with each other materially, causing eddies, boils, backwater, and 

radical changes in slope. In such extreme conditions, however, the 

measuring section would more properly fall under class 4 and would 

require very frequent measurements of discharge. Special stress is 

laid on the fact that in the lack of other data to the contrary the 

utilization of this law will yield the most probable results.

Slight changes at low or medium stages of an oscillating character 

are usually averaged by a mean curve drawn among them parallel 

to the standard curve, and if the individual measurements do not 

vary more than 5 per cent from the rating curve the results are 

considered good for stations of this class. For illustrative example 

of a station of this type see Water-Supply Paper 242.

Class 4 comprises stations that have soft, muddy, or sandy beds. 

Good results can be obtained from such sections only by frequent 

discharge measurements, the frequency varying from a measurement every two or three weeks to a measurement every day, according to the rate of diurnal change in conditions of flow. These 

measurements are plotted and a mean or standard curve drawn 

among them. It is assumed that there is a different rating curve 

for every day of the year and that this rating is parallel to the 

standard curve with respect to their ordinates. On the day of a 

measurement the rating curve for that day passes through that 

measurement. For days between successive measurements it is 

assumed that the rate of change is uniform, and hence the ratings 

for the intervening days are equally spaced between the ratings 

passing through the two measurements. This method must be 

modified or abondoned altogether under special conditions. Personal judgment and a knowledge of the conditions involved can
INTRODUCTION. 27

alone dictate the course to pursue in such cases. For illustrative 

example of a station of this type, showing the Bolster method of 

determining the daily discharge graphically, see Water-Supply 

Papers 247 and 249.

The computations have, as a rule, been carried to three significant 

figures. Computation machines, Crelle's tables, and the 20-inch slide 

rule have been generally used. All computations are carefully 

checked.

After the computations have been completed they are entered in 

tables and carefully studied and intercompared to eliminate or 

account for all gross errors so far as possible. Missing periods are 

filled in, so far as is feasible, by means of comparison with adjacent 

streams. The attempt is made to complete years or periods of discharge, thus eliminating fragmentary and disjointed records. Full 

notes accompanying such estimates follow the monthly discharge 

tables.

For most of the northern stations estimates have been made of 

the monthly discharge during frozen periods. These are based on 

measurements under ice conditions wherever available, daily records 

of temperature and precipitation obtained from the United States 

Weather Bureau climate and crop reports, observers' notes of conditions, and a careful and thorough intercomparison of results with 

adjacent streams. Although every care possible is used in making 

these estimates they are often very rough, the data for some of 

them being so poor that the estimates are liable to as much as 25 

to 50 per cent error. It is believed, however, that estimates of this 

character are better than none at all, and serve the purpose of indicating in a relative way the proportionate amount of flow during 

the frozen period. These estimates are, as a rule included in the 

annual discharge. The large error of the individual months lias a 

relatively small effect on the annual total, and it is for many purposes desirable to have the yearly discharge computed even though 

some error is involved in doing so.

ACCURACY AND RELIABILITY OF FIELD DATA AND COMPARATIVE

RESULTS.

Practically all discharge measurements made under fair conditions are well within 5 per cent of the true discharge at the time of 

observation. Inasmuch as the errors of meter measurements are 

largely compensating, the mean rating curve, when well defined, is 

much more accurate than the individual measurements. Numerous 

tests and experiments have been made to test the accuracy of currentmeter work. These show that it compares very favorably with the 

results from standard weirs, and, owing to simplicity of methods, 

usually gives results that are much more reliable than those from
28 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

stations at darns, where uncertainty regarding the coefficient and 

complicated conditions of flow prevail.

The work is, of course, dependent on the reliability of the observers. 

With relatively few exceptions, the observers perform their work 

honestly. Care is taken, however, to watch them closely and to 

inquire into any discrepancies. It is, of course, obvious that one 

gage reading a day does not always give the mean height for that 

day. As an almost invariable rule, however, errors from this source 

are compensating and virtually negligible in a period of one month, 

although a single day's reading may, when taken by itself, be considerably in error.

In order to give engineers and others information regarding the 

probable accuracy of the computed results, footnotes are added to the 

rating tables and an accuracy column is inserted in the monthly discharge table. In the rating tables "well defined " indicates in general 

that the rating is probably accurate within 5 per cent; "fairly well 

defined," within 10 per cent; "poorly defined" or "approximate," 

within 15 to 25 per cent. These notes are very general and are based 

on the plotting of the individual measurements with reference to the 

mean rating curve.

The accuracy column in the monthly discharge table does not apply 

to the maximum or minimum nor to any individual day, but to the 

monthly mean. It is based on the accuracy of the rating, the probable reliability of the observer, and knowledge of local conditions. In 

this column, A indicates that the mean monthly flow is probably 

accurate within 5 per cent; B, within 10 per cent; C, within 15 per 

cent; D, within 25 per cent. Special conditions are covered by footnotes.

USE OF THE DATA.

In general the policy is followed of making available for the public 

the base data which are collected in the field each year by the Survey 

engineers. This is done to comply with the law, but also for the 

express purpose of giving to any engineer the opportunity of examining the computed results and of changing and adjusting them as may 

seem best to him. Although it is believed that the rating tables and 

computed monthly discharges are as good as the base data up to and 

including the current year will warrant, it should always be borne in 

mind that the additional data collected at each station from year to 

year nearly always throw new light on data already collected and 

published, and hence allow more or less improvement in the computed 

results of earlier years. It is therefore expected that the engineer 

who makes serious use of the data given in these papers will verify 

all ratings and make such adjustments in earlier years as may seem 

necessary. The work of compiling, studying, revising, and republishing data for different drainage basins for five or ten year periods or
INTRODUCTION. 29

more is carried on by the United States Geological Survey so far as 

the funds for such work are available.

The values in the table of monthly discharge are so arranged as to 

give only a general idea of the conditions of flow at the station, and it 

is not expected that they will be used for other than preliminary 

estimates. This is particularly true of the maximum and minimum 

figures, which in the very nature of the method of collecting these 

data are liable to large errors. The maximum value should be 

increased considerably for many stations in considering designs for 

spillways, and the minimum value should be considered for a group 

of, say, seven days and not for one day.

The rating table, provided the engineer accepts it, is published 

primarily to allow him to apply it directly to the daily gage heights 

and rearrange the daily discharges in order of magnitude or by some 

other method.

COOPERATION AND ACKNOWLEDGMENTS.

Assistance has been rendered or records furnished by the following 

persons or corporations, to whom special acknowledgments are due: 

Mr. John W. Wade, state engineer of Montana; Mr. T. W. Jaycox, 

state engineer of Colorado; Mr. Adna Dobson, state engineer of 

Nebraska; the United States Reclamation Service; the United States 

Weather Bureau; the United States Forest Service; the Denver 

Union Water Company; the Central Colorado Power Company; the 

Denver Reservoir and Irrigation Company; and the Northern 

Pacific, the Union Pacific, the Great Northern, and the Colorado and 

Southern railways. Thanks are also here tendered to all other 

parties and companies who have assisted in the work.

DIVISION OF WORK.

The work in Montana prior to the field season of 1908 was under 

the charge of Robert Follansbee, district engineer, assisted by J. E. 

Stewart, assistant engineer, Raymond Richards, and J. B. Pierson. 

The field data during 1908 were collected under the direction of J. E. 

Stewart, district engineer, assisted by Raymond Richards and 

A. F. Huch.

The work in North Dakota was carried on by E. F. Chandler, 

assistant engineer.

The field data in the South Platte and North Platte drainage areas 

and in the Bighorn drainage area above the Shoshone were collected 

under the direction of W. B. Freeman, district engineer, assisted by 

J. B. Stewart and C. L. Chatfield. This work was in charge of 

R. I. Meeker, district hydrographer, until May 1, 1908.

Since July 1, 1907, the field work in the Niobrara, Platte, and 

Kansas river drainage basins in Nebraska has been under the general
30 SURFACE WATEE SUPPLY, 1907-8.

supervision of W. B. Freeman, district engineer, but under the immediate direction of Adna Dobson, state engineer, assisted by A. A. 

Dobson, G. W. Bates, and other employees of the state engineer's 

office.

The ratings, special estimates, and studies of the completed data 

were made by Robert Follansbee and J. E. Stewart for Montana, and 

W. B. Freeman and F. F. Henshaw for Wyoming, Colorado, and 

Nebraska. The computations and the preparations of the completed 

data for publication were made by G. C. Stevens, R. C. Rice, J. G. 

Mathers, H. D. Padgett, and M. I. Walters. The manuscript was 

edited by Mrs. B. D. Wood.

MISSOURI RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN.

GENERAL FEATURE S.

Missouri River and its innumerable tributaries drain an immense 

area in the northern and western section of the United States. The 

northern boundary of this area is approximately the fiftieth parallel, the southern the thirty-ninth; to the west it is limited by the 

Rocky Mountains, while to the east the divide between it and the 

upper Mississippi basin crosses eastern North and South Dakota, 

western Iowa, and northeastern Missouri. Its extent east and west 

is about 900 miles; north and south it is 600 miles; and it comprises 

a total of 492,000 square miles.

The topography of the basin is of the most varied character, 

ranging from the mountainous regions of Montana, Wyoming, and 

Colorado to the rolling prairies of the Dakotas, Nebraska, and Kansas. The upper tributaries drain a forested region, but the main 

stream flows through a country almost wholly devoid of forests. The 

precipitation in the mountainous portion of the basin is mainly in the 

form of snow, but a great part of the area lies within the arid and 

semiarid regions, and it is probable that the annual average precipitation throughout the entire basin is less than 20 inches.

The tributaries are mostly in the upper course of the river and from 

the western side of the basin. The most important of these are 

Musselshell, Sun, Marias, Milk, Yellowstone, Cheyenne, Platte, and 

Kansas rivers.

Oving to the high altitude and northern climate ice conditions prevail in the upper portions of this basin from November to April. 

The Missouri itself freezes over entirely, but many of its tributaries 

remain partly open on account of the extreme rapidity of the water. 

The amount of snow falling on the prairies is usually small, but 

among the mountains the snows begin early, continue late, and accumulate to great depths.

Irrigation is practiced to a great extent on the various tributaries 

of the Missouri and agriculture has been extensively developed in
KEPLER CASCADE, FIREHOLE RIVER, YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK.
MISSOURI EIVEE. 31

many of the valleys. The Madison and Gallatin and many other of 

the mountain tributaries afford unsurpassed storage facilities, the 

waters of the Beaverhead, Big Hole, Madison, Jefferson, and Gallatin 

rivers furnish great supplies for irrigation, and the basins of Milk, 

Sun, Yellowstone, and Musselshell rivers, already extensively utilized, still offer opportunities for broader irrigation, storage, and 

water-power development. (See Pis. Ill and XIII.)

MISSOURI RIVER PROPER. 

DESCRIPTION.

Missouri River proper is formed in southwestern Montana by the 

union of three streams, which were discovered by Lewis and Clark 

in 1806 and named by them Jefferson, Madison, and Gallatin rivers. 

Jefferson and Madison forks come together first, and within 2 miles 

they are joined by the Gallatin. The head of the Missouri thus formed 

lies in about latitude 45° 56' north and longitude 111° 32' west. Each 

of the three headwater rivers is about 90 feet wide, flows with great 

velocity, and discharges large quantities of water. The Gallatin is 

the most rapid of the three, but the Jefferson drains the largest area, 

and is here treated as the continuation of the main river. The Jefferson itself is formed by the union of two forks Big Hole and Beaverhead rivers the Beaverhead draining the larger area and having as its 

master headwater stream Red Rock River. The source of this lastnamed river the Red Rock lakes, lying in the Rocky Mountains 

6,700 feet above sea level may, therefore, be regarded as the ultimate source of the great Missouri.

Below the junction of the Jefferson, Madison, and Gallatin the 

course of the Missouri lies through mountain valleys and deep canyons, from which it finally emerges through a gorge in a range of 

rocks, called by Lewis and Clark the "gates of the Rocky Mountains." 

Thirty-five miles above Fort Benton the river pours over Great Falls, 

and from that point onward it is a navigable stream. For miles below 

the falls the river flows in a deep canyon, with banks ranging from 

100 to 160 feet in height. Below the mouth of Marias River, which 

enters from the north, the banks are less abrupt and rise with gentle 

slopes to the bluffs. The high-water width of the river, which in the 

vicinity of Fort Benton is 500 to 1,000 feet, increases to 1,500 feet at 

the mouth of Milk River and to 2,000 feet near the mouth of the 

Yellowstone. Below the Yellowstone the width gradually increases 

from 2,000 to 3,000 feet, and this remains approximately the average 

width for 600 miles of its course.

From the mouth of the Yellowstone the Missouri follows a winding 

but on the whole southeasterly course until it is joined by the Kansas; 

thence it flows more to the east across the State of Missouri, and 

empties into the Mississippi 16 miles above St. Louis, 189 miles above
32 SUBFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

the mouth of the Ohio, and 2,824 miles below the junction of its three 

upper forks.

For the first 350 miles below the union of the three forks the Missouri is a comparatively clear stream, but approximately midway 

oetween, the forks and the mouth of the Yellowstone its character 

gradually changes and it becomes turbid. Although a large amount 

of the sediment carried by the Missouri is undoubtedly brought in by 

the drainage of its tributaries, the greater part is derived from the 

caving of its banks.

Except in the mountain canyons the Missouri flows through an 

alluvial bottom land of the most fertile character, varying in width 

from 11 miles near the mouth to 17 miles in the vicinity of Sioux City.

The volume ot Missouri River is subject to great variations, the 

ordinary high-water discharge at the mouth being about 28 times the 

low-water discharge. The freshets are caused by melting snows and 

heavy summer rains. The regular floods occur in May, June, and 

July, the June discharge being the greatest. Thereafter the river 

steadily decreases in volume, the minimum being reached during the 

winter months. Records obtained at Cascade and Townsend indicate 1899 as the wettest year and 1905 as the driest.

The Missouri itself has not been used for irrigation, owing to its 

high banks and consequent difficulty of diversion. Approximately 

150,000 acres of land are now under irrigation in Beaverhead Valley, 

and by storing the waters of the upper Beaverhead or Red Rock 

River in Red Rock Lakes fully 125,000 acres more can be put under 

irrigation.

In Montana the Missouri, with its tributaries, afford many opportunities for power development. A number of large, substantial 

power stations have been built, and approximately 75,000 horsepower 

is now being developed. Engineers estimate that 350,000 horsepower can be developed on the Missouri River near Great Falls.

The following gaging stations have been maintained in this river 

basin: a

Red Kock Kiver at Lima, Mont., 1907-8. 

Beaverhead River at Barratts, Mont., 1907-8. 

Beaverhead Eiver at Dillon, Mont., 1907. 

Jefferson Eiver near Sappington, Mont., 1896-1905. 

Missouri River near Townsend, Mont., 1895-1904. 

Missouri River at Canyon Ferry, Mont., 1889. 

Missouri River near Craig, Mont., 1890-1902. 

Missouri River at Cascade, Mont., 1902-1908. 

Missouri River at Great Falls, Mont., 1897-1905. 

Missouri River near Williston, N. Dak., 1905-7. 

Missouri River at Mannhaven, N. Dak., 1904. 

Missouri River at Washburn, N. Dak., 1905. 

Missouri River near Bismarck, N. Dak., 1904-5. 

Missouri River at Kansas City, Mo., 1905-6.

a Gaging stations in tributary drainage basins are listed under the descriptions of those basins.
MISSOURI RIVER.

RED ROCK RIVER AT LIMA, MONT.

This station, which was established August 14, 1907, to obtain 

data concerning the amount of water available for irrigation, is 

located near Gleed ranch, 1 mile east of Lima.

Red Rock River, here regarded as the headwater stream of the 

Missouri, rises in Red Rock Lakes in the Rocky Mountains 40 miles 

east of Lima. The tributaries above the station are small and 

unimportunt, the stream at the gaging station receiving its water 

supply chiefly from the melting snow in the mountains. Below the 

station Sheep and Sage creeks are the principal tributaries.

Diversions from this stream are many. Above the station 3 

ditches, carrying approximately 900 miner's inches each, receive their 

water supply from the Red Rock. The water is all appropriated 

above the station, but the rights are unadjudicated. The dam at 

the reservoir storing the water of the Red Rock has been completed, 

but the canals are }Tet to be built. It is an earthen dam with concrete 

core, is 50 feet high, and has a capacity of 90,000 acre-feet. The dam 

is 16 miles above Lima, Mont., and 27 miles below Lower Red Rock 

lakes. Its top elevation is 6,700 feet. This water will be used to 

irrigate 25,000 acres of land near Lima.

On October 27, 1908, a new chain gage with a new datum was 

established 300 feet below the old gage. The stream bed is permanent 

and the results obtained are good. A large spring enters the stream 

just above the gage and the river remains open the entire year.

Discharge measurements of Red .Rock River at Lima, Mont., in 1907 and 1908.

Date.

1907.

August 27..... . 

October 9. .....

1908. 

April 21........

June 21. ........

August 13... . . .

October 27......

Ilydrographer.

.1. E. Stewart..... .................................. 

Follansbee and Stewart. .......... .................

Stewart and Richards. .... .......

.....do..............................................

.....do................................... ..........

.....do.............................................

Width.

Feet.

37

37

42

38

3607

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft.

82

76 

75

156

117

157

65

80

Gage 

height.

Feet.

1.82 

1.80

3.50

2.41

3.38

1.49

1.81

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

218

181 

176

694

124

213

31260 IBB 246 10
SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1901-8.

Daily gage height, in feet, of Red Rock River at Lima, Mont., for 1907. 

[3. L. Lewis and E. R. Gleed, observers.]

Day.

2. ..............

5. ..............

6...............

7...............

9...............

10...............

11...............

12...............

13...............

14...............

15........ ......

Aug.

1 9

1 9

Sept.

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.7

1.7

1.6

1.6

Oct.

1.7

1.7

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.9

1.9

1.9

1.9

].9

Nov.

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.85

1.8

1.7

1.6

Day.

16...............

17. ...... ........

18......-..-...-.

19...............

20...............

21 ...............

22...............

23...............

24...............

25. ..............

26. ..............

27...............

28. ..............

29...............

30 ...............

31...............

Aug.

1.9

1.9

1.8

1.5

1.3

1.5

1.4

1.4

1.5

1.6

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.9

1.9

Sept.

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7 1."

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

Oct.

1.9

1.9

1.9

1.95

1.95

1.95

1.95

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.9

1.8

1.8

Nov.

1.7

1.7

1.6

1.8

1.6

1.6

1.7

1.6

NOTE. Ice conditions November 24 to December 31.

Rating table for Red Rock River at Lima, Mont., for 1907.

Gage

height.

Feet.

1.00

1.10

1.20

1.30

1.40

1.50

].60

1.70

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

25

43

62

81

101

122

144

167

Gage

height.

Feet.

1.80

1.90

2.00

2 10

2.20

2.30

2.40

2.50

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

191

216

242

269

297

327

357

389

Gage

height.

Feet.

2.60

2.70

2.80

2 90

3.00

3.10

3.20

3.30

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

421

453

485

518

552

586

620

654

Gage

height.

Feet.

3.40

3.50

3.60

3.70

3.80

3.90

4.00

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

689

724

759

794

829

864

900

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on 

eight discharge measurements made during 1907-8 and is fairly well denned.

Monthly discharge of Red Rock River at Lima, Mont., for 1907.

Month.

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

216 

167 

229 

204

Minimum.

81 

122 

167 

144

Mean.

169 

157 

202 

176

Run-off 

(total in 

acre-feet).

6,030 

9,340 

12,400 

8,030

AccuracyA. 

B. 

B. 

B.

BEAVERHEAD RIVER AT BARRATTS^, MONT.

This station, which was established August 12, 1907, to obtain data 

for the solution of irrigation problems, is located 1 mile above Barratts and 10 miles southwest of Dillon, Mont.

This stream is called Red Rock River from its source in Red Rock 

Lakes to the post-office of Red Rock, below which to its junction 

with Big Hole River it is called the Beaverhead. The principal 

tributaries to the Beaverhead above the station are Grasshopper
MISSOURI RIVEE. 35

Creek, 12 miles south of Dillon, Horse Prairie Creek, 20 miles south, 

and Rattlesnake and Blacktail Deer creeks.

Irrigation has probably been practiced in Beaverhead Valley 

longer than in any other valley in Montana, ditches constructed in 

the early seventies being still in operation. Innumerable diversions 

are made. Decreed water rights aggregating 85,866 inches of water 

are filed on from Lima on Red Rock River to a point 10 miles above 

Twin Bridges. The three largest canals diverted below the gaging 

station are Canyon Creek canal, appropriating 6,000 inches; Union 

canal, appropriating 4,000, and the Beaverhead canal, diverted just 

north of Dillon, appropriating 5,000 inches. The Union Electric 

Company, of Dillon, has a canal with a carrying capacity of 6,000 

inches.

The stream remains open during the winter months. The gage 

datum has not been changed. The gaging section has a rocky 

bottom and should not shift. Records obtained are good.

It is worthy of note that the number and quantity of flow of 

springs in this valley have increased since irrigation began. The 

ground evidently serves as a reservoir, the water being absorbed as 

by a sponge and later coming to the surface as springs.

Discharge measurements of Beaverhead River at Barratts, Mont., in 1907 and 1908.

Date.

1907.

1908.

Hydrographer.

J. E. Stewart. ......................................

.....do..............................................

.....do.............................. ............

.... .do. ............................. .1 ..............

Width.

Feet. 

71

64

64

64

94

60

63

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft.

284

242

224

296

239

428

168

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

1.94

1.58

1.20

2.28

4.72

1.63

1.92

Discharga

Sec.-ft. 

664

445

346

930

513

2,620

567

769

Daily gage height, in feet, of Beaverhead River at Barratts, Mont., for 1907 and 1908.

[Roy S. Dingley, observer.]

Day.

1907.

3.............

4.............

6.. .......... -

7.. ...........

8.............

9..... ........

10.............

11...... ......

12

13.............

14.............

15.............

Aug.

1.95

1.88

1.78

1.66

Sept.

1.38

1.29

1.22

1.18

1.15

1.12

1.12

Oct.

1.24

1.26

1.24

1.22

1.21

1.20

1 19

1 19

1.20

1.24

1.26

1.45

1.41

Nov.

1.48

1.45

1.44

1.44

1.46

1.48

1 c;n

1.42

1.40

1.44

1.56

Dec.

1 dfi

1.41

1.32

1 9ft

1 9Q

1.28

1.35

i °.ft

1.35

1.38

1.30

Day.

1907.

17.............

18.............

19.............

21.............

22.............

23.............

24.............

27.............

28.............

30............. 

31.............

Aug.

1.61

1 60

1.52

1 v\

1.45

1.40

1 00

1.62

1 60

1.55

Sept.

1.10

1.12

1 19

1.18

1.15

1.15

1.15

1.15

1.14

1.16

1.16

1.18

1.18

Oct.

1.42

1 49

1.42

1 d^

1.48

1 a^

1 41

1.45

1 45

1.46

1 49

1.50

1.52 

1.51

Nov.

i en

1.64

1.60

1.45

1.50

1.60

1.55

1 65

1.64

1.46

1.41

1.51

1.49

Dec.

1.38

1 08

1.18

1.10

1.25

98

1.16

1.16

1.15

1.11

1.10

1.11

i on

1.06 

1.22
36 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Daily gage height, in feet, of Heaverhead River at Barratts, Mont., for 1907 and 1908 

Continued.

Day.

1908.

2...............

'A. ..............

4...............

6...............

8................

9...............

11...............

12...............

13...............

15... ............

16...............

18...............

19...............

20. ..............

21. .............

24...............

27...............

28...............

31...............

Jan.

1.05

1.21

1.05

1.12

1.18

1.05

1.15

1.15

1.06 

.98

1.20

1.02

1.06

1. 05

1.06

1.00

.95

.94

.95

.96

.95

.98

1.05

1.09 

1.02

1.00

.98

.98

.98

1.03

Feb.

0.89

.78

.85

.88

.82

.81

.80

.86

.88 

.86

90

.90

.86

.92

.92

.91

.90

.88

.88

.85

.89

.88

.89

.90 

.92

.89

.90

1.00

Mar.

0.89

.95

.96

.96

1.04

1.00

.99

.99

.98 

.99

1.05

1.08

1.09

1.30

1. 55

1.72

1.40

1.30

1.25

1.25

.98

1.40

1.30 

1.32

1.28

1.35

1.20

1.15

1.26

1.30

Apr.

1.15

1.10

1.35

1.42

1.45

1.45

1. 42

1.38

1.40 

1.52

1.70

1. 85

2.00

2.06

2.04

2.12

2.20

2.20

2. 15

2.36

2.30

2.32

2.32

2.28

2.20

2.15

2.10

1.95

May.

1.81

1.80

1.80

1. 95

1.90

1.80

1.70

1.60

1. 65 

1.90

2.25

1.85

1.88

1.66

1.50

1.50

1.38

1.45

2.20

1.75

1.58

1.50

1.40 

1.40

2.40

3.75

3.60

3.70

5.10

June.

4.85

4.35

4.85

4.95

4.30

4.20

4.40

4.70

4.80

4.88

5.15

5.00

5.00

4.95

4.90

4.90

5.70

5.85

6.00

6.00

4.85

4.65

4.58

4.45 

4.15

3.92

3.70

3.70

3.50

July.

3.17

3.12

3.11

3.07

3.01

2.96

2.77

2.56

2.43 

2.30

2.15

2.08

2.09

2.05

2.00

2.00

1.92

1.78

1.78

1.75

1.75

1.75

1.80

1.70 

1.68

1.68

1.65

1.55

1.55

Aug.

1.55

1.54

1.51

1.50

1.48

1.45

1.45

1.42

1.40 

1.40

1.40

1.40

1.50

1.72

1.68

1.58

1.55

1.55

1.58

1.55

1.55 

1.52

1.46

1.45

1.45

1 rd^

1.45

1.45

Sept.

1.45

1.40

1.40

1.35

1.30

1.30

1.28

1.26

1.25 

1.25

1.38

1.38

1. 35

1.35

1.35

1.45

1.58

1.58

1.55

1.50

1.48

1.48 

1.58

1.60

1.65

1.65

1 60

Oct.

1.65

1.88

1.88

1.90

1.88

1.85

1.85 

1.80

1.80

1.90

1.85

1.90

1.90

2.00

1.90

1.95

1.80

1 S9

2.00 

2.01

2.00

1.98

Nov.

2.00

2.00

1.98

1.92

1.85

1.85

1.85

1.88 

1.82

1 ^

1.48

1.55

1.65

1.65

1.70

1.82

1.85

I

SO

1 GO

1.80

1.80

1 ^

1.40

1 ^

1 40

Dec.

1.41

1.45

1. 42

1.42

1.50

1.50

1.50

.49

.50

45

.48

.50

.38

.28

.25

.40

.42

.68

.75

90

2.08

1.70

1 19

1.20

1 28

1 ^9

Rating tables for Beavcrhead River at Barralts, Mont. 

AUGUST 12, 1907, TO MAY 20, 1908.

Gage

height.

Feet.

0.80

.90

1.00

1.10

1.20

Discharge.

Sec.-ff.

262

280

300

322

347

Gage

height.

Feet.

1.30

1.40

1.50

1.60

1.70

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. fl

374

404

437

474

515

Gage

height.

Feet.

1.80

1.90

2.00

2.10

2.20

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

561

612

669

732

800

Gage

height.

Feet.

2.30

2.40

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

868

936

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions, 

discharge measurements made during this period and is fairly well defined.

MAY 21 TO DECEMBER 31, 1908.

It is based on five

1.00

1.10

1.20

1.30

1.40

1.50

1.60

1.70

1.80

1.90

2.00

360

385

415

450

487

528

573

618

665

715

765

2.10

2.20

2.30

2.40

2.50

2.60

2.70

2.80

2.90

3.00

3.10

820

875

930

990

1,050

1,110

1,175

1,240

1,305

1,370

1,435

3.20

3.30

> 3.40

3.50

3.60

3.70

3.80

3.90

4.00

4.20

4.40

1,500

1,570

1,640

1,710

1,780

1,850

1,920

1,990

2,065

2,215

2,365

4.60

4.80

5.00

5.20

5.40

5.60

5.80

6.00

2,520

2,680

2,840

3,000

3,160

3,320

3,480

3,640

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on 

three discharge measurements made during this period and is not well defined. Above gage height 

2-5 feet the rating curve depends on one measurement made at gage height 4.7 feet.
MISSOURI RIVER. 37

Monthly discharge of Beaverhead River at Barratts, Mont., for 1907 and 190S.

Month.

1907.

1908.

April . ...............................................

May.. ...............................................

July.................................................

The year... . ....

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

640 

430

444 

494 

424

350 

300 

524 

909 

2,920 

3, 640

1,480 

627 

596 

809 

765 

831

3, 640

Minimum.

389 

322 

342 

404 

296

288 

259 

278 

322 

398 

1,710 

5.50 

487 

432 

568 

468 

412

259

Mean.

468 

350 

393 

440 

358

309 

277 

345 

(>37 

805 

2,610 

865 

530 

505 

714 

629 

539

730

Run-off 

(total in 

acre-feet).

18,600 

20,800 

24, 200 

26, 200 

22, 000

19,000 

15,900 

21,200 

37, 900 

49,500 

155,000 

,53,200 

32. 600 

30,000 

43, 900 

37, 400 

33, 100

529, 000

Accuracy.

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

15.

B. 

B. 

B. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

B.

BEAVERHEAD RIVEll AT DILLOX, MONT.

This station, which was established August 28, 1907, is located at 

the highway bridge on the Bannock Road, three-quarters of a mile 

from Diilon, Mont. It was discontinued December 31, 1907.

The river at this point flows in two channels. The left channel is 

the source of supply of a canal which heads a short distance below the 

bridge, and its flow is controlled by the canal head gates. To determine the total flow of the stream both the right and left channels 

must be measured. The following gage heights and discharge 

measurements refer to the right channel only.

Discharge measurements of Beaverhead River at Diilon, Mont., in 1907.

Date.

August 28......

October 10.....

Hydrographer.

J. E. Stewart ...............................................

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

172

181

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

3.15

3.40

Discharge.

Sec.-fl.

a 287

o306

a Exclusive of amount in canal approach.
38 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Daily gage height, in feet, of Bearerhead River at Dillon, Mont., for 1907.

Day.

1..............

 Q

4..............

5.. ........... -

7... ...... -----

8......-...----

10.. ............

Aug. Sept.

3.25

3.25

3.25

3.4

3

O

3.3

3.2

3.2

3.2

3.1

Day.

11..............

12..............

13. ............ .

14..............

15. ...... ...... .

16..............

17..............

18..............

19

20..............

Aug. Sept.

3.1

3.1

3.1

3.2

3.2

3.2

3.25

3.3

3.4

3.4

Day.

21..............

22........ .....

23..............

24..............

25..............

26..............

27..............

28..............

29.. . ...........

30..............

01

Aug.

3.1

3.05

3.0

3.2

Sept.

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

MISSOURI RIVER AT CASCADE, MONT.

This station, which was established July 20, 1902, to obtain records 

for use in connection with irrigation, power development, and for general statistical purposes, is located on the highway bridge on the east 

side of the town of Cascade, Mont., 100 yards from the Great Northern Railway.

The Missouri receives many tributaries above the station, the most 

important being Dearborn River, Wolf Creek, and Prickly Pear Creek; 

within a hundred miles below, Sun and Marias rivers enter. The 

drainage area at the station is 18,300 square miles.

Although irrigation is extensively developed in the Missouri River 

Valley, the water supply is obtained from the tributary streams, its 

high banks, great variation in flow, and difficulty in diversion causing 

the Missouri itself to be little used.

The datum of the standard gage chain used at this station has remained unchanged.

Records obtained have been very good, the channel being permanent except in extreme floods. Gage heights are affected by ice during 

the winter months.

Discharge measurements of Missouri River at Cascade, Mont., in 1907 and 1908.

Date.

1907.

May 10. ........

JulyS..........

1908.

June 22.........

July 6. .........

October 20.....

Hydrographer.

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

Width.

Feet. 

370

374

473

475

350

375

373

481

456

363

378

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

3,070

3,150

4,330

5,180

2,650

3,000

3,410

6,700

4,830

3,050

3,600

Gage 

height.

Feet.

5.44

8 20

10.05

4.14

5.24

6.38

12.90

9.27

4.72

6.18

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

6,170

6,560

25,000

3,000

5,940

9 120

a 36, 500

620,300

3,750

67,490

o Area partly computed from soundings of September 2,1908. 

6 Area computed from soundings of September 2,1908.
MISSOUKI EIVER.

Daily gage height, in feet, of Missouri River at Cascade, Mont., for 1907 and 1908. 

[Frank Warner, observer.]

Day.

1907. 

1. ..............

2.. .............

3...............

4...............

6...............

7...............

8...............

9.. .. ......--..-

10...............

11...............

12...............

13...............

15...............

16...............

17...............

18...............

19

20. ..............

22...............

00

24. ..............

25. ..............

26...............

27............... 

28...............

29. ..............

30

31.. .............

1908. 

1...............

2. ..............

3...............

4. ..............

5...............

6.. ............ .

7. ..............

8.....:.........

10...............

11...............

12...............

13...............

15...............

16...............

18...............

19

20...............

21...............

22...............

23-.......-...-..

24...............

25...............

26...............

27...............

28. ..............

29. ..............

30...............

31...............

Jan.

5.95

5.80

5.60

5.60

5.70

6.05

6.20

6.30 

6.40

6.40

6.40

6.40

6.40

6.40

6.40

6.40

6.40

6.30

6.30

6.30

6.30

6.20

6.20

6.30

6.30

6.40

6.40

6.40

6.40

6.40

6.40

Feb.

6.25

6.38

6.28

6.18

6.08 

5.98

6.30

6.20

6.00

5.80

5.25

5.00

5.10

5.10 

5.00

5.10

5.20

5.30

5.45

5.60

6.00

6.40

6.50

6.10

6.00

5.70

5.60

5.40

4.90

4.40

4.45

4.55

4.60

4.50

4.60

Mar.

5.88

5.78

5.68

5.45

5.32

5.22

5.12

5.02

4.92

4.90

4.90

4.95

4.98

5.00

5.08

5.10

5.18

5.22

5.32

5.42

5.55

5.68

5.70

5.58

5.48

5.38

5.28 

5.18 

5.05

5.05

5.05 

4.60

4.50

4.60

4.60

4.60

4.50

4.50

4.50 

4.40

4.40

4.50

4.60

4.70

4.80

4.95

5.00

4.60

4.45

4.15

4.20

4.70

5.00

3.50

3.35

4.40

4.40

4.40

4.10

4.00

4.20

4.40

Apr.

5.08

5.15

5.22

5.28

5.30

5.25

5.20

5.20

5.25

5.25

5.28

5.30

5.30

5.30

5.60

6.05

6.10

6.32

6.30

6.58

6.40

6.25

6.05

6.05

6.00

5.95

5.85 

5.85 

5.80

5.78

4.50

4.60

4.50

4.40

4.40

4.40

4.25

4.30 

4.50

4.50

4.50

4.40

4.40

4.50

11.48

6.20

6.00

6.00

6.00

6.30

6.30

6.05

6.10

6.00

6.00

5.95

5.90

6.05

5.80

5.50

May.

5.70

5.50

5.50

5.62

5.75

5.30

5.42

5.65

5.42

5.42

5.55

5.65

5.50

5.98

6.40

6.58

6.55

6.60

6.60

6.80

7.20

7.85

8.05

8.22

8.35

8.35

8.10 

7.90 

7.90

7.75

7.50 

5.50

5.50

5.50

5.40

5.40

5.40

5.50

5.60 

5.80

5.90

6.40

6.85

6.95

6.70

6.45

6.25

6.05

5.90

6.00

6.00

6.00

6.10

6.10

6.20

6.30

6.40

7.65

8.40

8.40

8.50

9.05

June.

7.75

7.90

7.80

7.92

8.18

8.25

8.40

8.60

8.80

8.95

9.15

9.45

9.35

9.15

9.30

9.15

9.00

8.90

8.75

8.45

8.15

7.90

11.25

12.55

11.85

11.90

11.65 

11.65 

11.70

11.35

10.45

11.50

11.70

13.15

15.45

15.60

14.60

14.25 

14.15

13.95

13.85

13.65

13.50

13.40

13.40

13.40

13.40

13.30

13.30

13.30

13.15

12.85

12.60

12.15

11.60

10.90

10.40

10.25

10.35

10.25

July.

10.95

10.75

10.60

10.30

10.00

10.30

10.25

10.05

9.80

9.40

9.05

8.65

7.40

7.65

7.95

8.05

8.35

8.55

8.60

8.60

8.80

8.50

7.60

7.95

7.30

6.65

7.10 

7.20 

7.20

7.10

7.00 

10.10

9.65

9.20

9.20

9.20

9.20

9.10

8.75 

8.50

8.10

7.60

7.35

7.20

7.20

6.90

6.90

7.00

7.10

6.95

6.75

6.55

6.30

6.30

6.25

6.10

5.95

5.70

5.70

5.70

5.55

5.35

Aug.

6.90

6.80

6.05

6.40

6.35

6.25

5.10

5.35

5.60

5.80

5.80

5.80

5.50

5.70

5.50

5.50

5.50

4.95

4.75

4.10

4.10

4.50

4.20

4.20

4.20

4.20

4.20 

4.25 

4.25

4.75

4.70 

5.25

4.95

4.80

4.80

4.95

5.15

4.90

4.90 

4.80

4.70

4.60

4.40

4.30

4.30

4.45

4.60

4.60

4.60

4.60

4.60

4.90

4.95

4.80

4.70

4.70

4.70

4.70

4.70

4.90

4.70

4.70

Sept.

4.60

4.60

4.70

5.00

4.90

4.80

4.70

4.80

4.70

4.60

4.60

4.70

4.70

4.70

4.80

4.70

4.70

4.70

4 60

4.65

4.70

4.60

4 60

4.60

4 60

4.60 

4.60 

4.60

4.70

4.70

4.70

4.70

4.70

4.70

4.70

4.70 

4.70

4.70

4.70

4.55

4.50

4.60

4.70

4.70

4.70

4.90

4.95

5.30

5.20

5.20

5.10

5.10

5.00

5.00

4.90

4.90

4.90

4.85

Oct.

4.60

4.60

4.60

4.60

4.70

5.00

5.00

5.00

5.00

5.00

4.90

4.90

4.80

4.70

4.70

4.70

4.70

4.75

5.20

5.70

5.60

4.85

4.65

4.10

3.80 

4.25 

4.45

4 60

4.60 

5.05

5.35

5.50

5.50

5.50

5.50

5.50

5.60 

5.60

5.50

5.50

5.50

5.50

5.55

5.60

5.60

5.60

5.80

6.20

6.10

6.00

5.90

5.60

5.60

5.60

5.60

5.70

5.70

5.70

5.70

5.70

Nov.

4.70

4.80

5.00

4.90

4.50

3.90

4.85

4.85

4.50

4.10

3.80

4.00

4.50

5.20

4.90

4 50

4.00

3.80

4.30

5.00

4.80

4.50

4.10

4.10

4.40

4.70

5.00 

4.70 

4.20

4 30

5.70

5.70

5.60

5.60

5.60

5.60

5.50

5.50 

5.40

5.40

5.40

5.30

5.30

5.20

5.20

5.20

5.30

5.30

5.40

5.50

5.50

5.50

5.50

5.50

5.50

5.50

5.50

5.60

5.70

5.70

Dec.

4.70

4.70

4.30

4.20

4.30

4.40

4.50

4.60

4.60

4.50

4.50

4.50

4.50

4.50

4.50

4.50

4.00

4.80

-------

5.85

6.05

6.40

6.40

6.50

7.05

7.40

7.50 

7.50

7.50

7.20

7-05

6.85

6.35

6.15

6.00

5.70

5.30

5.20

5.45

6.05

6.10

6.00

5.90

6.00

5.80

5.70

5.50

5.60

6.00

6.00

NOTE. Ice conditions January 1-February 20, and December, 1907; January, February, and March, 

and December 19-31,1908. The river was open January 11 and February 23,1908.
40 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Eating tables for Missouri River at Cascade, Mont. 

JANUARY 1, 1907, TO APRIL 15, 1908.

Gage

height.

Feet.

3.50

3.60

3.70

3.80

3.90

4.00

4.10

4.20

4.30

4.40

4.50

4.60

4.70

4. SO

Discharge.

Scc.-ft.

1,900

2,040

2,190

2,350

2,520

2,700

2,910

3, 130

3, 360

3, 600

3, 8.50

4,110

4, ,380

4, 650

Gage

height.

Feet.

4.90

5.00

5.10

5.20

5. 30

5.40

5.50

5.60

5.70

5.80

5. 90

6.00

6.10

6.20

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

4,930

5,210

5.500

5,800

6, 100

6,410

6, 720

7, 040

7, 360

7, 690

8, 020

8, 360

8, 700

9, 050

Gage

height.

Feet.

6.30

6.40

6.50

6.60

6.70

6 SO

' 6. 90

! 7.00

7.20

7.40

7. 60

7.80

8 00

8.20

Discharge.

Scc.-ft.

9,400

9,750

10,110

10, 470

10,840

11,210

11,590

11,970

12, 730

13, 500

14,300

15,120

15,960

16, 800

Gage

height.

Feet.

8.40

8.60

8.80

9.00

9.20

9.40

9.60

9.80

10.00

11.00

12.00

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

17,640

18, 480

19. 320

20, 170

21. 030

21,890

22,750

23, 620

24, 500

28, 950

33, 450

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on six 

discharge measurements made during 1907 and is well defined between gage heights 4.0 feet and 10.0 leet.

APRIL 16 TO DECEMBER 31, 1908.

3.30

3.40

3.50

3. 60

3.70

3.80

3.90

4.00

4.10

4.20

4.30

4.40

4.50

4.60

4.70

4.80

1,310

1,400

1,500

1,610

1,740

1,880

2,040

2,210

2,390

2,580

2,780

3,000

3. 230

4.90

5.00

5.10

5.20

5.30

5.40

5.50

5.60

5.70

5.80

5.90

6.00

6. 10

3, 470 6. 20

3, 720

3, 970

(i. 30

6. 40

4,230

4, 500

4, 770

5, 050

5, 340

5, 630

5, 930

6, 230

6,530

6,850

7,170

7,500

7, 830

8,170

8,510

8,860

6.50

6.60

6.70

6.80

6.90

7.00

7.20

7.40

7.60

7.80

8.00

8.20

8.40

8.60

8.80

9.00

9,220

9,580

9,950

10,330

10,710

11,100

11,890

12,700

13, 520

14, 360

15,200

16,060

16,930

17,810

18,700

19,600

9.20

9.40

9.60

9.80

10.00

10.20

10.40

10. 60

10.80

11.00

12.00

13.00

14.00

15.00

16.00

20, 500

21,400

22, 300

23, 200

24, 100

25, 000

25. 900

26, 800

27,700

28,600

33, 100

37, 600

42,100

46, 600

51,100

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on 

discharge measurements made during 1908 and high-water measurements of previous years, and is fairly 

well defined above gage height 4.5 feet. Below 4.5 feet the rating is somewhat uncertain. Above gage 

height 9.0 feet the curve is a tangent, the difference being 450 per tenth.
MISSOURI RIVER. 41

Monthly discharge of Missouri River at Cascade, Mont., for 1907 and 1908. 

[Drainage area, 18,3(10 square miles.]

Month.

1907.

April.........................

May ................ .........

July..........................

1908.

July.........................

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

7,950 

10, 400 

17, 400 

36,000 

28, 700 

11,600 

5,210 

7,3dO 

5,800

Minimum.

4,930 

5,440 

6,100 

14,900 

10,800 

2,910 

4,110 

2,350 

2,350

i

31,100 

19,800 

49,300 

24, 600 

5,200 

5,340 

8,170 

0, 530

3,240 

5,630 

25,200 

5,480 

2,780 

3,230 

4, 640 

5,050

Mean.

6.040 

7,320 

10,700 

22,200 

18,700 

6,010 

4,320 

4,580 

3,910

6,530 

9,090 

36, 700 

12,800 

3,810 

4,050 

6,320 

5,850

Per 

square 

mile.

0. 330 

.400 

.585 

1.21 

1.02 

.328 

.236 

.250 

.214 

.191

.357 

.497 

2.01 

.699 

.208 

.221 

.345 

.320

Run-off.

Depth in 

inches on 

drainage 

area.

0.38 

.45 

.67 

1.35 

1.18 

.38 

.26 

.29 

.24 

.22

.40 

.57 

2.24 

.81 

.24 

.2.5 

.40 

.3(5

Total in 

acre-feet.

371,000 

436, 000 

658, 000 

1,320,000 

1,150,000 

370,000 

257,000 

282,000 

233,000 

215, 000

5,290,000

389,000 

559,000 

2, 180, 000 

787,000 

234. 000 

241, OIK) 

389,000 

348, 000

5,130,000

Accuracy.

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A.

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A.

a Estimated. 

MISSOURI RIVER NEAR WILLISTON, N. DAK.

This station, which is located at Bakers Ferry, 10 miles down the 

river from Williston, N. Dak., and 13^ miles southeast by the main 

traveled road on the east side of the river from Williston ferry landing, was established April 24, 1905, for the purpose of obtaining 

general information concerning run-off. It was discontinued May 

23, 1907.

Yellowstone River, which enters the Missouri about 20 miles 

above the station, is the nearest important tributary. The drainage 

area above this point includes the entire basin of the Missouri in 

Montana and northern Wyoming.

Discharge measurements of Missouri River near Williston, N. Dak., in 1905 and 1908.

Date. Hydrographer.

1905.

May 22. ........

1908. 

June 20.........

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

E. F. Chandler........... .........................

Width.

Feet. 

525

507

787 

770 

753

435

885

Area of 

section.

Sq. ft.

4,480

4,540

13,300 

11,700 

5,920

2,700

al9,800

Gage 

height.

Feet.

5.26

6.58

12.20 

11.10 

6. 78

4.41

19.49

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

10,400

12,600

69,500 

58,000 

14,900

6,780

147,000

a Approximate.
42 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Daily gage height, in feet, of Missouri River near Williston, N. Dak., for 1907.

[G. E. Baker, observer.]

Day.

1............

2

3............

4. ...........

6............

7............

8............

9............

10............

Mar.

14.0

13.5

13.1

12.6

12.3

12.0

11.9

11.4

Apr.

14.7

14.8

15.9

12.5

13.1

12.2

12.0

11.8

May.

10.4

10.2

10.0

10.0

10.1

10.0

9.9

9.8

9.8

Day.

11............

12............

13............

14............

16............

17............

18............

19............

20............

Mar.

11.2

11.2

11.25

11.25

n

o

11.3

11.1

10.9

11.0

11.1

Apr.

11.7

12.2

11.7

11.5

11.6

11.6

11.4

11.2

11.1

11.0

May.

9.9

10.1

10.0

10.3

10.8

11.0

11.0

11.1

11.2

Day.

21............

22............

23............

24............

25... ...... ...

26............

27............

28............

29............

30............

31............

Mar.

11.3

12.9

14.4

17.3

10.8

16.5

16.4

16.0

15.2

Apr.

10.9

10.8

10.75

10.7

11.0

11.0

10.9

10.6

10.4

May.

11.3

11.4

Rating table for Missouri River near Williston, N. Dak., for 1905-1907.

Gage 

height.

Feet.

4.00

4.10

4.20

4.30

4.40

4.50

4.60

4.70

4.80

4.90

5.00

5.10

5.20

5.30

5.40

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

6,000

6,200

6,400

6,600

6,800

7,000

7,220

7,440

7,660

7,880

8,100

8,340

8,600

8,880

9,180

Gage 

height.

Feet.

5.50

5.60

5.70

5.80

5.90

6.00

6.10

6.20

6.30

6.40

6.50

6.60

6.70

6. 80

6.90

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

9,500

9,830

10, 170

10,540

10, 910

11,300

11,700

12,150

12, 620

13, 120

13,650

14,200

14,800

15,450

16, 150

Gage 

height.

Feet.

7.00

7.20

7.40

7.60

7.80

8.00

8.20

8.40

8. CO

8.80

9.00

9.20

9.40

9.60

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

16,900

18,480

20,080

21,750

23, 520

25,400

27,400

29, 400

31, 420

33,460

35,500

37,600

39,700

41,800

Gage 

height.

Feet.

9.80

10. 00

11.00

12.00

13.00

14.00

15.00

16.00

17.00

18.00

19.00

20.00

21.00

22.00

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

43,900

46,000

56,500

67,000

77,500

88,000

99,000

110,000

121,000

132,000

143,000

154,000

165,000

176,000

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on six 

discharge measurements made during 1905 and one flood measurement made June 20,1908, and is not well 

defined. Above gage height 14.0 feet the rating curve is a tangent, the difference being 1,100 per tenth.

Monthly discharge of Missouri River near Williston, N. Dak., for 1905-1907.

Month.

1905. 

May 23-31 .........................................

July...............................................

1906. 

May 26-31 .........................................

July................. ..............................

1907.

April ..............................................

May 1-22 ..........................................

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

40,800 

83,800 

73,300 

43,900 

7,880 

9,830 

8,600

90,200 

155,000 

74,400 

45,000 

25,400 

10,200 

23,500

124,000 

109,000 

60,700

Minimum.

14,800 

38,600 

34,500 

7,880 

6,000 

6,400 

7,220

73,300 

61,800 

36,600 

13,100 

10,500 

8,340 

8,600

55,400 

50,200 

43,900

Mean.

30, 200 

68,100 

54,900 

19,400 

7,100 

7,700 

8,060

82,800 

93,600 

52,700 

25,200 

15,400 

8,840 

10,100

77,900 

67,500 

50,100

Run-off 

(total in 

acre-feet).

539,000 

4,050,000 

3,380,000 

1,190,000 

422,000 

473,000 

480,000

10,500,000

985,000 

5,570,000 

3,240,000 

1,550,000 

916,000 

544,000 

481,000

13,300,000

4,790,000 

4,020,000 

2,190,000

Accuracy.

C. 

C. 

C. 

C. 

C. 

D. 

D.

C. 

C. 

C. 

C. 

D. 

D. 

D.

C. 

C. 

C.
SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 190*7-8. 43 

PRICKLY PEAK, CREEK DRAINAGE BASIN. 

DESCRIPTION.

Prickly Pear Creek rises in the mountains in the northwestern part 

of Jefferson County, Mont., and takes a general northeasterly course 

to its junction with the Missouri near Eldorado bar in the southeastern part of Lewis and Clark County. Its principal tributaries are 

McClellan, Lump Gulch, Tenmile, and Silver creeks. Its upper valley is narrow and little irrigation is practiced, but below Helena the 

entire normal flow is diverted for irrigation.

The following gaging stations have been maintained in this basin:

Prickly Pear Creek near Clancy, Mont., 1908. 

Prickly Pear Creek at, East Helena, Mont., 1908. 

Lump Gulch Creek near Clancy, Mont., 1908. 

Tenmile Creek near Helena, Mont., 1908. 

Sevenmile Creek near Helena, Mont., 1908.

PRICKLY PEAR CREEK NEAR CLANCY, MONT.

This station, which was established July 15, 1908, to obtain data 

for use in connection with irrigation projects, is located about 2 miles 

below Clancy and 12 miles south of Helena, and is directly west of 

the house of the observer.

Lump Gulch Creek enters about a mile above the station, and McClellan Creek comes in between the station and East Helena. Owing 

to the very narrow valley and the small amount of irrigable land 

above the station, little water is diverted for irrigation.

The stream bed is of gravel and sand and shifts. Gage heights 

are affected by ice during the winter months and the records obtained 

are unsatisfactory.

The greatest flood experienced in this valley for many years is 

probably that of June, 1908.

Discharge measurements of Prickly Pear Creek near Clancy, Mont., in 1908.

Date.

July 15........

Hydrographer.

J. E. Stewart .......................................

.....do... ..... .. ........................'......

Width.

Feet. 

30

26

32

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

45.2

21.6

42.5

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

1.80

.89

1.79

Discharge.

Sec. -ft. 

96.8

«40.1

79.9

a Meter in poor condition; discharge considered small.
44 SUEPACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Daily gage height, infect, of PricUy Pear Creek near Clancy, Mont., for 1908. 

[John Gillis, observer.]

Day.

1.... .......

2

3

4...........

8...........

9...........

10...........

11...........

12...........

13...........

14...........

15...........

July.

1.85

Aug. Sept. Oct.

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.6

Nov.

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.9

1.9

1.9

1.5

1.9

1.9

1.7

1.7

1.5

1.5

2.4

Dec.

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.0

1.0

1.9

1.9

1.3

1.2

1.3

Day.

16..........

17..........

18..........

19..........

20..........

21..........

22..........

23..........

24..........

25..........

26..........

27..........

28..........

29..........

30..........

31..........

July.

1.85

1.8

1.7

1.65

1.55

1.5

1.4

1.6

1.5

1.4

Aug. Sept. Oct.

1.6

1.6

1.4

1.4

1.9

1.9

1.9

1.4

1.4

2.0

2.0

2.0

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.6

Nov.

2.0

2.4

1.9

1.9

1.7

1.7

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.2

1.2

Dec.

1.2

1.2

1 9

1.0

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.0

1.9

1.9

1.8

1.7

1.6

PRICKLY PEAR CREEK AT EAST HELENA, MONT.

This station, which was established July 18, 1908, to obtain data 

for use in irrigation development, is located where the Northern 

Pacific Railway crosses the stream at East Helena, Mont.

McClellan and Lump Gulch creeks are the only important tributaries entering above the station; Tenmile and Silver creeks come 

in below. All the normal flow of this stream is used for irrigation, 

the greater part of the water being diverted below this station.

At the gaging section the channel is rocky, clean, and nonshifting. The bed of the stream is so extremely rough that even in low 

water measurements are difficult. Fair results, however, have been 

obtained.

Discharge measurements of Prickly Pear Creek at East Helena, Mont., in 1908.

Date.

July 18.........

October 10.....

Hydrographer.

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

Width.

Feet. 

33

28.5

32

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

37.0

20.2

36.2

Gage 

height.

Feet.

1 19

1 39

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

104

051.9

101

a Meter in poor condition; discharge considered small.
PRICKLY PEAE CKEEK DRAINAGE BASIN. 45

Daily gage height, in feet, of Prickly Pear Creek at East Helena, Mont., for 1908.

Day.

1..........

C

6.--.......

7. .........

8..........

10..........

11..........

12

13..........

July. Aug.

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1 2

1.4

1 2

Sept.

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

Oct.

1.1

1.2

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

Nov.

1.3

1 *?

1.3

1.3

1.3

1 *?

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.1

1.0

9

1.0

1.0

Dec.

1.2

1.2

1.1

1.0

1.0

.......

Day.

16. .........

17..........

18..........

19..........

20..........

21..........

22..........

23..........

24..........

25

26..........

28......-.--

29..........

01

July.

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.5

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.1

Aug.

1.2

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.2

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.0

g

1.0 i.i i.i 1.1 1.1 1.1

Sept.

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.2

1.1

1.1

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0 1.1

Oct.

1.6

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

Nov.

1.0

1.2

1.3

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.2

1.1

1.1

Dec.

LUMP GULCH CREEK NEAR CLANCY, MONT.

Lump Gulch Creek, a small mountain stream with no important 

tributaries, has been quite extensively used for placer mining, and 

many diversions were made for that purpose. At present some 

irrigation is practiced, but the valley is narrow and affords but little 

irrigable land. The normal flow of the stream is appropriated.

The gaging station, which was established July 15, 1908, to obtain 

information concerning the amount of water available for storage 

and for irrigation, is located at the ranch of Charles Zastrow, 1 mile 

from Clancy, 15 miles from Helena, and one-half mile above the 

stream's junction with Prickly Pear Creek.

The stream bed is gravelly, unclean, and shifting, making it 

difficult to obtain satisfactory data. Gage heights are affected by 

ice. No flood records have been obtained.

Discharge measurements of Lump Gulch Creek at Clancy, Mont., in 1908.

Date.

July 15......... 

\ugust 10

Hydrographer.

J. E. Stewart. ......................................

.....do..........-...--.--.-.--...-.-..--.--.--......

Width.

Feet. 

10.7 

6.0

12.5

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

12. (i 

2.9

9.2

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

1.30

.75

1.22

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

21.0 

3.9

17.2
46 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Daily gage height, in feet, of Lump Gulch Creek at Clancy, Mont., for 1908.

[Charles Zastrow, observer.]

Day.

3.............

4............. 

5.............

1... ..........

9............. 

10.............

11.............

12.............

13. ............

14.............

15.............

July.

1.35

Aug.

0.95

.95

.9

.85

.8

.8 

.75

.75 

.75

.7

.7

.95

.9

.85

Sept.

0.85

.85

.85

.8

.75

.75

.8

Q

.8

.8

.8

.85

.85

Oct.

0.95

1.05

1.01

1.01 

1.02

1.02

1.02

1.15

1.15

1.15

1.10

Nov.

1.1

1 1

1.1

1.05 

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.05

Day.

16.............

17.............

18.............

19............. 

20.............

21.............

22............. 

23.............

24.............

26.............

27.............

28.............

29.............

30............. 

31............;

July.

1.3

1.3

1.25

1.15 

1.15

1,15

1.1 

1.1

1.15 

1.15

1.15

1.15

1.1

1.1

1.05 

1.0

Aug.

0.85

.8

.8 

.85

.85

.85 

9

.85 

.85

.85

.85

.85

.85 

.85

Sept.

n sf.

95

.95

.95 

1.0

1.0

1.0 

1.0

1.0 

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.09*>

.95

Oct.

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10 

1.10

1.10

1.10 

1.10

, 1.10 

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10 

1.10

Nov.

1.1

1 1

1.1 

1.1

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.05

TENMILE CREEK NEAR HELENA, MONT.

This station, which is located opposite the Broadwater Hotel, 

near Helena, Mont., was established July 8, 1908, to determine the 

amount of water available for irrigation and for municipal supply.

Part of the water supply of the city of Helena is taken from Tenmile 

Creek above the station. Two irrigation ditches also take their 

water from this creek above the gage. The entire low-water flow 

is appropriated and used before it reaches the mouth of the creek.

The principal tributaries above the gaging station are Blue Cloud, 

Spring, and Walker creeks; Sevenmile Creek enters 2 miles below.

The channel shifts somewhat during flood stages, but at medium 

and low water the conditions are good for obtaining accurate discharge data. The stream freezes over during the winter months 

and no records are kept.

Discharge measurements of Tenmile Creek near Helena, Mont., in 1908.

Date.

July 16.........

October 26.....

Hydrographer.

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

Width.

Feet. 

20

20

34

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

26.7

20.3

25.4

Gage 

height.

Feet.

1.93

1.25

2.49

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

99 fi

11.6

o.5

31.8

o Estimated.
PRICKLY PEAE CREEK DRAINAGE BASIN. 47

Daily gage height, in feet, of Tenmile Creek near Helena, Mont., for 1908. 

[Harry Hillman, observer.]

Day.

1.. ...........

3.............

5.............

6.............

7.............

8.............

9.............

10.............

13.............

14.............

15.............

July.

2.2

2.15

2.1

2.05

2.0

1.9

Aug.

1.5

1.45

1.35

1.35

1.3

1.25

1.25

1.25

1.25

1.3

1.65

1.55

Sept.

1.3

1.3

1.25

1.25

1.25

1.2

1.35

1.5

1.6

1.4

1.4

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

Oct.

2.0

2.55

2.15

2.3

2.25

2.3

2.4

2.4

2.6

2.8

2.9

3.0

Nov.

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.45

2.45

2.45

2.45

2.35

2.3

2.3

2.5

2.55

Day.

16.............

17.............

18.............

19.............

20.............

21.............

22. ............

23.............

24.............

25.............

26.............

27.............

28.............

29.............

30.............

31.............

July.

1.9

2.0

2.0

1-9

1.9

1.85

1.85

1.9

1.8

1.75

1.75

1.7

1.65

1.6

1.5

1.5

Aug.

1.4

1.45

1.45

1.4

1.9

1.4

1.4

1.35

1.35

1.35

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

Sept.

1.4

1.65

1.95

2.0

1.85

1.8

1.75

1.75

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.85

1.9

1.95

Oct.

2.85

2.7

2.6

2.6

2.6

2.6

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

Nov.

2.55

2.4

2.4

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.2

2.25

2.25

2.2

2.15

2.2

2.0

Rating table for Tenmile Creek near Helena, Mont., for 1908.

Gage

height.

Feet.

1.10

1.20

1.30

1.40

1.50

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

0.

.5

1.0

1.5

2.5

Gage

height.

Feet.

1.60

1.70

1.80

1.90

2.00

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

4.0

6.0

8.5

11.5

15.0

Gage

height.

Feet.

2.10

2.20

2.30

2.40

2.50

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

19.0

25

32

40

49

Gage

height.

Feet.

2.60

2.70

2.80

2.90

3.00

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

59

70

82

95

109

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on nine 

discharge measurements made during 1908-9 and is well defined.

Monthly discharge of Tenmile Creek near Helena, Mont., for 1908.

Month.

July 8-31 ............................................

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

25 

11.5 

15.0 

109 

54

Minimum.

2.5 

.8 

.5 

15.0 

15.0

Mean.

11.8 

1.76 

5.20 

52.8 

36.4

Run-off (acrefeet).

562 

108 

309 

3,250 

2,170

Accuracy.

A. 

C. 

B. 

A.

A.

SEVENMILE CREEK NEAR HELENA, MONT.

This station, which is located at Doctor Head's ranch, near Helena, 

Mont., was established July 16, 1908, and discontinued August 26 

of the same year. The records determine the value of the stream 

for irrigation and municipal water supply.

The entire flow of this creek is appropriated and used for irrigation.
48 SURFACE WATKR SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Discharge measurements of Serenmile Creek near Helena, Mont., in 1908.

Date.

July 16.........

Hydrographer.

J. E. Stewart. ......................................

Width.

Feet. 

9.5

C.O

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 7 ''

1.9

Gage 

height.

Feet.

1.42

.89

Discharge.

Scc.-ft. 

12.0

2.8

Daily gage height, in feet, of Serenmile Creek near Helena, Mont., for 1908.

Day.

2..............

4..............

7..............

8..............

9. ............ .

10. .............

July. Aug.

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

Day.

11..............

12..............

13..............

14..............

15.....--....-..

16. ............

17..............

18..............

19..............

July.

1.42

1.42

1.42

1.40

Aug.

1.10

1.32

1.40

1.40

1.40

1.40

1.80

2.00

Day.

21..............

22..............

23..............

24.... -...-....

25..............

26..............

27.....--..-....

28..............

29..............

30...... ....... .

31..............

July.

1.40

1.40

1.30

1.32

1.32

1.30

1.30

1.30

1.35

1.30

Aug.

2.00

2.0o

2.00

2.00

2.00

2.00

DEARBORN RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN.

DESCRIPTION.

Dearborn River rises on the eastern slope of the Rocky Mountains 

in Lewis and Clark County, Mont., and takes a general southeasterly 

course to its junction with the Missouri about 40 miles southwest of 

Great Falls.

The construction of a project under the Carey Act to reclaim about 

30,000 acres of land was undertaken several years ago. The water 

supply for this project comes from the natural flow of the Dearborn 

at a point just below the mouth of Falls Creek.

The following gaging stations have been maintained in this drainage 

basin:

Dearborn River near demons, Mont., 1908. 

Falls Creek near Clemons, Mont., 1908.

DEARBORN RIVER NEAR CLEMONS, MONT.

This station, which was established May 4, 1908, to obtain information concerning the amount of water available for irrigation, is located 

2 miles above Clemons, Mont., and one-half mile above the headworks 

of the reclamation project.

The only important tributary near the station is Falls Creek, which 

enters one-half mile below. The drainage area is 110 square miles.

Measurements at this station are made fry wading. The conditions 

are good for obtaining accurate results at low and medium stages, 

but measurements at flood stages are impossible. The stream freezes 

over during the winter, and no record of gage heights is kept. The 

datum of the gage has remained unchanged.
DEARBORN RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 49

Discharge measurements of Dearborn River near demons, Mont., in 1908.

Date. Hydrographer.

Stewart & Richards . . . . . . ....... . .

Raymond Richards. ........................ . . . .

.....do....

.....do....

Width.

Fttt. 

35 

68 

59 

61

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft.

48.8 

72.9 

40.6 

86

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

O.GO 

.43 

 .03 

.61

Discharge.

Scc.-ft. 

104 

156 

55. 6 

217

NOTE. Measurements made by wading.

Daily gage height, inject, of Dearborn River near demons, Mont., for 1908. 

[A. F. Kenck and O. A. Kenck, observers.]

Day. May. June. | July.

i

Autr. Sept.

0.68

.68

1.03 

".'98'

"i.'is'

1.93 

"i.40

.10 "."is 

".'14'

1.10

'{'.12 1.10

1.00

1.10

.20 

.10 

.00

.05

1.01

1.40

"i.oo

NOTE. From June 1-11 observer was unable to get to the gage on account of high water. 

FALLS CREEK NEAR CLEMONS, MONT.

This station, which is located 1J miles above demons, Mont., and 

500 feet above the mouth of the creek, was established May 4, 1908, 

to obtain data for use in connection with water-power and irrigation 

development.

Falls Creek has a large fall above the gaging station and affords 

opportunities for water-power development. No water is diverted 

from this stream, its entire flow reaching Dearborn River.

The conditions for obtaining accurate discharge measurements are

fair at medium and low stages. Measurements are impossible at

31260 IRE 246 1C
50 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

flood stages, as they can be made only by wading. No records are 

kept during the winter, as the gage heights are affected by ice. The 

datum of the gage has remained unchanged.

Discharge measurements of Falls Creek near demons, Mont., in 1908.

Date.

July 13 ........

October 16.... .

Hydrographer.

.....do..............................................

.... .do. .............................................

Width.

Feet. 

25

28

32

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

22.8

18.4

34.2

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

1.31

1 37

1.01

1.43

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

on 7

79 '7

30.5

78.7

NOTE. Measurements made by wading.

Daily gage height, in feet, of Falls Creek near demons, Mont., for 1908. 

[A. F. Kenck and O. A. Kenck, observers.]

Day.

1....

2....

3....

4....

5....

6....

7....

8....

9....

10....

11.... 

12....

13....

14....

15....

May.

1.31

1.32

1.35

1.42

1.53

1.65

1.68

1 79

June. July.

......

1.37

1.34

Aug.

1.18

1.12

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.11

1 19

1.17

Sept.

0 97

.95

.95

go

Oct.

1.40

1.10

1.05

1.05

1.09

1.12

"l.'25~

1.40

Nov.

1.13

1.13

1.13

1.12

1.10

1.10

1.10

Day.

16. ...

17....

18....

19....

20. ...

21....

22.-..

23....

24....

25....

26.... 

27....

28....

30....

31.-..

May.

1.80

1.85

......

June. July.

1.30

1.28

1.25

1.24

1.20

1.18

1.18

1.18

Aug.

1.15

1.11

1.05

1.05

1.01

.98

Sept.

0.96

1.00

1.05

.95

.95

.95

.97

98

Oct.

1.43

1.32

1.24

1.20

1.18

1.18

i. is

Nov.

1.10

1.09

1.10

1.09

1.07

"i.'oi

1 03

1.03

NOTE. Gage washed out by flood May 21, 1908.

SMITH RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 

SMITH RIVER AT TRULY, MONT.

Smith River rises in the Crazy Mountains in southern Meagher 

County, Mont., flows northwestward, and enters the Missouri about 

15 miles southwest of Great Falls.

Only one gaging station has been maintained in this basin. This 

station, which was established March 7, 1905, and was discontinued 

June 30, 1907, was located at a steel highway bridge on the county 

road running up Smith River valley, near the discontinued postoffice of Truly and about 20 miles southwest of Great Falls. The 

data are valuable in connection with irrigation development in Smith 

River valley.
SMITH ElVER DEAINAGE BASIN. 51

Discharge measurements of Smith River at Truly, Mont., in 1905-1907.

Date.

1905.

130(1.

July 12.........

1907.

Hydrographer.

.... .do. .............................................

Width.

Feet. 

87

81

99

99

99

65

98

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

119

101

40

152

163

50

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

1 80

1.62

2.32

2.31

1.60

2.29

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

19";

01 fl

400

317

79.9

a Made by wading.

Daily gage height, infect, of Smith River at Truly, Mont., for 1907. 

[Henry V. Evans and David H. Evans, observers.]

Day.

1. .........

9

4..........

5. .........

6..........

8..........

9..........

10..........

11..........

12..........

13 ..........

14.. .......

Jan.

1.68

1.75

1.48

1.65

Feb. Mar.

2.20

2.30

3.70

2.90

2.70 

2.85

2.75

2.75

 7 95

1.75

1.80

1.80

1.70

1.82 

1.85

1.80

1.80

1.85

1.88

1.78 

1.75

1.80

1.78

Apr.

1.95

2.85

3.10

3.25

2.65

2.55

2.55

2.70 

2.95

2.75

2.65

May.

2.30

2.25

2.20

2.20 

2.20

2.30

2.45

2.55

2.65 

2.75

2.75

2.65

2.00 ' 2.60

June.

3.95

4.10

4.10

4.00 

3.95

4.05

4.00

4.00

3.85

3.85 

3.85

3.75

3.95

3.80

Day.

16..........

18..........

19..........

20.......... 

21..........

24..........

25..........

26 .......... 

27..........

28...... ...

29..........

30..........

31..........

Jan.

2.20

2.20

2.20

2.20

Feb.

2.75

2.75 

2.58 

2.05 

2.25

2.75 

3.60 

3.45 

2.52 

2.25

2.15 

1.95 

1.75

Mar.

1.80 

1.75 

1.80 

2.15 

2.68

3.40 

3.90 

4.10 

3.95 

3.05

2.65 

1.92

1.82 

1.85 

1.82 

1.80

Apr.

2.65 

2.60 

2.50 

2.40 

2.40

2.30 

2.30 

2.35 

2.40 

2.35

2.30 

2.25 

2.25 

2.20 

2.30

May.

2.65 

2.95 

3.15 

3.30 

3.55

4.50 

4.45 

4.65 

4.55 

4.40

4.10 

3.80 

3.65 

3.60 

3.60 

3.75

June.

3.70 

3.50 

3.35 

3.20 

3.15

3.25 

3.35 

5.05 

9.00 

8. 65

6.90 

5. 75 

5.35 

5.15 

4.80

NOTE. River frozen Jan. 1-Feb. 14, 1907.

Rating table for Smith River at Truly, Mont., for 1905-1907.

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

1.00

1.10

1.20

1.30

1.40

1.50

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

10

20

32

47

65

86

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

1.60

1.70

1.80

1.90

2.00

2.10

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

Ill

140

173

207

242

280

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

2.20

2.30

2.40

2.50

2.60

2.70

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

321

365

412

460

509

559

i Gage 

height.

Feet. 

2.80

2.90

3.00

3.10

3.20

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

609

660

712

765

819

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on seven 

discharge measurements made in 1905-1907, and is fairly well defined between gage heights 1.2 feet and 2.5 

f3et. Above gage height 3.2 feet the rating curve is a tangent, the difference being 55 per tenth.
52 SUBFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Monthly discharge of Smith Hirer at Truly, Mont., for 1905-1907.

Month.

- 1905.

April ................................................

May. .................................................

1906.

April ................................................

May. ...............................................

July. ...............................................

1907. 

February 15-28...... . .............................

April .................. .............. ..............

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

173 

140

224 

534 

300 

173 

44 

126 

98 

140

Minimum.

76 

86 

86 

200 

86 

40 

26 

44 

40 

56

660 

559 

863 

1,250 

702 

117 

126

1,040 

1,310 

846 

1,620 

4,010

163

242 

207 

712 

76 

86 

111

156 

140

224 

288 

792

Mean.

135 

109 

149 

336 

154 

74.6 

31.7 

67.3 

83.3 

86.5

434 

331 

392 

974 

322 

107 

116

502 

348 

489 

796 

1,460

Run-off 

(total in 

acre- feet).

6,690 

6,490 

9,160 

20, 000 

9,470 

-4,590 

1,890 

4,140 

4,960 

5,320

72,700

6,890 

19,700 

24,100 

58, 000 

19, 800 

6,580 

3,680

139,000

14, 900 

21,400 

29, 100 

4ts,900 

86,900

Accuracy.

A. 

B. 

A. 

B. 

A. 

B. 

C. 

B. 

B. 

C.

B. 

B. 

B. 

C. 

B. 

B. 

B.

B. 

B. 

B. 

C. 

D.

SUN RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 

DESCRIPTION.

Sun River rises on the eastern slope of the Rocky Mountains in 

northwestern Montana, flows southward for about 60 miles, then, 

turning abruptly, flows eastward through a canyon, emerging on a 

level plain, through which it runs for 75 miles to its junction with 

the Missouri at Great Falls. The area of the drainage basin is about 

2,240 square miles.

South Fork and Willow Creek, its only important tributaries, rise 

in the mountains and are perennial streams. The others are small 

intermittent streams whose drainage areas lie entirely within the 

plains region.

The valle}1" of Sun River proper is from 1 to 3 miles wide and the 

river flows from 5 to 25 feet below its general surface. Steeply 

sloping bluffs, about 300 feet high, border this valley, and between 

these bluffs and the adjoining river valley are comparatively smooth 

bench lands. The highest peak in the mountains stands about 8,900 

feet above sea level; the altitude of the river at the canyon where it 

leaves the mountains is 4,450 feet; at its mouth it is 3,300 feet above 

sea level.
U. S. GEOLOGICAL SURVEY

A. SUN RIVER CANYON ABOVE POINT OF DIVERSION, SUN RIVER 

PROJECT, MONTANA.

WATER-SUPPLY PAPER 246 PLATE IV

B. SUN RIVER CANYON DIVERSION SITE, SUN RIVER PROJECT, 

MONTANA.
SUN RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 53

The mountainous part of the basin is included in the Lewis and 

Jlark National Forest, and is heavily timbered. The plains section 

is treeless except for a few willows and cot ton woods along the streams. 

The mean annual rainfall varies from 12 inches in the plains region 

to about 45 inches in the mountainous sections. The heaviest rainfall occurs during the month of June, but the regular June floods are 

caused by the melting snow in the mountains. During the greater 

part of the winter season all the streams are frozen over.

Much of the land in the valley has been irrigated, and the ordinary 

summer flow of the stream is practically all utilized. The United 

States Reclamation Service has started construction on an irrigation 

project that will store the flood water of Sun River and its tributaries 

and carry it to the higher bench lands at the north of the valley, where 

260,000 acres of irrigable land can be reclaimed. (See PL TV.) A 

number of reservoir sites have been selected, the largest being the 

Warm Springs reservoir with a capacity of 156,800 acre-feet. The 

other reservoirs are the Willow Creek, with a capacity of 84,320 acrefeet; the Pishkun, with a capacity of 45,747 acre-feet, and the Benton 

Lake, with a capacity of 140,200 acre-feet.

Natural power opportunities are good, as Sun River has a minimum flow at the point where it leaves the mountains of 150 secondfeet and a fall of about 40 feet to the. mile.

The following gaging stations have been maintained in this river 

basin:

North Fork of Sun River near Augusta, Mont., 1889-90, 1903-1908.

Sun River at Sun River, Mont., 1905-1908.

Sun River near Great Falls, Mont., 1897.

South Fork of Sun River at Augusta, Mont., 1904-1908.

Willow Creek near Augusta, Mont., 1905-1908.

Ford Creek near Augusta, Mont., 1906-1908.

Smith Creek near Augusta, Mont., 1906-1908.

NORTH FORK OF SUN RIVER NEAR AUGUSTA, MONT.

This station, which is situated below the head of the Kilraven 

ditch, near Christian's ninch, 12 miles northwest of Augusta and 21 

miles southwest of Choteau, Mont., was established October 31, 1903, 

to determine the amount of water available for storage, and irrigation.

The only important tributaries are Willow Creek and the South 

Fork of Sun River, both of which enter several miles below the gaging 

station. Very little water is diverted above the station, but below 

nearly all of the valley land is irrigated from this stream.

The gage datum has not been changed since the station was established. Conditions for obtaining accurate discharge data are excellent except during the winter months, when the discharge is affected 

by ice.
54 SUEFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Discharge measurements of North Fork of Sun River near Augusta, Mont., in 1907

and 1908.

Date

1907.

May 26.........

June 13.........

1908.

July 11.........

Hydrographer.

J. E. Stewart. ......................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

Width.

Feet. 

130

138

144

132

116

107

140

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft.

559

763

504

330

160

599

586

402

Gage 

height.

Feet.

3.06

4.40

2.36

1 19

(«)

3.11

2.47

1.34

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

749

4,300

QQQ

QQfl

721

oMade at mouth of canyon, 10 miles above regular station. Regular gage read 1.19.

Daily gage height, in feet, of North Fork of Sun River near Augusta, Mont., for 1901

and 1908. 

[G. B. Christian, observer.]

Day.

1907." 

1...............

2...............

3...............

5...............

6...............

9

10...............

11...............

13...............

15...............

16. ... ...........

17...............

19...............

20...............

21...............

23............... 

24...............

25...............

26...............

27...............

28...............

30.---.-----.....

31...............

1908.6 

1...............

2...............

3...............

4...............

5...............

6...............

7...............

9...............

10

Jan.

1.7

1.7

1.6

.9

Feb.

0 9

2.3

2.0 

2.0 

1.9 

1.8

1.8 

1.8 

1.7 

1.6 

1.6

1.5 

1.4 

1.3

.6

.6

a River frozen entirely across 

surface. 

6 River frozen January 1 to ab 

c Water over top of gage June 

to be 9.5 feet. Discharge estima

Mar.

1.2

1.0 

.9

.6

.7

.7

.7

.7 

.6 

.6 

.6 

.5

.5 

.5 

.5

.5 

.6

.6 

.6 

.6 

.6 

.6

.6 

.6 

.6 

.6 

.6 

.6

.6 

.6 

.6 

.6 

.6

.6 

.6

.7

.7 

.7

Januar

out Ma 

6,7,8,1 

ted as 1

Apr.

0.6

.6 

.6

i!o

1.0 

1.0

1.0 1.1

1.5

1.6 

1.5 

1.6 

1.8 

2.0

2.4 

1.9 

1.9 

1.8 

1.6

l.G 

1.8 

1.8 

1.7 

1.6

1.6 

1.6 

1.5 

1.5 

1.5

.6 

.6 

.6 

.6 

.6

.6 

.6 

.6

.7 

.7

y l to

 eh 10, a 

908. F 

5,000 se

May.

1.6

1.6 

1.6 

1.6 

1.6

1.5 

1.5

2.0 

2.4

3.2 

3.1 

3.1 

3.1 

3.4

3.7 

4.4 

4.4 

4.5 

5.0

4.5 

4.4 

3.8 

3.5 

3.3

3.0 

3.4 

3.6 

3.8 

3.8 

4.0

2.4

2.7 

2.8 

2.8 

2.8

3.1 

3.6 

3.9 

3.4 

3.5

Februa

nd Dec 

rom hi] 

cond-fe

June.

5.6 

5.1 

4.6 

4.6

5.0 

5.0

4.6 

4.4

4.0 

4.2 

4.3 

4.0 

3.9

3.8 

3.6 

3.6 

3.9- 

4.3

4.3 

4.6 

5.3 

5.0 

4.4

4.5 

5.0 

5.4 

5.4 

5.0

5.2 

5.5 

4.8 

6.5 

6.5

( c ) 

( c ) 

( c ) 

6.5 

6.2

ry 16, 1

ember

rh-wate

3t.

July.

4.5

4.4 

4.6 

4.7 

4.5

4.1 

3.9 

3.7

3.9 

3.9

3.8 

3.8 

3.6 

3.4 

3.2

3.1 

3.1 

3.0 

3.0 

3.0

3.2 

3.3 

3.2 

3.0 

2.9

2.8 

2.7 

2.6 

2.7 

2.7 

2.5

3.2 

3.2 

3.2 

3.1 

3.0

2.8 

2.8 

2.8 

2.7 

2.7

907. R

21-31, 1 

r marks

Aug.

2.4

2.4 

2.3 

2.3 

2.3

2.2 

2.1

2.0 

2.0

1.9 

1.9 

1.8 

1.7 

1.7

1.7 

1.6 

l.G 

l.G 

1.6

1.5

1.5 

1.5 

1.5 

1.5

1.5 

1.5 

1.6 

1.5 

1.5 

1.5

1.0 

1.0 

1.0 

1.0 

1.0

1.0 

.9 

.9 

.9 

.9

ecordec

308. 

the ex

Sept.

1.4

1.4 

1.3 

1.3 

1.3

1.3 

1.3 

1.3

1.3 

1.2

1.2 

1.3 

1.3 

1.2 

1.2

1.2 

1.2 

1.2 

1.2 

1.2

1.2 

1.2 

1.2 

1.2 

1.2

1.1 

1.1 

1.1 

1.1 

1.1

.7 

.7 

.7

'.7 

1 gage

treme 1

Oct.

1.1 

1.1 

1.1 

1.1

1.1 

1.1 

1.0

1.0 

1.0

1.0 

1.0 

1.0 

1.0 

1.0

1.0 

1.0 

1.0 

1.0 

1.0

1.0 

1.0 

1.0 

1.0 

1.0

1.0 

1.0 

.9 

.9 

.9 

.9

.8

.8 

.8 

.8

.8

.7 

.7 

.7 

.7 

.7

reading 

ligh sta

Nov. ' Dec.

0.9 

.9 

.9

g

!9

.9 

.9

.9 

.9

.9 

.9 

.9 

.9 

.9

.9

.8 

.8 

.8 

.8

.8 

.8 

.8 

.8 

.8

.8 

.8 

. 7

.7 

.7

!?

.7

.7 

.7 

.7 

. 7 'j

3 are to 

?e was

0.7

.7 

.8 

.8 

.7

.7 

.8

.8 

.8

.8 

.8 

.7 

.7 

.7

.G 

.6

.7

'.8

.8 

.7 

.8 

.8 

.8

.8 

.8 

.8 

.8 

.8 

.8

.8 

.8 

.8 

.8 

.8

.8 

.8 

.8 

.8

.8

water 

found
SUN RIVEE DRAINAGE BASIN. 55

Daily gage height, in feet, of North Fork of Sun River near Augusta, Mont., for 1907

and 1908 Continued.

Day.

1908-a 

11...............

12...............

13...............

14...............

15...............

10. ..............

li. ..............

18...............

19...............

20...............

21...............

22...............

23...............

24...............

25...............

27. ..............

29...............

30...............

31...............

Jan.

0.6

.6

9

Feb.

0.6

.6

Mar.

.8

.9

g

 9

 9

 9

 8

 8

.8

,7

^

.7

.7

Apr.

1.0

1.2

1.5

1.3

1.2

1.7

2.0

2.3

2.6

2 9

2.9

2 9

3.0

2 9

2

0

2.6

2.0

May.

3.5

3.4

3.2

3.2

3.3

3.6

3.4

3.1

3.1

3.0

2.9

2.9

2.8

2.9

3.2

3.2

3.1

3.1

3.1

3.2

3.8

June.

6.0

5.6

5.2

4.8

4.5

4.4

4.1

3.9

3.6

3.4

3.2

3.2

3.2

3.G

4.0

3.7

3.2

3.0

3.0

July.

2.6

2.6

2.5

2.4

2.3

2.2

1.9

1.8

1.8

1.7

1.6

1.5

1.5

1.4

1.3

1.2

1.2

1.1

1.0

Aug.

0.8

.8

.8

.8

.8

.8

.7

.7

.7

.7

Sept.

0.7

.7

.7

.8

g

.9

.9

.8

.8

.8

.8

.8

Oct.

0.7

.7

.7

.7

.7

.7

.7

.7

.7

.7

.7

.7

.7

.7

Nov.

.7

.8

.8

.8

Dec.

0.8

.8

.8

.8

.8

.8

.8

.8

1.1

a River frozen January 1 to about March 10, and December 21-31, 1908.

Rating tables for North Fork of Sun River near Augusta, Mont. 

JANUARY 1, 1907, TO JUNE 7, 1908.

Gage

height.

Feet.

0.50

.60

.70

.80

.90

1.00

1.10

1.20

1.30

1.40

1.50

1.60

1.70

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

150

180

210

245

285

325

370

420

470

525

585

650

720

Gage

height.

Feet.

1.80

1.90

2.00

2. 10

2.20

2.30

2.40

2.50

2.60

2.70

2.80

2.90

3.00

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

795

875

960

1,050

1,145

1,255

1, 300

1,470

1,580

1,700

1,820

1,950

2,080

Gage

height.

Feet.

3.10

3.20

3.30

3.40

3-. 50

3.60

3.70

3.80

3.90

4.00

4.20

4.40

4.60

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

2,220

2,360

2,500

2,650

2,800

2,950

3,100

3,260

3,420

3,580

3,920

4,260

4.620

Gage

height.

Feet.

4.80

5.00

5.20

5.40

5.60

5.80

6.00

6.20

6.40

6.60

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

4,980

5,360

5,740

6,130

6,530

6,930

7,330

7,750

8,170

8,590

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on six 

discharge measurements made during 1907-8 and the form of previous curves and is well defined be4ow 

gage height 5 feet.

JUNE 8, TO DECEMBER, 1908.

0.50

.60

.70

.80

.90

1.00

1.10

1.20

1.30

1.40

1.50

1.60

1.70

289

325

365

409

457

509

565

624

686

751

820

890

960

1.80

1.90

2.00

2.10

2.20

2.30

2.40

2.50

2.60

2.70

2.80

2.90

3.00

1,040

1,120

1,210

1,300

1,400

1,510

1,620

1,740

1,870

2,000

2,140

2,280

2,420

3.10

3.20

3.30

3.40

3.50

3.60

3.70

3.80

3.90

4.00

4.20

4.40

4.60

2,570

2,720

2,870

3,030

3,190

3,350

3,510

3,680

3,850

4,020

4,360

4,720

5,080

4.80

5.00

5.20

5.40

5.60

5 80

6.00

6.20

6.40

6.60

5,440

5,820

6,200

6,580

6,960

7,360

7,760

8,160

8,560

8,960

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on three 

discharge measurements made after the high water of 1908 and the general form of previous curves and is 

well defined below gage height 3.0 feet.
56 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Monthly discharge of North Fork of Sun Elver near Augusta, Mont., for 1907 and 1908.

Month.

1907.

July. ......... ............... ......................

November. . .......

1908. 

March 11-31 .........................................

May.................................................

July. ................................................

December 1-20 ..... . .........

The period ....................................

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

420 

1,360 

5,360 

6,530 

4,800 

1,360 

525 

370 

.285 

245

6, 530

285 

2, 080 

3,420 

olS.OOO 

2,720 

509 

457 

409 

409 

409

Minimum. Mean.

150 

180 

585 

2,950 

1,470 

585 

370 

285 

210 

180

210 

ISO 

1,360 

2,420 

509 

365 

365 

365 

365 

409

a 230 

421 

199 

596 

2,440 

4,630 

2,780 

818 

434 

330 

263 

228

1,110

238 

856 

2,320 

5,710 

1,540 

418 

395 

372 

377 

409

Run-off 

(total in 

acre-feet).

14,100 

23,400 

12, 200 

35,500 

150,000 

276, 000 

171,000 

50,300 

25,800 

20,300 

15,600 

14, 000

808,000

9,910 

50,900 

143,000 

340, 000 

94, 700 

25, 700 

23,500 

22,900 

22,400 

16, 200

739,000

Accuracy.

D. 

C. 

B. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

B. 

C. 

D.

D. 

A. 

A. 

B. 

A.

B!

B. 

C. 

D.

a Estimated. 

SUN RIVER AT SUN RIVER, MONT.

This station, which is located at the highway bridge over Sun 

River, Mont., was established July 31, 1905, to obtain data for use 

in connection with irrigation projects. The records at this station 

do not show the total run-off from the drainage area above it, as 

practically the entire valley above is irrigated from this stream. 

The greater part of the ordinary summer flow is utilized for irrigation.

The gage datum has not been changed since the station was established. The discharge is affected at times during the winter by ice. 

The gaging section at the bridge has been very poor since the high 

water of 1907, but good low-water measurements can be made by 

wading.

Discharge 'measurements of Hint Hirer at Sun River, Mont., in 1907 and 1908.

Date.

1907.

May 23.........

July 17.........

July 31.........

November 6.. . .

190S. 

May 26. .......

Hydrogrupher.

J. E. Svewart. . .....................................

.....do.............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do................................... ... ... .

.....do..............................................

J. E. Stewart. ......................................

J. E. Stewart. ......................................

.do . ... . ... . .. .... ... ...........

. ..do.............................................

....do.............................................

Width.

Feet. 

134

257

253

253

189

149

92

92

148

208

225

224

181

98

97

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

302

1,020

983

1,020

1,020

767

448

405

152 

838

1,620

1,410

979

681

7°7

Gage 

height.

Feet.

6.58

4.71

3.02

2.82

2.60 

5.80

8.00

5.25

3.18

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

3,700

3,790

3,660

1,460

374

348

357

6, ISO

1,640
SUN EIVEE DRAINAGE BASIN. 57

Daily gage height, in feet, of Sun River at Sim River, Mont., for 1907 and 1908. 

[R. A. Lange, observer.]

Day.a

1907. 

1...............

2

3...............

4............... 

5...............

0. ..............

8~.~-~.'-~.'.~.'.~.'.~.'.~.'.~. 

9. ..............

10...............

11............... 

12. ..............

13...............

15... ...........

10...............

18............... 

19............... 

20...............

21............... 

22............... 

23............... 

24...............

25...............

26............... 

27............... 

28............... 

29...............

30............... 

31...............

1908.6 

1...............

2........ ...... 

3............... 

4. ...

6............... 

7. ....... . . . .

8...... ........ 

9........

11..... .. ...... 

12... .... 

13............... 

14........ ...... 

15. .............

16............... 

17. .............. 

18........ ...... 

19. ..............

20...............

21........ . ... 

22........ ...... 

23............... 

24.. ..... 

25. ..............

26...............

27........ ...... 

28............... 

29............... 

30. ..............

31...............

Jan.

5.20

5.20

5.20

5.20 

5.20

4 ,50 

4.50 

4.10 

4.10 

4.00

3.50 

3.50

3.50

0 FA

3. 50

3.20 

3 50

3. 60 

3.60 

3. 60

3. 05 

3.50 

3. 60 

3. 60

3.00

3.00 

3.00 

3.60 

3.70

3. 50

3. 55

2. 75 

2.80 

2.78 

2. 50 

2.80

2.78

III 

2.75

2. 75

2.75 

3. 00 

3. 00 

2.9 

2.9

2. 85 

2.7

2.8 

2,8 

2.9

2.9 

3.0 

3.0 

2.95 

3.0

2.9

3.5 

3.6 

3.7

4.8

5.0

Feb.

3.60

3.65

3.65 

3.05

3. 05 

3.75 

7.95 

7.95 

7.00

6.50 

5.95

4.60 

4 50

4. 50 

4.50

3.50 

3.50 

3. 00

3.00 

3.00 

3.00 

2.65

2.60

2.00 

2.60 

2. 65

5.0 

4.2 

4.2 

4.2 

4.2

4.2

4.2 

4.2

4.5

4.5 

4.5 

4.4 

4. 35 

4.3

"i'6" 

4.0 

3.95 

3.9

3.9 

3.9 

3.5 

3.0 

3.0

2.9

2.5 

2.5 

2.5

Mar.

2.70

2.75

2.75

2.75 

2.75

2.60 

2. 60 

2.65 

2.65 

2. 65

2.00 

2.70

2.70

2.05 

2.70

2.68 

2.08 

2.70

2.70 

2.95 

2.95 

2.95

2.95

2.95 

2.95 

2.95 

2.90

2.85 

2.85

2.0 

2.0 

2.0 

1. 95 

1.95

2.0 

2.0 

2.0 

2.0

2.0 

2.0 

2.0 

2.0 

2.0

2.0 

2.0 

2.1 

2.1 

2.1

2.0 

2.0 

2.0 

2.0 

2.0

2.0

2.0 

2.0 

2.0 

2.0

2.0

Apr.

3.60

3.60

3.80 

3.75

3.70 

3. 65 

3. 00 

3. 60

3.70

3. 65

3.70

3.80 

4 00

4.00

4.00 

4.00

4.00 

3.90 

3.40

3.40

3.60 

3.90 

3.90

3.70

3.90 

3.90 

3.90 

3.40

3.40

2.0

2.0 

2.0 

2.0 

2.0

2.0 

2,0 

2.0 

2.0

2 0

2.0 

2.5 

2.8 

3.2 

3.1

3.8 

3.6 

3.0 

4.0 

4.5

5.0 

5.0 

5.9 

5.4 

5.0

4.6 

4.0 

3.1 

3.1

May.

3.40

3.40

3.50

3.90 

3.90

3.90 

3.90 

4.90 

4.95 

5.00

0.00 

6.00

6.00

5.95 

6.50

7.00 

7.40 

8.00

7.00 

7.00 

6.60 

0.10

0.00

5.80 

5. 50 

5.50

6.40 

0. 90

3.8 

4.0 

4.5

5.0

4.8

5.2 

5.9

6.4 

6.0

6 0

6.0 

5.9 

5.6 

o. 95 

5. 95

0.0 

6.0 

5.4 

5. 45 

5.35

5.35 

5.25 

5.2 

5.2 

5.2

5.0

5.2 

5.9 

6.0 

5.95

7.0

June.

7.00

8.40

8.20

7.60 

7.70

7.90 

7.90 

8.40 

8.00 

7.00

6. 00 

7.00

7.00

0. 00 

0.40

0. 00 

6.00 

6. tiO

0.90 

7.00 

7.40 

9.60

9.40

8.60 

8.00 

8.60 

8. 00

8. 60

8.5 

9.8 

8.75 

9.8 

12.0

12.5 

cl2.0 

13.0 

11.5

Q Z.

9.3

8.5 

8.0 

8.0 

8.0

8.0 

8.0 

7. 5 

7.1 

7.0

7.0 

0.9

0.6 

6.5 

6.4

7.0

6.8 

6.5 

0.3 

6.0

July.

8.20

7 90

7.60

7.60 

7.40

7.60 

6.90 

0.00 

6.60 

7.00

6.90 

6. 60

6.60 

6.20

6.00

5.90 

5.70

5.70 

5.00 

5.40

5.00 

5.60 

5.60 

5.50

5.40

5. 40 

5.40 

4.80

4. ,50 

4.70

6.0 

0.0 

6.0 

6.0 

6.0

6.0 

5.95 

5.95

5.5

5.3 

5.3 

5.0 

5.2 

5.15

5.1 

5.0 

5.0 

4.95 

4.7

4.5 

4.35 

4.35 

4.35 

4.2

4.0 

4.0 

4.0

3.95

Aug.

4.60

4.30

4.25 

4.00

4.00 

4.00 

4.10 

4.00 

4.00

3.90 

3.90

3.80

0 or.

3.70 

3.50

Q cn

3.50 

3.40 

3.40

3.40 

3.00 

3.00 

3.00

3.00

3.00 

3.00 

3.20

3.90 

3.60

3.95 

3.8 

3.8 

3.65 

3.5

3.5 

3.5 

3.4 

3.2

o n

3.0 

2.95 

2.9 

3.0 

3.0

3.0 

3.5 

3.0

2.85 

2.85

2.85 

2.8 

2.75 

2.7 

4.0

2.85 

3.15 

3.15 

3.15

3.15

Sept.

3.30

3.00

3.00 

3.00

3.00 

3.00 

3.00 

3.00 

3.00

2.95 

2.95

2.95 

2.95

2.95 

2.95

2.95 

2.95 

2.90

2.80 

2.80 

2.80 

2.80

2.80

2.80 

2.80 

2.80 

2 80

2.78

3.15 

3.1 

3.0 

3.0 

3.0

3.0 

3.0 

3.0 

3.0

0 fl

2.95 

2.95 

2.95 

2.95 

2.95

3.2

3.5 

3.5 

3.45

3.45 

3.45 

3.45 

3.45 

3.5

3.5

3.5 

3.55 

3.6 

3.6

Oct.

2.75

2.75

2.75

2.75 

2.70

2.65 

2.65 

2.60 

2.60 

2.60

2.60 

2.00

2.00 

2 00

2.50 

2.50

2.50 

2.50 

2.50

2.45 

2.45 

2.45 

2.45

2.40

2.40 

2.40 

2.40

2.40 

2.30

3.6 

3.6 

3.65 

3.55 

3.5

3.5 

3.5 

3.5 

3.4

3.4

3.4 

3.15 

3.15

3. 15 

3.15

3.65 

3.6 

3.5 

3.5 

3.5

3.65 

3.65 

3.05 

3.65 

3.6

3.6 

3.5 

3.5 

3.4

3.4

Nov.

2.30

2 35

2.50

2.50 

2.50

2.50 

2.50 

2.50

2.55 

2.55

2.55 

2.55

2.55 

2 50

2.50

2.50 

2 55

2.55 

2.50 

2.50

2.50 

2.50 

2.50

2.52

2.52 

2. 55 

2. 55

2.55

3.5 

3.45 

3.4 

3.4 

3.3

3.3 

3.3 

3.3 

3.2

3.2 

3.15 

3.1 

3.1 

3.5

3.5

3.5 

3.5 

3.5 

3.5

3.5 

3.4 

3.3 

3.3 

3.25

3.0

3.0 

3.0 

3.0

O f\

Dec.

2.55

2.55

2.55

2.55 

2.55

2.55 

2.55 

2.80 

2.80 

2.90

2.90 

2.85

2.85

2 DA

2.80

2.80 

9 en

2.80 

2.70

2.70

2.75

2.80 

2.80 

2.80

2.80

2.80 

2.80 

2.80

2.75 

2.75

3.0 

3.0 

3.0 

3.0 

3.0

3.2 

3.1 

3.1 

3.1

o 9

3.2 

3.2 

3.0 

3.0 

3.0

3.0 

3.0 

3.0 

3.0 

3.0

3.0 

2.85 

2.85 

2.8 

2.8

2.8

2.75 

2.75 

2.7

2.7

Ice conditions for about .January 10, February 12, and part of December, 1907.

Ice conditions during February," 1908.

The maximum flood gage height on June 7, 1908, was 13.4 feet.
58 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY. 1907-8.

Rating tables for Sun River at Sun River, Mont. 

JANUARY 1 TO JUNE 8, 1907.

Gage 

height.

Feet.

2.60

2.70

2.80

2.90

3.00

3.10

3.20

3.30

3.40

3.50

3.60

3.70

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

410

440

475

510

550

595

640

690

745

800

860

920

Gage 

height.

Feet.

3.80

3.90

4.00

4.10

4.20

4.30

4.40

4.50

4.60

4.70

4.80

4.90

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

985

1,050

1,120

1,190

1,260

1,340

1,420

1,500

1,590

1,680

1,770

1,860

Gage 

height.

Feet.

5.00

5.10

5.20

5.30

5.40

5.50

5.60

5.70

5.80

5.90

6.00

6.20

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

1,960

2,060

2,160

2,260

2, 370

2,480

2,590

2,700

2,820

2,940

3,060

3,300

Gage 

height.

Feet.

6.40

6.60

6.80

7.00

7.20

7.40

7.60

7.80

8.00

8.20

8.40

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

3, 560

3,820

4,090

4,370

4,660

4,960

5,270

5,590

5,920

6,260

6,600

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on two 

discharge measurements made during the above period and the form of the curve after high water. It 

is not well defined.

JUNE 9 TO SEPTEMBER 20, 1907.

2.30

2.40

2.50

2.60

2.70

2.80

2.90

3.00

3.10

3.20

3.30

3.40

3.50

3.60

186

210

235

262

292

323

358

395

435

478

52.3

570

620

673

3.70

3.80

3.90

4.00

729

788

850

915

4. 10 985

4.20

4.30

4.40

4.50

4.60

4.70

4.80

4.90

5 00

1,060

1,140

1,220

1,310

1,400

1,490

1,590

1,690

1,790

5.10

5.20

5.30

5.40

1,890

2,000

2,110

2,220

5.50 2,330

5.60

5.70

5.80

2,440

2,560

2,680

5. 90 2, 800

6. 00 2, 920

6.20

6.40

6.60

6.80

3, 170

3, 430

3,700

3,980

7.00

 7.20

7.40

7.60

7.80

8.00

8.20

8.40

8.60

8.80

9.00

9.20

4,270

4,570

4,880

5,200

5,520

5,860

6,200

6,550

6, 910

7,280

7,660

8,050

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on 

seven discharge measurements made during the above period and Is well defined below gage height 7.0 

feet. Above gage height 9.2 feet the curve is a tangent, the difference being 200 per tenth.

SEPTEMBER 21 TO DECEMBER 31, 1907.

[The indirect method applied, the previous curve being used as standard.] 

JANUARY 1 TO AUGUST 8, 1908.

Gage 

height.

Feet.

1.90

2.00

2.10

2.20

2.30

2.40

2.50

2.60

2.70

2.80

2.90

3.00

3.10

3.20

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

78

100

124

149

175

202

231

261

292

323

358

395

435

478

Gage 

height.

Feet.

3.30

3.40

3,. 50

3.60

3.70

3.80

3.90

4.00

4.10

4.20

4.30

4.40

4 50

4.60

Discharge.

Sec.-ft

523

570

620

673

729

788

850

915

985

1,060

1,140

1,220

1,310

1.400

Gage 

height.

Feet.

4.70

4.80

4.90

5.00

5.20

5.40

5.60

5.80

6.00

6.20

6.40

6.60

6.80

7.00

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

1,490

1>590

1,690

1,790

2,000

2,220

2,440

2-680

2,930

3,200

3,480

3,780

4,080

4,390

Gage 

height.

Feet.

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

7.20 4,710

7.40 5,040

7.60 5,380

7. 80 5, 740

8.00

8.20

8.40

8.60

8.80

9.00

10 00

11.00

12.00

13-00

6,110

6,490

6,870

7,270

7,670

8,070

10,220

12,500

14,900

17,400

NOTE. The above table Is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on 

discharge measurements made during 1907-8 and is well defined below gage height 9.0 feet. Above 9,0 

feet the curve is somewhat uncertain.

AUGUST 9 TO DECEMBER 31, 1908. 

[Indirect method for shifting channels used.]
SUN RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 59 

Daily discharge, in second-feet, of Sun River at Sun River, Mont., for 1907 and 1908.

Day.

1907.

Sept. Oct.

350

355

355

355

335

315

325

310

310

310

310

315

315

315

280

Nov.

255

270

320

320

320

320

320

320

340

340

340

340

340

328

328

Dec.

350

350

350

350

350

350

350

430

430

475

475

455

455

430

430

Day.

1908. 

1.............

2. ............

3.............

4.............

5.............

6.............

7.............

8.............

9.............

10........... ..

11...... ......

12.............

13.............

14.............

15.............

Aug.

500

415

480

455

415

415

415

415

415

415

415

415

375

375

375

375

375

Oct.

620

620

645

595

570

570

570

570

520

520

520

400

400

400

400

Nov.

560

535

515

515

470

470

470

470

425

425

425

405

390

390

560

Dec.

350

350

350

350

350

425

390

.390

390

425

425

425

350

350

350

Day.

1907.

Sept.

340

340

340

340

340

340

360

360

360

355

Oct.

280

290

290

290

290

285

285

285

268

268

280

280

280

280

245

Nov.

328

345

345

330

330

330

330

330

330

340

340

350

350

350

350

Dec.

Day.

1908.

Aug.

415

645

435

375

375

375

360

340

325

965

782

375

480

480

480

480

Sept.

478

478

620

620

595

565

565

565

565

590

590

590

620

645

645

Oct.

615

590

540

540

540

620 

620 

C20 

620 

605

605

605

560

560

515

515

Nov.

560

560

560

560

560

560

515

470

470

450

350

350

350

350

350

430

430

430

395

395

410

430

430

430

430

430

430

430

430

410

410

Dec.

350

350

350

350

350

350

300

300

290

290

290

285

285

280

280

280

Monthly discharge of Sun River at Sun River, Mont., for 1907 and 1908.

Month.

1907.

May.................................................

July.................................................

Discharge in second-feet

Maximum.

530 

1,120 

5,920 

8,850 

6,200 

1,400 

523 

355 

350 

475

8,850

Minimum.

410 

745 

745 

2,920 

1,310 

395 

340 

245 

255 

350

Mean.

o400 

o750 

463 

947 

2,860 

5,210 

3,250 

747 

376 

301 

329 

412

1,340

Run-off 

(total in 

acre-feet).

24,600 

41,700 

28,500 

56,400 

176,000 

310, 000 

200,000 

45,900 

22,400 

18,500 

19,600 

25,300

969,000

Accuracy.

D. 

D. 

C. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

C. 

D.

a Estimated.
60 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8. 

Monthly discharge of Sun River at Sun Hirer, Mont., for 1907 and 1908 Continued.

Month.

1908.

April ...............................................

July ...........................-.........----.-----..

Discharged in second-feet.

Maximum.

1,790 

124 

2,800 

4,390 

17,400 

2,930 

965 

645 

645 

560 

425

Minimum.

231 

89 

100 

788 

2,930 

882 

325 

375 

400 

350 

280

Mean.

457 

102 

736 

2,380 

7,290 

1,870 

522 

495 

555 

468 

344

Run-off 

(total in 

acre-feet).

28, 100 

6,270 

43,800 

146, 000 

434,000 

115,000 

32, 100 

29,500 

34,100 

27,800 

21,200

918,000

Accuracy.

D. 

C. 

B. 

A. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

C, 

D.

SOUTH FORK OF SUN RIVER AT AUGUSTA, MONT.

This station, which is located at the highway bridge on the road 

from Augusta to Craig, Mont., about one-half mile from Augusta, 

was established December 2, 1904, to obtain run-off data for use in 

connection with the Sun River Irrigation project.

Water is diverted to irrigate the valle}T lands, both above and 

below the stations. During dry seasons the entire summer flow is 

utilized.

The original gage was spiked to the crib work of the right abutment on the downstream side of the bridge. On April 17, 1907, a 

new gage was established 100 yards above the bridge. This gage is 

spiked to a tree on the left bank and is set at a different datum. 

The gage heights are affected by ice during the winter.

Discharge measurements of South Fork of Sun River at Augusta, Mont.,in 1907 and 1908.

Date.

1907. a

May 24 ........

Tune 26. .......

1908.

May 27........

July 11.........

Hydrographer.

J. E. Stewart. ...................................... 

.....do.............................................

.....do............................. ...............

.....do.............................................

.do . .. . ..... ......

Width.

Feet. 

32

35 

34

85

34

32

26

69

70

21

30

Area of 

section.

Si. ft. 

49 4

91

67

296

54

36.9

192

178

42.1

21

28.6

Gage 

height.

Feet.

2.96 

2 GO

4.11

2.11

1 80

1.48

3 70

2.92

2.45

2.83

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

399

247

1,120

124

45.7

1 ft ft

659

clOo

c51.1

i Measurements were made at different sections. 

t>Old gage read 1.27.

< Made by wading.

d Old gage on bridge read 1.96.
SUN EIVEE DEAINAGE BASIN. 61

Daily gage height, in feet, of South Fork of Sun River at Augusta, Mont., for 1907 and 1908.

[Richard Auchard, observer.]

Day.

1907. 

1......................

2......................

3......---...-....-.--.

4......................

5......................

6.........-.....------.

1.. ....................

g

10......................

11......................

12. ......... ........... -

13......................

14......................

16. .....................

18......................

19 ......................

20.......--...----....-.

21......................

22.....-.-...-.--------.

24. .......... ...........

25...............----.-.

'il. .....................

29

30

01

1908.

2......................

3......................

5. ................. ....

7. .... .................

8. ...... ........ ....... 

9. ................. .... 

10. .....................

11. ...... ............... 

12. ....... .............. 

13 ......................

16......................

18......................

20...................... 

21......................

09

23 ......................

24

26......................

27......................

OQ

29......................

30...................... °.1

Feb.

2.25

3.1

2.5

2.3

2.0

1.5

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.2

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.0

1.0

Mar.

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

.9

.9

.9

1.0

1.0

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

. 1.8

1.8

1.8

1.7

1.7 

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.8

1.8 

1.8 

1.8

Apr.

1.1

1.1

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.3

1.25

1.25

1.3

1.3

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.05

2.05

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.0

1.70

1.70 

1.70

1.70

1.70

1.70

1.70

1.70 

1.70 

1.70

1.70 

1.70 

1.70

1.70

1.70

1.70

1.70

1.70 

1.70

1.70 

1.70

1.60

1.60 

1.60

1 60

1 60

1.60

1.55 

1.55

May.

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.2

2.2

2.2

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.8

2.85

3.1

3.1

3.1

3.1

3.1

3.0

2.85

2.8

2.9

2.95

3.1

3.2

1.50

1.50

1.45

1.45

1.40

1.30

1.40 

1.50 

1.90

1.90 

2.00 

2.10

2.10

2.20

2.30

2.30

2.30 

2.30

2.30 

2.40

2.50

2.50 

2.50

2.50

2.60

3.20

3.10

3.00 

3.10

June.

3.2

3.25

3.25

3.2

3.1

3.0

2.9

2.9

2.8

2.7

2.6

2.6

2.6

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.4

2.35

2.3

2.25

3.45

3.55

4.85

4.9

4.3

4.1

3.4

3.2

3.15

5.45

6.8 

5.8

5.3

5.4

6.0

5.85

5.75 

5.70 

4.92

4.80 

4.60 

4.40

4.40

3.90

3.80

3.75

3.65 

3.65

3.70 

3.70

3.65

3.65 

3.60

3.50

3.40

3.40 

3.35

July.

2.95

2.8

2.7

2.7

2.6

2.55

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.6

2.5

2.5

2.4

2.4

2.35

2.35

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.35

2.3

2.2

2.2

2.2

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.1

3.3

3.3 

3.12

3.2

3.2

3.15

3.1

3.05 

3.0 

3.0

3.0 

2.95 

2.95

2.9

2.9

2.9

2.9

2.85 

2.85

2.7 

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.65

2.65

2.6

2.6

2.55 

2.5 

2.5

Aug.

2.1

2.1

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.0

1.9

1.9

1.9

1.9

1.9

1.9

1.9

1.9

1.9

1.9

1.9

1.9

1.9

1.9

1.9

1.9

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

2.5

2.5 

2.5

2.45

2.45

2.4

2.4

2.4 

2.35 

2.35

2.35 

2.35 

2.5

2.8

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5 

2.5

2.5 

2.5

2.5

2.5 

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.45

2.45 

2.45 

2.45

Sept.

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.75

1.75

1.75

1.75

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.75

1.75

1.75

1.75

1.75

1.75

1.75

1.75

1.8

1.8

2.4

2.4 

2.4

2.35

2.35

2.35

2.3

2.3 

2.25 

2.25

2.25 

2.25 

2.25

2.25

2.25

2.3

2.4

2.6 

2.5

2.4 

2.4

2.4

2.4 

2.4

2.45

2.45

2.45

2.45

2.45 

2.45

Oct.

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.75

1.75

1.75

1.75

1.75

1.75

1.75

1.75

1.75

1.75

1.75

1.75

1.75

1.75

1.75

1.75

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

2.5

2.55 

2.55

2.6

2.6

2.65

2.65

2.65 

2.6 

2.6

2.6 

2.6 

2.65

2.7

2.75

2.8

2.8

2.9 

2 9

2.9 

2.9

2.85

2.85 

2.85

2.85

2.85

2.8

2.8

2.8 

2.8 

2.8

Nov.

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

2.75

2. 75

2.7

2.7

2.65

2.65

2.6

2.6 

2.6 

2.6

2.4 

2.2 

2.7

2.7

2.9

2.8

2.6

2.7 

2.6

2.6

2.7

2.7

2.7

Dec.

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

....

NOTE. Beginning April 20.1907, the gage heights reier to a new gage with a different datum. 

Ice conditions January 1 to February 12 (about) and December 16-31, 1907; January 1 to March 31 

and November 13 to December 31,1908.
62 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Rating tables for South Fork of Sun River at Augusta, Mont.

JANUARY 1 TO APRIL 19, 1907.

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

0.90 

1.00

Dis-s 

charge.

Sec.-ft. 

46 

59

Gage 

height.

Feel. 

1.10 

1.20

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

93

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

1.30 

1.40

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

113 

135

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

1.50

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

159

NOTE. The above table is applicable only for open-channel conditions. It is based upon discharge 

measurements made during 1907, which cover the range of stage for this period. It is only approximate.

APRIL 20, 1907, TO JUNE 9, 1908.

1.30

1.40

1.50

1.60

1.70

1.80

1.90

2.00

2.10

2.20

2.30

2.40

2

6

12

21

33

48

66

87

111

138

168

200

2.50

2.60

2.70

2.80

2.90

3.00

3.10

3.20

3.30

3.40

3. ,50

232

266

302

340

381

425

472

523

578

637

700

3. 60 766

3.70

3.80

3.90

4.00

4.10

4.20

4.30

4.40

4.50

4.60

4.70

4.80

834

904

976

1,050

1,126

1,204

1,284

1,366

1,450

1,536

1,624

1,715

4.90

5.00

5.20

5.40

5.60

5.80

6.00

6.20

6.40

6.60

6.80

1,810

1,905

2,110

2,340

2,590

2,850

3,130

3,410

3,700

4,000

4,300

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on eight 

discharge measurements made during the above period and is fairly well denned below gage height 4.3 feet.

JUNE 10 TO DECEMBER 31, 1908.

2.20

2.30

2.40

2.50

2.60

2.70

2.80

30

36

43

51

60

70

83

2.90

3.00

3.10

3.20

3.30

3.40

99

120

145

178

217

264

3.50 319

i 3.60

! 3.70

; 3.80

i 3.90

4.00

i 4.10

1 4.20

381

450

526

609

692

777

867

4.30

4.40

4.50

4.60

4.70

4.80

4.90

962

1,062

1,167

1,272

1,382

1,492

1,607

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed channel conditions. It is based on 

four discharge measurements made during the above period and the general shape of the previous 

high-water curve. It is not well defined.

Monthly discharge of South Fork of Sun River at Augusta, Mont., for 1907 and 1908.

Month.

1907.

February. ........................ . . ...........

April ................................................

July .................................................

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

75 

113 

523 

1,810 

403 

111 

48 

48 

33 

33

1,810

Minimum.

46 

75 

111 

153 

111 

48 

40 

33 

33

Mean.

20.0 

97.3 

65.0 

93.1 

292 

552 

205 

72.7 

44.8 

39.0 

33.0 

26.3

Run-off 

(total in 

acre-feet)

1,230 

5,400 

4,000 

5,540 

18,000 

32,800 

12, 600 

4,470 

2,670 

2,400 

1,960 

1,620

92,700

Accuracy.

D. 

D. 

C. 

C. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

C. 

D.
SUN KIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 63

Monthly discharge of South Fork of Sun River at Augusta, Mont., for 1907 and

1908 Continued.

Month.

1908.

July. ................................................

The period

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

33

766 

4,300 

217 

83 

60 

99 

76

Minimum.

16 

2 

240 

51 

40 

33 

51 

30

Mean.

28.9 

172 

1,280 

107 

49.1 

41.3 

76.2 

61.2

Run-ofl 

(total in 

acre-feet).

1,720 

10,600 

76,200 

6,580 

3,020 

2,460 

4,690 

1,460

107, 000

Accuracy.

C. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

C. 

C. 

B. 

B.

NOTE. Discharge estimated for ice periods in 1907.

WILLOW CREEK NEAR AUGUSTA, MONT.

Willow Creek rises on the eastern slopes of the Rocky Mountains 

in the northwestern part of Lewis and Clark County, Mont., and 

flows in a general northeasterly direction to its junction with Sun 

River.

The gaging station, which is located at Jordan's ranch just below 

the mouth of Little Willow Creek, about 7 miles northwest of Augusta, 

Mont., was established June 8, 1905, to obtain run-off data for use in 

connection with the Sun River irrigation project. Willow Creek dam, 

work on which has been begun, will provide a reservoir with a capacity 

of 84,320 acre-feet.

Much of the valley land above the station is irrigated, the water 

being taken from this stream.

Conditions for obtaining accurate discharge data are excellent. 

No ice forms at this station, as a large spring enters the creek just 

above the gage. The datum of the gage has not been changed.

Discharge 'measurements of Willow Creek near Augusta, Mont., in 1907 and 1908.

Date.

1907.

May 25.........

1908. 

May 5. .........

May 28. ........

June 19.........

July 11.........

August 30......

Hydrographer.

J. E. Stewart. ......................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

J. E. Stewart. ......................................

.....do..............................................

Width.

Feet. 

13

16

16

26

14

14

12

25

26

15

14

17

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

16.0

38.4

39.0

49.0

20.4

11.8

8.4

45.6

23.8

13.1

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

1.32

2.73

2.56

4.42

1.62

.95

.75

3.10

3.94

1.78

1.00

.92

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

90.0

176

37.9

14.1

8.6

107

166

40.8

14.9

12.8

NOTE. Measurements on May 28 and June 19, 1908, made from wagon bridge. All others made by 

wading at various sections.
64 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Daily gage height, in feet, of Willow Creek near Augusta, Mont., for 1907 and 1908.

[S. X. Jordan, observer.]

Day.

1907. 

1... ............

2........ .......

3...............

4...............

6...............

8...............

9............... 

10...............

11...............

12............... 

13...............

14............... 

15.....--.--.....

17............... 

18....... ........ 

19.... ......... .. 

20...............

21...............

22............... 

23............... 

24............... 

25...............

26...............

27...............

28...............

29...............

01

1908. 

1...............

2...............

3...............

5...... ........ . 

6...............

7.. ......... ....

8...............

9...............

10......... ......

11...............

12...............

13...............

15............... 

16...............

17...............

18...............

19...............

20...............

21...............

22............... 

23............... 

24...............

27...............

28...............

29...............

30...............

31...............

Jan.

0.68

.68

.70

.70 

.70

.70

.70

.68

.68 

.68

.65

.60 

60

.60 

.60

.62

.62

.62 

.62 

.62

.62

.62 

.70 

.65 

.65

.05

.65

.65

.65

.65

.70

.70

.70

.70

.70 

.70

.75

.75

.75 

. 75

72

.72

.70

.70

.65 

.65

.65

.65

.70

.70

.65

.65 

.65 

.65 

.65

.65

.65

.70

.65

.65

Feb.

0.65

.65

.62

.62 

.65

.65

6.08

4.45 

3.32

3.28

2.00

1.78

1.70 

1.55

1.62

1.55 

1.38 

1.32 

1.45

1.42

1.48 

1.42 

1.58 

1.18

1.02

1.20 

1.18

.65

.65

.65

.65

.65 

.70

.70

.65

.65 

.60

.60

.60

.60

.60

.60 

.65

.65

.65

.65

.65

.65

.70

.80 

.80 

.80

.75

.65 

.65

........

Mar.

1.20

1.02

1.18

1.18 

1.30

1.22

1 3^

1.18

1.20 

1.42

1.18

1.18

118

1.38 

1.28

1.20

1.25 

1.35 

1.65 

1.52

1.60

1.35 

1.28 

1. 25 

1.20

1.25

1.45

1.48

1.35

1.18

.65

.65

.60

.00 

.65

.70

.70 

.80

.90

.80

.85

.92

.90 

1.10

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.02

.95

.80 

.80 

.68

.85

80

.80

.80 

.80

.80

.75

Apr.

1.30

1 25

1.4.5

1.35 

1.35

1.30

1.28

1.35 

1.38

1.45

1.40 

1.40

1.42 

1.45

1.40

1.40 

1.42 

1.28 

1.25

1.25

1.25 

1.40 

1.40 

1. 35

1.38

1.38 

1.45

1.48

1.50

.80

.80

.78

.80

.78

.75

.75

.75

.80

.75

.70 

.75

.80

.75

.75 

.70

.78

.70

.70

.70 

.72

.75

May.

1.60

1.50

1.60

1.58 

1.58

1.55

1 58

1.60

1.75 

1.75

2.10

2.00 

2.05

2.02 

2.05

2.35 

2. 55 

2. 58 

3.00

3.00 

3.00 

2.85 

2.72

2.75

2.65

2.85

3.00

.75

.75

.78

.80

.75

 .85 

1.15

1.05

1.28

1.35

1.55

1.40

1.82

1.55

1.62

1.75 

1.60 

1.60 

1.85

3.50

2.68 

2.48

3.10

4.60

June.

3.05

3.25

3. 15

3.05 

2.90

2.95

3.00

2.90 

2.80

2.70

2.65 

2.50

2.38 

2. 55

2.50

2.25 

2.10 

2.00 

1.98

2.40

3.40 

5.38 

5.40 

4. 95

4.50

4.35

4.28

4.08

3.85

8.30

6.60

6.40

6. 95

9.50 

8.30

8.45

7.85

7.32 

6.70

6.20

5.80

5.38

4.85

4.62 

4.50

4.32

4.10

3.95

3.70

3.50

3.40 

3.28 

3.00 

2.90

2.80

2.75

2.72

2.68

2.60

July.

3.70

3.50

3.40

3.25 

3.10

2. 95

2 75

2.70

2.72

2.80

2.65

2.50

2.50 

2.30

2.25 

2.20 

2.15 

2.10

2.15

2.20 

2.00 

1.95 

1.82

1.80

1.75 

1.72

1.65

1 60

2.60

2.45

2.22

2.15 

2.12

2.10

2. CO

1.85 

1.80

1.78

1.72

1.70

2.20 

1 90

1.85

1.80

1.70

1.65

1.60

1.58 

1.52

1 4S

1.45

1.40 

1.38

1.20

Aug.

1.60

1.60

1. 55

1.50 

1.48

1.42

1.42

1.40 

1.40

1.10

1.30

1.25 

1.20

1 ">(!

1.20 

1.18 

1.18 

1.15

1.12

1. 05 

1.05 

1.05 

1.02

1.02

1.02 

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.15

1.12

1.10

1.08

1.08 

1.05

1.05

1.15

1.15 

1.12

1.10

1.12

1.30

1.28

1.22 

1.22

1.20

1.20

1.20

1.18

1.18

1.18 

1.15 

1.12 

1.10

1.10

1.10 

1.00

1 00

1.00

Sept.

1.10

1.10

3.05

1.05 

1.05

1.05

1.08

1.05 

1.05

1.05

1.10 

1.10

1.10 

1.08

1.00

1.00 

1.00 

.95 

.95

.95

.95 

.92 

.90 

.90

.90

.90 

1.00

.95

.95

.95

.92

.88

.88

.85 

.80

.80

.80

.80 

.80

.80

.80

.78

.78

.78 

.78

.95

1.00

.90

.88

.85

.82 

.80 

.85 

.90

.90

.90

.90

.88

.85

Oct.

0.95

.95

.92

.90 

.90

1.02

.90

.85 

.85

.85

.85 

.82

.82 

.82

.82

.82 

.82

.82 

.82

.82

.82

.82 

82 

.82

.82

.80 

.80

.80

.80

.80

.85

.95

.98

.98

.95

.95

.92

.92

.90 

.90

.90

.90

.90

.90

.92 

1 00

1.00

].00

1.00

1.05

1.05

1.05 

1.05 

1.05 

1.05

' 1.05

1.02

1.02 

1.00

1.00

1.00

Nov.

0.80

.80

.78

7S 

.78

.78

.78

.78 

.80

.80

.80 

.80

.80 

.80

.85

.80 

.70 

.90

.88

.95

.95 

.88 

.95 

.90

.90

.75

.88

.88

.85

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.00 

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.00 

.98

.98

.98

.98

.95

.92 

1.00

1.15

1.12

1.12

1.00

1.00

1.00 

1.00 

1.00 

1.00

l.CO

.95

.95 

.92

.92

Dec.

0.82

.82

.90

.95 

.90

.90

90

.85

.85 

.88

.88

.88 

.85

.80 

.65

.72

.65 

.65 

.60 

.60

.65

.75 

.75 

.75 

.75

.75

.75

.68

.68

.65

.92

.80

.82

.82

.85 

.92

1.00

1.00

.95 

.92

.90

.95

.78

80

.85 

.75

.75

.80

.82

.82

.82

.82 

.82 

.82 

.88

.88

.90

.90 

.90

.88

.88
SUN RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 65

Rating tables for Willow Creek near Augusta, Mont.

FOR 1907.

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

0.60

.70

.80

.90

1.00

1.10

1.20

1.30

1.40

1.50

1.60

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

6

8

10

13

16

19

22

25

29

33

37

Gage 

height.

! Feet. 

1.70

1.80

1.90

2.00

2.10

2.20

2.30

2.40

2.50

2.60

2.70

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

41

45

49

53

57

61

65

69

74

79

84

Disharge.

?ec.-ft.

41

45

49

53

57

61

65

69

74

Gage 

height.

Feet.

2.80

2.90

; 3.00

, 3.10

3.20

3.30

3.40

3.50

3.60

79 ! 3.70

84 3.80

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

89

94

99

104

109

114

119

124

129

134

139

Gage 

height.

Feet.

3.90

4.00

4.20

4.40

4.60

4.80

5.00

5.20

5.40

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

144

149

159

169

179

191

203

215

227

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on discharge 

measurements made during 1905-1907 and is well defined.

FOR 1908.

0.60

.70

.80

.90

1.00

1.10

1.20

1.30

1.40

1.50

1.60

1.70

1.80

1.90

5

7

10

12

15

18

21

25

29

33

37

41

45

49

2.00

2.10

2.20

2.30

2.40

2.50

2.60

2.70

2.80

2.90

3.00

3.10

3.20

3.30

53

58

63

68

73

78

83

88

93

98

103

108

113

118

3.40

3.50

3. tiO

3.70

3. 8Q

3.90

4.00

4.20

4.40

4. CO

4.80

5.00

5.20

5.40

123

128

134

140

146

152

158

170

182

194

206

219

233

247

5.60

5.80

6.00

6.20

6.40

6.60

6.80

7.00

8.00

9.00

10.00

261

275

289

303

317

332

348

364

444

524

604

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on discharge 

measurements made in 1906-1908 and is fairly well defined below gage height 3.5 feet. Above gage height 

6.5 feet the rating curve is a tangent, the difference being 8 per tenth.

Monthly discharge of Willow Creek near Augusta, Mont., for 1907 and 1908.

Month.

1907.

July . . ...............................................

December

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

8 

260 

39 

33 

99 

227 

134 

37 

19 

17 

14 

14

260

Minimum.

6 

6 

17 

23 

33 

52 

37 

17 

13 

10 

8 

6

6

Mean.

7.0 

44.5 

25.3 

27.7 

65.1 

111 

71.9 

24.2 

16.0 

11.8 

11.0 

9.8

35.4

Run-off 

(total in 

acre-feet).

430 

2,470 

1,560 

1,650 

4,000 

6,600 

4,420 

1,490 

952 

726 

655 

602

25,600

Accuracy.

D. 

A. 

A 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

C.

c.

D.

31260 IRE 246 10-
66 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8. 

Monthly discharge of Willow Creek near Augusta, Mont., for 1907 and 1908 Cont'd.

Month.

1908.

July.................................................

December

Dischar 

Maximum.

8 

10 

18 

10 

194 

564 

83 

25 

15 

16 

20 

15

594

ge in second 

Minimum.

6 

5 

5 

7 

8 

8.3 

> 21 

15 

9 

11 

13 

8

5

-feet.

Mean.

6.74 

6.45 

10.1 

8.27 

40.3 

240 

45. 9 

19.1 

11.1 

14.2 

15.0 

11.3

3.1 7

Run-off 

(total in 

acre-feet).

414 

371

621 

492 

2,480 

14,300 

2, 820 

1,170 

660 

873 

893 

695

25,800

Accurac\- .

D. 

D. 

D. 

D. 

A. 

B. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

B. 

B. 

B.

FORD CREEK NEAR AUGUSTA, MONT.

This station, which is located at the ranch of Joseph Ford, 16 

miles west of Augusta, was established April 11, 1906, to obtain runoff data for use in connection with the Sun River irrigation project.

Ford Creek is a branch of Willow Creek and has no important tributaries. One small irrigation ditch diverts water from the creek 

above the gage.

The current is swift and the gage heights are but little affected by 

ice. Conditions of flow are changeable, requiring frequent measurements to properly define the rating curve. The gage datum has 

remained unchanged.

Discharge measurements of Ford Creek near Augusta, Mont., in 1907 and 1908.

Date.

1907. 

April 18........

1908.

May 28........

July 12........

Ilydrographer.

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

J. E. Stewart. ......................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

Width.

Feet. 

15

20

26

14

12

12

24

23

13

12

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

11.1

22 2

28.8

14.2

Q 0

23.9

36.0

8.4

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

1.35

1 89

1.11

1.30

91

97

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

29.1

87.0

91 0

34.1

18.2

23.9

102

21.5

NOTE. These measurements were made by wading at various sections.
SUN BIVBE DBAINAGE BASIN. 67

Daily gage height, in feet, of Ford Creek near Augusta, Mont., for 1907 and 1908.

[Joseph Ford, observer.]

Day.

1907. 

1...............

2...............

3...............

6...............

8...............

9

10...............

11...............

12...............

14...............

16...............

18...............

19...............

20............... 

21...............

22. ......

23...............

24...............

25...............

26...............

27. .............. 

28............... 

29...............

30...............

31...............

1908. 

1.... . ...... 

2............... 

3...............

4. ..............

5 ...

6...............

8...............

9...............

10...............

11............... 

12...............

13............... 

14............... 

15..-..-......-..

l^... ............ 

17... ............

19...............

20...............

21............... 

22...............

23...............

24...............

25...............

26...............

27...............

28...............

29...............

SO...............

Jan.

1.10 

1.10

1.00

.90 

.90 

.90

.90 

90

.90

90

.90

90

.90

.90 

90

.90 

.90 

.90

.90 

90

.90

90

.90

.90 

90

.90

90

90

.90

.90

.90

.90

1.10

1 3n

Feb.

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.10 

1.10

2.00 

2.00 

2.00

2.00 

2.00

.90

90

.90

90

.90

.90 

90

.90 

.90 

.90

.90

.85

.80

.80

.80 

80

.80

80

.80

.70

.70

:70

Mar.

1.10

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.10

1.20

1.20 

1.20

1.20

1.20

1.15

1.10 

1.10

1.00

.70 

.70 

1.10

1.10 

1.10

.98

80

.70

.70

.70

.70

.70 

.80 

.70

.70

.70

.70

.70

.70

.70

.70

1.10

.70

.70

.70

.70

1.10

Apr.

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.20

1.30

1.35

1.40

1.35

1.30

1.30

1.30

1.20

1.20 

1.40

1.20

.70 

.70 

.70

.70 

.70

.70

.80

.80

.80

.80

.90 

on

.90 

.90 

.90

.95

1.00

1.00

1.12

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.10

May.

1.20

1.30

1.25

1.20

1.25

1.30

1.60

1 80

1.78

1.70

1.70

1.70

1.70

1.72

1.85

1.85

1.95

1.95

1.85

1.80

1.80

1 80

1 80

1.85 

1.85 

1.92

2.05

2.10

1.10 

1.10 

1.10

1.10 

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.15

1.28

1.40 

1.40 

1.60

1.60 

1.60

1 60

1.60

1.60

1.60 

1.60

1.60

1.58

1.70

1.70

1.70

1.70

1.75

June.

2.10

2.00

2.02

2.00

2.00

2.00

2.00

2.00

2.00

2.00

1.92

1.90

1.88

1.80

1 80

1.80 

1 80

1.80

1.80

1.95 

2.00

2.15

3.50

3.25

2.90

2.60

2.48 

2.32 

2.25

2.20

3.90 

3.60 

3.35

3.65

3.80

3.75

3.55

3.10

2.70

2.45 

2.38

2.32 

2.25 

2.20

2.18 

2.10

1.90

1.80

1.80 

1.80

1.78

1.70

1.70

1.60

1.60

1.52

1.50

1.50

July.

2.20

2.18

2.10

2.00

2.00

1.90

1.80

1.80

1 80

1.72

1.70

1.65

1.65

1.60 

1.60

1.60

l.GO

1.52

1.50

1.45

1.45 

1.45 

1.45

1.40

1.35

1.50 

1.50 

1.40

1.40

1.40

1.40

1.35

1.30

1.30

1.30 

1.30

1.30 

1.30 

1.30

1.30 

1.22

1.20

1.20

1.20 

1.20

1.20

1.20

1.20

1.20

1.20

1.20

1.20

1.15

1 1 ^

Aug.

1.40

1.40

1.40

1.40

1.40

1.40

1.35

1.35

1.30

1.30

1.25

1.20

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10 

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10 

1.10 

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.15 

1.12 

1.10

1.05

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.00 

1.00

1.00 

1.00 

1.00

1.00 

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.00 

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.00

.95

.95

.90

.90

.90

.90

Sept.

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.05 

1.05 

1.05

.90 

.90 

.90

.90 

90

.90

.90

.90

.90

.90

.90 

.90

.90 

.90 

.90

.90 

.90

.90

.90

.90

.90 

.90

.90

.90

.90

.90

.90

.90

.90

.90

Oct.

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.00

1.00 

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.00 

1.00 

1.00

.98

.95

.90 

.90

.90

.90 

90

.90

.90

.90

.90

.90

.90 

.90

.90 

.90 

.90

.90 

.90

.90

.90

.90

.90 

.90

.90

.90

.90

.90

.90

.90

.90

.90

.90

Nov.

0.95

.95

90

.90

.90

90

.90

90

.90

.90

.90

90

90

90

.90 

90

.90

.90

.90 

.90

.90

.90

.90

.90

.90

.90 

.90 

.90

.90

.90 

.90 

.90

.90 

on

.90

.90

.90

.90

.90

1.05 

1.10

.95 

.90 

.90

.90 

.90

.90

.90

.90

.90 

.90

.90

.90

.90

.90

.90

.90

.90

.90

Dec.

0.90

.90

.90

90

.90

.90

.90

.90

90

.90

.90

.90

90

.90

90

.90 

.90

.90

.90

.90 

.90

.90

.90

.90

.90

.90

.90 

.90 

.90

.90

.90

.90 

.90 

.90

.90 

90

.90

.88

.82

.80

.80

.80 

.80

.80 

.80 

.80

.SO 

.80

.80

.80

.80

.80 

.80

.80

.80

.80

.80

.80

.80

.95

1.60

1.60

NOTE. Ice conditions January 1-February 4, 1907; April 28, 1907, slight ice gorge due to slush ice; January 30-February 5, March 3-7, 26, and 30, 1908; also November 11-13 and December 29-31, 1908.
68 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Rating tables for Ford Creek near Augusta, Mont.

JANUARY 1 TO AUGUST 2, 1907.

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

1.00

1.10

1.20

1.30

1.40

1.50

1.60

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

10

14

19

26

34

43

54

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

1.70

1.80

1.90

2.00

2.10

2.20

2.30

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

07

81

96

112

129

147

166

l 

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

2.40

2.50

2.60

2.70

2.80

2.90

3.00

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

185

205

225

245

265

285

305

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

3.20

3.40

3.60

3.80

4.00

4.20

4.40

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

355

405

460

520

580

650

720

NOTE. The above table is not applicable forieeorobstructed-channel conditions. It is based on four discharge measurements made during 1907 and the form of the 1906 curve. It is fairly well defined between 

gage heights 1.3 feet and 2.0 feet.

SEPTEMBER 19 TO JUNE 18, 1908.

0.90

1.00

1.10

12

17

23

1.20

1.30

1.40

29

36

43

1.50

1.60

1.70

51

60

70

1.80

1.90

2.00

82

96

112

NOTE . T he above table is not applicable for ice or obstracted-channel conditions. It is based on three discharge measurements made during the above period and is fairly well defined between gage heights 0.9 foot 

and 2.0 feet. Above gage height 2.0 feet use the preceding curve.

JUNE 19 TO DECEMBER 31, 1908.

0.80

0.90

1.00

16

21

26

1.10

1.20

1.30

32

38

45

1.40

1.50

1.60

52

60

69

1.70

1.80

1.90

79

90

102

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on four discharge measurements made during the above period and is fairly well denned.

Monthly discharge of Ford Creek near Augusta, Mont., for 1907 and 1908. 

[Drainage area, 18 square miles.]

Month.

1907.

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

19 

19 

34 

129 

430 

147 

34 

22 

20 

12.5 

12

430

Minimum.

10 

10 

14 

19 

81 

30 

20 

20 

12.5 

12 

12

Mean.

10.0 

12.6 

13.1 

22.3 

71.4 

142 

67.6 

24.0 

20.4 

18.6 

12.0 

12.0

35.5

Per 

square 

mile.

0.556 

.700 

.728 

1.24 

3.97 

7.89 

3.76 

1.33 

1.13 

1.03 

.667 

.667

1.97

Run-off.

Depth in 

inches on 

drainage 

area.

0.64 

.73 

.84 

1.38 

4.58 

8.80 

4.34 

1.53 

1.26 

1.19 

.74 

.77

26.80

Total in 

acre-feet.

615 

700 

806 

1,330 

4,390 

8,450 

4,160 

1,480 

1,210 

1,140 

714 

738

25,700

Accuracy.

D.

C. 

B. 

B. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

C. 

D.
SUN RIVEE DRAINAGE BASIN. 69

Monthly discharge of Ford Creek near Augusta, Mont., for 1907 and 1908 Continued.

Month.

1908.

March ................... ......

April...........................

May... ...................... ..

June.....

July..... .............. ... ..

December...... ........... ....

The year............. . ..

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

12 

12 

8.5 

24 

201 

720 

60 

35 

21 

21 

21 

21

720

Minimum.

12 

5.3

5.3 

23 

60 

35 

21 

21 

21 

21 

16

Mean.

12.0 

6. 59 

5.34 

14.5 

51.8 

227 

43.7 

26.0 

21.0 

21.0 

21.0 

17.1

38.9

Per 

square 

mile.

0.667 

.366 

.297 

.806 

2.88 

12.6 

2.43 

1.44 

1.17 

1.17 

1.17 

.950

2.16

Run-off.

Depth in 

inches on 

drainage 

area.

0.77 

.39 

.34 

.90 

3.32 

14.06 

2.80 

1.66 

1.30 

1. 35 

1.30 

1.10

29.29

Total in 

acre-feet.

738 

379 

328 

863 

3,190 

13,500 

2, 690 

1,600 

1,250 

1,290 

1,250 

1,050

28. 100

Accuracy.

D. 

D. 

D. 

C. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

C. 

D.

NOTE. Discharge estimated August 3 to September 18, 1907, and for ice periods. 

SMITH CREEK NEAR AUGUSTA, MONT.

This station, which is located 1 mile above J. W. Nixon's ranch, 16 

miles southwest of Augusta, Mont., was established April 14, 1906, 

to obtain run-off data for use in connection with the Sun River irrigation project.

The ordinary summer flow is practically all used for irrigation, 

but no water is diverted above the gaging station.

Measurements can be made only by wading and conditions for obtaining accurate discharge data are good at low and medium stages; 

no measurements can be made at flood stages. Gage heights are 

not affected by ice. The gage datum has not been changed since 

the station was established. The discharge curves plotted for this 

station are shown in figure 1, page 23.

Discharge measurements of Smith Creek near Augusta, Mont., in 1907 and 1908.

Date.

1907. 

April 17........

June 12.........

1908.

May 28. ........

June 18.........

July 12.........

Hydrographer.

...3o. ............................................

.....do..............................................

J. E. Stewart . ......................................

.....do..............................................

Width.

Feet. 

23

30

26

26

18

18

37

25

22

23

28

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

22.2

36.2

28.3

23.1

17.3

17.8

44.0

31.6

17.4

12.6

23.6

Gage 

height.

feet.

1.16

1.51

1.43

1.22

1.06

1.09

1.80

1.14

.80

.62

.98

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

41.9

107

80.0

35.2

17.5

19.8

149

97.8

38.9

18.4

53.9

NOTE. These measurements were made by wading at various sections.
70 SUKFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Daily gage height, in feet, of Smith Creek near Augusta, Mont., for 1907 and 1908. 

[Mrs. J. W. Nixon, observer.]

Day.

1907. 

1..... ..........

5. ..............

6...............

7...............

g

10. ..............

15...............

17.......-.---...

1 S

19

20...............

21. ........

oq

25...............

26...............

90

30...............

01

1908.

0

6............... 

7...............

9...............

10...............

12. ..............

13...............

20...... ........

21...............

22. ........

93

24. ... . ........

25...... ........

20. ..............

27...............

28...............

29...............

30. ..............

31...............

Jan.

0.95 

.95

.95

9

.9

g

g

g

g

g

g

9

.9

9

.9

9

9

OK

.95

.95

.95

.95

.9 

9

.9

.9

9

1.0

1.0

1-0

1.0

1.0 

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

Feb.

0.95 

.95

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.05

1.0

1.0

.9

9

.9

.9

.9

.9

9

.9

9

.9

.9

9

9

.9

.9 

.95

.95

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0 

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

Mar.

0.95 

.95

9

.9

9

.9

9

9

9

9

9

9

9

.9

.9

.9

1.0

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.05

1.05

1.0 

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.05

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0 

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

Apr.

1.05 

1.05

1.1

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.15

1.15

1.15

1.15

1.15

1.15

1.15

1.1

1.1

1.2

1.2

1.15

1.15 

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0 

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

May.

1.2 

1.2

1.2

1.1

1.1

1.2

1.2

1.25

1.25

1.45

1.6

1.45

1.45

1.45

1.35

1.3

1.38

1.45

1.4

1.8

1.7

1.7

l.G

1.5

1.5

l.G

1.6

1.6

1.7

1.75

1.8

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1 

1.1

1.1

1.2

1.4

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.6

l.G

1.55

1.5

1.5

l.G

1.6

l.G

l.G

1.6

1.7

1.75

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.9

2.75

June.

1.75 

1.7

1.7

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.65

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.55

1.4

1.4

1.45

1.4

1.35

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.4

2.2

3.7

2.8

2.15

2.2 

2.2

2.1

1.9

1.9

3.25

2.3

3.6

3.0

2.S 

2.5

2.4

2.0

1.8

1.7

1.6

1.5

1.3

1.2

1.2

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.05

1.05

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

July.

1.7 

1.65

1.6

l.G

1.5

1.5

1.5

1 r

1.5

1.4

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3 

1.3

1.2

1.2

1.2

9

9

,8

.8 

.8

.8

.8

.8

.8

.8

.8

3

.8

.8

.8

.8

.75

.75

.75

.75

.75

.75

.7

.7

.7

.65

.65

.65

Aug.

1.2 

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.15

1.15

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1 

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

.65

.6

.6

.6

.6

.6

.6

.6

.6

.6

.6

.65

.65

.65

.6

.6

.6

.6

.6

.6

.6

.6

.6

.6

.6

.6

.6

Sept.

1.1 

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.05 

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.05

.6

.6 

.6

.6

.6

.55

.55

.55

.55

.55

.55

.6

.65

.7

.65

.65

.6

.6

.6

.6

.6

.6

.6

.6

Oct.

1.0 

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1 0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0 

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

.6

.65

.65

.70

.75

.75

.8

.8

.85

.9

9

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

.95

.9

.8

.8

.8

.8

.8

.8

.8

. 75

.75

Nov.

1.0 

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0 

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

7K

.75 

.75

.75

.75

 - 

.7

7

7

7

7

.7

7

Dec.

1.0 

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0 

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

.7

. 7 

.7

7

.7

.65

.65

.6

.6

.6

.6

.6

.6

.6

.6

.6

.6

.6

.6
SUN KIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 71

Rating tables for Smith Creek near Angnsta, Mont. 

APRIL 10, 1906, TO JUNK 23, 1907.

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

0.80

.90

1.00

1 10

1.20

1.30

I.JO

1. 50

Discharge.

Stc.-ft. 

6

12

20

31

45

01

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

1.00

1.70

1.80

1.90

2.00

2.10

79 i 2. 20

100 2. 30

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

123

148

175

203

232

261

291

322

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

2.40

2.50

2.60

2.70

2.80

2.90

3. 00

3.10

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

354

.387

421

450

491

52(5

561

596

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

3.20

3. 30

3.40

3. 50

3. 60

3.70

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

631

06(>

701

73C

771

800

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstmcted-channel conditions. It is based on eleven 

discharge measurements made during the above period, and is well defined between gage heights 0.9 foot 

and 1 .(i feet,

JUNE 24, 1907, TO JUNE 5, 1908.

1.00 13

1.10

1.20

1.30

1.40

1.50

21

32

47

64

84

1. CO 107

I

1.70

1.80

1.90

2.00

2.10

2.20

2. 30

132

158

185

213

242

272

303

2.40

2.50

2.60

2.70

2.80

2.90

3. 00

335

368

402

436

470

505

540

3.20

3.40

3.60

3.80

C13

687

7C1

835

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on four 

discharge measurements made during the above period and the form of the previous curve, and is well 

defined between gage heights 1.0 foot and 1.9 feet.

JUNE 0, 1908, TO OCTOBER 13, 190S.

0. 00

.70

.80

.90

1.00

1.10

17

28

40

54

70

S8

1.20

1. 30

1.40

1.50

1.60

1.70

107

127 :

148

170

193

217

1.80

1.90

2.00

2. 10

2.20

2. 30

242

208

295

322

349

376

2.40

2.50

2.00

2.70

2.80

404

432

400

488

517

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on three 

discharge measurements made during the above period, and is well defined below gage height 1.3 feet.

OCTOBER 14, 1908, TO DECEMBER 31, 1908.

NOTE. The above (able is not applicable for ice or obstructed channel conditions. It is based on one 

discharge measurement made during the above period and the shape of the previous curve, and is not well 

defined.
72 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Monthly discharge of Smith Creek near Augusta, Mont., for 1907 and 1908. 

[Drainage area, 20 square miles.]

Month.

1907.

July............................

The year.................

1908.

April...........................

July.. ..........................

December

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

10 

25 

31 

45 

175 

800 

132 

32 

21 

13 

13 

13

806

13 

13 

17 

21 

453 

780 

54 

34 

28 

57 

25 

20

780

Minimum.

12 

12 

12 

25 

31 

61 

32 

21 

17 

13 

13 

13

12

13 

13 

13 

13 

21 

70 

22 

17 

14 

17 

20

12

I 

"Per 

Mean. square 

mile.

13.3 

15.7 

18.9 

40.2 

93 3 

171 

62.8 

23.3 

18.5 

13.0 

13.0 

13.0

41.3

13.0 

13.0 

13.4 

16.2 

96.8 

230 

36.9 

19.1 

17.5 

37.6 

22.3 

15.0

44.2

0.512 

.604 

. 727 

h55 

3.59 

6.58 

2.42 

. 890 

.712 

.500 

.500 

.500

1.59

.500 

.500 

.515 

.623 

3.72 

8.85 

1.42 

.735 

.673 

1.45 

.858 

. 577

1.70

Run-off.

Depth in 

inches on 

drainage 

area.

0.59 

03 

.84 

1.73 

4 14 

7. 34 

2.79 

1 03 

79 

^58 

.50 

.58

21. 00

.58 

.54 

.59 

.70 

4.29 

9.87 

1.04 

85 

. 75 

1.67 

.96 

67

23. 11

Total in 

acre-feet.

818 

872 

1,160 

2, 390 

5,740 

10.200 

3, 860 

1,430 

1,100 

799 

774 

799

29,900

799 

748 

824 

904 

5,950 

13, 700 

2,270 

1,170 

1,040 

2,310 

1,330 

922

32,000

Accuracy.

B. 

B. 

B. 

A. 

A. 

B. 

B. 

C. 

C. 

D. 

D. 

D.

D. 

D. 

D. 

C. 

A. 

A. 

B. 

C. 

C. 

B. 

C. 

D.

MARIAS RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 

DESCRIPTION.

The headwaters of Marias River rise on the eastern slope of the 

main divide of the Rocky Mountains at an elevation of over 8,000 

feet and flow in an easterly direction through a region of elevated 

plains and prairies. Marias River proper is formed by the union of 

Cutbank and Two Medicine rivers, which meet at the eastern boundary of the Blackfeet Indian Reservation. From this junction to the 

Missouri, which it enters 14 miles below Fort Benton, its length is 

about 110 miles and its fall does not exceed 5 feet per mile. Its 

principal tributaries are Willow and Cottonwood creeks, which enter 

from the north, and Teton River, which comes in from the south.

The general altitude of this country is from 3,000 to 4,000 feet, the 

plains rising by gentle terraces toward the mountains to elevations 

of about 5,000 feet. Grass is abundant and the region is devoted to 

grazing. Considerable spruce and pine timber is found at the headwaters in the mountains, but the remainder of the basin is bare except 

for fringes and small groves along the streams.
MARIAS RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 73

The mean annual rainfall varies from about 60 inches in the 

mountains to 12 inches near the mouth of the river, the average for 

the plains section being about 16 inches. The streams are icebound 

from December until early in March, and this is the season of least 

flow.

Irrigation has been practiced to a slight extent for a number of 

years in the valleys of the tributaries, and three large irrigation projects are now under construction. One is being constructed by the 

United States Reclamation Service, and the other two under the 

Carev Act. Altogether about 450,000 acres will be reclaimed. The 

basin affords a number of excellent reservoir sites, which will be utilized in storing the flood waters of the upper tributaries from which 

the principal water supply for these projects will come.

The great fall and the abundant water supply of the upper tributaries of Marias River also afford favorable conditions for water-power 

development.

Run-off records in this basin extend back to 1902. The wettest 

year since that time was 1903, and the driest was 1905.

The following gaging stations have been maintained in this river 

basin:

Cutbank Creek at Cutbank, Mont., 1905-1908. 

Marias River near Shelby, Mont., 1902-1907. 

Two Medicine Creek near Midvale, Mont., 1902-3. 

Two Medicine Creek at Family, Mont., 1907-8. 

Badger Creek near Family, Mont., 1907-8. 

Birch Creek near Dupuyer, Mont., 1907-8. 

Dupuyer Creek at Dupuyer, Mont., 1908. 

Teton River at Chouteau, Mont., 1905-6. 

Teton River near Belleview, Mont., 1905-6 and 1908.

CUTBANK CREEK AT CUTBANK, MONT.

This station, which is located one-half mile southwest of Cutbank, 

one-fourth mile below the Great Northern Railway bridge, and 12 

miles above the mouth of Two Medicine, was established August 4, 

1905, to obtain data for use in connection with irrigation projects 

under consideration by the United States Reclamation Service.

The intake of the Great Northern Railway's pumping station is 

located a hundred yards above the gage. The average quantity 

pumped is about 14,000 gallons an hour for eighteen hours a day 

equivalent to a continuous flow of 0.4 second-foot.

The datum of the gage has not been changed since the station was 

established. The records during the winter months are somewhat 

affected by ice. The results taken as a whole can be considered as 

good.
74 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Discharge measurements of Citibank Creek at Citibank, Mont., in 1907 and 1908.

Date.

1907. 

May 9..........

July 13. ........

July 26. ........

1908. 

April 21 ........

May 21.........

August 30 « ....

Hydrographer.

.....do..............................................

A. F. Huch. .......................................

.....do..............................................

Width.

Feet. 

65

110

110

108

101

90

80

60

106"

105

133

100

64

rea of 

ction.

lq.fi.

78

164

175

235

150

102

75

45.7

35.8

120

109

221

70

57.4

Gage 

height.

Feet.

3.51

4.02

4.04

4.29

3.85

3.56

3.39

3.17

3.05

3.69

3.72

3.89

3.07

2.91

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

349

754

798

1,020

631

369

234

107

77.0

423

390

755

129

69.9

i

a Made by wading.

Daily gage height, in feet, of Citibank Creek at Cutbank, Mont., for 1907 and 1908. 

[Frank Mason and Conrad Peters, observers.]

Day.

1907. 

1...............

2...............

3...............

5...............

6...............

7... ............

8...............

9...............

10...............

11...............

12...............

13...............

14...............

15...............

16...............

17...............

18............... 

19...............

20. ..............

21...............

22.... ..

23............... 

24...............

25. .

26...............

27............... 

28. ..............

29............... 

30...............

31...............

1908. 

1...............

2

3...............

5............... 

6...............

7............... 

8............... 

9...............

10...............

Jan.

4.0

"~3."7~

3.3

""4.2

4.1

.......

Feb.

3.9

4.8

4. 75

4.85

4.6 

4.45 

4.15

4.1

4.05

4.2 

4. 1 

3.95

3. 85

3.8 

4.15

.......

.......

Mar.

4.2

41

3.9

.......

- 3. 65 

3.45

3.4

3.45 

3.35

3.4 

3.25

3,35

Apr.

4.4

4.1

4.0

3.8

3.65

3.6

3.5

3.65 

3.65

3.8

3.65

3.55

3.5

3.5 

3.5

3.5

3.45

3.4

3.4

3.45 

3.5 

3.5

3.4

3.4 

3.4

3.4 

3.4

3.25

3.35

3.4

3 25

3.4

3.55 

3.4 

3.3

3.25

May.

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.45

3.45

3.5

3.55 

3.6

3.75

3.9

3.9

3.8

3 9

4.2 

4.35 

4.2

4.05

4.0

4.0

4.0 

3.9 

3.85

3.8

3.7 

3.7

3. 7 

3.8

3.9

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.6

3.6 

3.65

3.7 

3.8 

4.0

3.85

June.

4.05

4.2

4.4

4.25

4.1

4.15

4.3

4.4 

4.25

4.1

4.0

4.1

4.1

4.0

4 0

3.9 

3.8 

3.85

4.0

4.0

4.5

7.1 

5.3 

4.6

4.35

4.25 

4.35

4.5 

4.4

4.4

5.1

4 9

o8.5 

9 0

7.2 

5.7 

5. 15

4.8

July.

4.25

4.1

4.1

4.15

4.1

4.05

4.0

3.9

3.9

3.9

3.9 

3.9

3.8 

3.8 

3.8

3.7 

3.7 

3.7 

3.6 

3.6

3.6 

3.6 

3.6 

3.5 

3.5

3.5 

3.4 

3.4 

3.4 

3.4 

3.4

3.6 

3.6 

3.6 

3.6 

3.6

3.6

3.55

3.5

3.5

3.5

Aug.

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.3

3.3

3.4

3. 35

3.3

3.3

3.3

3.3

3.3

3.3

3.2

3.2

3.2

3. 2

3.2

3.2

3.2

3.2

3.2

3.1

3.1

3.1

3.2

3.2

3.3

3.3

3.4

3.4

3.15

3.05

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.0

Sept.

3.4

3.3

3.3

3.2

3.3

3.2

3.3

3.2

3.3

3.2

3.3

3.3

3.4

3.3

3.5

3.4

3.5

3.4

3.45

3.3

3.4

3.3

3.35

3.3

3.4

3.3

3.4

3.3

3.4

3.3

2.9

2.9

2.9

2.9

2.9

2.9

2.9

2. 9

2.9

2.9

Oct.

3.2

3.2

3.3

3.2

3.1

3.2

3.1

3.1

3.2

3.1

3.1

3.2

3.1

3.1

3.2

3. 1

3.05

3.1

3.0

3.0

3.1

3.0

3.0

3. 1

3.0

3.0

3. 1

3.0

3.0

3.1

3.0

3.1

3.1

3.1

3.1

3.05

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.0

Nov.

3.0

3.1

2.9

2.9

3.0

2.9

2.9

3.0

2.9

2.9

3.0

3.0

3.05

3.2

3.0

2.95

3.0

2.95

2.95

3.0

2.9

2.95

3.0

2.9

2.85

3.0

2.85

2.85

3.1

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.0

Dec.

2.9

3.0

2.9

2.9

3.1

3.05

3.1

3.2

3.2

3.25

3.3

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.5

3.5

Maximum recorded gage height for June 5, 1908, was 10.0 feet.
MARIAS RIVER. DRAINAGE BASIN.

Daily gage height in feet, of Cutbank Creek at Cutbank, Mont., for 1907 and 1908

Continued.

Day.

1908.

12........ ...... 

13............... 

14...............

17............. ..

18...............

19

20...............

21...............

22............... 

23...............

24...............

25...............

26...............

27...............

28............... 

29...-..-..-.--.. 

30...............

qi

Jan.

.......

Feb. Mar. Apr.

3.25

3.3 

3.35 

3.4

3.5

3.4

3.4

3.6

3.7

3.8 

3.8

3.8

3.8 

3.7

3.65 

3.6 

3.6 

3.55

May.

3.8

3.9 

4.1 

4.0

4.1

4.05

3.9 

3.8

3.8

3.75 

3.7 

3.7

3.7

3.75 

3.9

3.9 

3.9 

3.9 

3.8

0 QC

June.

4.7

4. 6 

4.5 

4.35

4.25

4.15

4. 1 

4.0

4.0

3. 95 

3.8 

3.8

3.7

3.7 

3.7

3.7 

3.7 

3.65 

3.6

.......

July.

3.5

3.5 

3.5 

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5 

3.5

3.4

3.4 

3.4 

3.4

3.4

3.3 

3.3

3.3

a 2

3.2

Aug.

3.0

3.0 

3.0 

3.1

3.1

3.1

3.1

3.0 

3.0

3.0

3.1 

3.1 

3.1

3.1

3.0 

3.0

3.0 

3.0

2.95 

2.9

Sept.

2.8 

2.8 

2.8

2.8

2.8

2.9

3.0 

3.0

3.0

2.9 

2. 9 

2.9

2.9

3.0 

3.0

3.0 

3.05 

3 1

ai

Oct.

3.0

3.0 

3.0 

3.0

3.0

0 f»

3.0

3.0 

3.0

3.1

3.1 

3.0 

3.0

3.0

3.0 

3.0

3.0 

3.0 

3.0 

3.0

Nov.

3 0

3.0 

3.0 

3.0

3.1

3 15

3.2

3.2 

3.2

3.2

3.2 

3.2 

3.2

3.2

3.1 

1 i

3.1

3.2 

3.25 

3.2

Dec.

0 C

3.5 

3.5 

3.5

3.5

3. 4

3.5 

3.5

3. 5

3.5 

3.6 

3.6

3.6

3.6 

3.5

3.6 

3.6 

3.7 

3.7

NOTE. Creek frozen entirely across January 1 to February 11, 1907. March 3-21, 1907, it was full of 

anchor ice. Ice conditions December 8, 1907, to March 31, 1908, and December, 1908.

Rating tables for Cutbank Creek at Cutbank, Mont.

FOR 1907.

Gage 

height.

Feet.

3.00

3.10

3.20

3.30

3.40

3.50

3.60

3.70

3.80

3.90

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

00

84

125

180

248

322

400

483

569

658

Gage 

height.

Feet.

4.00

4.10

4.20

4.30

4.40

4.50

4.60

4.70

4.80

4.90

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

750

845

940

1,040

1,140

1,240

1,345

1,450

1,560

Gage 

height.

Feet.

5.00

5.10

5.20

5.30

5.40

5.50

5.60

5.70

5.80

1,670 5.90

Discharge,

Scc.-ft.

1,780

1,890

2,010

2,130

2, 250

2,370

2,500

2,630

2, 760

2,890

Gage 

height.

Feet.

6.00

6.20

6.40

6.60

6.80

7.00

7.20

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

3, 020

3,300

3,580

3,860

4,140

4.420

4,700

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructM-channel conditions. It is based on nine 

discharge measurements made during 1907 and is well defined between gage heights 3.0 feet and 4.5 feet.

APRIL 1 TO JUNE 4, 1908.

[Indirect method for shifting channels used.]

JUNE 5 TO DECEMBER 31, 1908.

2.80

2.90

3.00

3.10

3.20

3.30

3.40

3.50

3.60

45

65

94

138

197

264

340

420

503

3.70

3.80

3.90

4.00

4.10

4.20

4.30

4.40

4. ;>o

589

676

765

855

945

1,040

1,140

1,240

1,350

4.60

4.70

4.80

4.90

5.00

5.20

5.40

5. 60

5.80

1,460

1,570

1,680

1,790

1,900

2,140

2,380

2,620

2,860

6.00

6.20

6.40

6.60

6.80

7.00

8.00

9.00

3,110

3,370

3,630

3,890

4,150

4,410

5,810

7,310

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on three 

discharge measurements made during the above period and the form of the previous curve and is not well 

defined.
76 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Daily discharge, in second-feet, of Citibank Creek at Cutbank, Mont., for 1908.

Day.

2............

5............

7............

9............

10............

Apr.

105

151

180

105

214

180

125

105

May.

255

7^

320

320

300

400

485

660

515

June.

2,000

Day.

11.... .. ...

12............

13............

14............

15............

16............

17............

18............

19............

20............

Apr.

105

125

151

180

250

180

180

180

250

330

May.

475

560

740

650

740

815

680

545

460

460

June. Day.

21............

22............

23............

24............

25............

26............

27............

28............

29............

30............

31............

Apr.

425

520

520

520

520

420

377

330

330

290

May.

400

385

380

375

400

545

560

560

560

475

605

June.

NOTE. These discharges were obtained by the indirect method for shifting channels.

Monthly discharge of Cutbank Creek at Cutbank, Mont., for 1907 and 1908. 

[Drainage area, 971 square miles.]

Month.

1907.

July..--------.---..-........-..

December

1908.

July............................

November

December

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum. Minimum.

1,140 

1,090 

4,560 

990 

248 

322 

180 

125

248 

285 

569 

248 

84 

125 

60 

44

4,560 ............

520 

815 

7,310 

503 

168 

138 

138 

230

105 

255 

503 

197 

65 

45 

94 

94

Mean.

200 

690 

260 

410 

561 

1,090 

536 

165 

205 

89.0 

58.6 

53.0

360

261 

490 

1,630 

381 

106 

73.4 

103 

141 

125

Per 

square 

mile.

0.206 

.710 

.268 

.422 

.578 

1.12 

.552 

.170 

.212 

.092 

.060 

.055

.370

.269 

.505 

1.68 

.392 

.109 

.076 

.106 

.145 

.129

Run-off.

Depth in 

inches on 

drainage 

area.

0.24 

.74 

.31 

.47 

.67 

1.25 

.64 

.20 

.24 

.11 

.07 

.06

5.00

.30 

.58 

1.87 

.45 

.13 

.08 

.12 

.16 

.15

Total in 

acre-feet.

12,300 

38,300 

16,000 

24,400 

34,500 

64,900 

33,000 

10,100 

12,200 

5,470 

3,490 

3,260

258,000

15,500 

30,100 

97,000 

23, 400 

6,520 

4,370 

6,330 

8,390 

7,690

199, 000

Accuracy.

D. 

D. 

D. 

A.

A. A. ' 

A. 

A. 

A. 

B. 

D. 

D.

D. 

D. 

C 

B. 

B. 

C. 

B. 

B. 

D.

MARIAS RIVER NEAR SHELBY, MONT.

This station, which is located at the highway bridge near James A. 

Johnson's ranch, 7 miles south of Shelby, Mont., was established 

April 4, 1902, to obtain data for use in connection with irrigation 

projects. It was discontinued January 12, 1908.

No important tributaries enter near the gaging station. The total 

drainage area is 2,610 square miles. Very little water is taken from 

the main stream above the station on account of its high banks and 

the consequent difficulty of diversion. Several small irrigation canals
MARIAS RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 77

receive their supply from some of the upper tributaries, especially 

Birch and Dupuyer creeks.

The conditions for obtaining accurate discharge data are good, 

except during part of the winter months, when ice exists. The gage 

datum has never been changed. The discharge curve is shown in 

figure 2, page 24.

Discharge measurements of Marias River near Shelby, Mont., in 1907.

Date.

May 20. ........

June 12........

July 13.........

July 27.........

Hydrographer.

.....do.........---.-..--.............--...--..--....

J. E. Stewart. ......................................

Width.

Feet. 

200

200

246

190

170

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft.

861

721

CV7J.

Gage 

height.

Feet.

5.23

6 91

 J 1 0

 > 79

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

7,810

(_>(>4

Daily gage height, in feet, of Marias River near Shelby, Mont., for 1907 and 1908. 

[James A. Johnson, observer.]

1.. .........................

2...........................

3...........................

4...........................

8...........................

9...........................

10...........................

12...........................

14...........................

15...........................

16...........................

17. ..........................

18.................... ......

19

20...........................

22...........................

23...........................

24.................. ........

25...........................

26...........................

27......... ..................

28...........................

29...........................

30

31 ...........................

May.

5.3

5.3

5.05

4.6

4.45

5.15

June.

5.05

6.3

6.1

5.8

5.5

6.05

6.65

5.8

5.35

5.15

5.3

5.45

5.35

5.5

5.1

4.8

4.65

12.1

14 9

10.1

7.15

6 9

7.0

July.

6.4

5.85

5.65

6.2

5.4

5.1

4.9

4.85

4.8

4.7

4.6

4.55

4.4

4.3

4.4

4.4

4.3

4.3

4.5

4.4

4.3

4.2

4.2

3.95

3.9

3.8

191

Aug.

3.8

3.8

3.8

3.7

3.6

3.6

3.6

3.5

3.6

3.7

3.7

3.6

3.5

3.5

3.4

3.4

3.3

3.3

3.2

3.2

3.1

3.2

3.3

3.3

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.5

3.6

37.

Sept.

3.7

3.6

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.4

3.3

3.3

3.3

3.2

3.3

3.3

3.3

3.3

3.4

3.5

3.4

3.3

3.3

3.3

3.3

3.3

3.2

3.2

3.2

3.3

Oct.

3.2

3.2

3.1

2.9

2.9

2.9

2.9

2.9

3.0

3.0

2.9

2 9

2.8

2.8

2.8

2.8

2.8

2

D

2

0

2.8

2.8

2.8

Nov.

2.8

2.9

2.9

2.9

2 9

2.9

2.9

2.8

2.8

2.8

2.8

2.8

2.8

2.8

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.8

2.8

2.8

Dec.

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.6

2.6

2.6

2.7

2.7

2.6

2.6

2.6

2.6

2.6

2.6

2.6

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.6

2.6

2.6

2.5

2.5

2.5

1908.

Jan.

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4
78 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Rating tables for Marias River near Shelby, Mont. 

JUNE 27, 1907, TO JANUARY 11. 1908.

Gage

height.

Discharge.

Feet. Sec.-ft.

2.40

2.50

2.60

2.70

2.80

2.90

3.00

3.10

3.20

3.30

3.40

250

290

335

385

440

500

570

640

720

810

910

Gage

height.

Feet.

3.50

3. 60

3.70

3.80

3.90

4.00

4.10

4.20

4.30

4.40

4.50

Discharge.

Scc.-ft.

1.020

1,130

1.250

1,370

1,500

1,640

1.790

1,950

 2, 120

2.290

2, 470

! Oage

height.

Feet.

4.60

4.70

4.80

4.90

5.00

5.10

5.20

5.30

5.40

5.50

5.00

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

2,650

2,840

3,030

3,230

3,430

3,630

3,840

4,050

4,260

4,480

4,700

Gage

height.

Feet.

5.70

5.80

5.90

6.00

6.20

6.40

6.60

£.80

7.00

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

4,920

5,140

5,370

5.600

6,060

6,520

7,000

7,480

7,970

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on five 

discharge measurements made during 1907, and is well defined between gage heights 2.7 feet and 8.0 feet.

MAY 20, 1907, TO JUNK 20, 1907.

[Indirect method for shifting channels used.]

Daily discharge, in second-feet, of Marias River near Shelby, Mont., for 1907.

Day.

1. .............

2..............

4..............

8..............

Q

May. June,

3,960

6.350

5,600

5,400

7,580

5,550

Day.

1 11..............

12..............

14..............

: 16..............

17..............

18..............

19..............

May. June.

4,500

4,350

4,700

4,350

4,670

3,800

3,190

2,800

Day.

21..............

22 ............

23..............

24..............

25..............

26. ............ .

27..............

28..............

29..............

30..............

31..............

May.

4,840

4,580

4,030

4,020

3,100

2,610

2,520

2,580

2,770

4,170

June.

3,300

21,600

29,500

16,000

8,340

NOTE. These discharges were obtained by the indirect method lor shifting channels.

Monthly discharge of Marias River near Shelby, Mont., for 1907 and 1908. 

[Drainage area. :M>10 square miles.]

Month.

1907.

July............................

November

1908.

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

4,840 

29,500 

6,520 

1,370 

1,250 

720 

500 

385

290

Minimum.

2,520 

2,800 

1,370 

640 

720 

440 

385 

290

250

Mean.

3,560 

7,160 

2,990 

1,020 

889 

508 

443 

330

261

Per 

square 

mile.

1.36 

2.74 

1.14 

.391 

.341 

.195 

.170 

.126

.100

Run-off.

Depth in 

inches on 

drainage 

area.

0.61 

3.06 

1.31 

.45 

.38 

.22 

.19 

.15

.04

Total in 

acre-feet.

84, 700 

426, 000 

184, 000 

62, 700 

52, 900 

31,200 

26, 400 

20, 300

888, 000

5,690

Accuracy.

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

B. 

C. 

D.

D.

NOTE. There were slight ice conditions in December, 1907.
MARIAS EIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 79

TWO MEDICINE RIVER AT FAMILY, MONT.

This station, which is located at the Holy Family Mission, 16 miles 

southeast of Browning;, Mont., and about 6 miles above the mouth of 

Badger Creek, the nearest tributary, was established April, 1907, to 

determine the amount of water available for irrigation.

The United States Reclamation Service has under consideration a 

project which will use about 200 second-feet of water for irrigating 

land north of the stream for the Blackfeet Indians. The water will 

be diverted near the mouth of Little Badger Creek, a small tributary 

entering from the south above the station. A storage reservoir will 

be built at Two Medicine Lake near the headwaters of the stream to 

augment the, low-water flow. The only diversion from this stream 

at present is that made by a ditch which supplies water for about 

100 acres of land 011 the farm at the Holy Family Mission. It heads 

about 2 miles above the gage.

The datum of the gage was lowered 0.95 foot July 21, 1908. The 

results are good at this station except during the winter months, 

when they are affected by ice.

Discharge measurements of Two Medicine River at Family, Mont., in 1907 and 1908.

Date.

1907.

1908. 

April 13... ....

Mav 18........

Hydrographer.

.. .do.... ......................................

....do ............................................

.....do..............................................

A. F. Huch. ........................................

.. ..do ............................................

.....do..............................................

A. F. Huch...... ..................................

Width.

Feet.

85

88

43

86

89

64

05

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

222

311

132

307

366

138

56.3

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

3.05

3.45

2.32

3.20

3.81

2.68

2.00

1.99

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

1,070

770

1,320

103

100

a Made by wading.

Daily gage height, in feet, of Two Medicine River at Family, Mont., for 1907 and 1908. 

[William Ripperger and Mike Kittson, observers.]

Day.

1907.

2...............

3...............

5...............

6...............

7...............

8...............

9...............

10. . .............

11...............

12...............

3............... :4...............

5...............

Jan. Feb. Mar. Apr.

:. ..

May.

3.00

3.10

1 9fl

4 80

4.10

4.50

4.70

June.

5.60

5.30

4 80

4.95

5.60

£ QA

4.65

4.55

4.40

July.

4.25

4 4O

4 30

3 Q^

3.80

3.55

3.50

s ff\

3.50

3.30

Aug.

2.60

2.60

2.60

2.60

2.45

2.40

2.35

2.35

2.35

2.30

2.25

2.20

2.20

Sept.

2.35

2.30

2.30

2.28

2.28

2.30

2.30

2.30

2.35

2.40

2.35

2.35

Oct.

2.15

2.10

2.00

1.95

1.95

1.90

1.90

1.85

1.85

1.85

Nov.

1.60

1.60

1.60

1.60

1.60

1.60

1.60

1.60

1.60

1.60

1.60

1.60

1.60

1.60

Dec.

1.60

1.60

1.55

1.55

1.50

1.50

1.45

1.40

1.40

1.40

1.55

1.55

1.55

1.55
80 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Daily gage height, in feet, of Two Medicine River at Family, Mont., for 1907 and 1908 

Continued.

Day.

1907. 

16....... ....

17...............

18...............

19...............

20..............

21............. .

22

23. ..............

24...............

25...............

20. . .

27.............

28..............

29.............

30............. .

31.............

1908. 

1..............

2

3..............

4.............

5.. ............

6...............

7..............

8. ..... .. .

9.............

10...............

11.............

12.............

13.............

14............

15........ i......

16.............

17.............

18.............

19..............

20..............

21..............

22.............

23...............

24...............

25...............

26. .... .....

27...............

28............ ..

29...............

30...............

31...............

Jan.

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

Feb.

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

Mar.

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.75

1.75

1.75

1.73

1.75

1.75

' 1.75

1.75

1.75

1.75

1.75

1.75

1.75

1.75

1.75

1.75

1.75

1.75

1.75

1.75

1.75

1.75

1.75

Apr.

3.05

2.90

1.75

1.75

1.83

1.83

1.90

1.95

2.03

2.05

2.08

2.10

2.10

2.50

2.70

3.10

4.20

4.20

4.50

3.80

3.80

3.50

3.50

3.30

3.20

2.80

May.

5.50

4.75

4.70

4.70

4.35

4.05

 3 nr.

3.80

4.25

4.60

2.80

2.50

2.00

>> (io

2.80

3.20

3.00

3.90

4.10

4.10

4.20

4.20

4.80

5.10

5.10

4.30

3.80

3.80

3.70

3.70

3.70

3.90

3.80

3.75

3.90

4.70

5.30

June.

4.20

4.15

4.25

4 40

4.50

5.80

8.40

6.50

5.05

5.05

5.15

4 90

6.20

G.40

6.80

7.90

4.4

3.9

3.7

3.0

3.5

3.4

3.4

3.3

3.3

 3.3

3.1

3.0

July.

3.00

3.00

2.90

2.80

2.70

2.70

2.65

3.0

3.0

3.0

2.95

2.95

3.0

2.9

3.1

2.6

2.4

2.95

2.6

3.0

2.95

3.3

3.0

2.9

2.9

2.95

2.75

2.78

2.75

2.65

2.05

2.0

2.5

2.45

2.4

2.5

2.45

Aug.

2.02

2.00

1.95

1.92

2.00

1.98

9 30

2.5

2.25

2.00

1.9

2.1

2.2

2.25

2.35

2.3

2.35

2.4

2.15

2.2

2.15

2.15

2.1

2.2

2.3

2.3

2.25

' " 2

2.0

2.0

2.1

2.15

2.15

Sept.

2.40

2.35

2.35

2.35

2.30

2.28

2.25

2.1

2.1

2.2

2.15

2.1

2.1

2.0

1.9

1.95

1.9

1.85

1.9

1.95

2.0

1.95

1.9

1.85

1.9

1.95

1.95

1.9

1.95

2.00

2.00

1.95

2.0

Oct.

1.80

1 80

1.80

1.80

1.75

1.75

1.75

1.70

1.70

1.70

1.05

2.0

2.0

2.1

2.1

2.0

1.9

1.95

2.1

2.15

2.1

2.0

Nov.

1.60

1.00

1 60

1.60

1.65

1.05

1.05

1.05

Dec.

1.55

1.55

1.55

1 ^

1.55

1 tt

1.55

1 ^

NOTE. Gage washed out June 5, 1908. It was replaced June 15.

Rating tables for Two Medicine River at Family, Mont.

APRIL 26 TO JUNE 2, 1907.

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

2.90

3.00

3.10

3.20

3.30

3.40 

3.50

Discharge.

1

Sec.-ft. 

420

475

535

600

670

745

825

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

3.00

3.70

3.80

3.90

4.00

4.10 

4.20

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

905

990

1,075

1,160

1,250

1,340 

1,430

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

4.30

4.40

4.50

4.60

4.70

4.80 

4.90

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

1,530

1,630

1,730

1,840

1,950

2,060 

2,180

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

5.00

5.10

5.20

5.30

5.40

5.50 

5.60

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

2,300

2,420

2,540

2,670

2,800

2,930 

3,060

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on two 

discharge measurements made during the above period and the form of the subsequent curve. It is 

f lirly well denned.
MARIAS EIVEE DRAINAGE BASIN. 81

Rating tables for Two Medicine River at Family, Mont. Continued.

JUNE 3, 1907, TO JUNE 4, 1908.

Gage 

height.

Feet.

1.30

1.40

1.50

1.60

1.70

1.80

1.90

2.00

2.10

2. 20

2.30

2.40

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

17

25

35

50

70

95

120

150

185

225

270

320

Gage 

height.

Feet.

2.50

2.60

2.70

2.80

2.90

3.00

3.10

3.20

3.30

3.40

3.50

3.60

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

370

425

485

545

610

080

750

825

900

980

1,060

1,140

Gage Disheight. charge.

Feet.

3.70

3.80

3.90

4.00

4.20

4.40

4.60

4.80

5.00

5.20

5.40

5.60

Sec.-ft.

1,230

1,320

1,410

1,500

1,690

1,890

2,090

2,310

2,530

2,760

3,000

3,240

Gage 

height.

Feet.

5.80

6.00

6.20

6.40

6.60

6.80

7.00

8.00

8.40

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

3,500

3,760

4,030

4,310

4,590

4,870

5,150

6,800

7,550

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on four 

discharge measurements made during the above period, and is well defined between gage heights 2.0 feet 

and 5.0 feet.

JUNE 17 TO OCTOBER 17,1908.

1.80

1.90

2.00

2.10

2. '20

2.30

2.40

58

79

103

131

163

199

239

2.50

2.60

2.70

2.80

2.90

3.00

3.10

283

331

383

438

497

560

625

3.20

3.30

3.40

3.50

3.60

3.70

3.80

695

770

850

930

1,015

1,100

1,190

3.90

4.00

4.10

4.20

4.30

4.40

1,280

1,380

1,480

1,580

1,680

1,790

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on three 

discharge measurements made during the above period and the form of the previous curve, and is fairly well 

defined below gage height 3.0 feet.

Monthly discharge of Two Medicine River near Family, Mont., for 1907 and 1908. 

[Drainage area, 368 square miles.]

Month.

1907. 

April 26-30 .....................

May............................

July............................

1908.

April...........................

July............................

October 1-17. ...................

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

505 

2,930 

7,550 

2,130 

42.5 

320 

225 

60 

50

25

82 

1,990

2,880

770 

283 

163 

147

Minimum.

420 

475 

1,640 

455 

126 

248 

60 

50 

25

17 

82 

370 

560 

239 

79 

68 

79

Mean..

478 

1,500 

2,650 

982 

259 

282 

110 

53.0 

40.0

Per 

square 

mile.

1.30 

4.08 

7.20 

2.67 

.704 

.764 

.299 

.144 

.109

19.8 

17.0 

65.2 

704 

1,420 

1,800 

449 

171 

101 

112

.054 

.04<j 

.177 

1.91 

3.86 

4.89 

1.22 

.465 

.274 

.304

Run-off.

Depth in 

inches on 

drainage 

area.

0.24 

4.70 

8.03 

3.08 

.81 

.85 

.34 

.16 

.13

.06 

.05 

.20 

2.13 

4.45 

3.64 

1.41 

.54 

.31 

.19

Total in 

acre-feet.

4,740 

92, 200 

158, 000 

60, 400 

15, 900 

10, 800 

6, 760 

3,150 

2,460

360,000

1, 220 

978 

4,010 

41,900 

87, 300 

71,400 

27, 600 

10,500 

6,010 

3,780

255, 000

Accuracy.

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

C. 

D. 

D.

D. 

D. 

D. 

B. 

A. 

B. 

B 

C. 

C. 

C.

NOTE. Discharge January 27-February 8,1908, estimated. 

31260 IRR 246 10 6
82 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

BADGER CREEK NEAR FAMILY, MONT.

This station, which is located near the road crossing 4 miles east 

of Family, Mont., was established April 20, 1907, to determine the 

amount of water available for irrigation. The United States Reclamation Service proposes to divert the natural flow of the stream to 

irrigate land in the eastern part of the Blackfeet Indian Reservation 

and north of Birch Creek.

The gage and bench marks were washed out in June, 1908, and a 

new gage was established July 22, 1908, about 400 feet farther up 

stream and at a different datum. As the bench mark was destroyed 

the relation between the two gages could not be determined.

On account of poor channel conditions and absence of high-water 

measurements, high-water records are only fair. The low records, 

however, are good.

Discharge measurements of Badger Creek near Family, Mont., in 1907 and 1908.

Date.

1007.

July 25.. .......

1908.

May 20... ......

July 21? o

Tlydrographer.

.....do.............. ...............................

.....do..............................................

A. F.Huch. ........................................

.....do..............................................

.... .do. ............................................

A. F.Huch.........................................

Width.

Feet. 

53

90

90

90

90

86

45

33

27

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft.

230

184

223

72.5

41.6

39 6

Gage 

height.

Feet.

1 38

O r>

.80

1.70

2.43

2.01

Discharge.

Sec. -ft.

'^O

288

244

212

490

153

a Made by wading. 

NOTE. There was a marked change in the channel caused by high water in 1907.

Daily gage height, in feet, of Badger Creek near Family, Mont., for 1907 and 1908. 

[J. T. Hockersmith, observer.]

Day.

1907.

2............ ..............

3............ ...............

5....-.......-----.-..--....

1, ...... ....... .........

8...........................

10. ......... .................

12

14...........................

15...........................

17. ..........................

19

20...........................

Apr. May.

........ 1.30

........ 1.35

....... 1.30

........ 1. 35

........ 1.40

........ 1. 50

........ 1. 80

........ 2. 30

........ 2. 00

........ 2. 45

........ 2. 85

-.-.-,-. 2. 85

June.

3. 60

3.30

2 95

9 95

0 1 c

3.25

3.40

3 00

2.80

2 90

2.75

2. 55

2.80

2.90

July.

2.50

2.40

2.30

2

1 f\

2.00

1.90

1.90

1 90

1.75

1.05

1 60

1.60

1.55

1.50

1.45

Aug.

1.15

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.02

1.02

.92

.90

.90

90

90

.90

Sept.

.85

.85

QC

OC

.85

.85

.85

.85

.88

.88

.90

.88

.88

.88

.85

.85

.82

Oct.

0 78

7Q

78

78

78

7Q

78

75

75

72

72

72

70

70

70

70

70

Nov.

0. 08

. 68

.65

.65

.68

.68

.68

.68

.68

.65

.65

.65

.62

.62

Dec.
MARIAS RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 83

Daily gage height, in feet, of Badger Creek near Family, Mont., for 1907 and 1908

Continued.

Day.

1907. 

21...........................

00

24..----..-.----.------......

25...........................

26. ....................... ...

28...........................

30.....-......-..------......

1908. 

1. ..........................

1. ........ .................

Z. .........................

5. .......... ................

6...........................

g

12...........................

1O

14...........................

1 t\

16...........................

1 C

11

20.......-.......---.-.-..... 

21 ...........................

22...........................

23. ..........................

25...........................

27.............-..-------....

28..-----.------......--.--.-

29..........-...-.-.----.....

31 ...........................

Apr.

1.35

1.10

1.25

.50

.50

.48

.48

.48

.48

.48

.45

.45

.48

.60

.88

.88

.88

.90

1.30

1.50 

1.72

1.50

1.70

1.22

1.15

1.08

1.00

1.00

May

2.80

2.50

2.30

2.10

2.70

2.80

.95

1.22

1.35

1.28

1.42

1.60

2.05

1.80

1.82

1.88

1.75

1.88

1 0^

1.88

1.75

1.68

1.68

1.60 

1.60

1.60

2.00

2.05

2.10

3.00

June.

2.85

3.80

3.30

3.10

3. 15

3.20

2.80

3.90

3.20

July.

1.40

1.28

1.25

1.20

1 30

1.25

1.20

2.45

2.43

Aug.

0.88

90

.90

.90

90

90

.95

90

.85

.95

2.12

..

Sept.

0.82

.80

.78

.78

.78

.78

.78

.78

2.00

2.00

2.00

2.00

1.95

1.95

1.95

1.95

1.95

2.00

9 9^

2.25

2.50

2.50

Oct.

0.70

.70

.70

.70

.70

.70

.70

.68

2.05

2.08

2.10

2.08

2.08

2.08

2 05

2.05

2.05

2.08

2.08

2.10

2.20

2.30

2.20

2.18

2.15

2.12

2.12 

2.10

2.10

2 10

2 08

2.08

2.05

2.05

2.05

Nov.

0.60

60

.62

.65

2.02

2.02

2.02

2.00

2.00

2.00

2 00

2.00

2.00

2.00

2.00

2.00

2 00

2.00

2.00

2.00

2.00

2.00 

2.00

1.98

1 98

2.00

2.00

2.00

Dec.

2.60

2.80

3.00

3.25

o rr\

0 7K

3.40

3.40

3.40

2.80

NOTE. Gage washed out, June 5, 1908; replaced July 22, 1908. New gage heights are not comparable 

with the old ones. 

Ice conditions during December, 1907 and 1908.

Rating tables for Badger Creek near Family, Mont. 

APRIL 26 TO JUNE 23, 1907.

Gage

height.

Feet.

1.10

1.20

1.30

1.40

1.50

1.60

1.70

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

170

195

225

255

290

325

3fiO

Gage

height.

Feet.

1.80

1.90

2.00

2.10

2.20

2.30

2.40

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

400

440

480

525

575

625

677

Gage

height.

Feet.

2.50

2.60

2.70

2.80

2.90

3.00

3.10

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

730

783

838

894

951

1.010

1,071

Gage

height.

Feet.

3.20

3.30

3.40

3.50

3.60

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

1.133

1,195

1,257

1,320

1,383

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on one discharge measurement made during this period and the form of subsequent curves and is only approximate.
84 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Rating tables for Badger Creek near Family, Mont. Continued. 

JUNE 24 TO NOVEMBER 24, 1907.

Gage 

height.

Feet.

0.60

.70

.80

.90

1.00

1.10

1.20

1.30

1.40

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

190

212

236

264

294

326

358

392

428

Gage 

height.

Feet.

1.50

1.60

1.70

1.80

1.90

2.00

2.10

2.20

2.30

Discharge.

See.-ft.

464

502

542

584

628

674

722

772

824

Gage 

height.

Feet.

2.40

2.50

2.60

2.70

2.80

2.90

3.00

3.10

3.20

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

876

930

985

1,040

1,100

1,160

1,220

1,280

1,345

Gage 

height.

Feet.

3.30

3.40

3.50

3.60

3.70

3.80

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

1,410

1,475

1,540

1,605

1,670

1,740

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on three discharge measurements made during 1907 and is fairly well defined below gage height 1.5 feet. Above gage 

height 1.5 feet the extension is uncertain.

APRIL 1 TO JUNE 4, 1908.

0.40

.50

.60

.70

.80

.90

1.00

1.10

1.20

1.30

1.40

133

151

170

190

212

235

259

285

313

343

375

1.50

1.60

1.70

1.80

1.90

2.00

2.10

2.20

2.30

2.40

2.50

410 i

450 ,

490 1

535 i

580 ;

625

675

725

775

825

880

2.60

2.70

2.80

2.90

3.00

3.20

3.40

3.60

3.80

4.00

4.20

935

990

1,045

1,105

1,165

1,285

1,410

1,540

1,670

1,800

1,940

3.40

3.60

4.80

5.00

5.20

5.40

5.60

5.80

6.00

2,080

2,220

2,360

2,500

2,660

2,820

2,980

3,140

3,300

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on two discharge measurements made during the above period and the general form of the 1907 curve. It is fairly 

well defined below gage height 2.0 feet. Above 2.0 feet the rating is uncertain.

JULY 21 TO DECEMBER 31, 1908.

1.90 

2.00

105 

127

2.10 

2.20

151

177

2.30 

2.40

204 

232

2.50 261

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. Itisl>asedonthree 

discharge measurements made during 1908 and is well defined. This table refers to the new gage established July 22. 1908.

Monthly discharge of Badger Creek near Family, Mont., for 1907 and 1908. 

[Drainage area, 224 square miles.]

Month.

1907.

July. ...........................

The period ...............

1908.

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

240 

1,070

930 

342 

264 

231 

208

499 

1,160 

261 

204 

132

Minimum.

170 

225 

730 

358 

250 

231 

208 

190

142

247

139 

123

Mean.

217 

595 

1,140 

543 

284 

247 

218 

202

251 

546 

136 

152 

127

Per 

square 

mile.

0.969 

2.66 

5.09 

2.42 

1.27 

1.10 

.973 

.902

1.12

2.44 

.607 

.679

.567

Run-off.

Depth in 

inches on 

drainage 

area.

0.18 

3.07 

5.68 

2.79 

1.46 

1.23 

1.12 

.81

1.25 

2.81 

.68 

.78 

.63

Total in 

acre-feet.

2,150 

36,600 

67,800 

33, 400 

17,500 

14,700 

13, 400 

9,620

195, 000

14,900 

33,600 

8,090 

9.350

7,560

Accuracy.

C. 

C. 

C. 

A. 

A. 

B. 

C. 

C.

B. 

B. 

B. 

fi.

C.

NOTE. Discharge June 23,1907, estimated at 2,800 second-feet. Discharge estimated September 1, 4-7, 

17-24, and November 30, 1908.
MARIAS RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 85

BIRCH CREEK NEAR DUPUYER, MONT.

This station, which is located at Shields ranch, 12 miles northwest 

of Dupuyer, Mont., and about 25 miles from its junction with Two 

Medicine River, was established July 25, 1907, to determine the 

amount of water available for irrigation projects on the Blackfeet 

Indian Reservation.

No storage is used on this stream, but a number of ditches divert 

water for irrigation. The largest of these, owned by the Conrad 

Investment Company, diverts water about one-half mile below the 

station.

The gage datum remained the same from the time the station was 

established until the high water of June, 1908, when the gage was 

washed away and the channel changed. A temporary staff gage 

was put in July 23, 1908, about 200 feet below the original gage. 

This gage was used until October 1, 1908, when a permanent chain 

gage was established one-fourth mile above.

Discharge measurements of Birch Creek near Dupuyer, Mont., in 1907 and 1908.

Date.

1907.

1908.

May 19.........

Hydrographer.

.....do..............................................

A. F. Huch. . ......................................

.....do.............................................

.....do..............................................

Width.

Feet.

70

70

30

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft.

95

Ofl

120.

7k 6

52. 3

Gage 

height.

Feet.

2.85

9 71

2.71

3.32

2.20

Discharge.

Scc.-ft. 

996

182

152

381

113

« Made by wading.

Daily gage height, in feet, of Birch Creek near Dupuyer, Mont., for 1907 and 1908. 

[R. F. Shields and R. A. Earhart, observers.]

Day.

1907. 

1..........

2

3 ... '......'. 

4..........

6..........

9

10..........

11..........

12...... .

14..........

July. Aug.

3.05 

3.05 

3.05 

3.05 

3.0

2 95

2.9

2.85

2.8

2.8

2.8

2.8 

2.8

2.8

2.8

Sept.

2.8 

2.75 

2.7 

2.7 

2.7

2.7

9 7

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.7 

2.75

2.75

2.7

Oct.

2.6 

2.6 

2.6 

2.6 

2.6

2.0

2.6

2.6

2.55

2.55

2.55

2.55 

2.55

2.5

Nov.

2.5 

2.5 

2.5 

2.5 

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.45

2.45 

2.45

2.45

2 45

Dec.

2.45 

2.45 

2.45 

2.45 

2.45

2.45

2.45

2.45

2. 45

2.45

2.45

2.45

2.45

Day.

1907. 

16.......... 

17.......... 

18 .......... 

19 .......... 

20..........

21..........

23 ..........

24..........

25..........

20..........

27 ..........

28..........

29 .....

30..........

.Tuly.

3.1

3.1 

3.1

3.1

3.1

3.05

Aug.

2.8 

2.8 

2.8 

2.8 

2.8

2.8

2.75

2.75

2.75

2.75

2.75

2.8 

2.8

2.8

2.85

Sept.

2.7 

2. Go 

2.05 

2. 05 

2. 65

2.05

Oct.

2.5 

2.5 

2.5 

2.5 

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5 

2.5

2.5

2.5

Nov.

2.45 

2.45 

2.45 

2.45 

2.45

2.45

2.45

2.45

2.45

2.45

2.45 

2.45

2.45

2.45

Dec.
86 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Daily gage height, in feet, of Birch Creek near Dupuyer, Mont., for 1907 and 1908 Con.

Day.

1908. 

1. .. .............

2. ..........

3. ... .............

4...................

5...................

6.. . ...........

8................... 

9. . ...........

10................... 

11.

12. .. ......

13. ... .............

14.

15...................

1C. ....

17...................

18.

19..... .............

20...................

21. . . 

22. .... 

23..... ............

24. . .

25.... .... .. ...

26.

27...................

28

29. ..................

30................ ..

31...................

Mar.

2.30 

2.30

2.30 

2.30

2.30 

2.30

2.25

2.50

2.35

2.30

2.30

Apr.

2.30

2.25

2.25

2.25

2 25

2.25

2.30

2

0 =

2 50

2.55

2.60 

2.60

2.60 

2.70

3.30 

3.20

3 on

3 1 H

9 90

9 on

2.80

May.

2.80

2 99

2.87

2.94

3.25

3.34

3.20

Q qe

3.42

3.50

3.42

3. 30

3.32

3.29 

q 90

o 97

3.55

3.49

3 64

June.

5.99

5. 13

6. 83

July.

""2." 44"

2.30

2.50

2.40

2. GO

2.40

2.30

2.50

Aug.

2.30

2.32

2.25

2.32

2.35

2.36

2 9 5

2.35 

2.27

2.30 

2.23

2.25

2. 26

2.35

2.28 

2.28

2.26 

2.30

2.20

2.23

2.24

2.28

2.28

2.20

2.20

2.21

2.18

2.20

Sept.

2.15

2.18

2.13

2. 10

2.20

2.12

2 20

2.10 

2.15

2.13 

2.10

2.60

2.50 

2.50

2.18 

2.17

2.15

2.13

2.70 

2.50

9 80

2.80

2.15

2.25

2.23

Oct.

3.95

4.04

4.03

4.04

4.10

4.09

4.10

4.11 

4.10

4. 11

4 18

4.18 

4.19

4.15 

4. 14

4. 11

4.01 

4.02

4.04

4.05

4.04

4.05

4.04

Nov.

4.04

4.05

4.05

4.05

4.05

4.02 

3.98

3.98

3 99

3.95

3.88 

3.87

3.95 

3.96

3.95

3.94

3.93 

3.93 

3 93

3.94

3.94

3.95

3.89

3.86

Dec.

3.87

3.88

3.94

4.35

4.05

4.04

3.98 

3.91

3.83 

4.03

3.88

4.83 

4.51

4.32 

4.10

4.52

4.80

4.88 

4.89

NOTE. Gage washed out June 5, 1907. Observer away September 22-30, 1907. Ice conditions December 15-31, 1907, and December 23-31, 1908.

Rating tables for Birch Creek near Dupuyer, Mont. 

JULY 25, 1907, TO JUNE 4, 1908.

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

2.20

2.30

2.40

2.50

2.60

2.70

2.80

2.90

3.00

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

80

90

102

116

133

154

177

204

233

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

3.10

3.20

3.30

3.40

3.50

3.60

3.70

3.80

3.90

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

268

309

355

405

460

520

580

645

715

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

4.00

4.10

4.20

4.30

4.40

4.50

* 4.60

4.70

4.80

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

790

870

955

1,040

1, 130

1,220

1,310

1,405

1,500

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

4.90

5.00

5.20

5.40

5.60

5.80

6.00

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

1,595

1,690

1,890

2,090

2,290

2,490

2,690

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on five discharge measurements made during the above period and is well defined between gage heights 2.5 feet and 

3.5 feet. Above 3.5 feet the extension is liable to considerable error.

JULY 23 TO SEPTEMBER 30, 1908.

2.10 

2.20

95 

113

2.30

2.40

133

156

2.50 

2.60

182 

211

2.70 

2.80

244 

281

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on two 

discharge measurements made during period and the form of the previous curve, and is fairly well defined.
MARIAS RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 87

Monthly discharge of Birch Creek, near Dupuyer, Mont., for 1907 and 1908. 

[Drainage area, 155 square miles.]

Month.

1907.

December 1-14. ..... . ... ..

1908. 

March 15-31 ... .............

April...........................

July 23-31 ......................

Discharge in second-feet. Run-off.

Maximum.

288 

2,50 

177 

133 

116 

109

116 

355 

1,310 

211 

147 

281

Minimum. Mean.

250 

160

116 

109 

109

85 

85 

177 

133 

109 

95

268 

189 

150 

122 

111 

109

92.4 

167 

390 

169 

126 

150

Per

square 

mile.

1.73 

1.22 

.968 

.787 

.716 

.703

. 596 

1.08 

2.52 

1.09 

.813 

.968

Depth in 

inches on 

drainage 

area.

0. 45 

1.41 

1.08 

.91 

.80 

.37

.38 

1.20 

2.90 

.36 

.94 

1.08

Total in 

acre-feet.

3,720 

1 1 , 600 

8,930 

7,500 

6, 600 

3,030

3, 120 

9,940 

24,000 

3,020 

7.750 

8, 930

Accu 

racy.

'A. 

B. 

B. 

B. ('. 

C.

r.

A. 

A. 

B. 

B. 

B.

NOTE. Discharge June 4, 1908, estimated. Discharge interpolated for missing days in September, 1908. 

DUPUYER CREEK AT DUPUYER, MONT.

This station, which is located at the highway bridge at Dupuyer, 

Mont., was established April 15, 1908, to obtain data for use in 

connection with irrigation projects in that locality.

The datum of the gage has not been changed since the station 

was established. Frequent discharge measurements are necessary to 

insure good results at this station as the channel conditions are poor. 

Ice affects the results during the winter months.

Discharge measurements of Dupuyer (''reel' at Dupuyer, Mont., in 1908.

April 14 

May 19 « 

June 16 

July 22 a

te.

__

........

a

19 o ....

1 1 ydrographer. 

A. F. I Inch. . ......................................

.... .do. .............................................

.....do.............................................

Width.

Feit.

38

30

40

26

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

46.1

28.9

54. 8

31. I

27 4

Gage 

height .

Fed.

1. 22

1.65

2.37

1.28

1.08

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

21.9

65. 9

253

53. 1

32.7

"Made by wading.
SUEPACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Daily gage height, in feet, of Dupuyer Creek at Dupuyer, Mont., for 1908. 

[George A. Little and Ilildreath Miller, observers.]

Day.

I...........................

2

3...........................

4...........................

5...........................

6...........................

7...........................

Q

9

10...........................

14...........................

15...........................

16... ......... ...............

17.. ....................... ..

18...........................

19...........................

20...........................

21 ...........................

99

23...........................

24...........................

26..................... ......

27...........................

28..................... ......

30...........................

Apr.

1.22

1.21

1.21

1.21

1.22

1.22

1.22

1 22

1.23

1.23

1.23

1.23

1.24

1.24

1.24

1.24

May.

1.24

1.24

1.12

1.18

1.16

1.14

1.14

1.14

1.24

1.37

1.42

1.47

1.52

1.61

1.74

1.78

1.71

1.68

1.66

1.66

1.65

1.64

1.62

1.58

1.59

1.62

1.87

1.88

1.78

1.80

1.99

June.

2.40

2.02

2.32

3.02

4.80

4.70

3.98

3.91

3.82

3.74

3.64

3. 54

3.24

2.76

2.36

2.32

2.30

2.29

2.28

2.27

2.24

2.20

2.20

2.18

2.16

2.16

2.15

2.14

2.13

July.

2.10

2.08

2.07

2.04

2.01

2.00

1.98

1.94

1.88

1.86

1.84

1.91

2.06

2.02

1.96

1.93

1.89

1.68

1.66

1.64

1.51

1.32

1.27

1.23

1.22

\ 99

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.08

Aug.

1.08

1.08

1.06

1.06

1.03

.99

.98

96

.94

92

.88

91

1.46

1.39

1.30

1.26

1.14

1.08

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.05

1.05

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.00

.99

Sept.

0.98

.98

.98

.96

.95

.94

.90

.88

.85

.85

.85

.85

.82

.82

.82

.86

.94

.95

.95

.95

.90

.90

.90

.95

.95

1.00

1.02

1.02

1.03

1.03

........

Oct.

1.05

1.02

1.03

1.03

1.03

1.04

1.03

1.02

1.02

1.02

1.02

1.02

1.02

1.02

1.02

1.03

1.02

1.02

1.02

1.02

1.02

1.02

1.04

1.04

1.03

1.03

1.03

1.03

1.04

1.04

Nov.

1.03

1.03

1.03

1.03

1.03

1.03

1.03

1.03

1.04

1.04

1.04

1.04

1.05

1.09

2.00

1.06

1.04

1.04

1.04

1.04

1.04

1.04

1.04

1.04

1.04

1.04

1.05

1.10

1.11

2.00

Dec.

2.01

2.02

2.00

2.00

2.00

........

NOTE. Ice conditions November 15, November 28-December 31.

Rating tables for Dupuyer Creel: at Dupuyer, Mont. 

APRIL 14 TO JUNE 5, 1908.

Gage

height.

Feet.

1.10

1.20

1.30

1.40

1.50

1.60

1.70

1.80

1.90

Discharge.

Sec. -ft.

14

21

29

38

48

59

71

85

100

Gage

height.

Feet.

2.00

2.10

2.20

2.30

2.40

2.50

2.60

2.70

2.80

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

116

133

152

173

195

220

245

275

305

Gage

height.

Feet.

2.90

3.00

3.10

3.20

3.30

3.40

3.50

3.60

3.70

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

335

370

405

440

475

510

545

580

620

Gage

height.

Feet.

3.80

3.90

4.00

4.20

4.40

4.60

4.80

1 Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

660

700

740

820

900

980

1,060

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on two 

discharge measurements made during the above period and the form of the subsequent curve, and is not well 

defined. Above gage height 2.0 feet this table is only approximate.

JUNE 6 TO NOVEMBER 27, 1908.

0.80

0.90

1.00

1.10

1.20

1.30

1.40

1.50

10

17

25

34

44

56

69

83

1.60

1.70

1.80

1.90

2.00

2.10

2.20

2.30

98

114

131

149

168

188

209

232

2.40

2.50

2.60

2.70

2.80

2.90

3.00

3.20

257

284

313

343

375

407

440

510

3.40

3.60

3.80

4.00

4.20

4.40

4. CO

4.80

580

650

720

790

870

950

1,030

1,110

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on three 

discharge measurements made during the above period and is fairly well defined below gage height 2.5 feet.
MARIAS RIVEE DRAINAGE BASIN.

Monthly discharge of Dupuyer Creek at Dupuyer, Mont., for 1908.

89

Month.

April 14-30. .........................................

July.................................................

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

24 

114 

1,070

188

28 

30 

33

Minimum.

22 

15 

119 

32 

16 

11 

27 

28

Mean.

23.1 

54.1 

405 

120 

31. 5 

19.3 

27. 7 

29.1

Run-off 

(total in 

acre-feet).

779 

3,330 

24,100 

7,380 

1.940 

1,150 

1,700 

1,730

42, 100

Accuracy.

0. 

B. 

B. 

A. 

B. 

C. 

C. 

C.

NOTE.--Discharge estimated for November 15, 28-30.

TETON RIVER NEAR BELLEVIEW, MONT.

Tcton River, the most important tributary of Marias River, rises 

in the Rocky Mountains and flows eastward in a course approximately parallel to that of Sun River, crossing and recrossing the sixth 

standard parallel north, and emptying into the Marias River about 

a mile above the point where the latter joins the Missouri.

This station, which is located 1 mile north of Peeble's ranch, ] 6 

miles above Chouteau, Mont., was established November 26, 1904, to 

obtain data for use in connection with irrigation projects. The nearest post-office is Belleview.

No important tributaries enter the stream near the station. Practically no water is diverted above the station, but the ordinary flow 

below is appropriated and used for irrigation. 

An irrigation project now being constructed under the Carey Act 

proposes to store the flood water of Teton River in a reservoir located 

about 5 miles north of the gaging station. The water will be diverted 

one-half mile above the gage. The capacity of the reservoir is 90,000 

acre-feet and can be increased to 210,000 by raising the top of the 

dam 20 feet. It will serve 120,000 acres of land on the north side of 

the river.

The first gage was spiked to a post on the left bank about 40 feet 

above the bend of Kroff's irrigation ditch. March 9, 1905, it wT as 

moved by the observer 250 feet upstream to avoid the effect of the 

dam erected at the head of the ditch below. On May 8, 1905, the 

gage was referred to the bench marks, and it was found that the 

datum had been raised 0.78 foot in moving, while the difference 

between the level of the water surface at the old and new locations 

was but 0.10 foot. The gage datum was lowered on this date 0.20 

foot. May 8, 1906, the gage was again moved 1^ miles up stream to 

Mr. Bjornstad's new ranch and set at an entirely different datum. 

The station was discontinued during 1907, but was reestablished
90 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

again June 16, 1908, near the location of the gage that was used during 1906, but there is no connection between the gage reading.

The current is swift at the gage and the river never freezes entirely 

across. The conditions for obtaining accurate discharge data during 

high water are rather poor on account of the shifting channel.

Discharge measurements of Tcton River near Belleview, Mont., in 1908.

Date. Hydrographer.

J. E. Stewart................. ........ ............

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

Width.

Feet. Go33

40

42

A rea of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

140

77.1

52.1

49.5

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

6. 98

5.55

4.84

4.81

Discharge.

Sec. -ft.

297

113

89

a Made from cable. & Made by wading.

Daily gage height, in feet, of Teton Hirer near Bellevieiv, Mont., for 1908. 

[Belle Peebles, observer.]

Day.

1....

2....

3....

4....

5. ...

6.... 8."!!."

9....

10....

11....

12....

13....

14....

15....

June.

6.9

7.0

7.1

7.35

7. 7

8 75

8.3

8.55

8.75

8.95

8.8

8.2

7.9

7.55

7.35

July.

5.65

5.7

5.65

5.65

5.6

5.G

5.6

5. 5

5. 5

5.5

5.5

5.5

5.5

5.5

5.6

Aug.

5.0

5.0

5.0

5.0

5 0

5.0

5.0

5.0

4.9

4.9

4.9

4.9

4.9

4.9

4.9

Sept.

4.8

4.8

4.8

4.8

4.7

4.7

4.7

4.7

4.7

4.7

4.7

4.7

4.7

4.7

4.7

Oct.

4.7

4.8

4.8

4.8

4.8

4.8

4.8

4.7

4.7

4.8

4.8

4.8

4.8

4.8

4.8

Nov.

4.7

4.8

4.8

4.8

4.8

4.8

4.8

4.8

4.8

4.8

4.7

4.7

4.7

4.7

4.7

Dec.

4.6

4.6

4.6

4.6

4.6

4.6

4.6

4.6

4.7

4.7

4.7

4.7

4.6

4.6

4.6

Day.

16....

17....

18....

19....

20....

21....

22....

23....

24....

25....

26....

27....

28-...

29....

30....

31

June.

7.1

6.95

6.9

6.75

6.55

6.35

6.3

6.25

6.2

6.1

6.0

5.75

5.85

5.7

5.7

July.

5. 55

5.5

5.4

5.35

5.3

5.3

5.2

5.2

5.2

5.2

5.1

5.1

5.1

5.1

5.1

5.1

Aug.

4.9

4.9

4.9

4.9

4 9

4 9

4.9

4.9

4.9

4.8

4.8

4.8

4.8

4.8

4.8

4.8

Sept.

4.7

4.7

4.8

4.8

4.7

4.7

4.7 4."

4."

4."

4."

4."

4."

4. 4."

Oct.

4.8

4.8

4.8

4.8

4.8

4.7 4. "

4."

4."

4."

4."

4."

4."

4."

4."

4."

Nov.

4."

4. "

4."

4.^

4."

4.7 4."

4."

4."

4.6

4.6

4.6

4.6

4.6

4.6

Dec.

4.6

4.6

4.5

4.5

4 5

4 5

4.5

4.5

4.5

4.5

4.5

4.4

4.4

4.5

4.5

4.6

Rating table for Teton River near Belleview, Mont., for 1908.

Gage 

height.

Feet.

4.40

4.50

4.60

4.70

4.80

4.90

5.00

5.10

5.20

5.30

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

33

46

60

76

95

117

141

167

194

222

Gage 

height.

Feet.

5.40

5.50

5.60

5.70

5.80

5.90

6.00

6.10

6.20

6.30

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

251

281

312

345

379

414

450

487

523

564

Gage 

height.

Feet.

6.40

6.50

6.60

6.70

6. 80

6.90

7.00

7.20

7.40

7.60

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

604

645

686

727

768

809

850

934

1,018

1,102

Gage 

height.

Feet.

7.80

8.00

8.20

8.40

7.60

8.80

9.00

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

1.186 

1,270 

1,356 

1,442 

1,528 

1,614 

1,700

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on four 

discharge measurements made during 1908 and is fairly well defined between gage heights 4.6 feet and 7.5 

feet.
MUSSELSHELL EIVEE DRAINAGE BASIN. 

Monthly discharge of Teton River near Belleview, Mont., for 1908.

91

Month.

July .................................................

The period ...................... ............................

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

1,680 

345 

141 

95 

95 

95 

76

Minimum.

345 

167 

95 

76 

76 

60 

33

Mean.

909 

253

118 

79.8 

86.4 

78.5 

55.4

Run-off

(total in 

acre-feet).

54, 100 

15,600 

7. 260 

4,750 

5,310 

4,670 

3,410

95, 100

Accuracy.

A. 

A. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

C.

MTJSSELSHELL RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 

DESCRIPTION.

Musselshell River is formed by two forks. The North Fork (or 

master stream) rises on the southern slopes of the Little Belt Mountains in the northern part of Meagher County, Mont., at an elevation 

of 8,000 feet above sea level, flows southeastward for 10 miles, 

emerging into an irrigable valley, one-half mile to 1 mile in width, 

and joining the South Fork near the town of Martinsdale, 30 miles 

below its source, at an elevation of 4,700 feet above sea level. The 

South Fork has its source in several small streams draining the northward slt>pes of Crazy Mountains, about 20 miles southwest of Martinsdale at an elevation of 5,500 feet above sea level, and flows 

northeastward through a valley 1 mile to 3 miles wide. From Martinsdale the Musselshell flows almost due east for 130 miles to Melstone, where it turns abruptly to the north, and 60 miles farther on 

it enters the Missouri.

Below the forks the valley widens and is bordered by low rolling 

hills. The larger part of the basin is covered by glacial deposits. 

The soil is black loam, and when properly irrigated the land is suitable for agriculture. Forestation is scant. At the headwaters of 

the North Fork pines are found, but elsewhere the timber consists 

only of the few cottonwoods and willows that border the stream 

channels. The mean annual rainfall is about 25 inches in the upper 

areas of the basin, but near the mouth of the river it decreases to 12 

inches.

The principal source of supply for the streams in this basin is the 

melting snow. Ice forms on the streams during the winter months.

The tributaries of the Musselshell are small intermittent streams 

and the river exhibits wide variations in discharge. Much of the 

water is used for irrigation, the diversions all being small. During 

the irrigating season the Musselshell carries but little water.

A project now under way under the Carey Land Act will utilize 

a small but excellent reservoir site on the North Fork to store the 

flood waters of that stream and of Checkerboard Creek which will be
92 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

diverted into the reservoir. The dam will be 130 feet high and the 

reservoir will store 28,000 acre-feet of water. The dam site is 19£ 

miles from Martinsdale.

The Musselshell basin affords no opportunities for power development. The fall of greatest magnitude occurs on the Upper North 

Fork, but the supply of water is insufficient to warrant an expenditure necessary to develop it.

The longest records of stream flow in the Musselshell basin have 

been kept at Shawmut and Harlowton. The wettest year recorded 

was 1908, while the driest was 1906.

The following gaging stations have been maintained in this drainage 

basin:

North Fork of Musselshell River near Martinsdale, Mont., 1907-8.

Musselshell River at Harlowton, Mont., 1907-8.

Musselshell River at Shawmut, Mont., 1902-1907.

Musselshell River at Lavina, Mont., 1906.

South Fork of Musselshell River near Martinsdale, Mont., 1907-8.

American Fork near Harlowton, Mont., 1907-8.

Leho Creek near Harlowton, Mont., 1907-8.

NORTH FORK OF MUSSELSIIELL RIVER NEAR MARTINSDALE, MONT.

This station, which was established July 10, 1907, to determine the 

amount of water available for irrigation, is located at the ranch of 

Martin J. Settle, 4 miles north of Martinsdale and one-half mile above 

the junction of the North and South forks.

All the tributaries to the North Fork enter the stream above the 

station, the principal ones being Checkerboard and Flagstaff creeks.

Under a Carey Land Act project the water of this fork, which is 

practically all appropriated, will be stored about 20 miles above the 

station and used to irrigate land between Martinsdale and Harlowton.

The bed of the stream is composed of gravel and may shift somewhat during high water, as the current is swift. Ice forms during 

the winter season, but records obtained during the open season are 

very good.

Discharge measurements of North Fork of Musselshell River near Martinsdale, Mont.,

in 1907 and 1908.

Date.

1907.

July 10........

July 26........

October 29 a ...

1908. 

April 28.. .....

Ilyclrographer.

J. E. Stewart. ......................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

J. E. Stewart. ......................................

Width.

Feet. 

23

27

23

23

20

23

29

24

20

27

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft.

52.0

34.8

21.0

20.1

91.5

32.5

9.4

15.6

Gage 

height.

Feet.

4.48

3.90

3.42

3.30

3.27

5.88

3.85

3.00

3.21

Discharge.

Sec. -ft. 

109

210

104

433

28.9

29.6

436

95.7

7.4

19.2

a Made by wading.
MUSSELSHELL KIVEB DRAINAGE BASIN. 93

Daily gage height, infect, of North Fork of Musselshell River near Martinsdale, Mont.,

for 1907 and 1908.

[Martin J. Settle, observer.]

Day.

1907. 

1. .. ....... 

2 3'.'.'.'.'.'.'.'.'.'. . 

4..........

6..........

8..........

9..........

10..........

12. ....... 

13..........

15..........

July.

4.5

4.0 

4.0

Aug.

3.6 

3.7 

3.65 

3.6

3.6

3.7

3.55 

3.5

3.6

Sept.

3.4 

3.4 

3.3 

3.4 

3.4

3.4

3.4

Q A

3.4

3.4 

3.4

3.45

3 4

Oct.

3.45 

3.4 

3.4 

3.3

3.4

3.4

3.4 

ft 4

3.3 

3.4

Nov.

3.35 

3.3 

3.3 

3.3

3.35

3.35

3.35

3.45

Dec.

3.35 

3.35 

3.35 

3.4 

3.4

3.7

3.65

3.6 

3.5

3.8 

3.8

4.7

4.7

Day.

1907. 

16 .......... 

17.......... 

18.......... 

19 ..........

21..........

99

24..........

25 .......... 

26..........

27. .........

28..........

30..........

31--........

July.

4.25 

4.0 

3.9 

4.0

4.55

4.2

4.0

3.9

3.85 

3.85

3.9 

3.8

3.8

3.8

 3 7C

Aug.

3.5 

3.5 

3. 45 

3.45

3.5

3.4

3.45

3.35

3.35 

3.45

3.4

Sept.

3.4 

3.4 

3.4 

3.3 

3.4

3.4

3.3

3.3

3.3

3.3 

3.4

3.4

Oct.

3.25 

3.35 

3.35 

3.35

3.35

3.35

3.25

3.35

3.35 

3.3

3.35

Nov.

3.4 

3.4 

3.4

3.35

3.5

3.5

3.5 

3.5

q A

Dec.

4.9

Day.

1908. 

1....................................

2.... ................................

5....................................

6....................................

7....................................

Q

10.....-.....----....-..-.......-..-.-

11....................................

12....................................

13....................................

14....................................

15....................................

16....................................

17....................................

18....................................

19....................................

20....................................

21 ....................................

22

23....................................

24....................................

oc

26....................................

27....................................

28....................................

29....................................

30....................................

Apr.

3.25

3.25

3.25

3.25

3.5

3.6

3.45

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.3

3.3

0 0

3.3

3

0

3.3

3.25

3 25

3.25

3.3

3.2

May.

3.2

3.2

^ 9

3.1

3.1

3.1

3.05

3.0

q n

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.0

2.95

q f\

3.0

3.1

3.05

q i

3.15

3.7

3.5

3.85

June.

6.2

5.95

6.1

5.9

6.25

6.1

5.8

5.2

5.0

4.75

4.5

4.35

4.25

4.2

4.2

4.15

4.1

q Q"

3.85

3.8

3.6

3.45

July.

3.45

3.4

0 QC

0 0

3.3

3.3

3.2

q 1 £

3.1

3.1

3.1

3.1

3.1

3.1

3.1

3.1

3.1

3.1

3.1

3.1

0 1

3.1

3.05

o n

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.0

Aug.

3.05

q n

3.0

3.0

2.95

2.9

2.85

2.85

3.1

3.4

3.25

3.25

3.25

q 9^

3

*3C

3.25

3.2

3 9

3.15

3.15

3.2

3.2

3.2

Sept.

3.2

3 2

0 9

3.2

3.05

3.2

3.05

3.2

3.2

3.2

3.2

3.2

3.2

3.2

3.2

3.25

3.4

3.3

3.3

3.3

3.25

Oct.

3.25

3 ^5

0 «3

Q QC

3.4

3.45

3.4

3.4

q q^

3.4

3.4

3.45

3.45

3.45

3.45

3.45

3.45

3.45

3.45

3.45

3. 45

Nov.

3.45

3 45

q AC

3.45

3.45

3.45

3.45

4.2

4.3

4.3

4.0

3.45

3.5

q -l^

3.45

3.4

4.15

4.0

4.8

4.8

NOTE. Ice conditions during December, 1907, and November 10-December 31, 1908.
94 SUEFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Rating table for North Forlc of Musselshell River near Martinsdale, Mont., for 1907

and 1908.

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

2.85

2.90

3.00

3.10

3.20

3.30

3.40

3.50

3.60

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

3

4

7

12

19

28

39

51

63

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

3.70

3.80

3.90

4.00

4.10

4.20

4.30

4.40

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

76

90

105

120

135

151

167

183

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

4.50

4.60

4.70

4.80

4.90

5.00

5.10

5.20

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

200

217

235

253

271

289

308

327

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

5.30

5.40

5.50

5.60

5.70

5.80

5.90

6.00

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

346

365

384

403

422

441

460

479

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on nine 

discharge measurements made during 1907-8 and is well defined below gage height 4.0 feet and fairly well 

defined between gage heights 4. 0 feet and 6.0 feet.

Monthly discharge of North Fork of Musselshell River near Martinsdale, Mont., for

1907 and 1908.

Month.

1907. 

July 10-31 ..........................................

1908.

July. ................................................

Discha 

Maximum.

289 

83 

44 

44 

51

63 

412 

529 

44 

39 

39 

44 

44

rjre in seconc

~~ 

Minimum.

83 

34 

28 

24

28

19

S.5 

44 

7 

3 

10 

24 

44

-feet. 

Mean.

132

52.6 

36. 4 

34.2 

39.1

32.0 

32.4 

239 

15.7 

16.2 

18.5 

40.1 

44.0

Run-off 

(total in 

acre-feetX

5,760 

3,230 

2.170 

2,100 

2.330

1 1.990" . 650 , 

14,200 

965 

996 

1.100 

2.470 

783

24,200

Accuracy.

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A.

B. 

B. 

A. 

C. 

C. 

C. 

B. 

B.

MUSSELSHELL RIVER AT HARLOWTON, MONT.

This station, which was established July 11, 1907, to take the place 

of the station formerly maintained at Shawmut, is located at the 

highway bridge 1 mile south of Harlowton. The records furnish 

information of value for irrigation development.

The tributaries above and below the station are all small streams. 

American Fork enters the stream between this station and Shawmut.

A large part of the valley is irrigated and many small ditches also 

receive their water supply from the Musselshell. Practically the 

entire flow of the stream is appropriated. A minimum discharge 

of 2 second-feet is recorded during the irrigating season at this 

station.

The gage datum has remained unchanged. The bed of the stream 

is composed of sand and gravel and may shift. Records obtained 

during the open season are fair.
MUSSELSHELL EIVEE DRAINAGE BASIN. 95

During the high water of June, 1908, the approaches to the bridge 

were partly destroyed, but the gage was not disturbed. In October, 

1908, the bridge caved in, destroying the gage.

Discharge measurements of Musselshell River at Harlowton, Mont., in 1907 and 1908.

Date.

1907. 

July 12........

July 28........

October 31 .....

1908.

H-5'drographer.

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

J. K. Stewart. ......................................

.../.do. .............................................

Width.

Feet. 

99

92

90

89

90

25

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

179

122

112

14.2

Gage 

height .

Feet. 

1.77

1.20

1.07

.04

.40

Discharee.

Sec.-ft.

275

110

118

199

554

a Made by wading.

Daily gage height, in feet, of Musselshell River at Harlowton, Mont., for 1907 and 1908. 

[H. 0. Hopkins and Frank A. Smith, observers.]

Day.

1907.

3........

6........

g

10... ....

13........

14........ 

15........

Day.

1908. 

1....

3........

4..... ..

6 ....

8........

9........ 

10........

11......

12........

13 ....... 

14.......

15.....

Api

iuly.

l.(',2

1. 00 

2.10

May.

0.75

.80

.70

.90

.9.5

.85

. sr>

.90

.9.5 

1.00

1 . 05 

1 . 00

1.00

Aug.

1.30 

1.50

1.38

1.25 1 ''0

2. 25

1.48

1.30 

1.30

June.

3. (10

3.35

 A. 35

3. 2,5 

3. 15

3. 15

2. 85

Sept.

.30

.25 

.20

.20

.20 

.20

1.20

1.20

1.20

1 90

1.20

1.25

1.30 

1.25

July.

Oct.

1.10

1.15 

1.15

1.15 

1.15

1.15

1.15

1.15

1.15

1.15 

1.15

Aug.

- .13

- .13

- .13

- . 17

- .18

'">f>

- .21

 . 23 

- ^23

- .23 

 2''

- .13 

- .13

Nov.

1.00

1.00 

1.05

1.00 

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.00

.95

.95 

.98

Sept.

0. 27

.27

29

.07

.07

.07

.07

.07 

.07

.07 

.07

.07 

.02

Day.

1907. 

10........

18. ....... 

19........

20. .......

21. 

22. .......

23........

24..

25........

20. .......

27........

28. .......

29........ 

30........ 

31.. .. .

Day.

1908. 

16....

17.... ...

18........

19....

20..... .

21.

23........

24.... 

25....

20........ 

27....

28........ 

29...

30........

31........

A pi

0

Fuly.

2.00

1 fi^

1.75

1.70

1.70

2.40

1.95

1 7e:

1.42

1.35

2.05

May.

1.05

1.05

.95 

95

.90

.90

3.85 

4.50

4.55 

4.75

4.85

Aug.

1.12 

1.10

1.10 

1.12

1.15

1.20

1.18

1.20 

1.25

June.

2.45

2.35

2.15

i.95

Sept.

1.20

1.20

1.15

1.15

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10 

1.10

July.

0.04 

- .01

- .03

- .08

Oct.

.10 

.10

.10 

.08

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.02

1 00

1 00

1.00 

1.00

Aug.

- .03

- .03

- .02

- .02

- .03 

.07

.07

.07 

.12

.12

.07 

.23

.27

Nov.

i on

1.00 

1.02

1.05

1.05

1.00

1.00 

1.00

Sept.

-0.03

- .03

.17

.17

.17

.37

.37

.4749

.42 

.42

.47 

.47

.42

NOTE. Ice conditions during December, 1907. From June 1-4, 1908, the river was so high that the 

observer could not reach the gage.
96 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Rating tables for Musselshell River at Harlowton, Mont. 

JULY TO AUGUST 10, 1907, AND APRIL 29 TO SEPTEMBER 30, 1908.

Gage 

height.

Feet.

-0.25

- .20

- .10

.00

.10

.20

.30

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

0

1

2

5

10

17

27

. 40 ! 40

. 50 ! 55

.60

.70

72

91

Gage 

height.

1

Feet.

0.80

.90

1.00

1.10

1.20

1.30

1.40

1.50

i 1.60

1.70

1.80

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

112

135

160

188

219

253

290

330

374

422

474

Gage 

height.

Feet.

1.90

2.00

2.10

2.20

2.30

2.40

2.50

2.60

2.70

2.80

2.90

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

530

590

655

725

795

865

940

1,015

1,090

1,170

1,250

Gage 

height.

Feet.

3.00

3.20

3.40

3.00

3.80

4.00

4.20

4.40

4.60

4.80

5.00

 Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

1,330

1,490

1,655

1,825

2,000

2,180

2,360

2,540

2,720

2,900

3,080

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on six 

discharge measurements made 1907-8, and is well defined between gage heights 0 foot and 2.0 feet. Above 

gage height 2.0 feet the curve is only approximate.

AUGUST 11, 1907, TO NOVEMBER 30, 1907. 

[Indirect method for shifting channels used.]

Daily discharge, in second-feet, of Musselshell River at Harlowton, Mont., August 11 to

November 30, 1907.

105

105

105

118

118

105

105

105

105

105

105

105

95

95

100

NOTE. These discharges were obtained by the indirect method for shifting channels. 

Monthly discharge of Musselshell River at Harlowton, Mont., for 1907 and 1908.

Day.

2

3...............

4..... ..

5...............

6...............

7...............

8... ............

10...............

11...............

12...............

13...............

14...............

15...............

Aug.

>

480

315

280

245

240

Sept.

105

155

140

130

120

120

120

120

122

122

122

135

145

140

Oct.

108

111)

115

120

120

125

125

125

125

125

125

125

125

125

125

Day.

Ifi. ..............

18. ..............

19 ...............

20...............

21 ...............

22 ...... . . .

23 ...............

24. ..............

25...............

26....

27...............

28...............

29...............

30...............

31 ...............

Aug.

227

210

195

180

190

170

185

190

190

195

185

170

170

180

i ec

185

Sept.

140

123

123

110

110

110

110

108

108

108

108

108

Oct.

125

125

125

125

120

115

115

108

105

105

Nov.

105

105

110

118

118

118

118

105

105

105

Month.

1907.

1908.

Discha 

Maximum.

865 

700 

190 

125 

118

2,940 

1,820 

24 

50

rge in second 

Minimum.

272 

170 

108 

105 

95

. 91 

500 

.4 

4.1

-feet. 

Mean.

471 

250 

125 

119 

107

643 

1,210 

5.56 

21.6

Run-off 

(total in 

acre-feet).

19,600 

15,400 

7,440 

7,320 

6,370

39,500 

45,600 

342 

1,290

Accuracy.

A. 

C. 

C. 

C. 

C.

A. 

B. 

D. 

D.
MUSSELSHELL EIVER DEAINAGE BASIN.

MUSSELSHELL RIVER AT SHAWMUT, MONT.

This station, which was established August 12, 1902, to determine 

the amount of water available for irrigation and storage, was located 

at the ranch of the Bloomington Land and Cattle Company, oneeighth mile from the post-office of Shawmut and 25 miles east of 

Harlowton.

The station was maintained for several years, but the continuity 

of the records was frequently interrupted because of the difficulty of 

obtaining an observer. For this reason, and because of the heavy 

expense incidental to a station so inaccessible, it was abandoned on 

June 30, 1907, and a new station was established.

Many small and intermittent streams enter above and below the 

station. American Fork, which comes in 15 miles above, is one of the 

more important of these tributaries.

Irrigation is extensively developed along the Musselshell, and many 

diversions are made both above and below the station. The water is 

practically all appropriated.

On April 22, 1905, a new gage was established on the right bank 400 

feet below the old gage, with a datum 0.29 foot greater. Thereafter until the station was discontinued the gage datum remained 

unchanged.

Records obtained during the open season were fair.

Discharge measurements of Musselshell River at Shawmut, Mont., in 1907.

Date.

April 26. .......

Hydrographer.

J. E. Stewart ...............................................

.... .do ......................................................

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

96

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

3.31

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

273

NOTE. The above measurements were made at different sections.

Daily gage height, in feet, of Musselshell River at Shawmut, Mont., for 1907. 

[G. T. Gorner, observer.]

Day.

1.. ...........

2.............

3.............

5.............

7. ........... . 

8.-....--.....

9.............

10............. 

11.............

12.............

13. ............

14.............

15.............

Feb.

3.4

3.6

3.8 

3.9

3.95

4.0

4.1

Mar.

3.1

3.0

2.9

2.85

2.8

2.7

2.65

3.0 

2.9

2.8

2.7

2.6

2.65

Apr. May.

3.1

3.2

3.2

3.3

3.2

3.2 

3.2

3.3 

3.4

3.5

3.8

3.6

June.

4.0

4.3

4.8

4.5

4.4

4.5 

4.6

4.5 

4.4

4.2

4.3

4.5

Day.

16.............

17.............

18.............

19.............

20.............

22............. 

23.............

25............. 

26.............

27.............

28.............

29.............

30.............

31.............

Feb. Mar.

2.7

Apr.

3.3 

3.3

3.2

3.3

3.3

3.1

May.

3.5

3.7

3.8

4.5

4.8

5.3

5.7 

5.4

4.9

4.8 

4.3

4.0

4 n

3.8

A O

4

O

June.

A 1

4.0

3.5

3.3

3.4

4.8

4.5

5.6

5.5

5.1

NOTE. Water above gage June 23-27.

31260 IRR 246 10 7
98 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

SOUTH FORK OF MUSSELSHELL RIVER NEAR MARTINSDALE, MONT.

This station, which was established June 19, 1907, to determine 

the amount of water available for irrigation, was located near the 

ranch of Martin J. Settle, but on April 28, 1908, it was removed upstream about 1^ miles, near the blacksmith shop of the Martinsdale 

Sheep Company and near the public highway 1| miles northeast of 

Martinsdale.

The South Fork has no important tributaries. Many small ditches 

are taken from the creek, and during the irrigating season all the 

water is diverted.

When the new station was established a new datum was used, 

which has remained unchanged. The bed of the stream is chiefly 

gravel and is clean and nonshifting. Ice forms during the winter 

season, but records obtained during the open season are good.

Discharge measurements of South Fork of Musselshell River near Martinsdale, Mont., in

1907 and 1908.

Date.

1907.

July 26 i> .......

October 29 b. ...

1908. 

April 28........

June 24........ 

July 28 b. .......

Hydrographer.

.....do..............................................

.....do............--.........-..-..-..-.---....--...

J. E. Stewart. ......................................

Width.

Feet. 

40

25

26

16

39

39 

16

5

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

125

108

33.0

18.2

19.7

70.4

122 

7.4

1.3

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

o2.38

2.05

1.62

1.18

1.13

1.99

3.28

1 flfi

.67

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

243

187

101

31.4

30.5

65.0

226 

11.2

.6

a Gage height somewhat uncertain. b Wading near gage.

Daily gage height, in feet, of South Fork of Musselshell River near Martinsdale, Mont.,

for 1907 and 1908.

[Martin J. Settle and J. G. Wallace, observers.]

Day.

1907. 

1..........

3..........

4..........

5..........

6..........

7..........

8..........

9..........

10..........

11..........

12..........

13..........

14..........

15..........

June. July.

2.5

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.1

2.0

2.0

2.15

2.0

1.9

1.9

2.0

2.1

Aug.

1.6

1 9

1.6

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.4

1.7

1.7

1.5

1.45

1.4

1.3

Sept.

1.25

1.25

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.25

1.25

1.2

1.2

Oct.

1.25

1.2

1.3

1.2

1.2

1.3

1.2

1.2

1.3

1.2

1.2

1.3

1.2

1.2

1.2

Nov.

1.15

1.15

1.15

1.15

1.15

1.15

1.15

1.15

1.15

1.15

1.1

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.05

Day.

1907. 

16..........

17..........

18..........

. 19..........

i 20..........

21..........

23 ..........

24..........

25 ..........

26..........

27..........

28..........

29..........

30..........

31..........

June.

......

1.9

2.1

2.1

2.3

3.6

3.4

3.1

2.9

2.8

July.

2.1

2.0

1.9

1.9

2.0

2.0

2.0

1.9

1.75

1.6

1.55

1.55

1.55

1.8

1.6

Aug.

1.3

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.0

1.1

1.05

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.2

1.15

1.15

1.25

Sept.

1.2

1.2

1.2

.9

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

Oct.

1.1

1.2

1.1

1.1

1.2

1.1

1.1

1.2

1.1

1.1

1.1

Nov.

1.05

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1
MUSSELSHELL EIVEK DKAINAGE BASIN. 99

Daily gage height, in feet, of South Fork of Musselshell River near Martinsdale, Mont., 

for 1907 and 1908 Continued.

Day.

1908. *

2....................................

4.......-.-..-.-....--.-----.......-.

5.. ............................. .....

6.. ............................. ....

7-...-.-.-.--.-.-.------..-.--.----..

9

10....................................

12....................................

14........-.---------.-.........-.....

16....................................

18....................................

19-.-.-.---..-----.-.-.-..-..-.-...--.

20....................................

21....................................

22....... ....... ..................... .

23--------.-.-.-----.-.-..-.-....-.---

24........-....-.-.-.-......-......--.

26....................................

27....................................

28....................................

09

Ofl

31....................................

Apr.

i.05

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.2

1.2

1.3

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.3

1.4

1.5

1.55

1.6

1.7

1 9

1.9

1.8

1.6

1.6

2.0

1.95

1 95

May.

1.85

1.85

1.9

1.9

1.95

1 95

2.0

2.0

2.5

2.85

2.85

2.8

2.75

2.65

2.8

2.8

2.75

2.65

2.6

2.5

2.5

2.55

2.6

2.8

3.75

4.15

4.4

4 4

5.35

June.

5.7

5.7

5.6

5.8

5.65

5.6

5.8

5.5

5.6

5.5

5.3

5.2

5.0

4.8

4.6

4.5

4.4

4.4

4.5

4.0

3.8

3.7

3.5

3.4

3.2

3.2

3.5

3.0

2.85

2.75

July.

2.7

2.5

2.4

2.45

2.3

2.3

2.2

2.0

1.9

1.7

1.4

1.35

1.3

1.2

.8

.7

.7

.7

.7

.7

.8

.8

1.0

1.15

1.15

1.15

1.0

.9

9

Aug.

0.8

.7

.7

.7

.7

.6

.6

.5

.6

.7

.5

.4

.5

.5

.5

.9

.9

.9

1.1

1.0

1.0

1.2

1.1

1.0

.9

.9

.9

.8

1.0

1.0

1.0

Sept.

1.5

.9

.9

.9

.8

.7

.75

.75

.6

.6

.65

.6

.5

.55

.55

.65

.65

.7

.75

.55

.65

.65

.7

.7

.75

.75

1.0

2.0

Oct.

1.5

1.6

1.7

1.8

1.7

1.7

1.5

1.5

1.7

1.7

1.6

1.5

1.5

1.45

1.7

1 9

1.8

1.75

1 $1

1.7

1.65

1.65

1.8

1 %

1 R

1.8

i si**

1.85

1 Q

1 $1

Nov.

1 9

1 9

1 9

1 9

1.85

1.85

1.85

1.85

1.85

1.85

1 9

1.8

1 si**

1.85

1.5

1.5

1.55

1.55

NOTE. Observer unable to get to gage June 23-25,1907, because of high water. New gage installed April 

28, 1908. New gage heights not comparable with old. Ice conditions latter part of November-December 

31,1907, and November 10-December 31, 1908.

Rating tables for South Fork of Musselshell River near Martinsdale, Mont.

JUNE 19, 1907, TO APRIL 27, 1908.

Gage 

height.

Feet.

0.90

1.00

1.10

1.20

1.30

1.40

1.50

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

7

15

26

38

51

65

80

Gage 

height.

Feet.

1.60

1.70

1.80

1.90

2.00

2.10

2.20

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

96

113

131

150

169

189

209

Gage 

height.

Feet.

2.30

2.40

2.50

2.60

2.70

2.80

2.90

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

229

250

271

292

314

336

358

Gage 

height.

Feet.

3.00

3.10

3.20

3.30

3.40

3.50

3.60

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

381

404

428

452

477

502

527

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on five 

discharge measurements made during 1907, and is well defined between gage heights 1.0 foot and 2.5 feet.

APRIL 28 TO NOVEMBER 10,1908.

0.50

.60

.70

.80

.90

1.00

1.10

1.20

1.30

1.40

1.50

1.60

0

0.5

1

3

5

8

11

15

19

24

30

36

1.70

1.80

1.90

2.00

2.10

2.20

2.30

2.40

2.50

2.60

2.70

2.80

43

50

58

66

75

85

95

106

118

130

143

156

2.90

3.00

3.10

3.20

3.30

3.40

3.50

3.60

3.70

3.80

3.90

4.00

170

184

199

214

230

246

263

280

297

315

333

351

4.20

4.40

4.60

4.80

5.00

5.20

5.40

5.60

5.80

389

429

472

517

564

613

664

716

768

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on four 

discharge measurements made during 1908, and is well defined between gage heights 0.5 foot and 3.5 feet.
100 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Monthly discharge of South Fork of Musselshell River near Martinsdale, Mont., for 1907

and 1908.

Month.

1907.

July. ................................................

October

1908. 

April 5-30 ...........................................

May.................................................

July.................................................

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

527 

314 

150 

44 

51 

32

150 

651 

768 

143 

15 

66 

58 

58

Minimum.

150 

88 

15 

7 

26 

20

20 

54 

150 

1 

0 

0 

27 

54

Mean.

318 

168 

58.5 

34.3 

34.2 

25.6

67.0 

168 

483 

34.9 

4.11 

4.78 

43.1 

55.8

Run-off 

(total in 

acre-feet).

5,680 

10,000 

3,600 

2,040 

2,100 

1,520

3,460 

10,300 

28,700 

2,150 

253 

284 

2,650 

996

48,800

Accuracy.

A. 

A. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

C.

B. 

A. 

B. 

B. 

D. 

D. 

B. 

B.

AMERICAN FORK NEAR HARLOWTON, MONT.

American Fork rises in the Crazy Mountains and flows northeastward to its junction with the Musselshell, a few miles below the gaging 

station, which was established July 28, 1907, at the Shaw & Elliot 

ranch, 5 miles southeast of Harlowton,Mont.,to determine the amount 

of water available for irrigation and storage.

American Fork has no important tributaries, but receives its water 

supply from the melting snow on the mountains. The basin of this 

stream affords some good storage sites, and by holding back the spring 

flood waters much more land can be put under irrigation.

Records obtained during the open season are good. The bed of 

the stream at the gaging station is composed of sand and clay, and 

shifts only under extreme conditions.

Discharge measurements of American Fork near Harlowton, Mont., in 1907 and 1908.

Date.

1907. 

July 28. ........

1908. 

April 28.. ......

TllTld 9^

Hydrographer.

J. E. Stewart. ...................................... 

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

Width.

Feet. 

14 

11

10

5.5

36

82

2

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

12.2 

6.4

7.3

2.2

125

71.2

.45

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

1.79 

1.50

1.56

1.46

3.68

2.38

1.51

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

23.0 

2.0

3.7

a2. 7

508

73.2

.43

(»)

a Made by wading. 

NOTE. The above measurements were made at various sections.

6 Stream dry.
MUSSELSHELL EIVEK DRAINAGE BASIN. 101

Daily gage height, in feet, of American Fork near Harlowton, Mont., for 1907 and 1908.

[Samuel A. Shaw, observer.]

Day.

1907 

1..........

2..........

3..........

4..........

5..........

8..........

9..........

10..........

11..........

12..........

13..........

14..........

15..........

1... ......

2..........

3..........

4...

5..........

6..........

7..........

8..........

9..........

10..........

11..........

12..........

13..........

14..........

15..........

16..........

17..........

18...........

19...........

20..........

21..........

22..........

23..........

24..........

25..........

26..........

27..........

28..........

29..........

30..........

31..........

July.

Da

19(

Aug. Sept.

1.85 1.5

1.85 1.5

1.8 1.5

1.65 1.5

1.6 1.5

1.6 1.5

1.5 1.55

1.5 1.55

1.8 1.5

2.0 1.55

1.8 1.65

1.65 1.55

y.

)8.

Oct.

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.55

Nov.

1.55

1.55

1.55

1.55

1.55

1.55

1.55

Apr.

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.4J

1.4J

1.4J

1.4,

1.4,

1.4J

1.4f

l.«

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

Dec.

1.55

1.55

1.55

1.55

1.55

May

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

2.7

2.4

2.4

2.7

3.7

1

1

1

1

?

?

?

?

?

 >

?

3

3

5

5

5

5

5

<>

5

5

5

5

5

5

5

5

?

8

8

8

Day.

1907. 

6.......

7.......

8.......

9.......

0. ......

1. ......

2.......

3.......

4.......

5.......

6.......

7. ......

8.......

9

0. ......

1. ......

June.

4.4

4.15

3.9

4.15

3.78

3.55

3.38

3.32

3.4

3.32

3.3

3.32

3.3

3.12

3.0

3.05

3.0

2.9

2.8

2.8

2.6

2.5

2.4

2.2

2.2

2.15

2.1

2.2

2.2

2.2

Ju

July

1.8

1.9

1.95

iy.

2.1

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.0

1.75

1.7

1.65

1.65

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.5

1.6

1.6

1.65

1.65

1.66

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.55

1.55

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

Aug.

1.6

1.6

1.55

1.55

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.6

Aug.

Sept.

1.55

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

Sept

C

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

ct.

55

55

55

55

5

5

55

6

6

51

fi

6

6

fi

O

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

No\

1 5

1 5

1 5

1 5

1 5

1 5

1 5

1 5

1 5

1 5

ct.

,5

7

8

8

8

6

fi

65

.75

75

.8

8

8

8

8

,8

.8

8

8

8

75

r. Dec.

^ov.

1.75

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

NOTE. Ice conditions December 9-31,1907, January 1-March 31,1908, and November 13-December 31, 

1908. No flow August and September, 1908.
102 SUBFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Rating tables for American Fork near Harlowton, Mont.

JULY 28 TO DECEMBER 31, 1907.

Gage

height.

Feet.

1.50

1.60

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

1.5

6.6

Gage

height.

Feet.

1.70

1.80

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

14

22.5

Gage

height.

Feet.

1.90

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

32

Gage

height.

Feet.

2.00

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

42

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on three 

discharge measurements made during 1907 and is not well defined.

APRIL 1 TO MAY 26, 1908.

1.40 1.0 1.50 4.3

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on one 

discharge measurement made during this period and is not well defined.

MAY 27 TO DECEMBER 31, 1908.

1.50

1.60

1.70

1.80

1.90

2.00

2.10

2.20

0.2

4.0

11

19

27

36

45

55

2.30

2.40

2.50

2.60

2.70

2.80

2.90

3.00

66

78

92

109

130

155

185

219

3.10

3.20

3.30

3.40

3.50

3.60

3.70

3.80

256

295

336

379

424

470

517

565

3.90

j 4.00

4.10

4.20

4.30

4.40

i

615

665

715

765

815

870

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on three 

discharge measurements made during this period and the form of the previous curves and is not well 

defined.

Monthly discharge of American Fork near Harlowton, Mont., for 1907 and 1908.

Month.

1907.

December 1-8 ..............................................

1908. 

April. .....................................................

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

42.0 

10.3 

6.6 

4.0 

4.0

4.3 

541 

870 

45 

0 

0 

19 

15

Minimum.

1.5 

1.5 

1.5 

4.0 

4.0

2.6 

1.0 

45 

.2 

0 

0 

.2 

11

Mean.

9.50 

2.76 

3.30 

4.00 

4.00

3.85 

34.4 

284 

12.5 

0 

0 

13.2 

11.3

Run-oft 

(total in 

acre-feet).

584 

164 

203 

238 

63

229 

2,120 

16,900 

769 

0 

0 

812 

269

21,100

NOTE. Owing to the shifting character of the stream bed, these estimates of monthly flow are only 

roughly approximate.
MUSSELSHELL RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 103

LEBO CREEK NEAR HARLOWTON, MONT.

Lebo Creek rises at an elevation of 5,600 feet, flows northeastward, 

and enters American Fork one-half mile below the gaging station. 

It is about 20 miles long, is fed by springs, and its flow is nearly uniform. Its water is used for irrigation.

The gaging station, which was established July 28, 1907, to determine the amount of water available for irrigation, is located near the 

Shaw & Elliott ranch, 5 miles southeast of Harlowton.

Kecords obtained are fair. The flow is affected by grass in the 

stream bed.

Discharge measurements of Lebo Creek near Harlowton, Mont., in 1906, 1907, and 1908.

Date.

1906.

1907. 

July 28. ........

October 31.....

1908.

June 23........

July 27. ........

Hydrographer.

.... .do. .............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do.................... ..........................

Width.

Feet.

10

10

10

10

10

8

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft.

9.5

12.6

9.7

8.0

14.4

10.0

4.2

3.4

Gage 

height.

Feet.

1.39

1.48

1.38

1.08

1 97

1.38

70

.74

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

a 11. 6

16.5

18 S

20.3

14.1

33.5

27.7

8.8

10.2

a Weir measurement.

NOTE. The above measurements, except that for November 11, 1906, were made by wading at various 

sections.

Daily gage height, in feet, of Lebo Creek near Harlowton, Mont., for 1907 and 1908.

[Samuel A. Shaw, observer.]

Day.

1907. 

1. .........

2..........

3..........

5..........

6.......... 

7. .........

8.. ........

9..........

10..........

11..........

12..........

13..........

14..........

15..........

July. Aug.

1.6

1.5

1.4

1.35

1.3 

1.2

1.1

1.2

2.0

2.6

1.6

1.75

1.6

1.6

Sept.

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5 

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.6

1.7

1.6

1.6

Oct.

1.5

1.5

1.6

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.4

1.4

Nov.

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4 

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1 4

1.4

Dec.

1.35

1.35

1.35

1.35

1.35

1.35 

1.35

1.35

Day.

1907. 

16..........

18..........

19..........

20..........

21 .......... 

22..........

23 ..........

24..........

25..........

26..........

27..........

28..........

29..........

30..........

31 ..........

July.

1.4

1.35

2.25

1.85

Aug.

1.6

1.5

1.45

1.4

1.35 

1.3

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.5

Sept.

1.55

1.5

1.55

1.55

1.5

1.5 

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.55

1.55

Oct.

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.35

1.35 

1.35

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

Nov.

1.4

1.45

1.45

1.4

1.4 

1.35

1.35

1.35

1.35

1.35

1.35

1.35

1.35

1.35

Dec.

::::::
104 STJBFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Daily gage height, in feet, of Lebo Creek near Harlowton, Mont., for 1907 and 1908 

Continued.

Day.

1908. 

1....................................

2....................................

3....................................

4................... .................

5....................................

6....................................

7....................................

8....................................

9....................................

10....................................

11......... ..........................

12 .... .......

13....................................

14.................. ............... .

15....................................

16....................................

17....................................

18....................................

19....................................

20....................................

21....................................

22....................................

23 ....................................

24....................................

25. ...................................

26....................................

27....................................

28....................................

29....................................

30....................................

31 ....................................

Apr.

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

.95

1.0

1.05

1.1

1.0

May.

0.95

.95

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

.90

.90

.90

1.05

1.1

1.0

.95

.95

.95

.95

.95

.95

.95

1.0

1.0

.80

.80

.75

.75

.80

1.8

1.38

1 9

5.3

June.

3.18

2.35

2.1

2.4

2.05

1.8

1.7

1.75

1.75

1.7

1.6

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.45

1.4

1.5

1.5

1.4

1.5

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.3

1.3

1.2

1.2

1.1

1.1

1.0

July.

0.90

.80

.80

.90

.90

.90

.80

.80

.80

.80

.90

.95

.90

.90

.80

.80

.80

.80

.80

.80

.80

.80

.80

.80

.80

.75

.75

.75

.70

.60

.40

Aug.

0.30

.30

.30

.30

.30

.30

.30

.30

.30

.30

.30

.70

.60

.70

.80

.70

.80

.80

.80

.75

.75

.75

.80

.80

.80

.75

.75

.70

.70

.70

.75

Sept.

0.70

.70

.70

.70

.70

.70

.70

.70

.70

.70

.70

.70

.70

.70

.70

.70

.70

.70

.70

.70

.70

.70

.70

.70

.70

.70

.70

.70

.70

.70

Oct.

0.70

.70

.70

.80

1.0

1.0

1.0

.90

.85

.85

.85

.85

.85

.85

.80

.80

.80

.80

.80

.80

.80

.80

1.0

1.5

1.75

1.75

1.5

1.25

1.25

1.25

1.3

Nov.

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

NOTE. Ice conditions December 9-31, 1907; November 13-December 31, 1908.

MILK RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 

DESCRIPTION.

Milk River is formed in the southern part of the Canadian Province 

of Alberta by the union of two streams, the North Fork and the South 

Fork, that rise in the undulating foothills of the Rocky Mountains in 

northeastern Montana, near the international boundary line. For 

about 100 miles from this junction the Milk flows eastward parallel to 

and on the northeastern side of the boundary; it then turns to the 

southeast, passes across the northern part of Montana, and discharges 

into the Missouri east of Glasgow.

The tributaries of Milk River, except Clear Creek near Yantic and 

North Fork at Chinook, are for the most part intermittent streams, 

but the drainage ways that carry them contain local water pockets 

which are used as watering places for stock.

From the point at which it leaves Canada and enters Montana to 

Yantic, 10 miles east of Havre, the Milk is bounded on both sides by 

high cliffs that rise 200 feet or more above the stream. At Yantic the 

cliffs recede and become less abrupt and the valley spreads out, and it
MILK RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 105

maintains a width from 3 to 4 miles to its lower end, where it narrows 

to a mile near Hinsdale. This wider part of the valley was probably 

the preglacial channel of this Missouri before it was turned aside by 

the ice sheet and forced to seek a new outlet eastward along the 

southern face of the glacier.

From the top of the cliffs the country has a rolling aspect, exhibiting no abrupt changes except where tributaries to the main river have 

eroded deep channels in passing from higher or bench lands to the 

valley. The general slope of the country is toward the east.

A deposit of glacial drift, varying from a layer so thin as to be unnoticeable to a bed 70 feet thick, covers the greater part of the drainage basin except along the streams, and many small ponds that dry 

up in summer time are scattered over the area. Most of these ponds 

occupy shallow depressions with no outlet, and their waters as a rule 

contain salts leached from the soil, and are therefore alkaline. Highly 

alkaline water was also obtained by a number of wells that have been 

sunk in the vicinity of Havre and Chinook.

The entire drainage basin lies within the plains section and is treeless except for a few willows and cottonwoods along the stream.

The mean annual rainfall, which is about 14 inches at Havre, is 19 

inches at the extreme western edge of the basin. As a rule most of 

this rainfall occurs during the months of May and June. As might 

be expected in this northern latitude, the streams and lakes are icebound from the last part of November-to the first of April.

As the rainfall is so scanty, irrigation is necessary for successful 

cultivation of crops. The United States Reclamation Service has 

begun construction on an irrigation project that will store the flood 

water of Milk River, reinforce the discharge by water from St. Mary 

River, and ultimately reclaim 250,000 acres of land in the lower valley.

Reservoirs for the storage of flood waters are possible at a number 

of places in the basin, as at Chain Lakes, 30 miles northwest of Havre, 

and Mud Lake, in Tps. 31 and 32 N., Rs. 31 and 32 E., and at Lake 

Bowdoin and Lonesome Lake.

Natural power opportunities are wholly lacking in this basin, for 

the fall of none of the streams is large, and Milk River itself is apt to 

cease to flow in the late summer and autumn.

The longest run-off record extends back to 1898. The wettest 

year since that time was 1899 and the driest was 1905. The total 

flow of the river in the driest year was only one-thirtieth of that of 

the wettest.
106 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

The following gaging stations have been maintained in this river 

basin:

South Fork of Milk River near Browning, Mont., 1905-1908.

Milk River at Havre, Mont., 1898-1908.

Milk River at Chinook, Mont., 1897.

Milk River at Malta, Mont., 1902-1908.

Milk River, at Hinsdale, Mont., 1908.

West Fork of Milk River at Chinook, Mont., 1906-1908.

North Fork of Milk River near Chinook, Mont., 1906-1908.

Beaver Creek near Ashfield, Mont., 1903-1906 and 19C8.

Rock Creek near Hinsdale, Mont., 1905-7.

Porcupine Creek near Nashua, Mont., 1908.

SOUTH FORK OF MILK RIVER NEAR BROWNING, MONT.

This station, which is located at Richard Croff's ranch, about 40 

miles northeast of Browning, Mont., and about 6 miles south of the 

Canadian boundary line, was established April 28, 1905, to obtain 

data for use in connection with irrigation projects in Milk River 

valley.

No storage is used above this station. A number of small ditches 

divert water to irrigate meadow lands in the river bottom, a considerable amount of this water returning to the stream as seepage and 

waste water.

The river overflows its banks at a gage height of 12 feet. During 

the high water of June, 1908, the gage was washed out and was not 

replaced until July 31, 1908. From high-water marks the stage was 

found to be 15.4 feet. The flood width was 850 feet and the flood 

cross section about 2,600 square feet.

On July 31 a new gage and cable were put in at their original locations. The datum of the gage remains the same.

The results are excellent except during the winter months, when 

they are affected by ice.

Discharge measurements of South Fork of Milk River near Browning, Mont., for 1907

and 1908.

Date.

1907. 

May 17.........

1908. 

July 31 a.......

Hydrographer.

J. E. Stewart. ......................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

Width.

Feet. 

58

57

42

46

28

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

157

170

42.6

63.3

43.1

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

5.29

3.66

3.13

2.90

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

442

546

50.0

71.2

41.0

 Made by wading.
MILK EIVEE DBAINAGE BASIN. 107

Daily gage height, in feet, of South Fork of Milk River near Browning, Mont., for 1907

and 1908.

[R. J. Croft, observer.]

Day.

1907. 

1....................................

2....................................

3....................................

4.................................... "I::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

7....................................

8....................................

g

10....................................

11..... ..............................

12....................................

13....................................

14....................................

15....................................

16....................................

17....................................

18....................................

19....................................

20....................................

21....................................

22....................................

23....................................

24....................................

25....................................

26....................................

27....................................

28....................................

29....................................

30....................................

31....................................

1908. 

1....................................

2....................................

3....................................

4....................................

6................... .................

7....................................

8....................................

9....................................

10....................................

12..............................:.....

13....................................

14....................................

16....................................

17....................................

18....................................

19....................................

20....................................

21....................................

22....................................

23....................................

24....................................

25....................................

26....................................

27....................................

28....................................

29....................................

30....................................

31....................................

Apr.

........

5.05

4.95

4.85

4.75

4.68

4.72

4.70

4.55

4.40

4.32

4.20

4.10

4.32

4.30

4.50

4.32

4.20

4.18

4.05

3.75

4.02

4.28

6.05

5.88

6.05

6.10

5.85

5.72

5.80

5.82

5.72

5.62

5.60

5.52

5.48

5.95

4.88

4.80

4.62

4.58

4.50

4.42

4.30

5.22

4.15

4.00

4.22

4.22

4.15

May.

4.28

4.28

4.35

4.42

4.42

4.50

4.52

5.08

5.88

5.28

5.22

5.32

4.82

4.60

4.72

5.00

5.38

5.25

4.98

4.95

4.92

4.78

4.72

4.75

4.62

4.52

4.45

4.50

4.70

4.68

4.70

4.10

4.15

4.12

4.18

4.32

4.12

4.15

4.18

4.25

4.75

4.95

5.10

5.65

5.60

4.65

4.45

4.35

4.50

4.45

4.50

4.40

4.35

4.45

5.30

5.65

4.90

4.75

5.35

June.

4.65

4.80

4.75

4.72

4.60

4.52

4.88

5.60

5.25

4.75

4.62

4.60

4.62

4.55

4.42

4.52

4.50

4.38

4.30

4.30

4.42

7.90

8.45

6.32

5.35

4.98

4.90

4.82

4 68

4.60

7.55

7.40

5.90

8.55

10.45

(«)

July.

4.62

4.52

4.48

4.48

4.42

4.35

4.28

4.25

4.32

4.30

4.25

4.22

4.20

4.25

4.30

4.42

4.35

4.25

4.18

4.12

4.10

4.18

4.12

4.05

3.98

3.92

3.88

3.90

3.78

3.72

3.75

*

Aug.

3.70

3.72

3.80

3.75

3.72

3.70

3.75

3.75

3.75

3.75

3.70

3.70

3.75

3.70

3.78

3.75

3.70

3.65

3.62

3.65

3.62

3.60

3.62

3.55

3.52

3.58

3.65

3.78

3.80

3.82

3.92

3.20

3.20

3.20

3.20

3.20

3.20

3.20

3.20

3.20

3.20

3.20

3.20

3.20

3.20

3.20

3.20

3.10

3.10

3.10

3.10

3.10

3.10

3.10

3.10

3.10

3.10

3.10

3.10

3.05

2.90

2.90

Sept.

3.90

3.78

3.72

3.68

3.65

3.62

3.75

3.62

3.65

3.65

3.82

3.88

3.92

3.98

4.05

4.25

4.75

4.68

4.22

4.22

4.15

4.05

3.88

3.82

3.85

3.80

3.82

3.78

3.80

3.72

2.90

2.90

2.90

2.90

2.80

2.80

2.80

2.80

2.80

2.80

2.75

2.70

2.70

2.70

2.70

2.70

2.80

2.90

3.05

3.00

2.90

2.80

2.90

3.00

2.90

3.00

3.40

3.70

3.50

Oct.

3.80

3.75

3.75

3.75

3.70

3.78

3.80

3.75

3.78

3.70

3.70

3.70

3.70

3.65

3.65

3.65

3.65

3.65

3.65

3.65

3.65

3.65

3.65

3.65

3.65

3.65

3.65

3.65

3.65

3.40

3.40

3.30

3.30

3.55

3.70

3.60

3.60

3.50

3.30

3.10

3.00

3.10

3.10

3.10

3.10

3.00

2.90

2.90

2.90

3.00

3.00

3.00

3.00

3.10

3.15

3.20

3.30

Nov.

3.65

3.65

3.65

3.65

3.65

3.65

3.65

3

CC

3.65

3.55

3.42

3.42

3.65

3.65

3.45

3.45

3.65

3.65

3.65

3.45

3.50

3.40

3.40

3.40

3.40

3.30

3.20

3 on

S in

3.20

3.20

3.20

3.30

3.50

3.50

3.50

3.50

3

CA

3.50

3

CA

3.30

3.30

3.30

a Gage washed out June 6,1908. Maximum high-water gage height for June 6,1908, as determined from 

high-water marks was 15.4 feet.

NOTE. Ice conditions November 24 toDecember31,1907, and December, 1908.
108 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8. 

Rating tables for South Fork of Milk River near Browning, Mont.

JANUARY 1, 1907, TO JUNE 5, 1908.

Gage 

height.

Feet.

3.40

3.50

3.60

3.70

3.80

3.90

4.00

4.10

4.20

4.30

4.40

4.50

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

20

28

40

53

68

85

104

125

147

170

194

219

Gage 

height.

Feet.

4.60

4.70

4.80

4.90

5.00

5.10

5.20

5.30

5.40

5.50

5.60

5.70

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

245

272

299

327

355

384

413

443

473

503

534

565

Gage 

height.

Feet.

5.80

5.90

6.00

6.10

6.20

6.30

6.40

6.50

6.60

6.70

6.80

6.90

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

597

629

662

695

728

762

796

831

866

901

937

973

Gage 

height.

Feet.

7.00

7.20

7.40

7.60

7.80

8.00

8.20

8.40

8.60

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

1,010

1,090

1,175

1,265

1,360

1,460

1,560

1,665

1,775

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on six 

discharge measurements made during 1906-7. It is well defined between gage heights 3.2 feet and 6.0 feet.

JULY 31,1908, TO NOVEMBER 30,1908.

2.70

2.80

2.90

25

32

41

3.00

3.10

3.20

52

65

80

3.30

3.40

3.50

96

113

1»2

3.60

3.70

153

176

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on three 

discharge measurements made during the above period and is fairly well defined.

Monthly discharge of South Fork of Milk River near Browning, Mont., for 1907 and 1908.

[Drainage area 283 square miles.]

Month.

1907. 

April 9-30......................

May............................

July............................

1908. 

April........................... jiay....... .....................

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

370 

623 

1,690 

250 

89 

286 

68 

46

695 

565 

80 

176 

176 

132

Minimum.

60 

165 

170 

56 

30 

43 

46 

22

104 

125 

41 

25 

41 

65

Mean.

67.0 

301 

378 

148 

54.6 

93.9 

51.8 

40.8

402 

267 

71.0 

47.1 

84.5 

103

Per 

square 

mile.

0.272 

1.06 

1.34 

.523 

.193 

.332 

,183 

.144

1.42 

.943 

.251 

.166 

.299 

.364

Run-off.

Depth in 

inches on 

drainage 

area.

0.22 

1.22 

1.50 

.60 

.22 

.37 

.21 

.12

1.58 

1.09 

.29 

.19 

.34 

.41

Total in 

acre-feet.

2,920 

18,500 

22,500 

9,100 

3,360 

5,590 

3,190 

1,860

67,000

23,900 

16,400 

4, 370 

2,800 

5,200 

6,130

58,800

Accuracy.-

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A.

A. 

A. 

A. 

B. 

A. 

B.

MILK RIVER AT HAVRE, MONT.

This station, which is located at the highway bridge over Milk 

River at Havre, Mont., was established May 15, 1898, to obtain 

data for use in connection with a storage project for irrigation in
MILK RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 109

Milk River valley. The nearest important tributaries enter about 

20 miles east of the station.

The drainage area above Havre is about 7,300 miles, but the 

entire run-off from this area does not pass Havre, as an elaborate 

canal system in southern Alberta is supplied by Milk River. The 

theoretical discharge of the main canal of this system is about 330 

second-feet of the low-water flow and 1,500 second-feet of the highwater discharge. As the system has hot been wholly in operation 

the full effect of the diversions on the flow of Milk River has not yet 

been felt at Havre.

There are no other important irrigation rights above Havre, but 

farther downstream are five large canal systems supplied directly 

from Milk River and irrigating about 22,000 acres. The water 

rights of these various systems have not yet been adjudicated although 

preliminary steps have been taken. A suit in behalf of the Fort 

Belknap Indians was decided in their favor, with the result that they 

were given a prior right over the other canals to 125 second-feet, 

the priority of the other rights not being touched upon. Although 

no provision for storage has been made by the above claimants, the 

entire unappropriated flow of the stream has been filed upon by the 

United States Reclamation Service in connection with its Milk 

River irrigation project, which is now under construction.

The gage datum has not been changed since the station was established. From the last part of November to the first part of April 

the river at Havre is frozen entirely over and in portions of the cross 

sections it is usually frozen to the bottom.

Frequent discharge measurements are necessary at this station, 

and even with these the estimates are subject to considerable error. 

This characteristic is true of the entire river. In dry years the flow 

ceases entirely and the water stands in pools for several months.

Discharge measurements of Milk River at Havre, Mont., in 1907 and 1908.

Date.

1907.

Do.........

Aprils.........

Do.........

April 12........

April 19........

April 25........

May 23. ........ 

May 27. ........

May 31.........

June 26.........

July 15. ........ 

Julv 19. ........

Hydrographer.

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.... .do. .............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

J. B . Pierson ....................................... 

.....do..............................................

.....do. .............................................

.....do......... .....................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

J. B . Pierson ....................................... 

.....do..............................................

Width.

Feet.

121

178

173

168

160

124

126

123

138

145

118 

136

132

137

161

169

160

142 

114

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft.

415

1,270

1,130

1,150

432

268

236

209

271

354

315

286

255

313

1,030

429

229 

174

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

5.75

5.93

9.72

9.35

9.04

6.30

5.16

4.60

4.27

4.98

5.13

4.94 

4.79

4.53

4.75

6.00

8.29

5.75

4.45 

4.18

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

993

1,170

3,520

3,100

2,910

1,300

622

356

300

601

765

650 

487

437

554

1,260

2,860

1,270

404 

280
110 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Discharge measurements of Milk River at Havre, Mont., in 1907 and 1908 Continued.

Date.

1907.

1908.

Do.........

May 22.........

October 27 «...

Hydrographer.

.... .do. .............................................

.... .do. .............................................

.....do..............................................

.... .do. .............................................

A. F. Huch. ........................................

.... .do. .............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do...................................... ........

.... .do. .............................................

.....do..............................................

Width.

Feet. 

105

40

95

112

90

105

119

104

106

149

137

70

63

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

Ill

48.5

43.7

68

148

75

176

188

257

293

324

111

90.5

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

3.57

3.19

3.07

3.44

3.93

3.32

4.35

4.39

4.70

5.11

5.10

4.01

3.97

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

128

57

42

92

197

67

260

348

478

571

840

204

144

a Made by wading.

Daily gage height, in feet, of Milk River at Havre, Mont., for 1907 and 1908. 

[L. H. Ling, observer.]

Day.

1907. 

1. .....................

0

|-- --- ---- - 

3--- - 

5......................

6......................

8......................

9......................

10......................

11......................

12......................

13......................

14......................

15......................

16......................

17......................

18......................

19......................

20......................

21 ......................

22.. ...................

23......................

24......................

25......................

26......................

27......................

28......................

29......................

30......................

31......................

1908. 

1......................

2......................

3......................

4......................

5......................

6......................

7......................

8......................

9......................

10......................

Feb.

.......

3.8

4.9

4.5

4.4

8.0

7.5

7.7

7.5

7.5

7.2

7.3

7.2

7 ^

7.2

7.3

Mar.

5.4

5.4

5.5

6.6

7.8

10.1

8.5

6.2

6.0

5.4

5.9

5.6

4.1

4.1

4.2

Apr.

5.55

5.8

7.4

8.35

9.93

8.94

8.2

7.7

8.3

7.7

7.7

6.3

6.7

6.6

5.9

5.5

5.4

5.2

5.0

4.9

4.7

4.5

4.5

4.6

4.5

4.4

4.3

4.3

4.6

4.1

4.3

4.7

4.9

4.7

4.5

4.9

4.7

May.

4.3

4.3

4.3

4.2

4.1

4.1

4.2

4.3

4.4

4.6

4.2

4.2

5.3

4.9

4.9

4.9

4.7

4.7

4.5

5.0

5.1

4.9

4.9

4.95

4.9

4.8

4.7

4.5

4.6

4.5

4.2

4.2

4.1

4.05

4.0

4.0

3.9

3.9

3.9

3.9

June.

4.5

4.4

4.4

4.35

4.4

4.4

4 4

4.5

4.7

4.6

4.5

4.4

4.4

4.4

4.7

4.7

4.4

4.4

4.4

4.3

4.2

4.2

9.9

6.4

6.7

8.9

6.85

6.0

5.8

5.8

5.6

5.0

5.0

7.4

8.0

7.4

10.6

12.45

al4.80

13.5

July.

5.4

5.0

4.9

4.8

4.7

4.7

4 6

4.6

4.6

4.6

4.6

4.5

4.5

4.5

4 4

4.65

4.4

4.2

4.2

4.1

4.1

4.0

4.3

4.1

4.0

3.9

3.8

3.8

3.7

3.7

3.6

5.1

5.1

5.1

5.0

4.98

4.93

4.9

4.8

4.8

4.8

Aug.

3.5

3.5

3.4

3.5

3.4

3.3

3.4

3.4

3.2

3.3

3.2

3.1

3.2

3.2

3.1

3.1

3.0

3.1

3.0

3.1

3.1

3.1

3.05

3.05

3.05

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.1

3.15

4. 1

4.1

4.0

4.0

4.0

4.0

4.0

3.9

3.9

3.9

Sept.

3.1

3.1

3.1

3.2

3.25

3.0

3.35

3.35

3.35

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.5

3.65

3.8

3.9

3.8

3.75

3.7

3.6

3.5

3.65

3.7

4.25

4.05

4.0

3.85

3.8

3.8

3.7

3.85

3.85

3.85

3.8

3.76

3.75

3.75

3.75

3.72

3.71

Oct.

3.7

3.65

3.6

3.45

3.5

3.35

3.4

3.35

3.45

3.35

3.4

3.35

3.4

3.35

3.3

3.35

3.3

3.25

3.25

3.25

3.25

3.25

3.25

3.25

3.25

3.25

3.2

3.2

3.2

3.2

3.2

3.95

4.0

4.1

4.2

4.3

4.35

4.3

4.3

4.2

4.2

Nov.

3.2

3.2

3.25

3.25

3.25

3.25

3.25

3.3

3.3

3.1

3.15

3.15

3.15

3.2

3.2

3. 15

3.15

3.15

3.25

3.35

3.45

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

4.5

4.45

4.45

4.46

4.7

4.65

4.6

4.5

4.4

4.2

Dec.

3.4

3.45

3.45

a Maximum gage height June 9, 1908, was 16.5 feet.
MILK RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. Ill 

Daily gage height, in feet, of Milk River at Havre, Mont., for 1907 and 1908 Continued.

Day.

1908. 

11......................

12......................

13... .......... .........

14......................

15......................

16......................

17......................

18......................

19......................

20......................

21......................

22......................

23......................

24......................

25......................

26......................

27......................

28......................

29......................

30......................

31......................

Feb. Mar.

4.2

4.2

4.4

4.4

4.4

4.1

4.2

4.2

4.15

4.05

4.2

4.1

4.4

4.0

3.9

4.2

Apr.

4.5

4.4

4.3

4.2

4.1

4.1

4.2

4.2

4.1

4.0

4.2

4.2

4.2

4.1

4.1

4.1

4.5

4.3

4.2

4.2

May.

3.9

3.9

3.95

4.0

4.0

4.1

4.5

4.5

5.1

4.95

4.8

4.75

4.5

4.45

4.45

4.45

4.4

4.4

4.4

4.45

5.45

June.

9.45

7.9

7.2

6.9

6.6

6.4

6.4

6.2

5.9

5.7

5.6

5.5

5.5

5.45

5.4

5.2

5.2

5.1

5.1

5.1

July.

4.8

4.78

4.7

4.6

4.5

4.4

4.4

4.4

4.4

4.8

4.7

4.6

4.6

4.5

4.5

4.4

4.38

4.2

4.18

4.2

4.2

Aug.

3.8

3.8

3.9

3.9

3.9

3.9

3.95

3.8

3.8

3.9

3.9

3.9

3.9

3.9

3.9

3.8

3.8

3.8

3.8

3.8

3.8

Sept.

3.7

3.7

3.7

3.69

3.68

3.68

3.68

3.75

3.75

3.75

3.68

3.6

3.62

3.7

3.85

3.85

3.85

3.9

3.9

Oct.

4.2

4.2

4.25

4.35

4.3

4.0

3.95

3.9

3.9

3 Q

3.85

3.82 ? 7";

3.65

3.65

3.9

4.2

4.2

4.2

4.5

Nov.

4.0

4.0

3.9

3.9

3.9

3 Q

4.9

4.5

4.4

4.0

Dec.

NOTE. Ice conditions: River frozen to the bottom (no flow) January 1-February 9, 1907. River open 

February 10-22; frozen from February 23-March 23, and December, 1907-March 13,1908, November 13-16 

and November 25-December 31, 1908.

Daily discharge, in second-feet, of Milk River at Havre, Mont., for 1907 and 1908.

Day.

1907. 

1. ..........................

3...........................

5...........................

8...........................

g

10...........................

11 ...........................

13...........................

14... ........................

15...........................

17...........................

18...........................

19

20...........................

22...........................

23...........................

25...........................

26...........................

29...........................

30...........................

31 ...........................

1908. 

1....... ....................

2...........................

3... ........................

4. ..........................

5...........................

Mar.

........

1,540

2,300

1,660

3,750

2,750

1,160

800

1,100

940

Apr.

910

1,100

2,040

2,650

3,500

2,850

2,400

2,120

2,520

2,160

1,300

1,560

1,490

1,040

810

760

650

550

490

400

330

330

360

330

300

310

275

390

208

254

375

May.

300

300

310

280

255

255

280

315

350

430

280

280

760

560

510

580

590

510

520

440

710

740

640

620

560

500

460

390

445

420

290

290

242

230

June.

430

390

390

390

390

390

430

512

430

390

QQ/1

390

v>n

400

400

360

325

325

3,720

1,510

3,160

1,580

1,400

1,270

1,250

1,000

660

660

2,150

2,580

July.

1 000

760

648

638

580

565

520

505

505

490

490

440

440

430

387

480

370

290

287

250

250

225

310

250

225

200

172

172

150

150

130

810

810

810

750

740

Aug.

110

110

90

90

72

90

90

60

72

60

50

60

60

50

50

40

50

40

50

50

50

45

45

40

40

40

50

55

230

230

205

205

205

Sept.

Kf\

50

50

60

66

40

81

Q1

81

90

90

90

110

135

168

192

168

155

145

130

110

135

145

288

230

218

180

168

145

150

1 KA

150

140

130

Oct.

145

130

100

105

80

90

80

100

Ort

90

80

on

80

75

80

75

68

68

68

68

68

68

68

68

68

62

62

62

62

62

155

165

190

215

242

Nov.

62

68

68

68

68

68

75

75

KA

55

55

62

62

CC

55

55

68

80

100

90

90

90

on

90

90

90

QA

90

285

270

270

272

350
112 SUKFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Daily discharge, in second-feet, of Milk River at Havre, Mont., for 1907 and 1908 Con.

Day.

1908. 

6...........................

8...........................

9.....--..-...--.-.--...-...

10.........---..-.-....--....

11...........................

13...........................

14...........................

15...........................

16...........................

17. ..........................

IS..--..-....---..........-..

19

20...--.......-.....--...-...

21...........................

22...........................

23...........................

24...........................

25...........................

26......---.........-.--.....

27...........................

28...........................

29...........................

Ofl

31 ...........................

Mar.

208

208

228

228

228

208

280

190

170

Apr.

450

375

335

485

408

335

320

285

255

230

235

2fi5

265

220

280

280

280

250

250

250

390

320

290

May.

230

205

205

205

205

205

205

215

230

9^(1

250

395

395

585

515

490

395

380

350

350

320

320

310

325

760

June.

2,150

4,720

6,500

9,600

7,600

3,700

2,500

2,020

1,850

1,660

1,540

1,540

1,430

1,260

1,160

1,110

1,050

1,050

1,020

1,000

840

840

820

820

820

July.

700

685

630

630

630

610

600

565

515

470

410

410

410

410

585

510

465

465

430

430

350

290

280

290

290

Aug.

205

205

188

188

188

155

155

188

188

188

188

192

155

155

188

188

165

165

165

140

140

140

140

140

Sept.

130

125

125

120

118

115

115

115

112

110

110

110

110

125

125

125

110

90

95

108

135

135

145

145

Oct.

260

240

240

200

200

200

200

210

240

225

155

145

135

135

125

120

110

90

90

90

135

200

200

200

285

Nov.

330

315

285

200

135

135

1 ^

135

135

135

135

NOTE. These discharges were obtained by the indirect method for shifting channels.

Monthly discharge of Milk River at Havre, Mont., for 1907 and 1908.

Month.

1907.

July....---.----...-...--.....-..-....-.....----.....-.....

1908.

April ......................................................

May.......................................................

July. ......................................................

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

3,750 

3,500 

760 

3,720 

1,000 

110 

288 

145 

100

3,750

280 

485 

760 

9,600 

810 

230 

150 

285 

350

Minimum.

275 

255 

325 

130 

40 

40 

62 

50

170 

208 

205 

660 

280 

140 

90 

90 

135

Mean.

800 

845 

1,210 

458 

822 

397 

61.6 

127 

81.8 

72.5 

60

411

212 

295 

330 

2,190 

527 

177 

124 

178 

186

Run-ofl 

(total in 

acre-feet).

44,400 

52,000 

72,000 

28, 200 

48,900 

24, 400 

3,790 

7,560 

5,030 

4,310 

3,690

294, 000

13,000 

17,600 

20,300 

130,000 

32,400 

10,900 

7,380 

10,900 

11,100

254,000

NOTE. Discharge estimated for ice periods in February, March, and December, 1907, and March and 

November, 1908; also for April 1 and 2, 1908.

Owing to the shifting character of the stream bed, these estimates of monthly flow are only roughly 

approximate.
MILK RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 113

MILK RIVER AT MALTA, MONT.

This station, which is located at the highway bridge at Malta, 

Mont., was established July 31, 1902, to obtain data for irrigation 

projects in Milk River valley. The nearest tributaries above the 

station are West and North forks of Milk River, which enter about 60 

miles west of Malta.

The drainage area above is about 14,000 square miles, but the 

entire run-off does not pass this station, for between Havre and 

Malta seven irrigation canals, which irrigate about 25,000 acres of 

land, divert water from Milk River and its tributaries. The United 

States Reclamation Service has under construction a diversion dam 

at Dodson, about 17 miles above the station, which diverts water 

for the irrigation of about 108,000 acres of land in Milk River valley 

east of Malta. There are two canals, one on each side, with a total 

discharge of 1,000 second-feet.

The gage datum has not been changed since the station was established. From November until April the gage heights are affected 

by ice, so that estimates of run-off are only approximate.

Discharge measurements of Milk River at Malta, Mont., for 1907 and 1908.

Date.

1907.

April 7 b .......

May 2. .........

May 17.........

1908.

May 8. .........

May 11.........

May 28 d .......

June 26 ........

July 9. .........

Hydrographer.

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

A. F. Huch. .......................................

.....do..............................................

A. F. Huch. .......................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do............................................ .

.....do..............................................

Width.

Feet. 

164

203

203

169

164

121

118

133

116

104

85

78

57

79

90

80

75

73

81

142

125

87

75

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

1,330

3,000

2,860

1,490

1,310

380

348

451

343

251

138

86

42

91

108

78

72.5

105

490

347

161

133

120

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

10.86

19.11

18.85

11.26

9.99

4.38

4.17

4.90

4.09

2.20

1.54

1.71

1.75

1 49

1.40

2.20

3.72

9 9,7

1.72

1.55

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

10,200

5,870

5,050

1,530

1,490

2,000

1,420

283

82

68

100

2,100

1,320

qi T

113

117

; River gorged with ice. & 

31260 IRR 246 10 8

Floating ice. Made by wading. d Rejected.
114 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Daily gage height, in feet, of Milk River at Malta, Mont., for 1907 and 1908. 

[M. J. Larson, observer.]

Day.

1907.

"i. ..................

5........ ...........

6. ..................

g

10....... ............

11...................

12...................

10

14.......--..-...-.--

15....... ........... -

16... ................

17...................

18.-.-.-...-..-..----

19

20.-..-..........----

21.. ........... ------

23...................

24...................

26...-...----...---..

27..-.--.......-...--

28. ..................

01

1908. 

1... ................

"i. ..................

3... ................

5...................

6...................

1. ......... .........

8... ................

9...................

10...................

11...................

12...................

13...................

14...................

15........... ........

16...................

17...................

18...................

19...................

20. ..................

21...................

22...................

23...................

24...................

25...................

26...................

27. ..................

28

29...................

30...................

31...................

Mar.

13.45

12.00

21.35

Apr.

19.88

19.45

10.85

14.40

17.95

19.45

19.30

18.82

19.02

19.75

19.48

18.65

17.28

14.10

11.55

11.20

11.80

11.32

9

Qt

7.50

8.75

9.45

7.62

2.68

2.82

3.08

2.90

2.75

2.62

2.50

2.38

2.12

2.02

1.92

2.35

1.95

1.78

1.62

1.65

1.58

1.50

1.55

1.50

May.

4.50

4.40

4.15

3.80

3.45

3.22

3.50

3.92

3.90

3.85

3.82

3.75

3.80

3.95

4.10

4.20

4.10

0 QC

3.90

3.88

3.82

3.90

A on

A CO

1.50

1.48

1 v^

1.50

1.50

1.45

1 °.n

1.28

1.25

1.18

1.12

1.10

1.45

2.10

2.25

2.40

2.15

1.98

2.20

2.00

2.45

2.50

June.

3.50

3.55

3.50

3.42

3.35

3.28

3.20

3.15

3.10

3.00

3.05

3.00

3.10

3.25

3.30

3.78

4 30

4.10

3.78

3.45

5 HA

8.08

11.18

S

on

7 °.n

6.48

2.50

2

AA

2.85

4.15

A £C

6.42

8

9C

9 68

10.95

11.32

6.85

6.60

6.28

6.05

5.75

r i c

4.20

3.65

3 45J

3.25

July.

5.60

5.05

4.78

4.55

4.20

3.92

3.80

3.68

3.52

3.38

3.35

3.30

3.18

3.05

3.12

3.22

3.08

2

QA

2.85

2.75

2.68

2.60

2 CO

2.50

2.45

2

0C

2.28

9 1 5.

3.22

3 1 ^

2.88

2

7C

2.68

2.60

9 \\

2.18

2.00

1 QS

1 98

1.92

1.90

2.10

2.00

2.02

2.08

2.05

2.02

2.02

Aug.

1.90

1.95

1.92

1.90

1.80

1.72

1.72

1.78

1.70

1.68

1.65

1.62

1.58

1.50

1.45

1.58

1.52

1.45

1 40

1 40

1.38

1 oe

1 °.^

1 4^

2.50

1.92

1.82

1.70

1.55

1.70

1.72

1.75

1.72

1.72

1.70

1.72

1.70

1.70

1.70

1.68

1.62

1.55

1 V>

1.60

1.62

1.75

1.78

1.80

1.72

1.75

1 7H

1.70

1.72

1.70

Sept.

2.35

1.85

1.70

1.55

1.50

1.48

1.42

1.40

1.35

1.48

1.55

1.60

1.70

1.72

1.78

1.80

1.75

1.80

1.85

1.90

1 80

1.75

1.82

1 Ort

2.02

1.75

1.78

1.75

1.70

1.68

1.68

1.70

1.70

1.68

1.65

1.60

1.55

1.50

1.50

1.50

1.50

1.52

1.50

1.50

1.48

1.50

1.55

1.65

1.70

1.62

1.60

1.58

Oct.

2.05

2.00

1.95

1.85

1.82

1.80

1.78

1.75

1.75

1.72

1.72

1.70

1.70

1.70

1.68

1.70

1.70

1.68

1.65

1.68

1.70

1.72

1.55

1.50

1.58

1.55

1.60

1.65

1.72

1.72

1.80

1.85

1.90

1.95

1.92

1.95

1.98

1.98

2.00

2.10

2.05

2.00

2.02

2.00

1.95

1.92

1.90

1.88

1.85

1.88

Nov.

1.72

1.75

1.78

1.80

1.80

1.70

1.65

1.60

1.58

1.58

1.52

1.52

1.50

1.50

1.50

1.48

1.48

1.45

1.90

1.95

2.00

2.05

2.10

2.12

2.20

2.22

2.20

2.18

2.15

2.18

2.18

2.18

2.15

2.15

2.12

2.12

2.22

2.35

2.38

2.55

2.22

1.88

1.85

Dec.

1.85

1.90

1.98

1.90

1.80

1.62

1.48

1.40

1.70

1.75

1.82

2.00

1.92

2.10

o Maximum gage height June 13 was 12.25 feet.

NOTE. Ice conditions January 1-April 4 (approximately) 1907 and during December, 1907. Probable ice conditions January 1-April 7,1908. During December, 1908, the river was frozen over except at the 

riffle where the gage is located.
MILK RIVEK DEAINAGE BASIN. 115

Rating table for Milk River at Malta, Mont. 

FOR 1907.

Gage 

height.

Feet.

1.30

1.40

1.50

1.60

1.70

1.80

1.90

2.00

2.10

2.20

2.30

2.40

2.50

2.60

2.70

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

55

67

82

100

121

145

172

202

235

272

312

355

401

450

503

Gage 

height.

Feet.

2.80

2.90

3.00

3.10

3.20

3.30

3.40

3.50

3.60

3.70

3.80

3.90

4.00

4.20

4.40

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

559

618

680

743

806

869

932

995

1,058

1,121

1,184

1,247

1,310

1,436

1,562

Gage 

height.

Feet.

4.60

4.80

5.00

5.20

5.40

5.60

5.80

6.00

6.20

6.40

6.60

6.80

7.00

7.20

7.40

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

1,688

1,814

1,940

2,066

2,192

2,318

2,444

2,570

2,696

2,822

2,948

3,074

3,200

3,326

3,452

Gage 

height.

Feet.

7.60

7.80

8.00

9.00

10.00

11.00

12.00

13.00

14.00

15.00

16.00

17.00

18.00

19.00

20.00

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

3,578

3,704

3,830

4,460

5,090

5,720

6,350

6,980

7,610

8,240

8,870

9,500

10, 130

10,760

11,390

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on 13 

discharge measurements made during 1907, and is well denned.

FOR 1908.

[Indirect method for shifting channels used during 1908.] 

Daily discharge, in second-feet, of Milk River at Malta, Mont., for 1908.

Day.

j

2....................................

3....................................

4. ..... ...... .... ... . ......

6....................................

7....................................

8....................................

9....................................

10. ..................................

11....................................

12............... ......... . . . ....

13....................................

14....................................

15....................................

16. ...................................

17....................................

18....................................

19....................................

20....................................

21....................................

22....................................

23....................................

24........................... ........

25.............. ......................

26....................................

27....................................

28....................................

29....................................

30....................................

31....................................

Apr.

445

530

682

762

672

612

525

460

405

365

260

232

200

375

290

226

175

140

142

119

100

110

100

May.

98

93

90

90

87

84

82

79

74

67

65

55

55

53

49

44

42

39

36

34

74

172

235

292

355

253

196

272

202

382

410

June.

401

450

503

589

740

995

1,400

1,660

2,820

4,000

4,890

5,720

6,410

5,900

4,070

3,100

2,950

2,760

2,600

2,410

2 030

1,560

1,440

1,250

1,120

1,120

1,090

990

930

836

July.

899

834

751

626

531

477

430

348

295

290

260

244

212

188

188

182

182

165

165

160

165

202

218

202

188

196

212

210

202

196

196

Aug.

165

135

112

80

112

123

113

123

113

113

110

113

110

110

110

106

95

82

80

85

100

104

133

140

145

126

133

133

121

126

128

Sept.

140

150

140

130

127

127

130

130

127

125

116

104

94

94

98

94

94

98

94

104

100

104

114

124

137

149

130

130

124

119

Oct.

114

104

119

114

124

136

151

151

172

186

200

218

218

218

209

218

226

226

232

249

266

249

232

239

232

218

209

200

193

186

193

Nov.

200

218

232

249

266

275

310

315

312

310

300

300

290

300

300

300

290

290

290

282

275

275

315

345

380

392

470

315

193

186

NOTE. These discharges were obtained by the indirect method for shifting channels.
116 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Monthly discharge of Milk River at Malta, Mont., for 1907 and 1908.

Month.

1907. 

April. ...............................................

May.................................................

July.................................................

1908.

May.................................................

July.................................................

The period ....................................

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

11,200 

2,160 

5,830 

2,320 

401 

334 

218 

145

762 

410 

6,410 

899 

165 

150 

266 

470

Minimum.

1,990 

819 

680 

254 

61 

61 

110 

74

100 

34 

401 

160 

80 

94 

104 

186

Mean.

6,430 

1,390 

1,600 

883 

113 

132 

133 

102

354 

134 

2,220 

310 

115 

118 

194 

292

Run-off 

(total in 

acre-feet).

383,000 

85,500 

95,200 

54,300 

6,950 

7,860 

8,180 

' 6,070

647,000

21,100 

8,240 

132,000 

19,100 

7,070 

7,020 

11,900 

17, 400

224,000

Accuracy.

A. 

A. 

A. 

B. 

D. 

D. 

D. 

D.

C. 

C. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

C. 

C. 

D.

a Discharge for April 1-7 estimated. 

MILK RIVER AT HINSDALE, MONT.

This station, which is located at the highway bridge over Milk 

River, about 1 mile from Hinsdale, Mont., a point 46 miles from its 

junction with Missouri River, was established May 13, 1908, to obtain 

data for use in connection with irrigation projects in Milk River 

valley.

Three tributaries enter between Malta and Hinsdale: Beaver 

Creek from the south and Frenchman and Rock creeks from the north. 

These streams discharge large volumes of water during the rainy 

weather in the spring and summer, but they are low or even dry 

during the fall and winter months.

No diversions are made between Malta and Hinsdale. The United 

States Reclamation Service has appropriated the flow of the stream 

in connection with the Milk River project and will divert it at a point 

9 miles east of Hinsdale to irrigate land in lower Milk River valley.

From late in November until the 1st of April the stream is frozen 

entirely across and to a considerable depth. It is impracticable to 

keep gage records here during this period.

Discharge measurements of Milk River at Hinsdale, Mont., in 1908.

Date.

May 27 *>........

JulyS..........

Sent. 28«.......

Hydrographer.

A. F. Huch. .. . .....................................

.....do..............................................

.... .do. .............................................

.... -do. .............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do.. ............................................

Width.

Feet. 

99

85

134

127

123

95

64

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

156

278

994

961

776

138

100

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

1.98

c2.93

4.91

4.49

C3.08

2.11

1.70

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

118

367

1,620

1 973

472

163

72

0 Made by wading. 6 Made from boat. Gage height doubtful.
MILK RIVEB DBAINAGE BASIH. 117

Daily gage height, in feet, of Milk River at Hinsdale, Mont., for 1908. 

[M. F. Chester, observer.]

Day.

1....

2....

3....

4....

5....

6....

7....

8....

9-...

10....

11....

12....

13....

14....

15....

May.

2.00

1.95

1.95

June.

2.00

1.90

1.90

2.00

2.10

2.80

3.50

3.50

4.80

5.40

6.50

8.20

9.50

10.50

10.80

July.

3.80

3.60

3.50

3.40

3.30

3.20

3.10

3.00

3.00

2.90

2.80

2.50

2.50

2.50

2.50

Aug.

1.95

2.00

2.00

2.00

2.05

2.10

2.00

2.00

2.00

1.96

1.86

1.76

1.66

1.51

Sept.

2.26

1.96

1.96

1.91

1.86

1.76

1.81

1.86

1.76

1.76

1.76

1.76

1.66

1.56

1.56

Oct.

1.30

1.30

1.30

1.35

1.40

1.45

1.45-

1.45

1.50

1.50

1.55

1.60

1.65

1.80

Nov.

1.85

1.85

1.85

1.80

1.80

1.85

1 90

2.10

2.15

2.15

2.05

2.00

2.00

2.00

Day.

16....

17....

18....

19....

20....

21-...

23....

24....

25....

26....

27....

28....

29....

30-...

31....

May.

1.95

1.90

1.90

1.85

1.80

1.70

1.70

1.70

1.70

1.70

2.50

2.80

2.60

2.50

2.30

2.20

June.

9.30

7.50

6.50

5.70

5.60

5.20

4.80

4.60

4.50

4.30

4.20

4.10

4.00

3.90

July.

2.45

2.45

2.35

2.30

2.30

2.25

2.20

2.20

2.15

2.10

2.00

2.00

2.00

2.00

1.95

1.90

Aug.

1.51

1.71

1.96

2.01

1.96

1.86

1.76

1.96

2.11

2.11

2.16

1.96

1.91

1.76

1.76

1.36

Sept.

1.56

1.56

1.56

1.56

1.61

1.61

1.56

1.56

1.56

1.61

1.61

1.01

1.66

1.66

1.66

Oct.

1.80

1.80

1.80

1.80

1.80

1.80

1.90

1.90

1.85

1.80

1.80

1.80

1.80

1.80

Nov.

2.05

2.10

2.10

Rating table for Milk River at Hinsdale, Mont., for 1908.

Gage 

height.

Feet.

1.30

1.40

1.50

1.60

1.70

1.80

1.90

2.00

2.10

2.20

2.30

2.40

Discharge.

Sec. -ft.

29

33

40

50

65

85

110

135

165

195

225

260

Gage 

height.

Feet.

2.50

2.60

2.70

2.80

2.90

3.00

3.10

3.20

3.30

3.40

3.50

3.60

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

295

330

370

410

450

490

535

580

625

675

725

775

Gage 

height.

Feet.

3.70

3.80

3.90

4.00

4.10

4.20

4.30

4.40

4.50

4.60

4.70

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

830

885

940

1,000

1,060

1,120

1,185

1,250

1,315

1,385

1,455

Gage 

height.

Feet.

4.80

4.90

5.00

5.20

5.40

5.60

5.80

6.00

6.20

6.40

6.60

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

1,525

1,505

1.6C5

1,805

1,945

2,095

2,245

2,395

2,545

2,695

2,850

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on 

twenty-one discharge measurements made during 1908-9 and is well defined between gage heights 1.6 feet 

and 5.0 feet. Above gage height 5.0 feet it is fairly well defined. Above gage height 6.5 feet the rating 

curve is a tangent, the difference being 80 per tenth.

Monthly discharge of Milk River at Hinsdale, Mont., for 1908.

Month.

May 13-31 ...........................................

July.................................................

The period

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

410 

6,210 

885 

183 

213 

110 

180

I

Minimum.

65 

110 

110 

31 

46 

29 

85

Mean.

157 

1,960 

348 

114 

71.9 

66.9 

133

Run-off 

(total in 

acre-feet).

5,920 

117,000 

21,400 

7,010 

4,280 

4,110 

4,750

164,000

Accuracy.

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

B. 

B. 

A.

WEST FORK OF MILK RIVER AT CHINOOK, MONT.

West Fork of Milk River rises in the southeastern part of the 

Province of Alberta, Canada, flows southeastward, and enters Milk 

River near Chinook., Mont.
118 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

The gaging station, which is located about 1 mile east of Chinook, 

was established March 6, 1906, to obtain data for use in connection 

with irrigation projects in Milk River Valley. West Fork ditch 

diverts water from West Fork about 4 miles north of Chinook to irrigate land in Milk River Valley. The first diversion was made in 1898 

to serve about 75 acres, but later the ditch was extended to irrigate, 

it is claimed, several hundred acres.

The original gage was an inclined staff located 170 feet above the 

bridge. On July 1 ? 1907, the station was moved to the Rainholt 

ranch, 2 miles upstream, where it remained until April 16, 1908, when 

it was moved back to the bridge at the same datum as the old gage. 

On July 9, 1908, it was again moved to the Rainholt ranch, where it 

still remains. These changes were made because it was impossible 

to make measurements from the bridge and also because the water 

from the Fort Belknap canal was at times emptied into the stream 

above the gage at the bridge. There was no flow after June 26, 1908, 

and very little at any time during the year.

Results at this station are only fair. The gage heights during 

high-water periods were affected by back water from Milk River. 

The stream often goes dry in the autumn and winter months.

Discharge measurements of West Fork of Milk River at Chinook, Mont., in 1907 and 1908.

Date.

1907. , April 6.... <.....

April 11 ........

April 15........

April 24. .......

Mays..........

May 13.........

May 27. ........

June 25........

July 6.. ........

July 20.........

July 29.........

1908. 

May 5..........

May 26.........

Ilydrographer.

J. B. Pierson .......................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do............... ..............................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..................... ........................

.....do.............. ................................

.....dO........-...-...-----....---...............-..

.....do.. ............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

A. F. Huch. ........................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

Width.

Feet. 

42

66

80

71

43

43

33

32

45

33

33

20

16

16

12

2

.5

12

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

208

587

866

274

164

113

282

154

28.8

11.6

7.2

6.1

3.9

.2

7.36

.35

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

6.64

12.73

16.45

7.36

7.38

4.71

3.20

7.55

4.40

.92

.36

.32

.19

.16

.06

6.42

3.06

3.3

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

214

734

1,410

a 335

290

115

18.2

300

94

33.1

12.2

l\ S

5.3

1.6

.15

.05

4.1

c.26

c.25

a Overflow. The gage at the regular station read 16.5 feet. 

b Old gage read 3.28 feet. 

c Discharge estimated.

NOTE. From June 26, 1907, to May 5, 1908, the gage heights refer to a new gage placed 2 miles above 

the old one. The measurements were made by wading at various sections near the gage.
MILK RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 110

Daily gage height, in feet, of West Fork of Milk River at Chinook, Mont., for 1907 and 1908. 

[Carrie M. Prosser and Agnes Prosser, observers.]

Day.

1907. 

1..........

2..........

3..........

4..........

5..........

6..........

8..........

9..........

10..........

11..........

12..........

13..........

14..........

15..........

Day.

1908. 

1...........

2...........

3........... 

4. ..........

5..... .....

6...........

7...........

8.... ....... 

9. ..........

10. ..........

Mar. Apr.

3.25

4.25

4.60

4.25

5.05

7.15

5.50

10.10

12.80

12.65

15.40

16.55

Apr. May

3.75

3 3.5

3.3

3 3

3.3 

3.15 

3.1

3 05

May.

5.55

5.60

6.70

6.55

5.95

5.75

5.95

5.90

6.85

7.65

6.30

G.45

June.

4.00

3.90

3.70

3.60

3.60

3.60

3.60

3.55

3.50

3.45

3.35

3.25

3.20

3.20

June.

3.6

3.55

3.7 

3.8

3.85

3.7

3.3 

3.1 

3.85

5.25

July.

0 95

.85

.69

.68

.58

.52

AQ

.42

.45

.40

.40

39

.39

.40

.40

Aug.

0.16

.15

.14

.10

.10

.10

.09

.08

.08

.06

Day.

1908. 

11............

12............

13............ 

14............

15............

16............

17............ 

18............ 

19. ...........

20..... ......

Day.

1907. 

16..........

17..........

18..........

19..........

20..........

21 ..........

22..........

23 ..........

24..........

25..........

26..........

27 ..........

28..........

29..........

30.... . __

31

Apr.

4.3 

4.85 

4.55

4.45

May.

3.1

3.1

3.1 

3.1

3.1

3.4

3.35 

3.3 

3.5

3.5

Mar.

3.70

3.75

3.65

3.50

3.35

3.25

3.20

3.20

3.20

June.

7.05

4.9

3.8 

3.55

3.25

3.1

3.2 

3.55 

3.6

3.6

Apr.

16.70

16.45

16.45 

15.05

14.35

14.90

16.70 

16.90

16.30

13.05

10.65

8.80

7.25

7.05

6.25

May.

6.40

6.15

5.65 

5.85

6.45

6.15

5.60 

5.60

5.45

5.55

5.00

4.75

4.50

4.35

4.25

4.10

'Day.

1908. 

21..... ...

22. ...

23............ 

24............

25.............

26. ...........

27............ 

28..:......... 

: 29............

30 . .

3 1............

June.

3.15

3.10

3.10 

3.15

3.25

3.40

3.45 

3.65

6.60

4.50

3.70

3.40

3.20

2.85

Apr.

4.4 

4.15 

3.85 

3.8 

3.65

3.6 

3.7 

3.6 

3.6

3.6

July.

0.38

.35

.35 

.35

.35

.30

.29 

.22

.20

.20

.20

.20

.20

20

.18

.18

May.

3.3 

3.65 

3.35 

3.3 

3.25

3.25 

3.05 

2.9 

3.0 

3.0 

3.6

Aug.

June.

3.6 

3.6 

3.65 

3.7 

3.8

3.35 

2.9 

2.9 

2.95 

3.0

NOTE. Gage heights July 1-August 10, 1907, refer to new gage, and are not comparable with the old 

one. Gage heights for 1908 refer to old gage.

Gage heights June 9-13 (about), 1908, affected by backwater due to floods on Milk River. 

Practically no flow January 1-March 22 and August 11-December 31, 1907. 

There was no flow after June 26, 1908, and very little at any time during the year.

Daily discharge, in second-feet, of West Fork of Milk River at Chinook, Mont., for 1907.

Day.

2..........

5..........

7..........

8..........

9..........

10..........

12..........

14..........

15 ..........

Mar. Apr.

10

64

GO

106

135

462

560

745

770

1,210

1,700

May.

175

178

9^1

240

198

165

190

187

174

250

01 A

212

June.

68

62

45

45

45

45

43

39

31

31

26

22

22

July.

29

21

20

16

11

9

10

g

g

g

8

Aug.

1

.5

.5

.5

.5

.5

. 5

0

Day.

16..........

17..........

18..........

19..........

20..........

21 ..........

22 ..........

23..........

24..........

25 ..........

26..........

27 ..........

28..........

9Q

30 ..........

31 ..........

Mar.

25

25

25

29

23

19

17

17

17

Apr.

1 830

l', 720

1,220

1,160

1,250

1,830

2,050

1,700

960

630

430

295

278

220

May.

220

204

174

184

224

204

168

168

160

165

119

99

89

84

June.

20

17

17

20

26

34

37

48

236

98

98

50

33

23

15

July.

7

7

7

4

2

2

2

2

2

2

2

2

2

Aug.

NOTE. These discharges were obtained by the indirect method for shifting channels.
120 STJBFACE WATEK SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Monthly discharge of West Fork of Milk River at Chinook, Mont., for 1907.

Month.

March 23-31 .........................................

July.................................................

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

29 

2,050 

370 

236 

35 

1

Minimum.

17 

19 

74 

15 

2 

0

Mean.

21.9 

810 

187 

46.1 

8.8 

.19

Run-ofl 

(total in 

acre-feet).

391 

48,200 

11,500 

2,740 

541 

12

Accuracy.

C. 

B. 

A. 

B. 

B. 

D.

NORTH FORK OF MILK RIVER NEAR CHINOOK, MONT.

This station, which is located about 4| miles north of Chinook, 

Mont., and about 7 miles above the junction of North Fork with Milk 

River, was established April 22, 1905, to obtain data for use in connection with irrigation projects in Milk River valley.

No storage is used on this stream. Three canals which divert an 

aggregate of about 20 second-feet take out above the station. Several small pumping plants which supply water for irrigating the 

bottom land along the river valley also operate above the station. 

Below the station the Matheson and Cook canals divert water for 

irrigating land in Milk River valley near the mouth of North Fork. 

The aggregate appropriation of these canals is 78 second-feet.

The results at this station may be considered reliable as a fair rating 

curve has been obtained. Ice during the winter months makes gage 

readings impracticable. The datum of the gage has remained the 

same since the station was established in 1905.

The greater part of the run-off occurs during floods caused by 

heavy rains in the spring and early summer. The stream often goes 

dry in the fall.

Discharge measurements of North Fork of Milk River near Chinook, Mont., in 1907 and

1908.

Date.

1907. 

Aprils....... .

April 12 .......

April 15 ......

April 20...... .

April 27........

May 3. .........

May 13. ........

June 25. .......

July6*>. .......

July 16.........

July 296. ......

October 19 6....

Hydrographer.

.....do..........................................

....do.........................................

....do..........................................

.....do..........................................

.....do..........................................

.....do..........................................

.....do..........................................

.....do..........................................

.....do..........................................

.....do..........................................

....do..........................................

.....do...................... ...................

.....do...................... ...................

.....do..................... ....................

.....do. .........................................

J. B. Pierson ...................................

Follansbee and Stewart ........................

Width.

Feet.

79

73

78

66

71

65

62

62

57

56

56

56

62

56

25

8

8

4

24

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

282

588

500

561

329

463

358

271

182

123

61

62

76

46

67

18.8

5.1

4.5

2.5

20.2

Gage 

height.

Feet.

A K.A

8.17

6.55

8.35

4.88

6.38

4.90

4.14

3.37

2.24

1.29

1.34

1.63

1.10

1.41

.78

.45

.42

.31

.64

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

802

2,180

1,480

a 3, 090

986

1,490

997

697

463

233

94

83

133

54

87

23.5

5.3

4.0

2.2

12.5

a Measurement doubtful. b Made by wading.
MILK RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 121

Discharge measurements of North Fork of Milk River near Chinook, Mont., in 1907 and

1908 Continued.

Date.

1908.

April 22. .......

May 5. .........

July?

Hydrographer. \ Width.

Stewart and I 

A. F.Huch..

.....do.......

.....do.......

....do........

.....do........

Feet. 

56 

56 

56 

24 

21

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

50 

62.8 

45.3 

11.1 

12.8 

.15

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

1.57 

1.35 

.96 

.51 

.50 

.20

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

30.4 

62.2 

46.2 

9.5 

13.8 

c.17

"Measurement made through the ice. Gage height top 6 Made by wading, 

of ice 1.6 feet. Gage height under surface of ice 1.2 feet. c Estimated.

Daily gage height, in feet, of North Fork of Milk River near Chinook, Mont., for 1907 and

1908.

[Mrs. R. B. Snedecker, observer.]

Day.

1907. 

1...................

2...................

3.. ................ .

5...................

6.... ............ ...

7...................

8...................

9...................

10...................

11...................

12...................

13...................

14...................

15...................

16...................

17... ...............

18...................

19

20...................

21...................

22.. ................

23...................

24...................

26.... ...............

27...................

28...................

29...................

31...................

1908. 

1............ .......

2...................

3...................

4...................

5...................

B.. .................

g

10...................

12...................

15...................

Mar.

2.12

1.50

2.25

1.92

1.72

1.65

1.65

1.65

1.65

1.65

1.68

1.71

1.70

Apr.

1.65

1.65

1.65

1.68

1.70

4.05

5.15

a4.50

6.45

8.42

7.75

6.38

6.22

7.20

8.25

7.28

5.30

5.90

5.28

4.98

7.05

8.45

7.72

6.42

5.25

4.70

3.42

2.72

2.45

1.60

1.60

1.65

1.64

1.61

1.55

1.20

i i ft

1.28

1.52

1.10

1.05

May.

2.85

4.12

4.40

3.48

2.80

2.88

2.85

2.68

2.82

2.92

2.72

3.10

3.30

2.72

2.48

2.35

2.28

2.22

2.18

2.20

2.10

2.10

2.10

2.10

2.82

2.80

2.20

2.00

1.88

1.68

1.32

1.54

1.45

1.06

.98

.96

no

89

.86

.81

.80

.80

.80

.78

.74

June.

1.68

1.62

1.60

1.55

1.52

1.48

1.45

1.42

1.42

1.40

1.38

1.38

1.55

2.25

1.75

2.52

2.18

2.02

1.60

1.38

1.40

1.68

2.25

1.55

1.50

1.50

1.48

1.48

.42

.45

.47

.51

.60

.60

.62

.61

.60

.50

.62

.68

July.

1.44

1.42

1.36

1.28

1.20

1.16

1.09

.98

1.17

1.06

1.00

.98

2.70

2.53

2.38

1.44

1.40

1.26

1.07

1.07

.99

.96

.93

.91

.88

.87

.85

.81

.78

.75

.24

.18

.14

.12

.11

.11

.10

.08

.08

Aug.

0.69

.66

.63

.61

.58

.57

.56

.53

.51

.49

.48

.46

.43

.42

.42

.43

44

.45

.42

39

.34

.32

.30

.30

.29

.26

.25

.42

.50

Sept.

0.45

.39

.38

.35

.31

.29

.29

.28

.27

.25

.24

.27

.39

.40

.43

.44

.45

.47

49

.50

.72

.73

.72

.70

.69

.64

.63

.64

.64

Oct.

.66

.65

.62

.61

.58

.57

.57

.57

.59

.59

.61

.62

.62

.62

.68

.68

69

.69

.69

.70

.70

.70

.70

Nov.

0.70

.70

.70

.70

.70

.70

.70

.70

.78

.90

.90

.89

.86

.82

.80

80

.80

.80

.82

01

80

.80

.79

.74

.72

.72

.72

Dec.

0.77

.79

.80

.80

.81

.81

.81

.84

.84

.84

.84

.84

.84

.84

.84

.84

.84

.84

.84

« Maximum gage height April 8, 1907, was 10.0 feet.
122 SUBFACE WATEK SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Daily gage height, in feet, of North Fork of Milk River near Chinook, Mont., for 1907 and

1908 Continued.

Day.

1908. 

16...................

17...................

10

19

20...................

21...................

22...................

OO

24. ..................

OC

26

27...................

28

29...................

30

01

Mar.

1.65

1.65

1.60

1.58

1.68

1.60

1.68

1.62

1.50

1.50

1.50

1.52

1.59

1.60

Apr.

1.75

2.12

1.85

1.68

1.48

1.34

1.32

1.31

1.26

1.21

1.20

1.16

1.15

1.15

May.

.63

.63

.62

.61

.60

.60

.60

.59

.58

.52

.51

.49

.48

.45

.43

June.

.62

.62

.58

.52

.44

.40

.39

.38

.34

.31

.28

.26

.25

July.

0.06

Aug. Sept. Oct. Nov.

0.69

.80

.84

.50

.56

.70

1.15

1.36

.46

Dec.

.84

QA

.84

.84

.84

QA

QA

QA

QA

.84

QA

.84

NOTE. Ice conditions January 1 to April 6, 1907; during a part of this period the river was frozen to the 

bottom at the gage, but there was considerable flow at the far side of the channel. Slight ice conditions in 

November, 1907. River frozen December 9, 1907, to April 10, 1908, and December 1 to 31, 1908.

From July 8 to November 20, 1908, there was practically no flow, water standing in pools.

Rating table for North Fork of Milk River near Chinook, Mont., for 1907.

Gage 

height.

Feet.

0.20

.30

.40

.50

.60

.70

.80

.90

1.00

1.10

1.20

1.30

1.40

1.50

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

0

2

4

7

11

17

24

32

41

51

62

74

87

101

Gage 

height.

Feet.

1.60

1.70

1.80

1.90

2.00

2.10

2.20

2.30

2.40

2.50

2.60

2.70

2.80

2.90

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

116

133

151

170

190

210

230

250

270

291

312

333

355

377

Gage 

height.

Feet.

3.00

3.10

3.20

3.30

3.40

3.50

3.60

3.70

3.80

3.90

4.00

4.20

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

400

424

448

472

496

522

548

574

602

630

658

718

4.40 780

4.60 844

Gage 

height.

Feet.

4.80

5.00

5.20

5.40

5.60

5.80

6.00

6.20

6.40

6.60

6.80

7.00

8.00

9.00

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

912

980

1,052

1,124

1,198

1,274

1,350

1,430

1,510

1,590

1,670

1,750

2,170

2,606

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on 

nineteen discharge measurements made during 1907, and is well defined below gage height 4.5 feet. 

Above gage height 4.5 feet the rating is fairly well defined.
MILK KIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 123

Daily discharge, in second-feet, of North Fork of Milk River near Chinook, Mont., for

1908.

Day.

1. ..............

2...............

3.. .............

4...............

5...............

6...............

7...............

8...............

9

10...............

11...............

12...............

10

14...............

15...............

Apr.

38

33

38

68

111

May.

74

106

95

56

48

46

42

39

35

30

29

29

29

28

25

June.

g

10

12

14

19

18

19

19

18

16

14

12

i ^

18

99

July.

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

Day.

16...............

17...............

18...............

19

20..... .........

21...............

22...............

23...............

24...............

25...............

26...............

27...............

28...............

29...............

30...............

31...............

Apr.

118

190

182

137

106

77

62

64

63

58

57

56

56

56

May.

22

17

17

16

15

15

15

15

14

14

10

10

10

9

9

Q

June.

22

17

17

15

12

9

7

6

6

5

4

3

2

1

July.

NOTE. These discharges were obtained by the indirect method for shifting channels. 

Monthly discharge of North Fork of Milk River near Chinook, Mont., for 1907 and 1908.

Month.

1907. 

March 21-31 .........................................

July. ................................................

1908.

April ................................................

November, 20-30 ....................................

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

240 

2,360 

780 

295 

333 

16 

19 

17 

26 

25

190 

106 

19

Minimum.

101 

124 

130 

84 

20 

1 

1 

10 

17 

22

30 

9 

1

Mean.

146 

1,150 

332 

128 

74.8 

6.2 

7.7 

13.7 

20.1 

23.9

a 30. 0 

64.1 

29.9 

12.0 

a 15.0 

a 10.0

Run-off 

(total in 

acre-feet).

3,190 

68,400 

20,400 

7,620 

4,600 

381 

458 

842 

1,200 

379

107,000

1,840 

3,810 

1,840 

714 

328 

615

Accuracy.

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

B. 

C. 

C. 

B. 

C. 

C.

D. 

C. 

A. 

C. 

D. 

D.

a Estimated. 

NOTE. Practically no flow in July, August, September, and October, 1908.

BEAVER CREEK NEAR ASHFIELD, MONT.

Beaver Creek rises in the little Rocky Mountains, flows northeastward, and enters Milk River near Hinsdale, Mont.

The gaging station, which was established December 31, 1903, to 

obtain data for use in connection with irrigation projects in Milk 

River valley, is located at Craig's ranch, about 18 miles from Malta 

and 3 miles south of Ashfield, Mont., the nearest post-office. It was 

discontinued from August 30, 1906, to May 2, 1908.

The only diversion is that for the irrigation of land bordering the 

stream. The water is diverted by small ditches leading from the 

stream and by small pumping plants near the banks.
124 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

The entire run-off from this area does not pass the station. At 

medium and high stages a second channel, known as Beaver Creek 

overflow, leaves the stream above the station, follows a depression 

to the west of the main channel, and reenters at a point some distance 

below the gage. Records are kept of the flow of this channel.

The gage was first established at bridge No. 455 of the Great Northern Railway, one-half mile west of Ashfield, Mont. It was moved 

to its present location 1\ miles upstream December 31, 1903. The 

stream carries but little water except at the times of the spring floods 

or heavy rains. During the summer months the channel is obstructed by a dense growth of weeds and willows, which have to be 

cleared out occasionally, thus making it a difficult matter to procure 

a permanent rating. The results therefore are only fair. The gage 

heights for 1908 are too unreliable to publish.

Discharge measurements of Beaver Creek near Ashfield, Mont., in 1908.

Date.

May 2..........

May 12.........

Junes.........

Hydrographer.

A. F. Huch... ......................................

A. F. Huch. ........................................

Width.

Feet. 

18

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

6.8

.6

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

0.35

.14

.00

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

1.8

a .4

a. 01

a Float measurement. 

BEAVER CREEK OVERFLOW NEAR BOWDOIN, MONT.

This station which was established June 29, 1903, discontinued 

August 30, 1906, and reestablished May 2, 1908, is located at John 

Turmell's ranch, 14 miles from Malta, Mont.

The flow of this channel must be added to that of the Beaver Creek 

station to get the total flow from the 'drainage area. The channel 

was practically without flow during the season of 1908 as the water 

was standing in pools.

Daily gage height, in feet, of Beaver Creek over/low near Bowdoin, Mont., for 1908.

[John Turnell, observer.]

Day.

1. ..............

q

5...............

7...............

8. ..............

g

10...............

11...............

12...............

13...............

14...............

1 ^

May.

3 OK

3.25

3.25

3.15

3.15

3.05

3.05

2.95

2.95

3.0

3.0

2 9

June.

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.2

2.2

July.

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

Aug.

1.2

1.2

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

Day.

16...............

17...............

18...............

19

20...............

23 ...............

24...............

25...............

26...............

27. ..............

28...............

30...............

31...............

May.

2.9

2.8

2.8

2.8

2.7

2.7

2.6

2.6

2.6

2.6

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.4

June.

2.2

2.1

2.0

2.0

1.9

1 9

1.8

1.8

1.7

1.7

1.7

July.

1.4

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

Aug.

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

9

9

9

.9

.8

.8

.8

NOTE. Practically no flow during the above period, water standing in pools.
MILK RIVER DEAINAGE BASIN. 125

EOCK CREEK NEAR HINSDALE, MONT.

This station, which was established March 28, 1906, to obtain data 

for use in connection with the Milk River irrigation project, was 

discontinued September 30, 1907. It was located just below the 

diversion dam for Rock Creek canal and 7 miles north of Hinsdale.

Willow Creek, the only important tributary of Rock Creek, drains 

the country to the east and enters a few miles above the station. 

The most important diversion is the Rock Creek canal, which takes 

out water a few hundred feet above the station.

Measurements were made from a cable, but in low water they were 

made by wading. During the last part of the year the creek goes dry 

and the water stands in pools. Records obtained were very good.

Discharge measurements of Rock Creek near Hinsdale, Mont., in 1907.

Date.

April 23o.......

April 25 6...... .

May 28<*. ......

Hydrographer.

..... do.. ........................................... .

.....do..............................................

.....do........-.--....--....--..--......--.....-..-.

-....do........-.-...-.--..-..-..--....-.--....--....

..... do.... ..........................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

Width.

Feet.

77

111

75

60

53

53

53

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

531

519

375

283

266

206

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

7.26

6.93

4.83

3.35

3.10

1.84

1.36

1.40

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

1,310

664

219

217

30.6

1.0

.0

1.5

a Canal dry.

b Large flow in canal; not measured.

c Canal flow = 326 second-feet. 

d Canal flow = 284 second-feet.

e Estimated.

NOTE. Just after the measurement of April 23, 1907, the head gates of the canal were washed out and 

during the remainder of the high-water period water flowed through the canal, except for short intervals 

when it was stopped temporarily.

Daily gage height, in feet, of Rock Creek near Hinsdale, Mont., for 1907. 

[F. E. Halbert, observer.]

Day.

1..........

2..........

3.. ........ 

4..........

5..........

6..........

8.......... 

9..........

10..........

11..........

12.......... 

13. ....... ..

15..........

Apr.

2.5

4.4

5.1 

4.3

5.9

6.3 

9 6

8.7 

9.0

12.4

17.0

17.0 

12.0

12.5

9.5

May.

6.4

6.3

6.3 

6.2

6.0

6.0 

5.9

5.8 

5.8

5.6

5.5

5.5

5.3

5.4

5.0

June.

2.8

2.4

2.3 

3.2

2.8

2.6 

2.5

2.4 

2.4

2.4

2.4 

2.3

2.3

4.8

July.

2.2

2.2

2.2 

2.2

2.2

2.2 

2.2

2.2 

2.1

2.1

2.0

1.9 

1.9

1.8

1.8

Aug.

1.3

1.3

1.3 

1.3

1.3

1.3 

1.3

1.3 

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3 

1.3

1.3

1.3

Sept.

3.1

2.9

2.9

2.8

2.2

1.5 

1.4

1.4 

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4 

1.4

1.4

1.4

Day.

16..........

17..........

18.......... 

19..........

20..........

21.......... 

22 ..........

23.......... 

24..........

25..........

26..........

27..........

28..........

29..........

30..........

01

Apr.

7.25

5.7

5.0 

5.0

7.5

9.7 

11.95

11.2 

10.4

8.7

7.3

7.3 

6.9

6.7

6.5

May.

4.8

4.7

4.8 

4.8

4.8

4.8 

5.0

5.4 

6.1

7.7

6.2

5.7 

5.3

4.9

4.4

3.1

June.

4.6

3.9

3.2 

3.7

2.5

2.4

2.3 

2.3

9 *}

2.3

2.3 

2.3

2.3

2.2

July.

1.7

1.5

1.5 

1.5

1.4

1.4 

1.4

1.4 

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4 

1.4

1.3

1.3

1 t

Aug.

1.3

1.3

1.3 

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4 

1.4

1.4

1.4 

1.4

1.4

1.4

2.4

Sept.

1.3

1.3

1.3 

1.3

1.3

1.3 

1.3

1.3 

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3 

1.3

1.2

1.2

NOTE. Practically no flow after September 28,1907. 

imately).

Ice conditions January 1 to March 31,1907 (approx-
126 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Rating table for Rock Creek near Hinsdale, Mont., for April 1,1906, to September 30,1907.

Gage 

height.

Feet.

1.20

1.30

1.40

1.50

1.60

1.70

1.80

1.90

2.00

2.10

2.20

2.30

2.40

2.50

2.60

2.70

2.80

2.90

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

0

.5

2

7

13

20

27

35

44

54

65

77

»9

102

116

131

147

164

Gage 

height.

Feet.

3.00

3.10

3.20

3.30

3.40

3.50

3.60

3.70

3.80

3.90

4.00

4.10

4.20

4.30

4.40

4.50

4.60

4.70

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

182

201

221

242

264

287

311

335

360

385

411

437

463

490

517

545

573

601

Gage 

height.

Feet.

4.80

4.90

5.00

5.20

5.40

5.60

5.80

6.00

6.20

6.40

6.60

6.80

7.00

7.20

7.40

7.60

7.80

8.00

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

630

659

688

746

805

865

925

985

1,047

1,109

1,171

1,235

1,299

1,363

1,428

1,494

1,560

1,627

Gage 

height.

Feet.

8.20

8.40

8.60

8.80

9.00

10.00

11.00

12.00

13.00

14.00

15.00

16.00

17.00

18.00

18.40

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

1,695

1,763

1,831

1,901

1,971

2,343

2,750

3,180

3,620

4,080

4,550

5,030

5,520

6,020

6,220

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on ten 

discharge measurements made during 1907 and one in 1906, and is fairly well defined between gage heights 

1.2 feet and 14.0 feet.

Monthly discharge of Rock Creek near Hinsdale, Mont., for 1906 and 1907.

Month.

1906. 

April ............................... /. ...............

July 1-12... .........................................

1907.

July.................................................

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

16 

3,080 

6,220

77

5,520 

1,530 

630 

65 

89 

201

Minimum.

0 

0 

2 

0

102 

201 

65 

.5 

.5 

.0

Mean.

0.83 

225 

807 

38.6

1,900 

832 

150

27.6 

3.49

25.7

Run-ofl 

(total in 

acre-feet).

49 

13,800 

43,200 

916

58,000

113,000 

51,200 

8,930 

1,700 

242 

1,530

177,000

Accuracy.

D. 

C. 

B. 

D.

B. 

A. 

B. 

D. 

D. 

D.

NOTE. No record of discharge for missing days in June, 1906, because of high water. Maximum for 

month as given is only approximate. 

Values of accuracy as given apply only to the water flowing in the creek and are exclusive of the canal.

PORCUPINE CREEK AT NASHUA, MONT.

Porcupine Creek rises in the northern part of Valley County, Mont., 

flows southward, forming the west boundary of the Fort Peck Indian 

Reservation, and enters Milk River at Nashua, a point about 5 miles 

from the junction of Milk River with the Missouri.

The drainage area comprises a strip of rolling prairie about 40 miles 

long and extending but a short distance back from the narrow valley 

formed by the stream. Forestation is lacking, except a growth of 

willows and cottonwoods along the banks of the stream,
MILK RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 127

The greater part of the run-off comes from the melting snow in the 

early spring and from heavy rains during the summer. In the late 

summer and winter the stream is dry. The annual rainfall is about 

13 inches. The water of this stream is neither diverted nor stored.

The only gaging station is at the road crossing at Nashua. It was 

established July 11, 1908, to obtain data for an irrigation project 

under construction by the United States Reclamation Service for the 

Fort Peck Indians.

The following discharge measurement was made at this station on 

July 12, 1908:

Gage height, 1.70 feet; discharge estimated as 0.1 second-foot.

Daily gage height, in feet, of Porcupine Creek at Nashua, Mont., for 1908. 

[Wm. H. Todd, observer.]

Day.

1. .............

2..............

3..............

7. .............

9..............

10..............

July. Aug.

0.6

.5

.4

.3

Day.

11..............

12..............

13..............

14..............

16..............

17..............

18..............

19..............

20..............

July.

1.7

1.6

1.6

1.3

1.9

1.4

1.3

1.2

1.2

Aug. Day.

21 ..............

22.........

23 ..............

24..............

25..............

26..............

27..............

29..............

30..............

31..............

July.

1.1

1.0

9

.8

.7

.6

Aug.

NOTE. Except for July 16 there was practically no running water after July 11.

PRIVATE CANALS IN MILK RIVER VALLEY. 

DESCRIPTION.

Since 1905 a number of stations have been maintained on private 

canals in Milk River valley for the purpose of ascertaining the extent 

of private water rights. With the exception of Rock Creek canal, 

which is near Hinsdale in Valley County, these canals are located in 

Chouteau County and are used to irrigate lands in the vicinity of 

Harlem and Chinook.

The canals are all built on small grades and in soil which is easily 

eroded. In many of them silt has been deposited and nearly all of 

them contain a growth of weeds and moss. At low stages the water 

is uniformly sluggish. In order to divert water into the laterals, 

checks are erected in the main canals, and these checks often produce 

back-water effects for long distances above. They were put up under 

a great variety of conditions, and as a result velocities are found to 

differ widely at the same gage height during the season. In order to 

establish the correct relation between gage height and discharge it is 

necessary to make several rating curves for the same canal station. 

Frequent discharge measurements are necessary to obtain reliable 

results.
128 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

The following gaging stations have been here maintained:

Paradise Valley canal near Chinook, Mont., 1903-1908. 

Cook canal near Chinook, Mont., 1905-1908. 

Matheson canal near Chinook Mont., 1905-1908. 

Harlem canal near Zurick, Mont., 1903-1908. 

Agency ditch near Harlem, Mont., 1905-1908. 

Fort Belknap canal near Chinook, Mont., 1903-1908. 

Winter Anderson canal near Chinook, Mont., 1906-1908. 

Rock Creek canal near Hinsdale, Mont., 1905-1907.

PARADISE VALLEY CANAL NEAR CHINOOK, MONT.

This station, which was established in June, 1903, is located near 

the head-gate at Rudolph Friede's ranch and is reached by driving 

about 7 miles along the south river road from Chinook.

Discharge measurements of Paradise Valley canal near Chinook, Mont., in 1907 and 1908.

Date.

1907.

June 19. .......

July 8. .........

July 17. ........

July 30. ........

1908. 

April 7.........

May 6. .........

May 15. ........

June 2 .........

June 126 ......

July 6 6 ........

July 17 b .......

Hydrographer.

J. B. Pierson .......................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do.................. ...........................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

A. F. Huch. ........................................

.....do..............................................

A. F. Huch. ... .....................................

.....do.........------.....---..-....-.-.-.-...----..

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.... .do. .............................................

.....do..............................................

Width.

Feet. 

17

9

8

9

14

12

6

12

18

27

26

19

22

18

7

9

11.5

11

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

16.0

3.6

2.7

2.4

13.1

11.4

3.5

7.5

12.6

29 9

21.8

15.8

4.2

1.3

3.8

8.5

9.8

10.9

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

1.55

68

1.16

1.49

1.26

1.09

1 60

1.04

1.31

1.41

1 89

1.50

1.28

1.51

1.41

1.00

1.20

1.60

1.80

1.90

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

7.7

.0

.0

1.3

1.4

1.0

2.1

5.3

10.8

6.2

a 4. 2

1.0

1.7

5.3

7.1

6.7

Measurement affected by growth in canal. b Made by wading.
MILK RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 129

Daily gage height, in feet, of Paradise Valley canal near Chinook, Mont., for 1907 and 1908.

[Rudolph Friede, observer.]

Day.

1907. 

1..........

3..........

4..........

5..........

6..........

8..........

g

10..........

11..........

12.......... 

13. .........

14.......... 

15..........

16..........

17..........

18..........

19

20.......... 

21..........

22. ......... 

23..........

24..........

25 ..........

26..........

27..........

28..........

29..........

30..........

31..........

May.

1.10

1.32

1.38 

1.47

1.54 

1.45

1.31

1.22

1.11

1.07 

1.08

1.31 

1.37

1.31

1.50

1.52

1.24

1.10

.92

.81

.75

June.

0.71

.66 

.68

.60

.54

79

1.16

1.36

1.61

2.04

1.56

1.24

1.22 

1.12

.93 

.92

1.62 

2.10

1.29

1.10

08

.78

.74

.73

.68

July.

1.78 

1 94

1.81

1.52

1.48

1.42

1.49 

1 43

i 4n

1.33

1.28

1.62 

1.31

1.22

1.21

1 08

1.03

QQ

1.01

.88

80

.88

.50

1.28

1.23

1.10

1.30

Aug.

1.45 

1.41 

1.55

1.50

1.35

1 **9

1.15

1.74

1.81

1.76 

1 79

1.78 

1.72

1.59

1.52

1.48 

1.47

1.49 

1.42

1.63

1.50

1.36

1.25

1.12

Sept.

1.36 

1. 47 

1.51

1.37

.98

.95

.90

1.08 

1.02

1.05

1.03

1.04 

1.07

1.08 

1.08

1.10

1.09 

1 08

1.28

1.16 

1.11

1.41 

1.33

1.16

1.70

1.75

1.28

1.29

1.37

Oct.

1.40 

1.31 

1.29

1.38

1.30

1.30 

1.32 

1.31

1.33

1.32

1.30 

1.30

1.33 

1.29

1.29

1.29

1.31

1.29

1.28

1.18 

1.27

1.29

1.31

1.33

1 32

Day. Apr.

1908. 

1.......... ......

3. ......... ......

4. ...............

6..........

8.......... 

9..........

10..........

11..........

12... ....... 

13. .........

14..........

16 ..........

17. . ........

18..........

19..........

20.......... 

21 ..........

22.......... 

23..........

24. .........

25..........

26. .........

27..........

28 .....

1.31 ' 29... .

1.30

1.27

30..........

31... ......

1.50

1.50 

1.40 

1.60 

1.05

98

1.18

1.18 

1.00

1.48

2.00

1.82

1 90

1.84

1.82 

1.80

1.75 

1.84

1.82

1.85

1.82

1.85

1.88

1.88

1.63

May.

1.61 

1.58

I.f8 

1.44 

1.51

1.55 

1.50 

1.49 

1.55

1.61

1.61

1.59 

1.57

1.64

1.27

1.30

1.27

1.31

1.30 

1.30

1.50 

1.41

1.53

1.51

1.47

1 49

1.51

1.57

1.50

1.49

June.

1.61 

1.44 

1.45 

1.29 

1.38

1.20 

1.19 

1.11 

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.04 

.98

.97

07

.94

.93

03

.90

1.61 

1.45

1.40

1.27

1.20

1.00

1 19

1.00

.98

1 99

July.

1.83 

1.70 

1.71 

1.78 

1.73

1.60 

2.49 

1.81 

1.76

1.72

1.81

1.81 

1.82

1.83

1.82

1.82

1.75

1.85

1.88 

1.90

1.88 

1.89

1 89

1.78

1.73

1.89

1.78

1.64

Aug.

1.80 

1.66 

1.52 

1.33 

1.74

1.92 

1.86 

1.83

1 93

2.00 

1.89

1.97 

1.88

1.87

1.86

1.90

1.89

1.81 

1.87

1.70

1.44

1.28

1.28

1.30

1.21

1 19

Sept.

1.19 

1.21 

1.21 

1.18 

1.12

1.08 

1.02

......

Monthly discharge of Paradise Valley canal near Chinook, Mont., for 1907 and 1908.

Month.

1907. 

May 9-31. ..................................................

July........................................................

1908.

July.......................................................

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

7.7 

12.2 

9.1 

9.7 

7.2 

2.9

22 

16 

14

22

Minimum.

0.3 

.0 

.0 

1.5 

.4 

1.2

1

5 

.0 

5 

.0

Mean.

4.00 

1.54 

1.89 

5.38 

2.18 

2.07

13.9

8.97 

2.20 

7.71 

5.03

Run-off 

(total in 

acre-feet).

182 

92 

116 

331 

130 

127

717 

552 

131 

47* 

309

NOTE. The estimates are only approximate, owing to great and irregular fluctuation of daily stages. 

COOK CANAL NEAR CHINOOK, MONT.

This station, which was established April 10, 1905, is located at a 

small wooden highway bridge on the road running parallel to the Great 

Northern Railway, about 3 miles east of Chinook. 

31260 IRR 246 10 9
130 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Discharge measurements of Cook canal near Chinook, Mont., in 1907 and 1908.

Date.

1907.

May 25. ........

Jun.6 4

July 6..........

1908.

April 25.. ......

May 26. ........

June 13 ........

July 7. .........

Hydrographer.

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..................................... .........

.....do..............................................

A. F. Huch ........................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

A. F. Huch ........................................ 

.....do.................. ............................

.....do..............................................

.....do................. .............................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do......................... .....................

Width.

Feet.

9

13

13.5

14

15

14

15 

14

13

14

7.5

7

8.5

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft.

4.5

12.6

28.1

37.7

35.3

34.6

10.8 

11.6

8.55

11.6

4.56

3.23

5.40

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

2.40

2.63

2.38

3.05

2.00

2.20

a 2. 06

3.51

3.37

3.28

2.19 

2.29

2.04

2.38

a 1.24

2.00

" 1. 30

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

0.0

1.0

.0

.0

3.3

8.2

.0

12.4

31.5

21.2

63.7 

65.0

61.5

64.1

62.5

6.9

62.9

" Gage probably read 1 foot too low. & Made by wading.

Daily gage height, in feet, of Cook canal near Chinook, Mont., for 1907 and 1908. 

[Herbert Reynolds, observer.]

Day.

1907. 

1............. 

2.............

3..... ........ 

4... ..........

5. ............

8.'.'.'.'.'.'.'.'.'.'.'.'.

10.............

11.............

12............. 

13.............

14.............

15....--.....-.

Day.

1908. 

1.............

2....... ......

4.............

5............. 

6.............

8.'.'.'.'.'.'.'.'.'.'.'.'.

9............

11............. 

12.............

1 Q

14............. 

15.............

Apr.

2. 7

2.7 

2.8

2.2

2.2

Apr.

"2.4

2.9

2.4

3.3 

3.4

2.9 

3.1

May.

2.5 

2.5

2.5 

2.5

2.4 

2.4

2.4 

2.4

2.4

2.6

2.6

2.6 

2.1

2.8

2.2

May.

3.6

3.7 

3.5

3.5

3.4

3.6

3.4 

3.4

3.5

3.4 

3.4

3.3 

3.3

June.

3.3 

3.3

3.2 

3.5

3.5 

3.4

3.3 

3.3

3.3

3.3

3.2

3.2 

3.3

3.4

3.3

June.

2.5

2.3

2.4

2.4

2.7 

2.7

2.7

2.8

2.8

2.4 

2.2

2.1 

2.0

July.

3.2 

3.3

3.5 

2.9

2.8 

2.1

2.4 

2.9

2.9

2.9

2.8

2.8 

2.S

2.8

2.7

July.

2.8

2.8 

2.9

2.8

2.6 

2.4

2.2 

2.0

1.9

1.8

1.7

2.4

1.9 

1.8

Aug.

3.1 

3.1

3.1 

3.1

3.0 

2.9

2.8 

2.7

2.6

2.6

2.6

2.6 

2.6

2.5

Aug.

2.0

2.0 

2.0

2.1 

2.2

2.2 

2.2

3.2

3.2

3.3 

3.4

0 C

3.1 

3.0

Day.

1907. 

16............. 

17.............

18............. 

19.............

20............. 

21.............

22.--......-... 

23.............

24.............

25.............

26. ............

27............. 

28. ............

29.............

30............. 

31.............

Day.

1908. 

16.............

17............. 

18.............

19.............

20. ............ 

21.............

22.............

24.............

26............. 

27.............

28.............

29............. 

30............. 

31.. ...........

Apr.

1.9

2.5

3.3 

3.1

3.1 

3.6

2.8 

2.4

2.4

2.5

2.5

2.5 

2.5

2.6

2.4

Apr.

3.7

3.6 

3.8

3.4

3.3 

3.2

3.4

3

C

3.0

0 ()

3.1

3 7

3.6 

3.6

May.

2.1

3.1 

3.0

3.0 

3.1

3.0

3.3

3.1

2.8 

2.8

3.1

3.1 

3.3

May.

3.3

3.3 

3.4

3.2

3.1 

3.0

2.3

2.4

2.0

2 0

2.3

9 fl

9 9

2.7 

2.7 

2.0

June.

3.3 

3.3

3.3 

3.4

3.4 

3 ^

3.5

2.8

3.2

3.6

3.2

2.1

2.2

3.3

3.4

June.

2.0

2.0 

2.0

2.1

2.0 

2.4

2.3

2 A

3.4

3 4

o o

3.0 

2. 9

July.

2.7 

2.7

2.6 

2.5

2.5 

2.7

2.7 

2.9

2.9

2.9

2.9

2.9 

2.9

3.0 

3.0

July.

1.8

1.8 

1.8

1 9

1.9 

2.0

2.0 

9 n

2.0

9 fi

2.0 

2.0

2.1 

2.1 

2.1

Aug.

2.5

o fi

2.0 

2.0

1.9

Aug.

2.9

2.8

2.9

2.8

2.7 

2.7

2.7

2.7 

2.7

2.6 

2.6 

2.6

NOTE. Canal dry after August 20, 1907, and after August 31, 1908.
MILK RIVEE DRAINAGE BASIN. 131

Monthly discharge of Cook canal near Chinook, Mont., for 1907 and 1908.

Month.

1907. 

July.......................................................

August 1-20. ...............................................

1908.

July .......................................................

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

12.0

8.6

37 

32 

28 

13 

5

Minimum.

1.5 

.5

2 

2 

1 

.0 

.0

Mean.

6.58 

5.02

17.5 

17.1 

7.30 

3.26 

1.58

Run-off 

(total in 

acre-feet)

405 

199

798 

1.050 

434 

200

97

NOTE. These estimates are only approximate, owing to great and irregular fluctuation of daily stages. 

MATHESON CANAL NEAR CHINOOK, MONT.

This station, which was established April 10, 1905, is located at a 

footbridge 200 feet below the head-gate near the main road, 3| miles 

east of Chinook.

Discharge measurements of Matheson canal near Chinook, Mont., in 1907 and 1908.

Date.

1908.

April 25........

May 11.........

May 15.. .......

May 26. ........

June 23.........

July7... .......

July 16.........

Hydrographer.

A. F. Huch. ........................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

J. E. Stewart .......................................

A. F. Huch.. ...................................... .

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

Width.

Feet.

8.0

6.4

7.0

6.0

10.0

9.0

8.0

7.0

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft.

15.3

6.86

5.92

9.31

5.60

12.3

12.0

5.26

Gage 

height.

Feet.

2.16

2.24

2.58

2.31

3.07

c3.00

Discharge.

Sec. -ft.

13.9

4.5

a. 5

3.7

6.2

62.2

67.8

.6

g

a Estimated.

6 Measurement affected by growth in canal.

Backwater due to beaver dams.

NOTE. The station was visited by a hydrographer on May 10 and 25, June 4, July 0 and 27, and August 

19,1907, and each time there was no flow, as the water was standing in pools.

Mean daily gage height, infect, of Matheson canal near Chinook, Mont., for 1907 and 1908.

[Herbert Reynolds, observer.]

Day.

1908. 

1.............

2

3.............

4. ............

8.............

9.............

10.............

11.............

12.............

13.............

14.............

15.............

Apr.

2.5

2.9

3.0

2.9

2.7

2.9

2.8

2.9

May.

2.4

2.4

2.0

2 2

2.1

1 Q

1.8

1.8

1.7

1.9

1.9

1.8

1.9

2.1

June.

2.4

2.3

2.4

2.5

2.7

2.8

2.9

2.9

2.7

2.6

2.3

2.0

2.1

2.0

2.2

July.

2.6

2.8

2.6

2.5

2.5

2 4

2.2

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.1

Aug.

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.4

9 °.

2.1

2.1

2.2

2.2

2.2

2.2

2 2

2.2

2.2

Day.

1908. 

16.............

17.............

18.............

19

20.............

22.............

24.............

25.............

26.............

27

28. ............

29.............

30.............

Apr.

3.4

3.4

3.5

2.9

3

C

3.4

2 5

2.9

2.5

3.2

3.4

9 Q

2.0

2.1

2.2

May.

2.0

2.2

2.3

9 S

2 2

1 9

2.0

2.1

2.6

2.7

June.

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.1

2 5

1 9

1 9

2.5

2.8

2.8

9 S

2.8

2.8

July.

9 1

2.0

2 A

2 0

1 Q

1 9

1 9

2 0

2

1

2

1

2.2

2 2

2

0

Aug.

9 4

2

0

2.3

2 3

2 3

2

0

2.3

2 3

2

0

2.3

2 2

2.2

NOTE. There was practically no flow during 1907 and none after August, 1908.
132 SUEFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Monthly discharge of Matheson canal near Chinook, Mont., for 1908.

Month.

1908. 

April 8-30. .................................................

July........................................................

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

16 

6 

8 

2 

3

Minimum.

3 

.0 

1 

.0 

.0

Mean.

10.5 

2.97 

3.77 

.419 

.806

Run-off 

(total in 

acre-feet).

479 

183 

224 

26 

50

NOTE. There was practically no flow during 1907. The daily discharges were obtained by a direct 

comparison of discharge measurements and gage heights and the monthly estimates are only approximate.

HARLEM CANAL NEAR ZURICH, MONT.

This station, which was established in June, 1903, is located about 

500 feet below the head-gates of the canal, 1^ miles southeast of the 

Great Northern Railway section house at Zurich. It is reached by 

driving from Chinook.

The canal was not in use in 1907, as the head works were out of 

order.

Discharge measurements of Harlem canal near Zurich, Mont., in 1908.

Date.

April 27........

May 25. ........

July 17. ........

Hydrographer.

A. F. Huch.................. .......................

.....do..............................................

A.F. Huch.........................................

.... .do. .............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

Width.

Feet. 

26.5

27

27

27

27.5

27

15

24

25

16

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

64.3

67.7

63.8

76.5

65.4

13.7

47.4

57.5

23.2

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

3.64

3.71

3.55

4.08

3.26

1.30

2.49

3.00

2.41

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

65.7

61.1

57.7

78.7

27.4

31.0

a 20. 6

a Made by wading 50 feet below gage. 

NOTE. All measurements except that of August 6 were made from highway bridge 2 miles below gage.

Daily gage height, in feet, of Harlem canal near Zurich, Mont., for 1908. 

[Joel Lean, observer.]

Day.

2...............

3. ............ ..

4...............

5...............

6...............

8...............

10...............

11...............

12...............

1 Q

14...............

15...............

Apr.

2.80

3.00

3.10

3.00

2.00

1.80

1 90

2.00

2.50

May.

3.60

3.60

3.50

3.50

3.50

3.60

3.70

3.60

3.50

3.40

3.50

3.50

3.50

June.

3.90

4.10

3.80

3.60

July.

2.20

2.40

3.00

2.70

2.60

2.90

3.00

3.00

3.00

3.00

3.00

3.00

3.10

Day.

16...............

17...............

18...............

19...............

20. ..............

21...............

22. ..............

23...............

24...............

25 ...............

26. ..............

27.....--.-.-....

28. ..............

29 ...............

30. ..............

31...............

Apr.

3 1 n

3.40

3.60

3.60

3.70

3.50

3.40

3.60

3.60

Q CA

3.60

3.80

3.70

3.70

May.

3.60

3.60

3.60

4.00

4.00

3.50

3.40

o Aft

3.60

3.60

June. July. .

3 10

3.00

3.00

2.90

2.90

Q AA

3

1 A

NOTE. The record stopped July 23 because the only available observer moved away.
MILK RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN.

Monthly discharge of Harlem canal near Zurich, Mont., for 1908.

133

Month.

April 7-30. .................................................

July........................................................

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

71 

 78 

79 

31 

24

Minimum.

12 

50 

3 

14 

5

Mean.

49.0 

59.8 

32.2 

27.6 

13.5

Run-off 

(total in 

acre-feet).

2,330 

3,680 

1,920 

1,700 

830

NOTE. These values of monthly discharge are approximate, owing to great and irregular fluctuation of 

the gage height due to canal regulation.

AGENCY DITCH NEAR HARLEM, MONT.

This station, which was established July 14, 1905, is located at the 

highway bridge about one-fourth mile below the head-gate. It is 

reached by driving 4 miles south from Harlem, Mont.

The head-gates were opened for the season April 21, 1908, but 

were closed again for repairs from May 4 to 17, and also June 13 to 

July 6. The ditch was emptied August 1, 1908, and later a small 

flow was admitted to furnish water for the steam plow, but not for 

irrigation.

Discharge measurements of Agency ditch near Harlem, Mont., in 1907 and 1908.

Date.

1907. 

MavlS.........

May 24.........

July 11.........

July 19.........

September 28...

1908. 

April 4.........

April 24........

May8..........

May 28.........

Hydrographer.

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do. .............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do....--...-.---.-.......--.--.-..-.-...........

A. F. Huch. . .......................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

Width.

Feet.

16

24

20

24

17

23

16

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft.

12.3

46.9

33.3

28.2

46.4

17.6

39.2

15.7

Gage 

height.

Feet.

2.88

4.40

4.38

3.90

3.72

.33

2.42

1.10

2.15

1.40

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

0.0

.0

6.9

19.2

.0

11.8

19.4

.0

37.2

17.0

37.9

a 13. 2

a Made by wading.
134 SUEFACE WATEE SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Daily gage height, in feet, of Agency ditch near Harlem, Mont., for 1907 and 1908. 

[J. W. Ijams and C. P. Wells, observers.]

Day.

1907. 

1. ..............

2. ...... ........

4...............

5...............

8...............

9...............

10. ..............

11...............

14. ..............

Day.

1908. 

1...............

2. ..............

3...............

4...............

5...............

6...............

7. ..............

8. ..............

9...............

10...............

11...............

13...............

14. ..............

15...............

June.

Apr.

July.

4.5

4.5

4.45

4.4

4.3

4.35

3.7

2.8

4.0

4.5

4.8

4.8

May.

2.20

2.20

2.20

1.65

Aug.

4.4

4.4

4.3

4.3

4.3

4.3

4.3

4.3

4.2

4.2

4.2

4.2

4.2

June.

2.05

2.25

2.50

2.75

2.85

2.95

3.00

3.10

3.10

3.20

3.20

Sept.

3.9

3.9

3.9

3.9

3.9

3.9

3.9

4.0

4.0

4.0

4.1

4.1

4.1

4.1

4.2

July.

3.45

3.5

3.6

3.7

3.75

3.7

3.7

3.6

Day.

1907.

17...............

18...............

19...............

20...............

21...............

22...............

23. ...............

24................

25.....--.-.-....

26...............

27...............

28................

29.....--...-....

30...............

Day.

1908. 

16. ..............

17...............

18...............

19...............

20...............

21...............

22...............

23...............

24...............

25...............

26...............

28...............

29.......--.-....

30. ..............

31...............

June.

4.7

4.7

4.65

4.5

4.5

4.4

4.5

5.35

6.6

5.5

5.35

4.5

4.5

Apr.

1.30

2.45

2.60

2.50

2.45

2,20

2.25

2.15

July.

4.5

4.5

4.8

4.8

4.8

4.7

4.7

4.7

4.6

4.6

4.5

4.5

4.4

4.4

May.

2.30

2.45

2.65

2.80

2.75

2.65

2.45

2.35

2.30

2.20

2.10

2.10

2.10

2.10

Aug.

4.2

4.2

4.0

4.0

4.0

4.0

4.0

4.0

4.0

4.0

3.8

3.8

3.8

3.8

3.8

3.8

June.

Sept.

4.2

4.2

4.0

3.8

3.8

3.7

3.7

3.7

3.7

3.7

3.7

3.7

3.7

3.7

3 7

July.

3.6

3.5

3.45

3.4

3.3

3.3

3.3

3.3

0 0

3.3

3.3

NOTE. These gage heights are affected by the canal regulation.

FORT BELKNAP CANAL NEAR CHINOOK, MONT.

This station, which was established June 21, 1903, is located at the 

highway bridge about 500 feet below the head-gates of the canal, 8 

miles east of Chinook.

The high water of June, 1908, washed out both the bridge and the 

gage. A new gage was installed on June 27, 1908, at a different 

datum, within a few feet of the site of the old gage.

A new bridge was built about one-fourth mile upstream from the 

site of the old one. Measurements can be made from this bridge 

only when the canal is running full. Wading measurements are made 

at a section about 300 feet downstream from the gage.

There was flow in the canal on the single days for which gage 

heights are missing. During a few of the days when the canal was 

at its highest, owing to the flood in Milk River, the water was wasted, 

but the greater part of the time from June 5 to 30 the water was used 

for irrigation.

The head-gates were closed for the season September 22, 1907, and 

September 23, 1908.
MILK EIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 135

Discharge measurements of Fort Belknap canal near Chinook, Mont., for 1907 and 1908.

Date.

1907.

JulyS..........

July 17.........

July 29.........

1908.

A nril 91}

May 7. .........

May 16. ........

Hydrographer.

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do........ ......................................

.....do.......-.........-.......---......----.--.....

.....do..............................................

.....do...............................'...............

.....do......---..----.--.....----.--..---..-..--....

.....do..............................................

.....do...............-----.........-....------..-...

.....do......---......-----.....-...-...----..-......

.....do........... ...................................

Width.

Feet. 

36

27

25

25

24

27

32

30

25

30

15

18

38

38

38

40

41

33

33

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

67.5

42.6

32.4

34.6

33.7

36.1

48.6

44.1

31.3

39.9

12.2

18.9

06.2

60.9

61.7

63.4

66,4

51.9

53.0

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

3.45

2.80

2.45

2.89

2.88

3.11

3.45

3.39

3.00

3.25

2.10

2.47

3.70

3.69

3.69

3.78

3.82

2.91

2.99

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

108

56.0

40.1

25.0

33.6

54.4

66.9

60.7

39.3

54.3

7.7

22.4

106

88.3

97.7

109

108

063.4

a 69.1

a Made by wading.

Daily gage height, in feet, of Fort Belknap canal near Chinook, Mont., for 1907 and 1908.

[Bruce Glenn, observer.]

Day.

1907.

2

5.............

G. ............

7............. 

8.............

9

10....... ......

11.............

12............. 1 }

14.............

15.............

Day.

1908. 

1..........

3.. ........

4..........

5..........

6.......... 

7. .........

9..........

10..........

11. .........

13.......... 

14..........

15..........

May.

3.25

3.32 

3.0

Apr.

3.45

3.70 

3.68

3.45

June.

2.45

May.

3.72

3.75

3.80

3.70 

3.60 

3.50

3.45

3.41

3.65 

3.68

3.75

July.

2.8'

2 9

2.9 

2.9

2 9

2.9

2.8

2.8

2.8

3.1

3.1

3.0 

3.0

June.

3.92

3.75

3.70

July. 

3.00

3.05

3.10

3.15 

3.18

3.22

3.28 

3.30

3.32 

3.40

3.40

Aug.

3.4

3.3

3.2 

3.2

3.2

3.5

3.5 

3.5

3.5

3.6

3.6

3.6

3.6

3.4 

3.4

Aug.

3.00

2.90

2.90

2.90

2.90 

2.85

2.90 

2.90

2.95 

2.98

2.98

Sept.

3.3

3.4

3.4 

3.4

3.2

3.2

3.2

3.2

3.0

3.0 

2.4

2.4 

2.4

Sept.

2.70

2.65

2.65

2.65

"2." 65 

2.65

2.65

2.60

2.65 

2.65

"2." 65

2.70

Day. May.

1907. 

16.............

17...... ...... .

18. ............

19.............

20. ............

21.............

22............. 

23.............

24.............

25.............

26.............

27............. 

28.............

29............. 

30.............

31...----...-..

Day.

1908. 

16.......... 

17..........

18..........

19..........

20..........

21 .......... 

22.......... 

23..........

24..........

25..........

26.......... 

27..........

28.......... 

29..........

30.......... 

31 ..........

2.9

2.9

2 9

Apr.

3.39 

3.85

3.85

3.82

3.80

3.75 

3.76 

3.75

3.80

3.85

3.80 

3.86

3.80 

3.72

3.75

June.

May.

3.74

4.00

3.90

3.88

3.90 

3.85

3.82

3.95 

3 92

July.

2.9 

2.9 

2 9

i. 9

2.8

2.9 

3.0 

3.2

3.2

3.2

3.2 

3.1 

3.1

3.3 

3.5

3.5

June.

......

3.95 ...... 

3.95 ......

July

3.45 

3.45 

3.48 

3.40 

3.40

3.42 

3.45

3 40

3 40

3.25

3.10 

3 05

3.00 

3.00

Aug. Sept.

3.4 

3.5 

3.5 

3.5 

3.5

3.5 

3.4 

3.4

3.2

3.1

3.1 

3.0 

3.0

3.0 

3.0

3.3

Aug.

"2." 90 

2.90 

2.85

2.85

2.85 

2.80

2.80

2.80

2.80

2.75 

2.75

"2." 75"

2.4 

2.4 

2.6 

2.6 

2.5

2.5

Sept.

2.70 

2.65 

2.60 

2.60 

2.60

2.60 

2.80 

2.60

NOTE. No observer available from May 19-June 30,1907, although the canal was in use.
136 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Monthly discharge of Fort Belknap canal near Chinook, Mont., for 1907 and 1908.

Month.

1907. 

May 12-18. .................................................

July. .......................................................

1908. 

April 10-30. ................................................

May. ......................................................

July. .......................................................

September 1-23 ............................................

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

102

78 

75 

62

120 

126 

110 

109 

70 

56

Minimum.

62 

22 

39 

16

22 

76 

85 

70 

52 

43

Mean.

77.4 

38.8 

62.0 

36.7

105 

102 

87.7 

90.4 

60.4 

46.2

Run-off 

(total in 

aere-teet).

1,070 

2,390 

3,810 

1,530

4,370

6,270 

5,220 

5,560 

3,710 

2,110

NOTE. These values of monthly discharge are only approximate owing to the great and irregular fluctuation of the gage height due to canal regulation.

WINTER-ANDERSON CANAL NEAR CHINOOK, MONT.

This station, which was established April 22, 1906, is located at 

the highway bridge 5 miles east of Chinook and one-half mile west 

of James Cook's ranch house.

The canal was not in use during the season of 1907.

The gage was washed out June 11, 1908 and the head-gates were 

so badly damaged that it was impossible for water to flow in the 

canal after June 24, 1908. There was little flow before May 20 and 

none after June 20, 1908.

Discharge measurements of Winter-Anderson canal near Chinook, Mont., in 1908.

Date.

April?.........

April 27 a ......

May 15.........

May 25 & .......

Hydrographer.

A. F. Huch ........................................

.....do..............................................

A. F. Huch........................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

Width.

Feet.

13

5.5

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft.

6.6

11.2

8.2

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

2.63

3.20

2.83

2.40

3.19

3.5

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

0.0

0

2.1

5.8

4.2

0

a Canal not in use.

6 Measurement made at a flume about 1 mile below gage.

; Made by wading 25 feet above gage.

Daily gage height, in feet, of Winter-Anderson canal near Chinook, Mont., for 1908.

[Freddie Bosch, observer.]

Day.

1............

2............

3............

4............

5............

6............

7............

8............

9............

10............

Apr.

2.60

May.

3.10

3.20

3.10

3.10

June.

3.30

3.65

3.50

3.48

3.55

3.72

4.15

4.20

4.05

Day.

11.. ........

12... ........

13............

14............

15............

16............

17............

18............

19............

20............

Apr. May.

3.5

June. Day.

21............

22............

23............

24............

25............

26............

27............

28............

29............

30............

31............

Apr.

3.1

3.2

3.2

3.1

May.

3.6

3.5

3.4

3.3

3.3

3.3

3.4

3.3

3.1

3.2

3.3

June.

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.2

1.2

1.3

1.3

NOTE. Gage washed out June 11,1908.
MILK RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 137

Monthly discharge of Winter-Anderson canal near Chinook, Mont., for 1908.

Month.

April 25-28. ................................................

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

7 

24

Minimum.

1 

1

Mean.

1.50 

3.12 

6.85

Kun-ofl 

(total in 

acre-feet).

12 

99 

272

NOTE. These values are only approximate owing to the great and irregular fluctuation in daily gage 

heights due to canal regulation.

ROCK CREEK CANAL NEAR HINSDALE, MONT.

This station, which was established July 5, 1905, is located about 

300 feet below the head-gates of the canal and is reached by driving 

3^ miles north from Hinsdale. It was discontinued December 31,1907.

During the spring of 1907 the canal contained a large amount of 

water, owing to the fact that the head-gates had been washed out. 

This water was not used for irrigation until after July 12, 1907.

Discharge measurements of Rock Creek canal near Hinsdale, Mont., in 1907.

Date.

July 31.........

Hydrographer.

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

Width.

Feet. 

12

5

Area of 

section.

8q. ft. 

12.6

1.9

Gage, 

height.

Feet. 

2.00

1 80

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

3.1

2.8 <n.5

a Estimated.

Daily gage height, in feet, of Rock Creek canal near Hinsdale, Mont., for 1907. 

[F. E. Halbert, observer.]

Day.

1. .............

2..............

3. .............

4..............

5..............

7..............

8..............

9..............

10..............

Aug.

1.9

1.9

1.9

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1-.8

Sept.

3.1

2.9

2.9

2.9

2.9

2 9

2.9

2.9

2.8

2.7

Day.

11..............

12..............

13..............

14..............

15..............

17..............

18..............

19..............

Aug.

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.9

1.9

1 9

1.9

1.8

1.8

1.8

Sept. Day.

21..............

22..............

23 ..............

24..............

25 ..............

26..............

27..............

2S. .............

29 ..............

QA

31..............

Aug.

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

2.6

Sept.

NOTE. Gage heights after August 30 affected by canal regulation.
138 SURFACE WATEE SUPPLY, 1907-8.

LITTLE PORCUPINE CHEEK DRAINAGE BASIN. 

LITTLE PORCUPINE CREEK NEAR FRAZER, MONT.

Little Porcupine Creek rises near the central-western part of the 

Fort Peck Indian Reservation, flows southward, and enters Missouri 

River near Frazer, Mont.

The drainage area comprises a strip of land about 25 miles long? 

extending but a short distance back from the narrow valley bordering the stream. Except for a growth of cottonwood and willows 

the basin is without forestation.

The run-off comes from the melting snow in the spring and from 

heavy rains during the summer. During the greater part of the 

year the channel is dry, except for about one-half second-foot of 

water derived from springs near the mouth of the stream. The annual 

rainfall is about 13 inches. The stream is not used for diversion.

The only gaging station in this basin is about 2 miles south of 

Frazer, Mont. It was established July 13, 1908, to obtain data for 

use in connection with an irrigation project being constructed by the 

United States Reclamation Service for the Fort Peck Indians.

Discharge measurements of Little Porcupine Creek near Frazer, Mont., in 1908.

Date.

July 12o.......

Hydrographer.

A. F. Huch. .. .......................................

Width.

Feet.

2.0

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

0.2

.62

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

1.42

1.41

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

0.4

a Made by floats.

Daily gage height, in feet, of Little Porcupine Creek near Frazer, Mont., for 1908.

[T. C. Flynn, observer.]

Day.

1. .........

2. ........ -

3. . ........

4. .........

5..........

6.......... 

7..........

8..........

9

10..........

11. ........ .

12. .........

13..........

14..........

15..........

July.

1.4 

1.4

1.4

Aug.

1.5 

1.5

1.5

1.4

1.4

1.4 

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4 

1.4

1.4

Sept.

1.4 

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4 

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4 

1.4

1.4

Oct.

1.4 

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4 

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.5

1.5 

1.5

1.5

1.5

Nov.

1.5

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4 

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.4

1.4

1.5 

1.5

1.5

1.5

Dec.

1.5 

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5 

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5 

1.5

1.5

1.5

Day.

i?::::::::::

18..........

19..........

20..........

21.......... 

22..........

23..........

24..........

25..........

26..........

27.......... 

28..........

29..........

30..........

31..........

July.

1.5 

1,5

1.6

1.6

1.5

1.4 

1.4

1 4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4 

1.4

1.4

1.5

1.5

Aug.

1.4

1 4

1.4

1 4

1.4

1.4 

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4 

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

Sept.

1.4 

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4 

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4 

1.4

1.4

1.4

Oct.

1.5 

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5 

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.5 

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

Nov.

1.5 

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4 

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4 

1.4

1.5

1.5

Dec.

1.5 

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5 

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5 

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

NOTE. Ice conditions in December.
SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8. 139 

WOLF CREEK DRAINAGE BASIN. 

WOLF CREEK AT WOLF POINT, MONT.

Wolf Creek rises near the center of the Fort Peck Indian Reservation, flows southward, and enters Missouri River near the Wolf 

Point Agency. The drainage area comprises the central part of the 

Fort Peck Indian Reservation. The entire area with the exception 

of a narrow valley along the stream is a rolling prairie. The only 

forestation is the growth of willows and cottonwoods along the 

banks of the streams.

The run-off comes from the melting snow in the spring and heavy 

rains during the summer. The upper part of the channel is dry 

during the late summer and winter, but near the mouth the flow is 

kept up by springs. The annual rainfall is about 13 inches. The 

stream is not used for storage and the only diversion is that made 

by the Indian Agency ditch at Wolf Point, which diverts the entire 

flow during the low period.

The gaging station, which was established August 15, 1908, to 

determine the amount of water available for an irrigation project 

under consideration by the United States Reclamation Service for 

the Fort Peck Indians, is located at William Smith's ranch, 2^ miles 

northwest of Wolf Point.

The following discharge measurement was made at this station:

August 15, 1908 : Gage height, 1.51 feet; discharge estimated as 0.2 second-foot.

Daily gage height, in feet, of Wolf Creek at Wolf Point, Mont., for 1908. 

[W. H. Smith, observer.]

Day.

1.............

2

3. ............

4.............

5.............

G.............

7.............

8.............

9.............

10.............

11.. ..... 

12......... . 

13............

14.............

15.............

Aug.

1.5

Sept.

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.5 

1.5 

1.5

1.6

1.6

Oct.

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.6 

1.6 

1.6

1.6

1.6

Nov.

1.65

1.65

1.65

1.65

1.65

1.65

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7 

1.7 

1.7

1.7

1.7

Dec.

1.7

1.7

.......

Day.

16.............

17.............

18.............

19

20. ............

21.............

22

23.............

24.............

25.............

26............. 

27............. 

28.............

29.............

30. ............

31.............

Aug.

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.6

1.6 

1.6 

1.6

1.5

Sept.

1.5

1.5

1.5 

1.5 

1.5

1.5

Oct.

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.65

1.65 

1.65 

1.65

1.65

1.65

1.65

Nov.

1 7

1 7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7 

1.7 

1.7

1.7

1.7

Dec.
140 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

POPLAR CHEEK DRAINAGE BASIN. 

POPLAR CREEK NEAR POPLAR, MONT.

Poplar Creek rises in the southern part of the Canadian province 

of Saskatchewan, flows southeastward through the northern part of 

Valley County, Mont., thence through the Fort Peck Indian Reservation, and unites with Missouri River near Poplar, Mont. The largest 

tributary is the West Branch, which enters near the north boundary 

of the Fort Peck Reservation. The greater part of the drainage area 

is a rolling prairie cut by a number of small coulees and the valley 

of the creek. The only forestation is a growth of willows and cottonwoods along the banks of the stream.

The run-off comes from melting snow in the spring and heavy rains 

during the summer. The dry-season flow is considerable. The 

annual rainfall at Poplar is about 13 inches.

The United States Reclamation Service has under consideration a 

project which will divert the water of this stream to irrigate land 

along its lower course and along Missouri River near Poplar, Mont.

The gaging station was established August 15, 1908, at Buershia's 

ranch, 6 miles north of Poplar, Mont.

The following discharge measurement was made by wading at this 

station August 15, 1908:

Width, 31 feet; area of section, 7.30 square feet; gage height, 2.48 feet; and discharge, 9.9 second-feet.

Daily gage height, in feet, of Poplar Creek near Poplar, Mont., for 1908. 

[R. W. Henry and Neol Buershia, observers.]

Day.

1. ..............

2................

3................

5................

6................

7................

8................

9................

10................

11................

12................

13................

15................

Aug. Sept.

2.5

2.9

2.9

2.9

2.9

2.9

2.9

2.9

2.9

2.9

2.9

2.8

2.7

2.7

Oct.

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.95

2.95

2.95

2.8

2.95

2.95

2.9

Nov.

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.7

Day.

16................

17................

18................

19................

20................

21................

22................

23................

24................

26................

27................

28................

30. ..............

01

Aug.

2.9

2.9

2.9

2.9

2.9

2.9

2.9

2.9

2.9

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

Sept.

2.65

2.55

2.55

2.5

2.45

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.45

2.45

Oct.

2.9

2.9

2.9

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.0

2.75

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.7

Nov.
SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8. 141 

BIG MUDDY RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 

BIG MUDDY RIVEE NEAR CULBERTSON, MONT.

Big Muddy River rises in the Province of Saskatchewan, Canada, 

flows southward into Montana, forms the eastern boundary of the Fort 

Peck Indian Reservation, and unites with Missouri River near Blair, 

Mont. It drains a rolling prairie country cut by many small coulees. 

The greater part of the run-oil comes from the melting snow in the 

spring months.

The gaging station, which was established July 14, 1908, to determine the amount of water available for irrigation projects under 

consideration by the United States Reclamation Service for the Fort 

Peck Indians, is located about 3 miles above the mouth of the stream.

Gage readings are affected by backwater from the Missouri, and 

are therefore not reliable except at low-water stage of the Missouri. 

Frequent discharge measurements are necessary in order to obtain 

good results.

The following discharge measurement was made by wading at this 

station August 16, 1908:

Width, 9 feet; area of section, 14.7 square feet; gage height, 1.7 feet; discharge, 

6.3 second-feet.

Daily gage height, in feet, of Big Muddy River near Culbertson, Mont., for 1908. 

[James Boyd, observer.]

Day.

1.. ........

2..........

3..........

4..........

5.......... 

6..........

7..........

8.......... 

9..........

10.......... 

11..........

12..........

13.......... 

14..........

15..........

July.

"i.T

Aug. Sept.

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4 

1.4

1.4

1.4 

1.4

1.35 

1.35

1.35

1.35 

1.35

1.35

Oct.

1.55

1.5

1.5

1.55

1.55 

1.55

1.55

1.6 

1.65

1.8 

1.8

1.85

1.85 

1.85

1.8

Nov.

2.05

2.05

2.0

2.0

1.95 

1.95

2.0

1.9 

2.0

1.9 

1.9

1 9

1.9 

1.9

1.9

Dec.

1.85

1.8

1.8

1.85

1.85

.......

.......

.......

Day.

16..........

17..........

18..........

1Q

20.......... 

21 ..........

22..........

23.......... 

24. .........

25.......... 

26..........

27..........

28. ......... 

29..........

30. ......... 

31..........

July.

......

Aug.

1.7

1.7

1.65

1.6

1.6 

1.6

1.55 

1.55

1.5 

1.5

1.5

1.45 

1.45

1.4

1.4

Sept.

1.3

1.25

1.25

1.3

1.3 

1.3

1.3

1.3 

1.3

1.3 

1.3

1.5

1.55 

1.55

1.55

Oct.

1.75

1.8

1.8

1.75

1.85 

1.85

1.85

1.85 

1 9

1.95

1.85

1.85

1.95 

2.0

1.95

2.05

Nov.

1 9

1 9

1.9

1.95

1.95 

1.85

1.85

1.9

2.0

2.25

2.2

1.95

1.85

2.0

Dec.

......

NOTE. Ice conditions November 10 to 16 and December 5 to 31,1908.

YELLOWSTONE RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 

DESCRIPTION.

The upper Yellowstone rises in the Shoshone Mountains, in northwestern Wyoming, near the southeast corner of the Yellowstone 

National Park, flows northwestward for 40 or 50 miles, and then 

enters Yellowstone Lake, which may be considered the great source
142 SURFACE WATEE SUPPLY^ 1907-8.

of the main river. This lake is about 15 miles long by 20 miles wide, 

lies at an elevation of 7,778 feet above the sea, and is hemmed in on 

every side by lofty mountains from whose snow-covered slopes its 

chief supply of water must come, since it receives no important 

streams. Issuing from the lake at the north end the river flows 

northwestward for 10 or 15 miles, plunges over the Great Falls of the 

Yellowstone, and for the next 20 miles runs through its " Grand 

Canyon," which is impassable throughout. About 80 miles from the 

lake it emerges from the Snow Mountains, and thence runs eastward 

and northeastward until it joins the Missouri at Fort Buford, N. Dak. 

At this point it has an elevation of about 1,900 feet.

As it leaves the mountains the river is about 600 feet wide; thence 

to Clark Fork, which enters from the south about 15 miles above 

Billings, Mont., it is characterized by bold, sweeping curves, and 

many islands. Between Clark Fork and the mouth of the Bighorn 

it is from 1,500 to 1,800 feet wide, is free from rapids, and has a current from 3 to 4 miles an hour. Between the Bighorn and the Powder 

the main stream increases in width from 2,400 to 2,700 feet, and 

becomes turbid like the Missouri. Below the mouth of the Powder 

the banks are low and caving and the stream contains some rapids 

and shoals and numerous densely timbered islands.

The Yellowstone is about 500 miles long; the area of its basin is 

approximately 67,500 square miles.

Of the tributaries of the Yellowstone the most important is the 

Bighorn," which has its source in the many small streams draining 

the slopes of the Wind River Range. Other important tributaries 

of the Yellowstone are Shields, Boulder, Big Timber, Sweetgrass, 

Stillwater, Clark Fork, Tongue, and Powder rivers. Shields, Big 

Timber, and Sweetgrass rivers have their sources in the Crazy Mountains, rising to an elevation of 10,000 feet; the Boulder, Stillwater, 

and Clark Fork rise on the southeastern slope of the Shoshone Mountains at an elevation of 10,500 feet. Powder and Tongue rivers have 

their sources in the high plains region and Bighorn Mountains of Wyoming, flowing parallel and in a northeasterly direction until they join 

the Yellowstone.

The headwaters of the Yellowstone and many of its tributaries 

drain portions of heavily timbered areas. The Yellowstone, Crazy 

Mountain, Bighorn, and Otter national forests are thus drained. 

However, the greater part of the drainage basin lies within the plains 

section and is treeless except for a few willows and cottonwoods 

along the stream channels.

The mean annual rainfall in Yellowstone Park is approximately 

17 inches; at Billings, 15 inches; Glendive, 10 inches; and at Buford

a See description of basin on p. 178.
U. 8. GEOLOGICAL SURVEY

LOWER FALLS OF THE YELLOWSTONE, YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK.
YELLOWSTONE EIVEE DRAINAGE BASIN. 143

12^ inches. A greater portion of the rainfall occurs in June. Snow 

lies in the mountains from November to June. The streams are 

partly frozen during the colder months.

The great areas of irrigable land and the abundant water supply 

afford wonderful opportunities for irrigation in the Yellowstone basin. 

The United States Reclamation Service has practically completed 

irrigation projects diverting water from the Yellowstone and reclaiming 100,000 acres of arid land. The Shoshone project, reclaiming 

132,000 acres, is partly finished. Several private irrigation projects 

are completed and more are under construction.

Many possible reservoir sites for the storage of flood water are 

found on the upper portion of the Yellowstone and its tributaries. 

Shoshone dam, 325 feet high, on the Shoshone River, stores 456,000 

acre-feet.

The Yellowstone basin contains many natural power sites. The 

abundance of water and the magnitude of fall in the higher altitudes 

make the development of hydroelectric power most feasible. (PI. V.) 

Power for municipal purposes is now generated at Livingston, Big 

Timber, and Billings.

The run-off record extends back to 1889, although a few stream 

measurements were made on the Yellowstone River in the National 

Park as early as 1878. The wettest year recorded at Livingston from 

1897 to 1908 was 1899; the driest was 1905.

The following gaging stations have been maintained in this basin:

Yellowstone River near Horr, Mont., 1888-1893.

Yellowstone River at Livingston, Mont., 1897-1905.

Yellowstone River at Billings, Mont., 1904-5.

Yellowstone River at Huntley, Mont., 1907-8.

Yellowstone River at Junction, Mont., 1906-7.

Yellowstone River at Glendive, Mont., 1897-1908.

North Fork of Big Timber Creek near Big Timber, Mont., 1907-8.

South Fork of Big Timber Creek near Big Timber, Mont., 1907-8.

East Fork of Boulder River near McLeod, Mont., 1907-8.

West Fork of Boulder River near Bruffeys, Mont., 1907-8.

West Fork of Boulder River near McLeod, Mont., 1907-8.

Sweetgrass Creek above Mellville, Mont., 1907-8.

Sweetgrass Creek below Mellville, Mont., 1907-8.

Clark Fork near Fromberg, Mont., 1905-6.

Pryor Creek near Huntley, Mont., 1904-1906.

Big Wind River near Riverton, Wyo., 1906-1908.

Bighorn River near Hardin, Mont., 1904-1908.

Bighorn River at Thermopolis, Wyo., 1900-1905.

Little Wind River at Fort Washakie, Wyo., 1908.

Little Wind River above Arapahoe Agency, Wyo., 1906-1908.

Little Wind River below Arapahoe Agency, Wyo., 1906-1908.

Little Popo Agie River at Hudson, Wyo., 1907-8.

Gray Bull Creek near Meeteetse, Wyo., 1897,1903.

Shoshone River at Cody, Wyo., 1902-1908.

Shoshone River at Corbett Dam, Wyo., 1908.
144 SUKFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Shoshone River near Lovell, Wyo., 1897-1899.

South Fork of Shoshone River at Marquette, Wyo., 1903-1908.

Little Bighorn River at Crow Agency, Mont., 1905-6.

Tongue River near Dayton, Wyo., 1903.

Big Goose Creek near Sheridan, Wyo., 1895-1897.

Little Goose Creek near Sheridan, Wyo., 1896-97.

Clear Creek at Buffalo, Wyo., 1896-1904.

Piney Creek at Kearney, Wyo., 1902-1906.

Cruez ditch near Story, Wyo., 1903.

YELLOWSTONE EIVER AT HUNTLEY, MONT.

This station, which is located at the new steel highway bridge 

1 mile below Huntley, Mont., and replaces that formerly maintained 

at Junction, was established October 1, 1907, to obtain data applicable to irrigation and power development.

The only tributary near the station is Pryor Creek, which enters 

the Yellowstone 1 mile above. The drainage area at Huntley is 

about 12,000 square miles.

The Huntley canal (PL VI, A), built by the United States Reclamation Service, takes water from the river about 2 miles above the 

gaging station; its normal capacity is 400 second-feet, and it supplies water for 29,000 acres of land. Near Laurel are the headgates 

of the Billings Land and Irrigation Company's large canal, which 

carries about 305 second-feet and irrigates 28,000 acres. Many small 

ditches^take water from the tributaries of the Yellowstone but few 

from the stream itself owing to the variation of the stages of the 

water surface and consequent difficulty in diversion.

This river freezes entirely over in places during the winter, but 

during the coldest seasons open channels with floating ice are not 

uncommonly seen. Conditions for obtaining accurate data at this 

station are only fair, as the channel is shifting and extra measurements are necessary to obtain a good rating curve. The gage datum 

has remained the same.

Discharge measurements of Yellowstone River at Huntley,Mont., in 1907 and 1908.

Date.

1907.

1908. 

March 28.......

May 21.........

July 22.........

Hydrographer.

.....do..............................................

J. E. Stewart. ......................................

.....do..............................................

....'.do..............................................

Width.

Feet.. 

471

446

436

559

518

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

2,490

2,100

1,890

3

1OA

<i5,160

3,310

Gae;e 

height.

Feet.

2.20

1.83

4.41

8.87

5.37

2.67

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

3,340

2,270

19 7f\T\

39,800

16.600

C flAfi

a Area computed from soundings of July 22, 1908.
U. 8. GEOLOGICAL SURVEY WATER-SUPPLY PAPER 246 PLATE VI

A. MAIN CANAL, HUNTLEY PROJECT, MONTANA.

£. PRYOR CREEK WEIR DURING SPRING FLOOD, HUNTLEY PROJECT, MONTANA.
YELLOWSTONE RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 145

Daily gage height, in feet, of Yellowstone River at Huntley, Mont., for 1907 and 1908. 

[Jack O'Neil and Arthur Foster, observer-.]

Day.

1907.

5.. ......... .

6............

8............

9

10............

Day.

1908.

2............

3............

5............

8............

9............

10............

11............

12............

13............

14............

15............

16............

17............

18............

1Q

20............

22........... 

23............

24...........

25...........

26...........

27...........

28...........

29...........

30. ..........

91

Oc

3

3

3

?

2

?

2

2

t. NOT

0 2.

0 2.

1 2.

n 9

0 2.

8 2.

8 2.

8 2.

8 2.

8 2.

Jan.

1.70

1.70

1.70

1.60

1.60

2.00

2.00

2.00

2.00

2.00

2.00

2.00

2.00

2.00

2.00

1.90

1.90

1.90

2.20

2.20 

2.20

2.20

2.20

2.20

2.20

2.20

2.00

2.00

1 90

j. Dec

4 2.

4 2

4 2.

3 2.

3 2.

3 2.

3 2.

Feb.

1.50

1.50

1.50

1.70

1.90

2.00

2.10

2.20

2.00

2.40

" 2.16

3.00

1 11..

1 12..

1 13..

1 14..

D 15..

0 16..

0 17..

0 18..

0 19..

0 20..

Mar.

2.40

2.40

2.50

3.66

1.85 

1.85

1.85

1.85

1.85

1.85

1.85

1.85

1.85

Day.

1907.

Apr.

1.82

1.78

1.78

1.70

1.69

1.70

1.70

1.70

1.71

1.80

1.87

1.92

1.94

1.97

2.12

2.30

2.45

2.53

3.00

3.11

3.13 

3.70

3.72

3.70

3.68

3.30

3.10

2.90

2.50

Oct

.. 2.

.. 2.

.. 2.

.. 2.

... 2.

... 2.

... 2.

... 2.

... 2.

... 2.

May.

2.50

2.60

3.07

3.40

3.60

3.70

4.03

4.60

4.80

4.90

4.80

4.00

3.80

3.80

3.73

3.84

3.60

3.20

4.40

3.98 

4.10

4.80

4.00

4.30

8.00

7.65

6.75

6.10

7.20

. Nov.

7 2.3

7 2.2

7 2.2

7 2.2

5 2.2

5 2.2

5 2.2

5 2.2

June.

7.80

8.00

7.70

7.90

6.70

6.70

6.70

6.90

7.10

7.70

7.80

7.80

8.80

9.00

9.00

9.00

9.10

9-00

7.80

7.00

7.00 

6.80

6.70

6.50

6.20

7.50

8.40

7.20

7.05

Dec.

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.0

1.8

1.8

1.7

1.5

1.2

1.2

July.

6.90

7.60

7.80

7.80

7.60

6.20

6.20

7.40

7.60

7.60

7.80

7.50

7.50

7.20

6.80

6.80

6.30

6.20

6.00

5.60

5.40 

5.36

5.30

5.20

5.20

5.10

5.10

5.00

4.90

4 80

I

21...

23...

24...

25...

26...

28...

29...

30...

31...

Aug.

4.40

4.40

4.30

4.20

4.20

4.10

3.90

3.80

3.70

3.70

3.60

3.60

3.90

3.90

3.80

3.80

3.80

3.80

3.60

3.60

3.60 

3.50

3.62

3.50

3.45

3.33

3.22

3.15

3.20

3.20

)ay.

1907.

Sept.

3.20

3.20

3.10

3.00

3.00

3.00

3.00

3.00

2.80

2.80

2.80

2.80

2.80

2.80

2.80

2.76

2.76

2.76

2.76

2.60

2.78

2.78 

2.78

2.76

2.70

2.70

2.70

2.70

2.70

2.70

Oct.

. 2.6

. 2.6

. 2.6

. 2.5

. 2.5

.. 2.5

. 2.5

. 2.4

.. 2.4

.. 2.4

.. 2.4

Oct.

2.70

2.78

2.00

2.98

3.00

2.96

2.90

2.90

2.80

2.80

2.67

2.67

2.67

2.70

2.71

2.90

2.97

2.98

2.96 

2.94

2.94

2.90

2.80

2.18

2.88

2.85

2.84

Nov.

2.2

2.2

2.2

2.2

2.2

2.2

2.2

2.2

2.1

Nov.

2.60

2.60

2.60

2.60

2.60

2.60

2.58

2.58

2.58

2.53

2.53

2.53

2.50

2.50

2.50

2.50

2.56

2.56

2.30

2.28

2.22

2.20

2.20

2.10

2.10

2.10

2.00

Dec.

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.4

1.5

1.6

Dec.

1.80

1.50

1.60

2.00

2.00

2.50

2.20

2.25

2.25

2.30

2.20

2.10

2.10

2.10

2.10

2.00

2.00

1.80

1.90

2.00

1.95 

1.95

1.95

2.10

2.25

2.25

2.20

2.20

2.00

1.90

NOTE. Practically no ice during December, 

31260 IRR 246 10 10
146 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Rating table for Yellowstone River at Huntley, Mont., for October 1,1907, to December 31,

1908.

Gage 

height.

Feet.

1.10

1.20

1.30

1.40

1.50

1.60

1.70

1.80

1.90

2.00

2.10

2.20

2.30

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

1,060

1,220

1,380

1,540

1,700

1,860

2,050

2,270

2,520

2,800

3,080

3,380

3,680

Gage 

height.

Feet.

2.40

2.50

2.60

2.70

2.80

2.90

3.00

3.10

3.20

3.30

3.40

3.50

3.60

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

4,000

4,320

4,640

4,980

5,320

5,680

6,040

6,420

6,800

7,200

7,600

8,020

8,460

Gage 

height.

Feet.

3.70

3.80

3.90

4.00

4.20

4.40

4.60

4.80

5.00

5.20

5.40

5.60

5.80

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

8,900

9,340

9,800

10,260

11,200

12, 160

13, 160

14, 180

15, 220

16,300

17, 400

18, 540

19,700

Gage 

height.

Feet.

6.00

6.20

6.40

6.60

6.80

7.00

7.20

7.40

7.60

7.80

8.00

9.00

9.10

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

20,900

22,100

23,340

24,600

25,880

27, 160

28,480

29,800

31, 120

32, 440

33,760

40, 560

41,240

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on seven 

discharge measurements made during 1907-8 and is well denned.

Monthly discharge of Yellowstone River at Huntley, Mont., for 1907 and 1908, 

[Drainage area, 12,000 square miles.1

Month.

1907.

1908.

April.........................

July..........................

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

6,420 

4,000 

3,080

3,380

8,990 

33,800 

41,200 

32,400 

12,200 

6,800 

6,040 

4,640 

4,320

41,200

Minimum.

4,000 

3,080 

1,060

1,860

2,030 

4,320 

22,100 

14,200 

6,610 

4,640 

2,800 

2,800 

1,700

Mean.

4,930 

3,510 

2,110

2,790 

1,870 

1,880 

4,470 

12,700 

31,500 

23,400 

9,070 

5.450 

5,420 

4,140 

2,940

8,800

Per 

square 

mile.

0.411 

.292 

.176

.232 

.156 

.157 

.372 

1.06 

2.62 

1.95 

.756 

.454 

.452 

.345 

.245

.733

Run-off.

Depth in 

inches on 

drainage 

area.

0.47 

.33 

.20

.27 

.17 

.18 

.42 

1.22 

2.92 

2.25 

.87 

.51 

.52 

.38 

.28

9.99

Total in 

acre-feet.

303,000 

209, 000 

130,000

172,000 

108,000 

116,000 

266,000 

781,000 

1,870,000 

1,440,000 

559,000 

324, 000 

333,000 

246, 000 

181, 000

6, 400, 000

Accuracy.

A. 

A. 

B.

C. 

D. 

D. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

B. 

B.

YELLOWSTONE RIVER AT JUNCTION, MONT.

This station, which was established May 10, 1906, to take the place 

of the one maintained at Billings, is located at the county highway 

bridge at Junction, 1 mile north of Ouster, Mont. The records furnish information of value in connection with irrigation projects. It 

was discontinued December 31, 1907, in favor of the station at 

Huntley.

The Bighorn, which joins the Yellowstone about 7 miles below the 

gaging station, is the only important tributary near Junction. The 

drainage area is 13,500 square miles.
YELLOWSTONE RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN, 147

No diversions are made from the Yellowstone itself near this station. 

The high banks and the variations in the height of the water surface 

make irrigation on a small scale impracticable.

Ice forms at this station, but records obtained during the open 

season were good. The channel shifts only in extreme high water. 

The gage datum remained unchanged.

Discharge measurements of Yellowstone River at Junction, Mont., in 1907.

Date.

May 30. ........

Hydrographer.

J. E. Stewart .......................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

Width.

Feet. 

394

596

609

450

384

Area of 

section.

Sq. ft. 

2,130

3,420

5,400

3,310

2,430

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

3.56

5.76

9.10

9 74

5.41

3.71

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

3,480

13,600

a 37, 700

11,600

3,520

a Measurement doubtful.

Daily gage height, in feet, of Yellowstone River at Junction, Mont., for 1907. 

[J. E. Thurmond and Miss Nina Winter, observers.]

Day.

3...............

6...............

8...............

10...............

11...............

12...............

13...............

14...............

15...............

16...............

17...............

18...............

19...............

20...............

21............... 

22...............

23...............

25...............

26...............

27...............

28...............

29...............

30............... 

31...............

Jan.

3.45

3.45

3.5

3.5

3.0

3.1

3.45

Feb.

3.9

4.2

4.4

4.7

4.8

5.0

5.6

6.0

6.0

5.8

5.6

5.4

5.0

4.8

4.9

4 9

4.8

4.7

4.5

4.5

Mar.

4.5

4.5 

4.6

4.7

4.5

4.3

4.3

4.5

4.3

4.1

3.9

3.9

3.9

3.8

3.8

o 7

3.7

3.6

3.6

3.6 

3.55

3.55

0 C

3.5

3.45

3.45

3.5

3.5

3.5 

3.5

Apr.

3.7

3.7 

3.7

3.7

3.7

3.7

3.7

3.8

3.8

3.8

3.9

3.9

3.9

4.0

4.0

4.0

4.0

3.9

3.9

3.9 

3.8

3.8

0 O

3.7

3.6

3.6

3.6

3.5

3.5

May.

3.6

3.7

3.6 

3.5

3.5

3.6

3.6

3.7

3.7

3.8

4.0

4.2

4.5

4.4

4.2

4.1

A 0

5.6

5.8

6.0

6.2 

6.4

6.6

6.7

6.9

6.6

6.3

6.1

5.9

5.9 

5.9

June.

6.1

6.8

7^5

7.2

7.5

7.9

8.2

8.6

8.5

7.9

7.9

8.2

8.2

7.8

7.6

7.4

7.4

7.5

7.6

8.2 

8.6

9.6

9 9

8.9

8.2

7.2

8.1

9.1

9.4

July.

9 7

9.5

9.6 

9.9

10.6

11.0

9.7

9.6

10.3

9.7

9 2

9.1

9.1

9.1

9.4

8

C

8.1

8.1

8.4

8.8 

8.7

8.5

8.6

8.4

8.1

7.8

7.4

7.25

7.5 

7.4

Aug.

7 1

7.0

7.0

6.7

6.5

6.5

6.3

6.0

6.0

5.8

5.8

5.6

5.6

5.4

5.4

5.2

5.3

5.1

5.1 

4.9

4.9

4.7

4.8

4.8

5.0

4.9

5.0

5.0 

5.0

Sept.

4 9

4.8

4.8 

4.7

4.7

4.6

4.6

4.6

4.6

4.5

4.5

4.5

4.5

4.5

4.4

4.3

4.3

4.2

4.2 

4.1

4.1

4.0

4.0

4.1

4.1

4.4

4.4

Oct.

4.3

4.2

4.3 

4.4

4.3

4.3

4.2

4.1

4.1

4.1

4.1

4.0

4.0

4.0

4.0

4.0

4.0

3 9

3.9

3.9

3.9 

3.9

3 9

3 Q

3.9

3.9

3.9

3.9

3.8

3.8 

3.9

Nov.

3.8

3.7

3.7 

3.8

3.8

3.8

3.8

3.8

3.7

3.7

3.7

3.7

3.6

3.6

3.6

3.7

3 7

3.7

3.7

3.7

3.6 

3.6

3.6

3.6

3.6

3.6

3.6

3.6

3.6

3.6

Dec.

3.6

3.6 

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

o e

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5 

3.5

3.4

3 A

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.5

3.5

3.5

NOTE. River frozen over January 3 to March 19. Above the gage the river was frozen entirely across, 

but below there was some open water because of rapids. 

From January 3 to February 20 the river was frozen at the gage.
148 SUKFACE WATEK SUPPLY, 1907-8. 

Rating table for Yellowstone River at Junction, Mont., for 1907.

Gage 

height.

Feet.

3.40

3.50

3.60

3.70

3.80

3.90

4.00

4.10

4.20

4.30

4.40

4.50

4.60

4.70

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

2,740

3,060

3,390

3,730

4,080

4,440

4,820

5,220

5,640

6,060

6,500

6,960

7,420

7,900

1

Gage 

height.

Feet.

4.80

4.90

5.00

5.10

5.20

5.30

5.40

5.50

5.60

5.70

5.80

5.90

6.00

6.10

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

8,390

8,890

9,400

9,910

10, 430

10, 960

11, 500

12, 050

12, 620

13, 210

13,810

14,410

15, 020

15,630

Gage 

height.

Feet.

6.20

6.30

6.40

6.50

6.60

6.70

6.80

6.90

7.00

7.20

7.40

7.60

7.80

8.00

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

16, 240

16,850

17, 460

18, 080

18,700

19,320

19, 940

20, 570

21,200

22, 460

23,720

24, 980

26, 240

27,500

Gage 

height.

Feet.

8.20

8.40

8.60

8.80

9.00

9.20

9.40

9.60

9.80

10,00

11.00

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

28, 840

30,180

31,520

32, 860

34,200

35,600

37,000

38,400

39,800

41,200

48,400

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on six 

discharge measurements made during 1907, and is fairly well denned.

Monthly discharge of Yellowstone River at Junction, Mont., for 1907. 

[Drainage area, 13,500 square miles.]

Month.

March 19-31 ....................

July............................

November

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

3,390 

4,820 

20,600 

40,500 

48,400 

23,100 

8,890 

6,500 

4,080 

3,390

Minimum.

2,900 

3,060 

3,060 

15,600 

22,800 

7,900 

4,820 

4,080 

3,390 

2,740

Mean.

a 1,500 

3,140 

4.000 

9,800 

27,800 

34,400 

13,200 

6,630 

4,930 

3,650 

3,040

Per 

square 

mile.

0.111 

.233 

.296 

.726 

2.06 

2.56 

.978 

.490 

.365 

.270 

.225

Run-off.

Depth in 

inches on 

drainage 

area.

0.13 

.11 

.33 

.84 

2.30 

2.95 

1.13 

.55 

.42 

.30 

.26

Acre-feet.

92,200 

81,000 

238,000 

603,000 

1,650,000 

2,120,000 

812,000 

395,000 

303, 000 

217,000 

187,000

6,700,000

Accuracy.

D. 

B. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

B. 

C.

a Estimated.

YELLOWSTONE RIVER AT GLENDIVE, MONT.

This station, T^iiich was established in 1893 by the United States 

War Department, was transferred to the Department of Agriculture, which has kept daily records of river height. When a study 

of the Lower Yellowstone Valley was begun in 1903 the station was 

taken up by the United States Geological Survey, whose records 

begin August I, 1903. The station is located at the steel highway 

bridge leading northward from Glendive, about one-fourth mile from 

the post-office. The records are used to determine the amount of water 

available for the lower Yellowstone project and other irrigation 

enterprises. The drainage area of Yellowstone River at Glendive is 

66,100 square miles.

The only large diversion from the Yellowstone near Glendive is 

the Lower Yellowstone canal, built by the United States Reclamation
U, S. GEOLOGICAL SURVEY WATER-SUPPLY PAPER 246 PLATE VII

PORTION OF COMPLETED MAIN CANAL, LOWER YELLOWSTONE PROJECT, MONTANA,
YELLOWSTONE RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 149

Service. It leaves the river 18 miles below Glendive and diverts 

water to irrigate 66,000 acres of land. (See PI. VII.)

Since 1903 no change in gage datum has been made. The records 

obtained at this station are good during the open season. Although 

in low water the old piling and cribwork of a former bridge somewhat obstruct the flow. Ice exists from December to April.

Daily gage height, in feet, of Yellowstone River at Glendive, Mont., for 1907 and 1908.

[Howard Roby, observer.]

Day.

1907.

2....--....--.-.

3--....----.-..-

5....--.......-.

8...............

g

10....--...-.....

11...............

12...............

I Q

14...............

15...............

17...............

18...............

19

20...............

22...............

23...............

24...............

26...............

27...............

28. ..............

29........ ....... 

30

31...............

1908. 

1...............

9

3-..-...-.......

5. .............

6...............

7...............

8...............

9...............

10...............

11...............

12...............

13............ ..

14...............

15...............

16...............

17...............

18...............

19

20. ..............

21...............

22...............

23...............

24...............

25. ..............

Jan.

4 Q

4.9

"~4."c"

3.6

3.9

4.1

Feb.

8.7

8.55

7.9

7.85

7.8

8.7

8.35

8.05

8.0

2.6

.......

Mar.

7.75

7.3

6.95

6.65

6.7

6.45

6.55

6.9

6.65

6.65

6.7

6.55

6.4

6.1

6.2

6.0

6.1

6.2

6.15

6.7

7.45

7.05

3.6

3.3

2.9

2.8

2.55

2.25 

2.15

1.95

3.8

.......

4.55

"h'.'fi"

5.4

6.05

Apr.

1.75

1.9

2.0

1.9

1.85

1.75

1.7

1.7

1.6

1.6

1.5

1.4

1.3

1.3

1.45

1.7

1.7

1.95

2.3

2.4

2.4

2.3

2.25

2.1

1.95

1.9

1.95

2.0

2.05 

2.05

1.45

1.4

1.25

1.0

.9 

g

1.0

111

1.35

1.7

2.0

2.35

2.55

9 8

3.05

3.9

May.

2.0

1.9

1.9

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.75

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.8

2.25

2.75

3.75

3.95

3.6

3.6

3.55

4.6

5.05

5.45

6.05

6.75

8.2

9.1

8.9

8.2

7.25 

6.5

6.0

2.75

2.55

2.4

2.3

2.2

2.5

2.95

3.05

3.1

3.75

4.55

4.95

4.95 

4.7

4 4

4.15

4.05

4.0

4 0

4.15

5.1

fi 9

6.95

6.75

June.

5.8

5.8

5.85

6.2

7.2

7.3

7.2

7.8

8.6

9.1

9.2

9.0

8.4

8.2

8.5

8.75

8.2

7.95

7.55

7.1

7.3

8.0

9.5

10.9

10.8

10.15

8.85

8.2

7.45 

8.15

7.05

7.7

8.35

Q 7

10.0

9 2

8.15

7.6

7.45

8.05

8.35

8.55 

8.75

9 or;

9

7K

10.2

10 5

10.35

9.85

9.25

8.55

7 9

7.85

July.

9.0

9.15

9.4

9.4

9.65

9.95

10.3

10.7

10.5

10.15

10.4

10.5

9.85

9.4

9.2

9.2

9.4

9.3

8.4

7.95

8.4

8.15

8.25

8.1

8.1

8.05

7.8

7.5

7.4 

7.15

7.15

8.1

7.7

8.0 8 *}

8.45

8.75

9.25

9.3

8.5

8.35

8.35

8.4

8.45 

8.25

8.1

8.1

8.0

7.6

7.4

6.95

6.6

6.25

6.1

6.05

5.9

Aug.

7.35

7.25

6.95

6.85

6.65

6.6

6.7

6.3

5.95

5.8

5.65

5.55

5.45

4.85

4.75

4.5

4.4

4.25

4.2

4.15

4.05

3.9

3.8

3.7

3.6

4.05

4.4

3.95

t\ 9

5.05

4.85

4 75

4.6

4.55

4.2

4.1

3.95

3.8

3.7

3.7 

3.85

3 9

3

QE

3.9

4.35

A Q

4.0

4.35

4.45

4.15

4.1

Sept.

3.9

3.9

3.95

3.95

3.7

3.55

3.45

3.35

3.3

3.4

3.35

3.3

3.25

3.2

3.2

3.15

3.05

2.95

2.85

2.85

3.0

3.05

3.3

3.3

2.85

2.55

2.5

2.4

2.4 

2.4

3.25

3.2

3.05

3 fi

2.9

2.8

2.7

2.55

2.4

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.2 

2.2

2 2

2.1

9 11

2.3

2

O

2

OE

2.45

2.3

2.2

2.1

2.05

Oct.

2.6

2.6

2.75

2.8

2.8

2.9

2.7

2.6

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.35

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.25

2.3

2.25

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.05

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.0

1.9

1.9

1.9 

1 9

1.9

2.3

2.2

2.3

2

KK

2.9

1 9t>

3.0

3.0

2.95

2.8

2.7

2.6

2.6 

2.5

2

e

2 re

2.8

2

7C

2 9

o o

3.15

2.95

2.8

2.65

2.55

Nov.

1.9

1.9

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.75

1.7

1.65

1.6

1.55

1.5

1 4A

1.4

1.35

1.3

1.35

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.35

1.3

1.3 

1.4

2.3

2.3

2.2

9 1

2.1

2.0

2.0

9 9

2.3

2.0

1.5

9

1.55

1 fi

2.0

2.25

Dec.

1.4

1.3

1.3

1.4

1.4

1.2

1.15

1.2

1.15

1.1

1.0

1.2

6.0

6.25

5.6

5.8

c 7

6.3

.8

6.5

6.3
150 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Daily gage height, in feet, of Yellowstone River at Glendive, Mont., for 1907 and

1908 Continued.

Day.

1908. 

26...............

27...............

28...............

29. ..............

30...............

31...............

Jan.

1 7

Feb. Mar.

 TOApr.

4.0

3.95

3.7

3.35

3.05

May.

6.85

6.65

5.9

7.8

7.9

7.1

June.

7.6

7.35

7.75

8.5

8.85

July.

5.9

5.8

5.65

5.55

5.7

5.25

Aug.

4.0

4.0

3.95

3.75

3.55

3.35

Sept.

2.1

2.2

2.2

2.2

2.25

Oct.

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.4

2.35

2.3

Nov.

2.2

2.25

2.25

2.3

1.85

Dec.

6.4

6.6

NOTE. Ice conditions January 1 to March 23, December 13 to 31. 1907. River frozen entirely across with 

no anchor ice January 1 to February 13, 1907; ice broke up and went out February 14 to 19. February 25 

to March 23, 1907, ice jam at gage; gage reading to top of ice; ice went out March 23.

Ice conditions January 1 to April 7, December 1 to 31, 1908; gage readings are to water surface.

Rating table for Yellowstone River at Glendive, Mont., for 1906 to 1908.

Gage 

height.

Feet.

0.90

1.00

1.10

. 1.20

1.30

1.40

1.50

1.60

1.70

1.80

1.90

2.00

2.10

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

4,640

4,860

5,080

5,300

5,530

5,760

5,990

6,240

6,490

6,740

7,020

7,300

7,580

Gage 

height.

Feet.

2.20

2.30

2.40

2.50

2.60

2.70

2.80

2.90

3.00

3.10

3.20

3.30

3.40

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

7,860

8,160

8,480

8,820

9,180

9,540

9,920

10,300

10,700

11, 120

11, 540

11,980

12, 440

Gage 

height.

Feet.

3.50

3.60

3.70

3.80

3.90

4.00

4.20

4.40

4.60

4.80

5.00

5.20

5.40

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

12,900

13,380

13,860

14,360

14, 880

15,400

16,500

17, 650

18, 850

20, 150

21,500

22, 900

24, 300

Gage 

height.

Feet.

5.60

5.80

6.00

6.20

6.40

6.60

6.80

7.00

8.00

9.00

10.00

11.00

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

25,900

27,500

29, 200

31, 000

32,900

34, 900

37,000

39, 200

50,900

64,000

78,000

92, 000

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on discharge measurements made during 1904 to 1906, and is well defined between gage heights 1.3 feet and 8.0 

feet. Below gage height 2.4 feet it is the same as the 1905 table.

Monthly discharge of Yellowstone River at Glendive, Mont., for 1907 and 1908. 

[Drainage area, 66,100 square miles.]

Month.

1907. 

March 24-31. .................

April.........................

July..........................

1908. 

April 8-30. ...................

July..---.---..--..--........-

The period .............

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

13,400 

8,480 

65,400 

90,600 

87,800 

43,100 

15, 100 

10,300 

7,020 

5,760

15,400 

49,700 

86,400 

68,200 

22,900 

11,800 

11,800 

8,160

Minimum.

7,160 

5,530 

6,490 

27,500 

40,800 

13,400 

8,480 

7,020 

5,530 

4,860

4,640 

7,860 

39,800 

23,200 

12,200 

7,440 

7,860 

7,300

Mean.

9,680 

6,940 

20,600 

53,200 

64,000 

24,100 

11,600 

8,220 

6,100 

5,380

8,440 

21,300 

60,800 

44,800 

16,400 

8,620 

9,500 

7,710

Per 

square 

mile.

0.146 

.105 

.312 

.805 

.968 

.365 

.175 

.124 

.092 

.081

.128 

.322 

.920 

.678 

.248 

.130 

.144 

.117

Run-off.

Depth in 

inches on 

drainage 

area.

0.04 

.12 

.36 

.90 

1.12 

.42 

.20 

.14 

.10 

.04

.11 

.37 

1.03 

.78 

.29 

.14 

.17 

.04

Total in 

acre-feet.

154,000 

413,000 

1,270,000 

3,170,000 

3,940,000 

1,480,000 

690,000 

505,000 

363,000 

128,000

12,100,000

385,000 

1,310,000 

3,620,000 

2,750,000 

1,010,000 

513,000 

584,000 

153,000

10,300,000

Accuracy.

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

B. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

B. 

B.

A. 

A. 

B. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

B.
YELLOWSTONE RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 151

NORTH FORK OF BIG TIMBER CREEK NEAR BIG TIMBER, MONT.

This station, which was established May 6, 1907, is located 1 mile 

above the Tintinger ranch, 15 miles northwest of Big Timber, just 

above the junction with the South Fork.

The source of North Fork is two lakes in the Crazy Mountains. 

These lakes form excellent reservoir sites. It is proposed to utilize 

the flow of the North Fork in connection with a project under the 

Carey land act. The drainage area above the station is only 40 square 

miles.

Several ditches above the station divert water to irrigate approximately 300 acres of land. A large ditch appropriating 50,000 inches 

of water has its head-gate just below the gage. This appropriation 

includes both forks. The water rights on Big Timber Creek have 

never been adjudicated.

At the gaging station the bed of the stream is composed of bowlders 

and coarse gravel, and is probably permanent. Results obtained 

during the open season are good.

Discharge measurements of North Fork of Big Timber River near Big Timber, Mont.,

in 1907 and 1908.

Date.

1907.

May 31 ........

1908. 

May 13........

May 25. .......

July 24........

Hydrographer.

.....do..............................................

J. E. Stewart.. .....................................

J. E . Stewart .......................................

Width.

Feet. 

30

37

24

24

37.5

38

19

Area of 

section.

Sq. ft. 

23.8

20.2

19.9

31.7

36.8

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

1.10

1.75

.94

1.28

1.37

1.70

1.18

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

118

21.5

33.8

47.6

90.3

27.2

Daily gage height, in feet, of North Fork of Big Timber River near Big Timber, Mont.,

for 1907 and 1908.

[N. J. Tintinger, observer.]

Day.

1907. 

1...........................

2. ..........................

3... .................. ......

4...........................

6...........................

7.. .........................

8...........................

9...........................

10...........................

11...........................

12...........................

13...........................

14...........................

15...........................

Mar. Apr.. May.

1.30

1.32

1.32

1.30

1.42

1.57

1.45

1.35

1.41

June.

2.12

2.22

2.18

1.92

2.00

2.28

2.32

2.18

1.98

1.92

1.65

1.90

2.08

2.18

2.00

July.

2.35

2.40

 2.45

2.60

2.45

2.35

2.15

2.30

2.30

2.10

2.05

2.05

2.30

2.35

2.30

Aug.

1.78

1.78

1.82

1.72

1.65

1.60

1.60

1.60

1.62

1.95

1.75

1.65

1.65

1.68

1.65

Sept.

1.11

1.11

1.11

1.11

1.11

1.11

1.11

1.10

1.15

1.10

1.10

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.00

Oct.

1.05

1.00

1.15

1.05

1.00

1.00

.90

.90

.90

.90

.90

.90

.90

.90

.90

Nov.

0.85

.85

.85

.85

DC

85

.85

.85

.85
152 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Daily gage height, in feet, of North Fork of Big Timber River near Big Timber, Mont., 

for 1907 and 1908 Continued.

Day.

1907.

18...........................

19. ..........................

21...........................

22........ ...................

23...........................

24...........................

26............ ...............

97

28...........................

29. ..........................

30. ..........................

1908. 

1...........................

3. ..........................

4. ..........................

6...........................

8...........................

9...........................

10...........................

11...........................

12. ..........................

13...........................

14. ..........................

16. ..........................

17. ..........................

19...........................

20...........................

21...........................

22. ..........................

23...........................

24...........................

25...........................

26. ..........................

27.. .........................

28. ..........................

29...........................

30. ..........................

31...........................

Mar.

........

........

........

........

0.80

.75

.75

.78

.75

.88

.80

.80

.88

.90

Apr.

0.90

.88

.80

.80

QK

.90

.90

on

.90

.95

.92

01

1.00

1.05

95

1.02

1.10

1.10

1.20

1.32

1.40

1.42 i 99

1.32

1.17

1.10

1.12

1.10

1.12

May.

1.50

1.90

1.98

2.30

2.62

2.42

2.05

1.70

1.68

1.58

1.60

1.60

1.60

1.72

1.72

1.90

1.20

1.20

1.25

1.32

1.35

1.38

1.45

1.75

1.80

1.70

1.30

1.30

1.30

1.28

1 30

1.30

1.30

1.25

1.30

1.25

1.35

1.35

1.35

2.00

2.40

2.20

1.85

1.85

2.00

June.

1.78

1.82

2.00

2.45

2.48

2.35

2.28

2.45

2.15

2.10

2.00

2.35

2.65

2.68

2.50

4.05

3.85

3.70

3.10

3.10

3.10

3.05

3.15

3.40

3.00

2.85

2.85

2.85

3.00

2.75

2.50

2.45

2.00

1.80

1.75

1.75

1.80

1.80

1.75

1.60

1.50

1.55

July.

2.28

2.20

2.10

2.05

2.38

2.30

2.25

2.05

1.98

1.92

1.90

1.95

1.95

2.00

2.05

1.82

2.00

1.90

2.25

2.30

2.25

2.00

1.85

2.35

2.35

2.25

2.00

1.85

2.30

1.80

i 7<;

1.60

1.70

1.65

1.65

1.70

1.70

1.70

1.70

1.65

1.65

1.70

1.65

1.70

1.65

1 60

1.55

Aug.

1.45

1.45

1.38

1.32

1.28

1.22

1.22

1.22

1.22

1.18

1.18

1.18

1.18

1.18

1.16

1.15

1.53

1.50

1.50

1.50

1.50

1.50

1.45

1.45

1.45

1.50

1.50

1.60

1.65

1.65

1.60

1.60

1.55

1.60

1.60

1.60

1.55

1.55

1.45

1.25

1.25

1.20

1.15

1.10

1.10

1.00

1.15

Sept.

1.00

1.00

.92

.92

.90

.90

.90

.90

.90

.90

.90

.90

.90

1.05

1.00

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.15

1.15

1.15

1.10

1.10

1.10

Oct.

.90

.85

.85

.85

.85

.85

.85

.85

.85

.85

.85

.85

.85

.85

.85

.85

1.15

1.15

1.15

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.20

1.25

1.25

1.25

1.25

1.20

1.20

1.15

1.25

1.25

Nov.

Rating tables for North Fork of Big Timber River near Big Timber, Mont.

FOR 1907.

Gage

height.

Feet.

0.90

1.00

1.10

1.20

1.30

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

19

24

30

38

48

Gage

height.

Feet.

1.40

1.50

1.60

1.70

1.80

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

59

72

88

107

130

Gage

height.

Feet.

1.90

2.00

2.10

2.20

2.30

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

155

182

211

242

275

Gage

height.

Feet.

2.40

2.50

2.60

2.70

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

309

344

380

416

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based oa three 

discharge measurements made during 1907 and the form of the subsequent curve. It is not well defined.
YELLOWSTONE RIVEK DRAINAGE BASIN. 153

Rating tables for North Fork of Big Timber River near Big Timber, Mont. Continued.

FOR 1908.

Gage 

height.

Feet.

0.70

.80

.90

1.00

1.10

1.20

1.30

1.40

1.50

Discharge.

Sec-.ft.

10

12

15

19

24

30

37

46

58

Gage 

height.

Feet.

1.60

1.70

1.80

1.90

2.00

2.10

2.20

2.30

2.40

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

73

90

110

133

158

185

214

245

278

Gage 

height.

Feet.

2.50

2.60

2.70

2.80

2.90

3.00

3.10

3.20

3.30

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

314

350

386

423

460

498

536

574

612

Gage 

height.

Feet.

3.40

3.50

3.60

3.70

3.80

3.90

4.00

4.10

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

650

688

726

764

802

840

878

916

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on ten 

discharge measurements made during 1908-9, and is well defined between gage heights 0.75 foot and 2.1 feet 

Above gage height 2.1 feet it has been extended and is only approximate.

Monthly discharge of North Fork of Big Timber River near Big Timber, Mont., for 1907

and 1908.

Month.

1907. 

May 7-31 ............................................

July. ...............................................

August ..................................... ........

1908. 

March 22-31 .........................................

May.................................................

July.................................................

October 1-24............................... .....

The period ........................... . .

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

387 

409 

380 

168 

34 

34 

18

15

48 

278 

897 

262 

82 

27 

34

Minimum.

48 

97 

135 

34 

19 

18 

18

11 

12 

30 

58 

66 

19 

24 

22

Mean.

121 

236 

240 

74.9 

25.2 

20.0 

18.0

12.4 

23.3 

71.5 

383 

132 

54.7 

24.3 

27.1

Run-off 

(total in 

acre-feet).

6,000 

14,000 

14,800 

4,610 

1,500 

1,230 

321

42,500

246 

1,390 

4,400 

22,800 

8,120 

3,360 

1,450 

1,290

43,100

Accuracy.

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

B. 

C. 

C.

C. 

A. 

A. 

B. 

A. 

A. 

B. 

B.

SOUTH FORK OF BIG TIMBER CREEK NEAR BIG TIMBER, MONT.

This station, which was established May 6, 1907, to determine the 

amount of water available for irrigation in connection with a Carey 

Land Act project, is located 1 mile above Tintinger's ranch, 15 miles 

northwest of Big Timber. The station is just above the junction 

with the North Fork.

The drainage area above the station is about 10 square miles. A 

few diversions are made, and practically all the water is appropriatedIce forms during the winter months. The channel is practically 

permanent and fairly good results have been obtained during the 

open season.
154 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Discharge measurements of South Fork of Big Timber Creek near Big Timber, Mont., in

1907 and 1908.

Date.

1907.

May 31.........

1908. 

May 13. ........

July 24. ........

Hydrographer.

.....do..............................................

J. E. Stewart. ......................................

Width.

Feet. 

24

27

14

22

24

21.5

13

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

13.0

24.4

9.7

14.8

17.2

18.5

8.75

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

0.52

.95

.59

.70

.80

.89

.51

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

17.1

73.1

18.2

25.4

42.5

30.0

10.4

NOTE. These measurements were made hy \vading at different sections.

Daily gage height, in feet, of South Fork of Big Timber Creek near Big Timber, Mont., for

1907 and 1908. 

[N. J. Tintinger, observer.]

Day.

1907. 

1... ........................

3...........................

4...........................

5...........................

8...........................

9

10...........................

13...........................

15...........................

17...........................

18...........................

19

20...........................

23...........................

24...........................

25...........................

9Q

30...........................

31...........................

1908.

3...........................

9

10...........................

13...........................

14. ..........................

19

20...........................

Mar. Apr.

"

0.40

.38

.35

.35

.35

.40

.40

.40

.40

.40

.45

.45

.50

.50

.45

.50

.50

.55

.62

.68

May.

.

0.35

.36

.37

.40

.85

.78

.70

.60

.52

.58

.90

04

1.02

1.15

.98

.98

1.00

.90

90

.90

.90

.90

.92

1.02

.60

.60

.65

.65

.70

.72

.85

.90

.80

.65

.65

.60

.70

.50

.40

.40

.30

.30

.35

June.

1.18

1.25

1.20

.98

.98

1.25

1.40

1.32

1.00

.92

.95

.98

1.20

1 22

1.18

.80

.78

.92

1.40

1.42

1.40

1.28

1.45

1.25

1.15

1.35

1.65

1.65

2.50

2.45

2.45

2.35

2.45

2.45

2.30

2.25

2.30

2.40

2.35

2.25

2.20

2.25

2.10

2.10

1.85

1.90

1.80

1.50

July.

1.30

1.35

1.40

1.52

1.45

1.35

1.25

1.35

1.45

1.20

1.08

1.15

1.80

1.30

1.22

1.32

1.45

1.40

1.35

1.32

1.70

1.35

1.40

1.30

1.28

1.20

1.20

1.30

1.40

1.35

1.10

1.10

.85

1.50

1.50

1.75

1.60

1.45

1.75

1.75

1.75

1.60

1.45

1.60

1.45

1.35

1.30

1.25

1.30

1.30

1.25

Aug.

1.02

.95

1.00

1.10

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.02

1.00

1.35

1.15

.98

.90

.85

.82

.78

.80

.80

.75

.70

.70

.70

.70

.65

.65

.65

.70

.65

.65

.55

.75

.75

.75

.70

.70

.70

.70

.70

.70

.70

.70

.75

.80

.80

.75

.75

.65

.65

.65

.55

Sept.

0.55

.55

.55

.55

.55

.55

.55

.50

.50

.50

.45

.45

.45

.38

.35

.32

.30

.28

.28

.25

.20

.20

.20

.20

.20

.20

.55

.60

.40

.40

.45

.50

.50

.50

.50

.50

.45

.45

.45

.45

.45

.45

.50

.55

.55

.55

.55

.55

.55

.55

Oct.

0.40

.60

.60

.60

.58

.58

.50

.40

.40

.40

.40

.40

.40

.40

.40

.35

.35

.35

.35

.35

.35

.35

.35

.35

.35

.35

.35

.35

.35

.35

.35

.60

.60

.60

.55

.55

.55

.52

.52

.52

.52

.50

.52

.50

.50

.50

.60

.60

.60

.60

.55

Nov.

0.35

.35

.35

.35

.35

.35

.35

.35

.35
YELLOWSTONE EIVEB DRAINAGE BASIN. 155

Daily gage height, in feet, of South Fork of Big Timber Creek near Big Timber, Mont., 

for 1907 and 1908 Continued.

Day.

1908. 

21...........................

22...........................

23...........................

24. ..........................

25...........................

26. ..........................

27. ..........................

28. ..........................

29...........................

30. ..........................

31...........................

Mar.

0.30

.25

.25

.28

.25

.25

.25

.25

.32

.35

Apr.

.75

.80

.72

.72

.62

.60

.60

.52

.58

May.

.35

.30

.30

.35

.45

.85

1.20

1.10

1.10

1.05

1.05

Juno.

1.40

1.35

1.15

1.10

1.15

1.10

1.10

1.00

.85

.75

July.

1.00

1.00

1.00

.95

.90

.85

.85

.80

.80

.80

Aug.

.45

.40

.35

.35

.45

.35

.35

.35

.30

.30

.45

Sept.

.55

.55

.55

.55

.60

.60

.60

.60

.55

Oct.

.60

.60

Nov.

Rating tables for South Fork of Big Timber Creek near Big Timber, Mont.

FOR 1907.

Gage

height.

Feet.

0.20

.30

.40

.50

.CO

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

2

4

8

13

21

Gage

height.

Feet.

0.70

.80

.90

1.00

1.10

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

31

44

62

85

111

Gage

height.

Feet.

1.20

1.30

1.40

1.50

1.60

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

140

171

203

236

270

Gage

height.

Feet.

1.70

1.80

Discharge.

Scc.-ft.

305

340

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed channel conditions. It is based on 

three discharge measurements made during 1907 and is not well defined.

FOR 1908.

0.30

.40 

.50

.60

.70

.80

3

6 

10

15

23

33

0.90

1.00 

1.10

1.20

1.30

1.40

48

68 

92

119

149

180

1.50

1.60 

1.70

1.80

1.90

2.00

212

244

277

310

344

378

2.10

2.20 

2730

2.40

2.50

412

446 

480

515

550

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed channel conditions. It is based on ten discharge measurements made during 1908-9, and is well denned below gage height 1.1 feet. Above this the 

table is only approximate.

Monthly discharge of South Fork of Big Timber Creek near Big Timber, Mont., for 1907

and 1908.

Month.

1907. 

May 7-31 ............................................

July. ................................................

1908.

October 1-24. ........................................

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

125 

287 

340 

187 

21 

21 

6

4 

33 

119 

550 

294 

33 

15 

15

Minimum.

6 

41 

106 

17 

2 

6 

6

2 

4 

3 

28 

33 

3 

8 

10

Mean.

53.6 

147 

185 

60.5 

9.6 

9.1 

6.0

2.6 

12.1 

29.0 

332 

144 

17.5 

11.1 

12.6

Run-off 

(total in 

acre-feet).

2,660 

8,750 

11,400 

3,720 

571 

560 

107

52 

720 

1,780 

19, 800 

8,850 

1,080 

660 

600

33, 500

Accuracy.

B. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

C. 

C. 

C.

C. 

B. 

A. 

B. 

A. 

A. 

B. 

B.
156 SUBFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

EAST FORK OF BOULDER RIVER NEAR M'LEOD, MONT.

This station, which was established August 13, 1907, to determine 

the value of the stream for power and irrigation, is located at the 

first highway bridge over the East Boulder, 4 miles from McLeod. 

The station is 1 mile above the mouth.

This fork, which drains a valley of well-irrigated land, has no 

important tributaries. "Several ditches receive their water from the 

East Boulder.

The bed of the stream is composed of coarse gravel and bowlders 

and should be permanent, but the swiftness of the current at high 

stages and the rough rocky bed make it difficult to obtain good 

results. This stream freezes over during the winter months. No 

change in gage datum has been made.

Discharge measurements of East Fork of Boulder River near McLeod, Mont., in 1907 and

1908.

Date.

1907.

1908. 

May lla. ......

July 25a.......

October 9 ......

Hydrographer.

J. E . Stewart .......................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

Width.

Feet. 

35

24

26.5

52.5

35

24

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

39.5

25.6

34.8

72.1

40.3

23.4

Gage 

height.

Feet.

.33

.49

1.10

.22

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

89

41.8

379

121

40.2

a Made by wading.

Daily gage height, in feet, of East Fork of Boulder River near McLeod, Mont., for 1907

and 1908.

[E. C. McConnell, observer.] -

Day.

1907. 

1..... ........

2.............

3.............

4.............

8.............

g

10.............

11............. 

12............. 

13............. 

14............. 

15.............

Aug.

'6.5 

.48 

.45

Sept.

0.38

.35

.35

.35

qo

.30

.30

.32 

.35 

.35 

.35 

.35

Oct.

.35

.35

.35

Ort

.30

.30

cm

.30 

.30 

.30 

.30 

.30

Nov.

25

25

.25

OK

OK

.25

.25

.25

on

.20 

.20 

.20 

.20 

.20

Dec.

.20

.15

.15

.15

.15

.15

.15

.15

.15

.15 

.15 

.15 

.15 

.15

Day.

1907. 

16.............

17.............

18.............

19.............

20.............

21.............

22.............

23.............

24.............

25.............

26............. 

27............. 

28............. 

29............. 

30. ............ 

31....... .....

Aug.

0.42

.40

.40

.42

.40

.40

.38

.35

.32

.35 

.35 

.38 

.35 

.38 

.38

Sept.

0.30

.30

.30

.30

.30

.30

.30

.30

.30

.30

.30 

.35 

.35 

.35 

.35

Oct.

0.30

.25

.25

.25

.25

.25

.25

.25

.25

.25

.25 

.25 

.25 

.25 

.25 

.30

Nov.

0.20

.20

.20

.20

.20

.20

.20

.20

.20

.20

.20 

.20 

.20 

.20 

.15

Dec.
YELLOW STONE KIVEE DKAINAGE BASIN. 157

Daily gage height, in feet, of East Fork of Boulder River near McLeod, Mont., for 1907

and 1908 Continued.

Day.

1908. 

1. ..........................

3...........................

8...........................

9...........................

10...........................

12...........................

13...........................

15...........................

16...........................

19

21...........................

22...........................

24...........................

25...........................

26...........................

27...........................

28...........................

29. ..........................

30...........................

31...........................

Mar.

0.12

.10

.12

.12

.12

.10

.10

.10

.10

.10

.12

.10

.08

.10

.10

.10

.10

.12

.10

.10

.08

.10

.05

.10

.10

.10

.10

.08

.08

.08

.05

Apr.

0.05

.08

.08

.05

.05

.05

.05

.05

.05

.05

.05

.05

.05

.05

.05

.05

.05

.10

.12

.28

.45

.50

.50

.35

.30

.25

.20

.20

.15

.18

May.

0.15

.20

.20

.30

.28

.45

.68

.70

.65

.55

.48

.45

.40

.38

.35

.45

.45

.40

.42

.50

.50

.52

.55

.58

.70

.75

.85

80

.85

1.10

June.

1.25

1.15

1.15

.95

.85

QC

.90

1.10

1.20

1 60

1.65

1.70

1.80

1.65

1.45

1.10

.90

.82

.95

1.45

1.85

1.50

1.05

1.15

1.35

July.

1.8

1.6

1.7

1.15

1.05

1.15

1.10

1.00

.95

.95

.90

.90

.85

.80

.72

.68

.68

.65

.60

.58

.60

.62

.55

.55

.55

.52

.52

.50

.45

Aug.

0.40

.38

.32

qn

.30

qn

30

.259Z '

.20

.20

.22

.22

OQ

.25

.25

OC

9Z

Oe

oc

9 =

.25

9 =

9Z

.25

.25

.22

.20

.20

.20

.20

Sept.

.20

.20

.20

.20

.20

1 Q

.18

.15

.15

.15

.15

.15

.15

.15

.15

.15

.15

.15

.15

.15

.15

.15

.10

.15

1 ft

.18

Oct.

0.20

1 Q

.20

.20

.20

.20

.20

.20

.20

.20

.20

.20

.28

.25

oc

.20

.20

.20

1ft

.20

.20

.20

.20

.20

.20

.20

.20

.20

.20

Nov.

0.20

.20

.20

.20

.20

.20

.20

.20

.20

1 Q

1 Q

.20

.20

.15

.15

.15

.15

.15

.15

.15

.15

.15

.15

.10

.10

12

NOTE. Ice conditions December 16-31,1907.

Rating tables for East Fork of Boulder River near McLeod, Mont. 

AUGUST 13, 1907, TO JUNE 26, 1908.

Gage

height.

Feet.

0.00

.10

.20

.30

.40

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

3

10

21

36

60

Gage

height.

Feet.

0.50

.60

.70

.80

.90

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

89

122

160

205

257

Gage

height.

Feet.

1.00

1.10

1.20

1.30

1.40

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

315

375

440

505

575

Gage

height.

Discharge.

Feet. Sec.-ft.

1.50

1.60

1.70

1.80

645

720

795

870

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on four 

discharge measurements made during this period and is fairly well defined below gage height 1.2 feet.

JUNE 27 TO NOVEMBER 30, 1908.

0.00

.10

.20

.30

.40

11

23

38

56

77

0.50

.60

.70

.80

.90

104

139

180

225

275

1.00

1.10

1.20

1.30

1.40

330

390

450

510

580

1.50

1.60

1.70

1.80

650

720

790

860

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on two 

discharge measurements made during this period and on the form of the previous curve. It is fairly well 

defined.
158 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Monthly discharge of East Fork of Boulder River near McLeod, Mont., for 1907 and 1908.

Month.

1907.

1908.

July................................................

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

89 

55 

48 

33 

21

12

89 

375 

908 

860 

77 

38 

51 

38

Minimum.

41 

36 

28 

16 

16

6 

6 

16 

215 

90 

38 

23 

35 

23

Mean.

59.5 

41.9 

34.1 

23.1 

16.7

9.97 

20.1 

107 

470 

286 

47.7 

32.0 

38.7 

32.3

i

Run-off 

(total in 

acre feet).

2,240 

2,490 

2,100 

1,370

497

613 

1,200 

6,580 

28,000 

17,600 

2,930 

1,900 

2,380 

1,920

63, 100

Accuracy

B. 

B. 

B. 

C.

C.

D. 

C. 

B. 

B. 

A. 

A. 

B. 

B. 

B.

WEST FORK OF BOULDER RIVER NEAR BRUFFEYS, MONT.

This station, which is located at the highway bridge on the Livingston road about 7 miles from Bruffeys and 30 miles from Big 

Timber, was established May 7, 1904, by the state engineer of Montana, for the purpose of obtaining data in connection with irrigation 

projects. On May 4, 1907, it was transferred to the United States 

Geological Survey.

West Fork receives numerous small tributaries which enter from 

both sides above the station, the largest being Davis Creek, which 

comes in from the west 1^ miles upstream. One small irrigation ditch above the station diverts 3 or 4 second-feet of water. 

The drainage area is 94 square miles.

The channel is composed of small bowlders and coarse gravel and 

is reasonably permanent. The gage datum has remained unchanged 

since the station was established and the results obtained are excellent for the entire open season. At times during the winter this 

stream is open, but during the greater part of this period the gage 

heights are affected by ice.

The gage heights from 1904 to May 2, 1907 were furnished by 

J. W. Wade, state engineer of Montana.
YELLOWSTONE RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 159

Discharge measurements of West Fork of Boulder River near Bruffeys, Mont.,in 1904,1907,

and 1908.

Date.

1904. 

May 17. ........

1907.

May 28. ........

June 10........

July 2. .........

1908.

Hydrographer. "

J. S. Baker.........................................

.....do.............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

J. E. Stewart. ......................................

Width.

Feet.

63

75

78

78

60

57

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft.

57

110

173

227

70

57.2

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

2.00

1.18

1.93

2.60

3.42

1.38

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

258

36

64

212

618

1,180

96

65.6

a Made by wading.

Daily gage height, in feet, of West Fork of Boulder River near Bruffeys, Mont., for 1904-1908.

[George Knight, observer.]

Day.

1904.a

5...............

6...............

7...............

8...............

g

10...............

11...............

12...............

13

15...-....-.--.-.

19

20.-.-....-..--..

21...............

24...............

26...............

27...............

28--....-...-....

29...............

30...-.---....-..

01

1905.6 

1...............

6...............

%'.'.'.'.'.'.'.'.'.'.'.'.'.'.'.

9_. ............. 

10...............

Jan.

1.45

1.45

1.5

1.45

1.6 

1.5

1.45 

1.5

Feb. Mar.

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1. 15 

1.1

1.2 

1.15

Apr. May.

2.00

2. 19

2.50

2.90

2.90

3. 15

3.20

3. 15

2.70

2.50

2.40

2.50

2.60

2.90

3.10

June.

3.18

2.78

2.58

2.52

2.78

3.08

2.82

3.38

3.25

3.02

3.18

3.32

3.45

3.60

3.82

3.92

3.70

3.60

3.68

3.52

3.10

2.65

2.60

2.70

2.90

3.22

3.52

3.15

3.45

0 1 C

3.15 

3.45

3.4 

3.9

July.

3.60

3.45

3.40

3.30

3.18

3.05

3.08

3.02

2.95

3.05

2.95

2.80

3.02

2.82

2.75

2.55

2.48

2.48

2.48

2.62

2.60

2.68

2.65

2.55

2.42

2.35

2.45

2.45

2.30

2.08

2.95

2.95

2.95

2.85

2 9

2.9 

2.75

2.75 

2.8

Aug.

2.10

2.10

2.08

2.02

2.05

2.00

2.00

2.05

1.92

1.95

2.32

2.15

2.00

1.95

1.98

1.88

1.85

1.88

1.82

1.75

1.70

1.65

1.70

1.70

1.70

1.65

1.55

1.70

1.70

1.70

1.65

1.9

1.85

1.9

1.75

1.7

1.65

1.55 

1.45

1.25 

1.05

Sept.

1.55

1.70

1.70

1.70

1.65

1.65

1.60

1.60

1.60

1.70

1.70

1.70

1.60

1.60

1.70

1.60

1.60

1.60

1.60

1.50

1.50

1.45

1.40

1.45

1.45

1.40

1.45

1.50

1.50

1.45

1.5

1.5

1.4

1.45

1.45

1.4

1.4 

1.3

1.3 

1.3

Oct.

1.40

1.40

1.40

1.45

1.50

1.40

1.40

1.45

1.45

1.40

1.40

1.40

1.40

1.40

1.40

1.40

1.4Q

1.40

1.40

1.40

1.40

1.50

1.40

1.40

1.40

1.45

1.45

1.40

1.40

1.40

1.40

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.4 

1.4

1.4 

1.4

Nov.

1.40

1.40

1.35

1.30

1.30

1.30

1.30

1.30

1.20

1.20

1.20

1.20

1.25

1.20

1.20

1.20

1.20

1.20

1.20

1.20

1.20

1.20

1.20

1.20

1.20

1.25

1.25

1.20

1.20

1.20

1.3

1.25

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2 

1.2

1.2 

1.2

Dec.

1.30

1.30

1.35

1.45

1.50

1.50

1.50

1.50

1.50

1.50

1.50

1.50

1.50

1.60

1.60

1.60

1.60

1.60

1.60

1.60

1.70

1.70

1.80

1.75

1.35

1.45

1.60

1.50

1.55

1.50

1.55

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.25

1.2 

1.2

1.2 

1.2

a- Probable ice conditions during December, 1904.

6 Probable ice conditions January, February, and December, 1905, Ice jams December 22 and 25,1905.
160 SUEFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Daily gage height, in feet, of West Fork of Boulder River near Bruffeys, Mont., for

1904-1908 Continued.

Day.

1905.a 

11...............

12...............

13...............

14...............

15.......--.--...

16:..............

17...............

18...............

19...............

20. ..............

21...............

22.... ..........

23...............

24...............

25...............

26...............

27...............

28...............

29...............

30...............

31...............

1906.6 

1.. .............

2............... 

3...............

4...............

5...............

6...............

7...... ........

8...............

9...............

10...............

11...............

12...............

13...............

14...............

15...............

16...............

17...............

18...............

19...............

20...............

21...............

22...............

23...............

24...............

25...............

26...............

27...............

28...............

29...............

30...............

31...............

1907.c 

1...............

3...............

5...............

6...............

8...............

9...............

10...............

Jan.

1.35

1.35

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.1

1.1

1.2

1.1

1.1

1.35

1.5

1.5 

1.6

1.6

1.65

1.7

1.7

1.65

1.6

1.5

1.5

1.55

1.55

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.55

1.5

1.45

1.5

1.5

1.4

1.45

1.45

1.45

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.25

1.2

1.1

Feb.

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.15

1.1

1.1 

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.2

1.2

1.3

1.3

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.25

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.25

1.2

1.25

1.3

1.4

1.4

1.35

1.35

Mar.

1.1

1.15

1.1

1.15

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.15

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.15

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.35

1.35 

1.25

1.2

1.25

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.2

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.30

1.30

1.20

1.20

1.20

1.20

1.20

1.20

1.20

1.10

Apr.

1.1

1.1 

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.15

1.3

1.25

1.2

1.25

1 3

1.2

1.3

1.35

1.3

1.45

1.35

1.35

1.45

1.55

1.55

1.65

1.85

1.95

1.9

1.75

1.75

1.65

1.5

1.75

1.20

1.30

1.30

1.30

1.30

1.30

1.20

1.30

1.30

1.30

May.

1.85

1.65 

1.85

1.65

1.75

1.85

1.85

1.85

2.55

2.25

2.4

2.55

2.45

2.55

2.55

2.5

2.15

2.2

2.25

2.35

2.4

2.45

2.4

2.45

2.4

2.3

2.15

2.15

2.1

1.40

1.36

1.40

1.40

1.45

1 45

1.50

1.50

1.55

June.

2.4

2.5

2.4

2.5

3.0

2.8

2.8

2.85

2.65

3.15

3.15

2.95

2.1

2.15 

2.55

2.55

2.65

2.75

2.75

3.05

0 1

3.55

3.45

3.55

3.45

3.25

3.05

3.15

3.15

3.0,5

3.1

3.05

2.65

2.45

2.65

2.75

2.75

2.45

2 Jfi

9 ^9

2.60

2.80

3.00

o in

3.15

3.00

3.20

July.

2.85

2.75

2.65

2.65

2.6

2.55

2.35

2.35

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.25

2.1

2.05

2.05

2.0

2.0

2.1

1.95

1.95

3.05

2.75 

2.65

2.75

2.75

2.55

2.65

2.65

2.65

2 AC

2.65

3.0

3.34

3.58

3.90

3.68

3.70

3.25

3.24

3.21

Aug.

1.05

1.1

1.05

1.05

1.0

1.0

1.40

1.45

1.35

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.45

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

2.48

9 ^fi

9 4^

2.30

2.25

2.28

Sept.

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.35

1.4

1.4

1.35

1.4

1.4

1.65

1.65

1.68

1.65

1.68

1.68

1.65

1.65

1.65

Oct.

1.45

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.35

1.35

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.45

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.58

1.55

1.55

1 4.^

1.40

1.40

Nov.

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.3

1.3 

1.3

1.4

1.35

11

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.4

1 Q

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.45

1.3

1.3

1.3

1 3

1.3

1.20

1.20

1.30

1 3fl

1.20

1.20

1.20

1.20

Den.

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.45

1.25

1.2

1.45

1.45

1.3

1.3

1.45

1.45

1.5

1.5

1.4 

1.4

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1 3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.25

1.3

1.3

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.15

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

i **(\

1 40

1 40

1 iz

1 30

1 **fl

1.30

1.30

1.30

a Probable ice conditions January February, and December, 1905. Ice jams December 22 and 25,1905. 

& Probable ice conditions January, February, and to about March 25, and December. 1906, Ice jam 

February 7-10, 1906. 

c Probable ice conditions January, February, and December, 1907,
YELLOW STONE RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 161

Daily gage height, in feet, of West Fork cf Boulder River near Bruffeys, Mont., for

1904-1908 Continued.

Day.

1907.a 11...............

12...............

13

14. ............ 

15...............

16. .............. 

17..............

18..... .........

19..............

20. .............

21..............

22. ............. 

23...... .........

24. ...........

25..............

26.............

27.............

28. .............

29.............. 

30...............

31

1908.6 

I...............

2

3........---.--.

4..............

5...............

6...............

7...............

8..............

9. ..............

10.......--..--..

11...............

12...............

14...............

15...............

16... ...........

17....---......

18.............

19..............

20.............. 

22!!".!!!!!".!!!!!!

90

24............... 

25...............

26...............

27...............

28...............

29............... 

30............... 

31...............

Jan.

.......

Feb.

1.10

1.10

1.10 

1.10

1.20 

1.20

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10 

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

Mar.

1.10

1.10

1.20

1.20 

1.30

1.20 

1.20

1.30

1.30

1.30

1.30

1.20 

1.20

1.20

1.20

1.20

1.20

1.20

1.20 

1.20

1.20

1.20

1.25

1.20

1.20

1.22

1.25

1.20

1.20

1.25

1.20

1.22

1.25

1.20

1.22 

1.20

1.20

1.08 

1.20

! 1.08

1.22

1.20

1.20 i. :o

Apr.

1.30

1.30

1.30

1.30 

1.30

1.30 

1.30

1.30

1.30

1.40

1.50

1.40 

1.40

1.40

1.40

1.40

1.40

1.40

1.40 

1.50

1.08 

1.20

1.08

1.15

1.15

1.15

1.08

1.08

1.20

1.08

1.35

1.40

1.50

1.52

1.55

1.55

1.62

1.70

1.72

1.72 

1.80

1.50

1.50 

1.40

1.40

1.42

1.48

1.50 

1.50

May.

1.55

1.55

1.90

1.80 

1.90

2.00 

2.20

2.50

2.50

2.45

2.50

2.45 

2.40

2.40

2.32

2.20

2.00

1.98

2.00 

2.00

2.30

1.52 

1.50

1.50

1.52

1.58

1.60

1.68

1.65

1.70

1.72

1.75

1.78

1.78

1.78

1.80

1.80

1.80

1.80

1.85

2.00 

2.10

2.22

1.80 

1.75

1.90

1.85

2.20

2. 22 2! 10

2.82

June.

3.10

3.10

3.15

3.00 

3.18

3.00 

2.45

2.62

3.12

3.40

3.52

3. 55 

3.00

2.89

2.68

2.61

2.84

3.01

3.35 

3.40

2.70 

2.52

2.50

2.52

2.58

2.55

2.50

2.52

2.62

2.80

2.90

3.60

3.62

3.82

3.80

3.78

3.50

3.20

2.80

2.90

2. CO 

2.48

2.40

2.52 

3.10

3.30

2.90

3.00

3.02 

3.30

July.

3.26

3.19

3.21

3.50 

3.11

2.92

2.78

2.72

2.70

2.80

2.78

2.99

2.89

2.78

2.71

2.52

2.48

2.48

2.50 

2.45

2.48

3.00 

2.80

2. CO

2. CO

2. CO

2.40

2.50

2.60

2.80

3.00

3. CO

3.80

3.70

3.50

3.40

3.20

3.10

3.10

2.90

2.80

2.70 

2.40

2.50

2.40 

2.40

2.50

2.40

2.30

2.33 

2.40 

2.30

Aug.

2.18

2.15

2.12

2.15 

2.10

2.00 

1.80

1.80

1.72

1.68

1.52

1.38 

1.22

1.18

1.52

1.62

1.08

1.68

1.68 

1.68

1.C8

2.38 

2.22

2.10

2.10

2.00

2.10

1.98

1.92

1.80

1.72

1.80

1.70 i.eo

1.52

1.50

1.40

1.30

1.40

1.30

1.20

1.10 

1.20

1.10

1.20 

1.32

' 1.30

1.40

1.50

1.40 

1.30

1.20

Sept.

1.62

1.65

1.62

1.60 

1.58

1.55 

1.52

1.50

1.48

1.45

1.50

1.45 

1.40

1.45

1.40

1.48

1.48

1.42

1.45 

1.55

1.30 

1.30

1.20

1.30

1.40

1.50

1.40

1.40

1.50

1.30

1.20

1.1C

1.20

1.10

1.10

1.20

1.10

1.20

1.30

1.40

1.50 

1.40

1.40

1.30 

1.20

1.30

1.30

1.40

1.30 

1.20

Oct.

1.42

1.42

1.40

1.40 

1.42

1.42 

1.40

1.42

1.40

1.40

1.38

1.35 

1.35

1.32

1.30

1.32

1.35

1.35

1.35

1.32

1.35

1.20 

1.10

1.20

1.00

1.10

1.20

1.30

1.38

1.30

1.20

1.10

1.20

1.20

1.10

1.20

1.10

1.10

1.00

1.10'

1.20

1.10 

1.20

1.10

1.20 

1.10

1.20

1.10

1.20

1.30 

1.10 

1.20

Nov.

1.20

1.20

1.20

1.20 

1.20

1.20 

1.20

1.20

1.20

1.20

1.20

1.20 

1.20

1.20

1.20

1.20

1.18

1.18

1.18 

1.18

1.20 

1.30

1.10

1.20

1.30

1.10

1.30

1.20

1.20

1.30

1.30

1.20

1.10

1.20

1.30

1.20

1.30

1.20

1.20

1.30

. 1.30 

1.20

1.30

1.30 

1.20

1.20

1.30

1.30

1.20 

1.20

Dec.

1.30

1.30

1.30

1.30 

1.30

1.30 

1.30

1.30

1.20

1.20

1.20

1.20 

1.15

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10 

1.10

1.30 

1.30

1.20

1.20

1.30

1.20

1.30

1.20

1.30

1.20

1.20

1.30

1.30

1.20

1.30

1.30

1.20

1.30

1.20

a Probable ice conditions January, February, and December, 1907.

l> Probable ice conditions January 1-March 7, and after December 18,1908.

31260 IRR 246-
162 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Rating table for West Fork of Boulder River near Bruffeys, Mont., for May 17, 1904, to

December 31, 1908.

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

1.00

1.10

1.20

1.30

1.40

1.50

1.60

1.70

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

20

27

37

50

66

86

110

138

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

1.80

1.90

2.00

2.10

2.20

2.30

2.40

2.50

Discharge.

Scc.-ft. 

171

208

250

295

345

400

460

525

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

2. CO

2.70

2.80

2.90

3.00

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

590

660

730

805

880

3. 10 1 955

3. 20 1 1, 030

3.30 1,110

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

3.40

3.50

3.60

3.70

3.80

3.90

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

1,190

1,270

1,350

1,430

1,510

1,590

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed channel conditions. It is based on nine 

discharge measurements made during 1904, 1907, and 1908, and is well defined between gage heights 1.10 

feet and 3.5 feet.

Monthly discharge of West Fork of Boulder River near Bruffeys, Mont., for 1904 to 1908.

Month.

1904. 

May 17-31 ...........................................

July. ................................................

1305.

July.................................................

m;.

July 1-13.............................................

1907.

July................ .................................

The period..... ............................ ...

1908.

July....................................... .........

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

1,030 

1,610 

1,350 

412 

138 

86 

06

37 

1,590

842 

208 

86 

76 

50

58 

229 

558 

1,310 

918 

76 

76

50 

86 

525 

1,310 

1,590 

525 

132 

105 

50

44 

171 

745 

1,530 

1,510 

448 

86 

63 

50 

50

Minimum.

250 

538 

286 

98 

66 

66 

37

27 

4(50 

229 

20 

37 

37 

37

20

27 

124 

295 

558 

50 

50

27 

37 

60 

492 

492 

35 

66 

50 

35

26 

26 

86 

460 

400 

27 

27 

20 

27 

37

Mean.

684 

1,030 

748 

208 

105 

68.9 

42.5

28.5 

893 

531 

84.7 

53.6 

55.9 

37.7

30.3 

82.5 

360 

853 

678 

62.1 

53.3

39.0 

56. 3 

250 

868 

918 

263 

102 

69.0 

38.3

38.0 

74.8 

198 

851 

743 

133 

51.2 

34.1 

41.6 

43.8

Run-off 

(total in 

acre-feet).

20. 400 

61,300 

46, 000 

12,800 

6,250 

4,240 

2,530

154,000

1,750 

35, 400 

32,600 

5,210 

3,190 

3,440 

2,240

83,800

1,860 

4,910 

22, 100 

50, 800 

17,500 

2,220 

3,170

2,400 

3,350 

15,400 

51,600 

56, 400 

16, 200 

6,070 

4,240 

2,280

158, 000

1,880 

4,450 

12,200 

50,600 

45,700 

8,180 

3,050 

2,100 

2,480 

1,650

132,000

Accuracy.

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

B. 

C.

D. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

B. 

B. 

C.

D. 

B. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

B. 

C.

D. 

C. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

C.

C.

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

B. 

B. 

C. 

C.

NOTE. Discharge estimated March 11-25, 1906; November 1-2, 1907.
YELLOWSTONE KIVEK DRAINAGE BASIN. 163

WEST FORK OF BOULDER RIVER AT M LEOD, MONT.

This station was established May 4, 1907, at Koozer's private 

bridge, several hundred yards upstream from the highway bridge at 

McLeod post-office, to determine the value of the stream for irrigation and power.

The West Fork has no important tributaries, deriving the greater 

part of its water from melting snow. It joins the main Boulder about 

1 mile below the gaging station. The drainage area above the station 

is 137 square miles.

Water to irrigate about 800 acres of land is diverted above this 

station. A Carey Land Act project reclaiming 12,000 to 15,000 acres 

is now under investigation, the water to be diverted from the West 

Fork about 12 miles above the station.

The gage datum has remained unchanged. The bed of the stream 

is composed of bowlders, and is rough, but permanent. Ice forms 

during the winter months, but results obtained are good during the 

open season.

Discharge measurements of West Fork of Boulder River at McLeod, Mont., in 1907 and

1908.

Date.

1907. 

May 3..........

July3..........

1908. 

May 11.........

October 9 &

Ilydrographer.

.....do........ .....................................

.....do......-..-........---....-.-...-....------.-..

.....do........-----.--.---.---.-.-------.---------..

do

.....do..............................................

Width.

Feet. 

42

57

57

57

54

43

60

54.5

55.5

47

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

55

106

138

219

89

60

108

145

61.7

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

oQ.55

1.38

2.02

3.12

1.20

.70

1.25

2.15

.62

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

277

623

228

276

637

AZJ

72.1

a Gage height uncertain. f> Made by wading.

Daily gage height, in feet, of West Fork of Boulder River at McLeod, Mont., for 1907 and

1908.

[H. J. Koozer, observer.]

Day.

1907. 

1.. .............

2

3...............

4

5...............

6. ..............

7. ......... ....

9

10. ..............

11...............

12. ..............

13...............

14...............

15 ..............

Jan. Feb. Mar. Apr. May.

6.55

.55

58

.(>0

.62

.72

.90

1.22

1.35

1.10

1.08

1.02

June.

1.85

2.30

1.90

1.75

2.12

2.35

2.40

2.62

2.12

2.05

2.52

2.32

2.15

2.08

July.

2.58

2.85

3.00

3.35

2.78

2.62

2.65

2.58

2.58

2.60

2.48

2.48

2.42

2.52

Aug.

1.78

1.-72

1.68

1.65

1.60

1.58

1.55

1.48

1.52

1.45

1.42

1.38

1.25

1.22

1.18

Sept.

0.88

.88

.85

.85

.88

90

1.05

.95

.85

.85

.85

.82

.78

.72

.70

Oct.

0.72

.72

.72

.70

.68

.68

.62

.62

.58

.58

.58

.55

.52

.52

.52

Nov.

0.48

.48

.45

.45

.45

.45

.45

.45

.45

.45

.45

.45

.45

.45

.45

Dec.

0.40

.40

.40

.40

.40

.40

.40

.40

.45

.48

.48

.42

.40

.40

.40
164 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Daily gage height, infect, of West Fork of Boulder River at McLeod, Mont., for 1907 and

1908 Continued.

Day.

1907. 

16...............

18...............

19...............

20. ..............

21...............

23............... 

24...............

25...............

26...............

27...............

00

29...............

30...............

1908.

2

3...............

4...............

5...............

6...............

7.... ...........

9. ..............

11............... 

12...............

14...............

15...............

16...............

17...............

18...............

19...............

20..--......--...

21...............

22. ..............

23...............

24. ..............

25. ..............

26............... 

27...............

28... ............ 

29. ..............

30............... 

31...............

Jan.

1.90

1.70

.80

"2.20

Feb.

2.00

.90

1.40

.50

Mar.

0.80

.45

.......

.52

.42 

.40

.45

.40

.38

.38 

.40

.35 

.35

.30 

.30

Apr.

0.35

.35

.38

.30

.30

.28

.30

.30

.30

.38

.38 

.45

.58

.68

.70

.72

.80

1.00

1.20

1.22

1.30 

1.30

1.25

1.12

1.05

.92 

.80

.80 

.75

.75

May.

1.25

1.45

1.70

1.68

2.15

1.88

1.70

1.68 

1.48

1.40

1.28

1.30

1.28

1.32

1.42

1.42

.81

.85

.98

.92

.92

1.28

1.45

1.75

1.55

1.45

1.30 

1.25

1.15

1.08

1.10

1.12

1.12

1.02

1.00

1.05

1.08 

1.18

1.20

1.22

1.30

1.50 

1.60

1.72 

1.78

1.85 

2.08

June.

1.90

1.75

2.00

2.42

2.62

2.68

2.55

2.70 

2.20

2.00

1.95

2.30

2.75

2.78

2.15

2.75

2.60

2.45

2.20

2.00

2.02

2.12

2.2G

2.22

2.32 

2.90

2.75

3.05

2.90

2.55

2.50

2.40

2.32

2.18 

1.85

1.80

1.85

1.92

2.25 

2.95

2.30 

2.20

2.38

July.

2.45

2.10

2.22

2.18

2.15

2.32

2.28

2.28 

2.20

2.38

2.10

1.95

1.85

1.78

1.95

2.50

2.95

2.88

3.25

2.90

2.45

2.35

2.45

2.60

2.70

2.65 

2.70

2 f\f\

2.50

2.40

2.35

2.25

1 95

1.88

1.80 

1.88

1.75

1.70

1.65

1.65 

1.75

1.65 

1.55

1.52 

1.48

Aug.

1.15

1.15

1.20

1.12

1.08

1.08

1.00

.90 

.92

.92

.98

98

QO

90

.88

1.32

1.28

1.25

1.20

1.10

1.12

1.10

1.08

1.08

1.08

1.02

1.02

1.05

1.25

.95

.90

.85 

.82

.82

.80

.78 

.78

.72 

.72

.68 

.68

Sept.

0.70

.68

.68

.68

.62

.62

.58

.58

.65

.72

.72

.62

.62

.62

60

60

.58

.58

CO

.58

.55

.52 

.52

.52

.50

.50

.50 

.50

.50 

.50

.50

Oct.

n <v7

.52

.52

.52

.50 zr\

.50

.48

4Q

KH

.50

.55

60

.60

60

.60

.60

.60

60

.65

.68

.72

.75

.75

.70

.70

.68

.65

.62 

.60

60

.60

.60 

.62

.60

.60 

60

Nov.

45

4^

AC

.42

.40

.40

.40 

.40

.40

.40

.40

.40

.40

Dec.

0.40

QA

30

NOTE. Ice conditions during the last half of December, 1907, and January to March 19, 1908.

Rating tables for West Fork of Boulder River at McLeod, Mont. 

FOR 1907.

Gage

height.

Feet.

0.40

.50

.60

.70

.80

.90

1.00

1.10

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

61

68

78

92

110

132

158

186

Gage

height.

Feet.

1.20

1.30

1.40

1.50

1.60

1.70

1.80

1.90

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

218

254

294

338

385

435

490

550

Gage

height.

Feet.

2.00

2.10

2.20

2.30

2.40

2.50

2.60

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

615

680

750

820

895

970

1,050

2.70 1,130

1

Gage Disheight.

Feet.

2.80

2.90

3.00

3.10

3.20

3.30

3.40

charge.

Sec.-ft.

1,210

1,295

1,380

1,465

1,550

1,640

1,730

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on six 

discharge measurements made during 1907 and is fairly well defined.
YELLOWSTONE EIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 165

Rating tables for West Fork of Boulder River at McLeod, Mont. Continued.

FOR 1908.

Gage

height.

Feet.

0.20

.30

.40

.50

.60

.70

.80

.90

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

27

34

44

57

73

92

114

138

Gage

height.

Feet.

1.00

1.10

1.20

1.30

1.40

1.50

1.60

1.70

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

165

195

228

264

303

345

390

438

Gage

height.

Feet.

1.80

1.90

2.00

2.10

2.20

2.30

2.40

2.50

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

489

543

602

664

729

797

868

942

Gage

height.

Feet.

2. 60

2.70

2.80

2.90

3.00

3.10

3.20

3.30

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

1,020

1,102

1,188

1,278

1,373

1,473

1,573

1,673

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on discharge measurements made during 1907-1909, and is fairly well denned between gage heights 0.3 foot and 

2.2 feet. Above gage height 2.2 feet it is based on one measurement at gage height 3.12 feet and is only 

approximate.

Monthly discharge of West Fork of Boulder River at McLeod, Mont., for 1907 and 1908.

Month.

1907. 

May 4-31 ...................'.........................

July.................................................

The period

1908. 

March 20-31 .........................................

April ................................................

Julv..... ................................ ............

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

715 

1,190 

1,680 

479 

172 

96 

67 

67

Minimum.

73 

462 

479 

128 

76 

67 

61

60 

264 

652 

1,420 

1,620 

284 

77 

103

34 

33 

114 

489 

337 

88 

57 

60

Mean.

264 

815 

902 

249 

105 

75.2 

63.1 

54.4

43.2 

109 

271 

863 

776 

170 

66.2 

78.1

Run-off 

(total in 

acrefeet).

14,700 

48, 500 

55,500 

15, 300 

6,250 

4,620 

3,750 

3,340

152,000

1.030 

6,490 

16,700 

51,400 

47,700 

10,500 

3,940 

4,800

143,000

Accuracy.

A. 

B. 

B. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

B. 

C.

B. 

A. 

A. 

B. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A.

NOTE. Discharge for December 17-31,1907, estimated.

SWEETGRASS CREEK ABOVE MELVILLE, MONT.

Sweetgrass Creek rises in the Crazy Mountains and flows southeastward to the Yellowstone, which it joins a short distance below Big 

Timber. It has no important tributaries. The drainage area is 

about 47 square miles.

The gaging station, which was established May 5, 1907, to determine 

the amount of water available for irrigation, storage, and power, is 

located at C. M. Rein's ranch, 16 miles northwest of Melville and 35 

miles from Big Timber, on the reservoir site of a project proposed 

under the Carey Land Act.

A few small ditches divert water above the station. The stream 

freezes over during the winter months.
166 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

When the station was established a secondary gage, to be used 

during extreme high water, was installed at a different datum about 

300 feet below the regular gage. During the high water of June and 

July, 1908, the regular gage was undermined, and after August 19 

readings were discontinued. Beginning October 1, 1908, all gage 

heights refer to the secondary gage, which will be used hereafter as 

the regular gage. The new gage heights are not comparable with the 

old.

The stream bed is composed of rough gravel and is permanent.

Discharge measurements of Sweetgrass Creek above Melville, Mont., in 1907 and 1908.

Date.

1907.

Julyl..........

September 26 a.

1908. 

May 12a. ......

May 25«. ......

Hydrographer.

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

J. E. Stewart. ......................................

J. E. Stewart. ......................................

J. E. Stewart.......................................

Width.

Feet. 

41

53

49

49

28

45.5

61

50

51

34

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

29.9

64

134

130

22.3

57

82.7

147

64.9

46.1

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

1.42

2 99

1.71

2.11

c3.66

2 60

dl.67

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

165

48.3

101

614

175

a Made by wading.

& Lower gage read 2.06 feet.

c Lower gage read 3.17 feet. 

d Lower gage.

Daily gage height, in feet, of Sweetgrass Creek above Melville, Mont., for 1907 and 1908.

[Mrs. C. M. Rein, observer.]

Day.

1907. 

1... ........................

2

I:::::::::::::::::::::::::::

7...........................

8...........................

9...........................

10. ..........................

11...........................

12...........................

13 ...........................

14...................... ....

16. ..........................

17...........................

18...........................

19...........................

20...........................

21...........................

22...........................

24. ..........................

26. ..........................

27...........................

28. ..........................

29. ..........................

30. ..........................

31...........................

Apr. May.

1.45

1.45

1.45

1.45

1.45

1.45

1.50

1.50

1.50

1.50

1.50

1.50

1.55

2.20

2.95

2.80

2.55

2.65

2.50

2.12

2.05

2.02

2.00

2.10

2.30

June.

2.92

2.80

2.70

3.00

3.20

3.12

2.95

2.60

2.58

3.12

3.02

2.72

2.55

2.42

2.65

3.00

3.25

3.30

3.50

3.72

3.00

2.75

3.15

3.60

3.80

3.70

July.

3.10

3.40

3.70

3.95

3.70

3.20

3.00

3.32

3.28

3.10

3.05

3.05

3.52

3.10

2.98

3.00

3.00

3.10

2.95

2.92

3.20

3.00

2.72

2.62

2.62

2.50

Aug.

2.45

2.40

2.50

2.42

2.38

2.35

2.30

2.20

2.30

2.75

2.50

2.40

2.38

2.35

2.28

2.25

2.12

2.10

2.02

2.00

1.98

1.95

1.95

1.95

1.95

1.95

1.95

1.92

1.90

1.90

Sept.

1.85

1.85

1.85

1.85

1.85

1.85

1.85

1.85

1.85

1.80

1.80

1.80

1.80

1.80

1 80

1.80

1.80

1.80

1.75

1.75

1.75

1.70

1.70

1.70

1.70

1.70

1.70

1.70

1.70

1.70

Oct.

1.65

1.65

1.65

1.65

1.65

1.65

1.65

1.65

1.65

1.65

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.55

1.55

1.55

1.55

1.55

Nov.

1.55

1.55

1.55

1.55

1.55

1.55

1.55

1.55

1.55

1.55

1.55

1.55

1.55

1.55

1.55

1.55

1.55

1.55

1.55

Dec.

1.55

1.55

1.55

1.55

1.55

1.55

1.55
YELLOWSTONE RIVEE DRAINAGE BASIN. 167

Daily gage height, in feet, of Sweetgrass Creek above Melville, Mont., for 19G7 and

1908 Continued.

Day.

1908. 

1. ...... ...................

2...........................

3...........................

5...........................

8....... ...................

1).. ... . ........ ........

11... ... ... ... ... ...

li. ..........................

1 !....... ...

1!...................... ....

10...........................

18....... .............. ....

19...........................

20...........................

21...........................

22...........................

24...... ....... .......

25...........................

2(i. ...... ...................

27...........................

28

29...........................

30...........................

31...........................

Apr.

1.40

1.40

1.40

1.40

1.40

1.40

1.40

1.40

1.40

1.40

1.40

1.40

1.40

1.40

1.40

1.40

1.40

1.40

1.40

1.40

1.40

1.40

May.

1.40

1.40

1.40

1.45

1.58

1.65

1.75

2.20

9 ^A

2.40

2.30

2.20

2.15

2.15

2.15

2.15

2.15

2.15

2.10

2.10

2.10

2.05

2.05

2.12

2.20

2.35

2.42

2.42

2.05

3.76

June.

5.15

3.52

4.38

3.70

3.20

3.20

3.20

3.30

3.62

4.02

4.50

3.70

3.00

4.05

3.85

3.10

3.00

2.75

2.65

2.55

2.52

2.60

3.50

3.80

3.50

2.90

2.68

2.90

July.

3.30

3.28

3.85

4.08

3.42

3.00

3.00

3.65

3 68

3.65

3.35

3.17

3.15

3.25

3.05

2.90

2.65

2.58

2.58

2.58

2.55

2.55

2.55

2.50

2.50

2.50

2.50

2.45

2.45

2.40

Aug.

2.30

2.30

2.30

2 25

2.25

2.25

2.25

2.25

2.20

2.15

2.15

2.15

2.10

2.10

2.10

2.10

2.10

2.05

Sept. Oct.

1.65

1.65

1.65

1.65

1.C6

1.69

1.68

1.68

1.70

1.70

1.69

1.G7

1.65

1.65

1.60

1.60

1.62

1.62

1.62

1.65

1.65

1.65

1.65

1.65

1.67

1.72

1.70

1.70

1.72

1.75

Nov.

1.78

1.70

1.76

1.78

1.78

1.78

1.76

1.75

1.75

1.70

1.70

1.70

1.72

1.75

1.76

1.75

i.72

1.70

1.70

1.70

Dec.

NOTE. The observer states there was a gradual fall from gage height 2.2 feet to gage height 1.65 feet during 

the period August 20 to September 30, 1908. Beginning October 1, 1908, gage heights refer to lower gage. 

Probable ice conditions December, 1907-March, 1908, November 12-14 and December, 1908.

Rating tables for Sweetgrass Creek above Melville, Mont. 

MAY 5 TO JULY 31, 1907.

Gage

height.

Feet.

1.40

1.50

1.60

1.70

1.80

1.90

2.00

Dis- Gage

charge. 1 height.

Sec.-ft.

30

43

58

75

94

115

138

Feet.

2.10

2.20

2.30

2.40

2.50

2.60

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

163

190

219

249

280

313

2. 70 347

Gage Disheight, charge.

Feet.

2.80

2.90

3.00

3.10

3.20

3.30

3.40

Sec.-ft.

382

419

457

495

535

575

620

Gage

height.

Feet.

3.50

3.60

3.70

3.80

3.90

4.00

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

665

710

760

810

860

910

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on four discharge measurements made during this period and is fairly well defined.
168 SUEFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Eating tables for Sweetgrass Creek above Melville, Mont. Continued.

AUGUST 1 TO DECEMBER 17, 1907.

[Daily discharge obtained by the indirect method for shifting channels.] 

APRIL 1 TO JUNE 11, 1908.

Gage Disheight, charge.

Feet.

1.40

1.50

1.60

1.70

1.80

1.90

2.00

2.10

2.20

2.30

Sec.-ft.

16

24

33

44

56

70

85

101

119

139

Gage

height.

Feet.

2.40

2.50

2.60

2.70

2.80

2.90

3.00

3.10

3.20

3.30

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

161

185

211

239

268

299

332

368

406

446

Gage

height.

Feet.

3.40

3.50

3.60

3.70

3.80

3.90

4.00

4.10

4.20

4.30

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

489

535

585

635

685

740

795

850

905

960

Gage

height.

Feet.

4.40

4.50

4.60

4.70

4.80

4.90

5.00

5.20

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

1,020

1,080

1,140

1,200

1,260

1,325

1,390

1,520

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on three 

discharge measurements made during 1908 and one in the latter part of 1907, and is fairly well defined.

TUNE 12 TO AUGUST 31, 1908.

[Daily discharge obtained by the indirect method for shifting channels.] 

OCTOBER 1 TO NOVEMBER 30,1908.'

1.60 22 1.70 40 1.80 60

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for i^e or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on three 

discharge measurements made during 1908 and is not well defined. This table refers to the lower gage.

Daily discharge, in second-feet, of Siveetgrass Creek above Melville. Mont., for 1907 and

1908.

Day.

1907. 

1.............

2.............

3.............

4.............

5.............

G... ..........

8.............

Q

10.............

11.............

12.............

13.............

14.............

Aug.

240

220

225

210

203

128

350

260

210

186

Sept.

71

71

71

71

71

71

71

71

71

62

62

62

62

62

62

Oct.

39

39

39

39

39

39

39

39

33

33

33

33

33

Nov.

28

28

28

28

28

28

28

28

28

28

28

28

28

28

Dec.

28

28

28

28

28

28

28

28

28

28

28

28

28

28

Day.

1907. 

16.............

17.............

18.............

19

20.............

21.............

22.............

23.............

24.............

25.............

26.............

27.............

28.............

29.............

30.............

31.............

Aug.

178

170

134

128

108

103

97

92

92

92

92

92

92

86

81

81

Sept.

62

62

53

53

53

46

46

46

46

46

46

Oct.

33

33

33

33

33

' 33

00

33

33

33

33

28

28

28

OO

28

Nov.

9fi

28

oc

00

28

28

28

28

28

28

28

28

28

28

Dec.

28

28

Day.

1908. 

1............

2............

3............

4............

5............

7............

8... .........

9............

10............

.Tune. Tuly.

440

675

780

01 o

312

585

590

Aug.

112

112

112

102

102

102

102

102

93

93

1

Day.

1908. 

11............

13............

14............

15............

16............

17............

18............

19............

20............

Tune.

1,080

635

585

822

712

535

368

332

254

Tuly.

452

368

355

385

304

212

187

172

172

Aug.

84

84

84

7K

75

75

75

67

67

Day.

1908. 

21............

22............

23............

24............

25............

26............

27............

28............

29... .........

30............

31............ ^1 

Tune.

225

200

180

198

525

660

525

285

218

285

Tuly.

172

165

165

165

153

153

153

153

142

142

132

Aug.

66

65

64

63

62

61

60

59

58

57

56

NOTE. These discharges were obtained by the indirect method for shifting channels.
YELLOWSTONE RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 169

Monthly discharge of Sweetgrass Creel- above Melville, Mont., for 1907 and 1908.

Month.

1907. 

May 5-31 ..........................................

July. ..............................................

The eriod

1908.

The oeriod ..................................

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum. ' Minimum.

1

438 

810 

885 

350 

71 

39 

28 

28

16 

665 

1,490 

780 

112

50 

56

36 

255 

266

81 

46 

28 

28 

28

16

16 

180 

132 

56

22 

40

Mean.

136

466 

477 

158 

59.0 

34.1 

28.0 

28.0

16.0 

122 

529 

315 

79.5 

44.0 

33.9 

47.4

Run-off 

(total in 

acre-feet).

7,280 

27,700 

29,300 

9,720 

3,510 

2,100 

1,670 

944

82,200

952 

7,500 

31,500 

19,400 

4,890 

2,620 

2,080 

2,820

71.800

Accuracy.

A. 

A. 

A. 

B. 

B. 

C. 

C. 

C.

D. 

A. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

C. 

B. 

C.

NOTE. Daily discharge for period August 20 to September 30, 1908, interpolated; otherwise discharge 

estimated for days when gage was not read.

SWEETGRASS CREEK BELOW MELVILLE, MONT.

This station, which was established May 4, 1907, to determine the 

amount of water available for irrigation, is located at Adams ranch, 9 

miles below Melville, 20 miles from Big Timber, and 2J miles below 

the head-gate of the Glass-Lindsay Land Company's canal, a Carey 

Land Act project.

Many diversions are made on this stream, with a total appropriation of 550 second-feet of adjudicated rights. The Glass-Lindsay 

canal, partly completed, will carry 575 second-feet and irrigate 

30,000 acres. This canal will divert water into two storage reservoirs, with capacities of 12,000 and 6,000 acre-feet, respectively, 

which will be filled from the spring run-off, the low-water flow being 

all appropriated.

The stream bed is composed of clean gravel and is nonshifting. 

Ice forms during the winter season. Records obtained are good.

Discharge measurements of Sweetgrass Creek below Melville, Mont., in 1907 and 1908.

Date.

1907.

June 11.. .......

1908.

July 23 a .......

October 6» ....

Hydrographer.

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

J. E. Stewart. ......................................

J. E. Stewart ......................................

Width.

Feet. 

41

50

60

40

30

48

35

44.5

52

34

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft.

59

82

139

44.8

53

155

54

51.2

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

0 84

1.30

1.51

2.12

.90

1.27

1.12

2.47

1.30

.99

Discharge.

Scc.-ft. 

59

172

283

019

43

115

82.6

625

121

60.9

a, Made by wading. 

NOTE. The 1907 measurements were made at various sections.
170 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Daily gage height, in feet, ofSweetgrass Creek below Melville, Mont., for 1907 and 1908. 

[E. P. Adams and A. E. Cummings, observers.]

Day.

1907. 

1....................................

2.............................. .....!

3.................................... 4....................................;

5....................................

6....................................

7....... .............................

8....................................

9....................................

10....................................

11....................................

12...... . ... . ...... ..... . ....

13....................................

14....................................

15....................................

16....................................

17....................................

18....................................

19

20....................................

21....................................

22........ ..... .....................

24.....................................

25....................................

26....................................

27. .......................... .........

28................. .................. .

29....................................

30....................................

31....................................

1908. 

1....................................

2....................................

3....................................

4...................................

5...................... .............

6....................................

8................... ................

g

10................... ................

11.................. ................

12................................. . .

13...................................

14....................................

15....................................

16....................................

17................... .................

18....................................

19

20....................................

21....................................

22....................................

23....................................

25....................................

27.............. ................. .....

28.. ..................................

29.. ..................................

30....................................

31

Apr.

O.CO

.60

. 0

.60

.60

.60

.60

.60

.CO

.CO

.CO

.to

.CO

.65

.65

.CO

.CO

.60

.CO

.CO

.60

.60

.60

.CO

.55

.55

.55

.CO

.62

.CO

May.

0.85

.85

.85

.85

.85

.85

.82

.88

.95

.95

.88

.85

.80

80

1.00

1.08

1.62

1.60

1.52

1.50

1.40

1.38

1.32

1.30

1.30

1.38

1.40

.60

.60

.60

.60

.60

.60

.60

.60

.95

1.38

1.30

1.28

1.25

1.2.5

1.20

1.20

1.15

1.15

1.10

1.32

1.42

1.28

1.30

1.22

1.18

1.20

1.90

1.70

1.62

1.68

2.85

June. !

1.55

1.75

1.70

1.58

1.55

1.72

1.82

1.82

1.72

1.58

1.52

1.78

1.78

1.62

1.65

1.52

1.48

1.45

1.62

1.85

1.80

1.85

2.88

2.05

1.90

1.80

1.92

2.08

2.15

2.10

3.60

3.10

3.10

3.10

2.60

2.35

2.20

2.40

2.40

2.48

2.55

2.95

2.60

2.42

2.62

2.60

2.55

2.20

1.95

1.95

1.80

1.72

1.65

1.58

1.95

2.28

2.45

2.92

1.78

1.65

July.

1.90

1.95

2.00

2.10

2.05

1.85

1.75

1.85

1.88

1.82

1.75

1.78

1.98

1.85

1.95

1.85

1.88

1.85

1.85

1.78

1.85

1.82

1 80

1.72

1.68

1.65

1.55

1.55

1.55

1.70

1.62

1.98

1.92

2.20

2.25

2.18

1.88

1.78

1.82

1.96

2.12

2.00

1.90

1.85

1.90

1.82

1.75

1.65

1.48

1.42

1.38

1.32

1.30

1.30

1.25

1.22

1.22

L12

1.05

.98

.90

00

.,,

Aug.

1.58

1.55

1.52

1.52

1.50

1.45

1.45

1.40

1.35

1.55

1.60

1.52

1.48

1.40

1.40

1.35

1.35

1.20

1.12

1.08

1.05

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.05

1.02

1.02

1.00

1.00

.82

.72

.70

.65

.65

.60

.60

.60

.52

.50

.50

.60

.62

.75

.72

.75

.70

.68

.65

.65

.72

.80

.75

.72

.70

.70

.70

.72

.75

.80

.80

Sept.

1.02

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.08

1.12

1.10

1.05

1.00

1.05

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.00

.98

.90

.90

.90

.90

.90

.90

1.00

.95

.80

.75

.72

.70

.70

.65

.62

.60

.62

.68

.65

.70

.70

.70

.70

.70

.70

.70

.70

.70

.70

.70

.70

.70

.78

.80

.80

.80

.80

.80

Oct.

0.92

1.05

1.05

1.00

.90

.90

.98

1.00

1.00

.98

.95

.95

.95

.95

.95

.95

.95

.95

.90

.90

.90

.85

.85

.85

.85

.85

.85

.85

.85

.85

.85

.80

.80

.88

.90

.92

1.00

1.00

.90

.90

.90

.90

.90

.90

.90

.90

1.00

1.00

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.10

1.05

1.05

1.05

Nov.

0.85

.85

.85

.85

.85

.85

.85

.85

.85

.85

.85

.85

.85

.85

.85

.85

.85

.85

.85

.85

.85

.85

.85

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.10

1.08

1.05

1.05

NOTE Ice conditions during latter part of November and December, 1907, and November 8 to December 31, 1908.
YELLOWSTONE EIVEE DBAINAGE BASIN. 171

Rating tables for Sweetgrass Creek below Melville, Mont.

MAY 4 TO JULY 31, 1907

Gage

height.

Feet.

0.80

.90

1.00

1.10

1.20

1.30

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

52

68

88

113

143

179

Gage

height.

Feet.

1.40

1.50

1.60

1.70

1.80

1.90

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

219

265

315

368

424

483

Gage

height.

Feet.

2.00

2.10

2.20

2.30

2.40

2.50

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

545

607

670

734

799

865

Gage

height.

Feet.

2.60

2.70

2.80

2.90

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

932

999

1,067

1,135

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed channel conditions. It is based on four 

discharge measurements made during this period, and is fairly well defined between gage heights 0.8 foot 

and 2.2 feet.

AUGUST 1 TO NOVEMBER 23, 1907.

[Daily discharge obtained by the indirect method for shifting channels.] 

APRIL 1 TO NOVEMBER 7, 1908.

0.50

.60

.70

.80

.90

1.00

1.10

1.20

11

16

23

33

45

60

77

97

1.30

1.40

1.50

1.60

1.70

1.80

1.90

2.00

121

148

178

212

250

291

335

382

2.10

2.20

2.30

2.40

2.50

2.60

2.70

2.80

431

482

535

590

647

705

765

825

2.90

3.00

3.10

3.20

3.30

3.40

3.50

3.60

885

945

1,005

1,070

1,135

1,200

1,265

1,330

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed channel conditions. It is based on five 

discharge measurements made during 1908 and one measurement in 1907. It is well defined between gage 

heights 0.8 foot and 1.4 feet. Above gage height 1.4 feet the rating curve is based on one measurement 

at gage height 2.5 feet.

Daily discharge, in second-feet, of Sweetgrass Creek below Melville, Mont., for 1907.

Day.

2...............

3...............

5...............

8...............

10...............

11...............

12...............

13.......... ....

14. .............

15...............

Aug.

260

226

204

275

260

241

204

Sept.

70

66

66

66

66

66

66

66

66

66

66

86

98

92

78

Oct.

48

70

70

60

45

45

55

60

60

55

52

52

52

52

52

Nov.

39

39

39

39

39

39

39

39

39

39

39

39

39

39

39

Day.

16...............

17. . .............

18...............

10

20...............

21...............

22...............

23 ...............

25...............

26...............

27...............

28...............

29 ...............

30...............

31...............

Aug.

182

182

123

98

86

78

66

66

66

66

66

78

70

70

66

66

Sept.

66

78

66

66

66

66

61

45

45

45

45

45

45

66

54

Oct.

52

52

52

45

45

45

39

39

39

39

39

39

39

39

39

39

Nov.

39

39

39

39

39

39

39

39

UOTE. These discharges were obtained by the indirect method for shifting channels.
172 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Monthly discharge of Sweetgrass Creek below Melville, Mont., for 1907 and 1908.

Month.

1907. 

May 4-31 ............................................

July. ................................................

November 1-23 ......................................

1908.

July. ................................................

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

326 

1,120 

607 

300 

98 

70 

39

20 

855 

1,330 

508 

35 

33 

77 

77

Minimum.

52 

242 

290 

66 

45 

39 

39

14 

16 

205 

43 

11 

16 

33 

68

Mean.

140

424 

434 

164 

64.8 

48.7 

39.0

16.1 

127 

600 

242 

22.7 

24.6 

56.0 

70.1

Run-off 

(total in 

acre-feet).

7,780 

25,200 

26,700 

10,100 

3,860 

2,990 

1,780

78, 400

958 

7,810 

35,700 

14,900 

1,400 

1,460 

3,440 

973

66,600

Accuracy.

A. 

A. 

A. 

A.

B. 

B. 

C.

C. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

C. 

C. 

C. 

B.

NOTE. Discharge interpolated October 18-24, 1908.

CLARK FORK AT FROMBERG, MONT.

Clark Fork enters Yellowstone River from the south about 15 

miles southwest of Billings, Mont. The stream is bordered by irrigable land which is used for agriculture.

The gaging station, which was established June 3, 1905, to determine the amount of water available for irrigation, is located on the 

highway bridge one-half mile east of the Northern Pacific Railway 

station at Fromberg, Mont.

One small stream, Red Rock Creek, flows into the river between 

the gaging station and its mouth. The drainage area above the 

station is about 2,500 square miles.

As almost all the valley land is under irrigation many diversions 

are made, but owing to the abundance of water only a small portion 

of the flow is used.

The ice period ranges from December to the middle of March, but 

frequently during this period the river breaks up and floating ice 

may be seen.

The original staff gage has been replaced by a standard chain gage, 

but no change in gage datum has occurred. Records obtained are 

excellent. The gaging section would be ideal if it were not for the 

middle pier of the bridge which divides the channel. The bed of the 

stream is composed of rock and gravel, is free from vegetation, and 

is permanent.
YELLOWSTONE RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 173

Discharge measurements of Clark Fork at Fromberg, Mont., in 1907 and 1908.

Date.

1907.

1908.

October 10.....

Hydrographer.

J. E. Stewart. . .....................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.... .do. .............................................

.... .do. .............................................

J. E. Stewart. ......................................

.. ...do.......................... ...................

.....do..............................................

J. E. Stewart. .................................... .

Width.

Feet. 

120

207

214

184

125

118

158

211

206

143

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft.

288

733

1,130

526

310

263

438

375

Gage 

height.

Feet.

6.04

7.83

4.95

3.64

3.40

4.54

6.10

4.18

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

374

3,320

1,410

370

269

1.080

717

a Measurement made without sufficient amount of lead. b Slight ice conditions.

Daily gage height, infect, of Clark Fork at Fromberg, Mont., for 1907 and 1908. 

[Mrs. E. V. Moran, observer.]

Day.

1907. 

1...............

2

3...............

4...............

5...............

6...............

7...............

8...............

9. ..............

10...............

11...............

12..............

13...............

14...............

15...............

16............. .

17...............

18...............

19..............

20. ..............

21...............

22............. .

23...............

24.............

25...............

26...............

27...............

28...............

29...............

30...............

31-...--...--....

1908. 

1...............

2...............

3...............

4...............

5...............

6...............

8...............

9...............

10...............

11...............

12...............

13...............

14...............

15...............

Jan.

3.5 

3.5

3.6

3.8

3.8

3.8

3.8

3.8

3.9

5.1

5.1

5.1

5.1

5.1

5.1

5.1

5.1

5.1

5.1

5.1

5.1

5.1

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5 

3.5

3

C

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

Feb.

5.1 

5.1

5.1

5.1

5.1

5.1

4 OK

A Or:

4.25

4 9*;

4 9R

4.25

3.6

0 A

3.6

3.6

3.6

3.65

3.6

3.6

0 ft

3.6

q no

3.5

3.5

Mar.

3.55 

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.45

3.45

3.45

3.45

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.35

3.35

3.35

3.35

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.7

3.7

3.7

3.6

3.6

3.6

3.6

3.6

3.65

3.65

3.65

3.2

3.2

3.2

3.2

3.4 

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.45

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

Apr.

3.5 

3.58

3.65

3.65

3.65

3.65

3.65

3.5

3.42

3.55

3.6

3.7

3.7

3.78

3.9

4.1

4.1

3.8

3.75

3.7

3.7

3.7

3.8

8.8

3.8

3.8

3.75

3.75

3.4

S. 4

3.45

3.48

3.4 

3.42

3.5

3.5

3.52

3.55

3.55

3.58

3.65

3.8

May.

4.0

4.4

4.5

4.55

3.9

3.8

3.9

3.9

3.9

4.15

4.5

5.1

4.8

4.7

4.8

5.55

5.65

6.0

6.0

6.25

6.35

6.6

6.65

fi 7

6.0

5.75

5.1

5.2

4.25

4.4

4.9

5.0

4.9 

5.0

5.9

6.05

6.15

5.6

5.05

4.95

4.85

4.75

June.

6.1 

7.0

6.85

6.25

6.5

6.95

7.4

7.6

7.25

6.95

6.6

6.55

6.7

6.45

6.95

71^

6.8

6.85

7.1

7.4

7.65

6 9

6.7

6.6

6.8

7.2

8.15

7.85

6.95

6.55

7.05

6.4

5.85 

5.9

6.55

6.4

6.6

7.4

7.85

7.85

7.75

8.15

July.

7. 85 

8.95

8.5

9.0

9.15

8.55

8.2

8.05

8.1

7.95

7.75

7.85

7-65

7.45

7.45

6.85

6.8

6.9

7.05

7.25

7.35

7.45

7.5

6.85

6.6

6 4

7.65

7.5

7.8

7.85

8.4 

7.95

7.45

7.1

7.1

7.4

7.25

7.1

6.85

6.8

Aug.

6.45 

6.35

6.2

6.2

6.2

6.05

5.85

5.8

5.7

5.6

5.4

5.4

5.15

5.0

4.9

4.9

4.9

5.0

4.9

4.85

4.8

4.8

4.7

4.65

4.55

4.6

4.55

4.5

4.9

4.85

4.8

5.4

5.4

5.3

5.3

5.3 

5.2

5.2

5.2

5.2

5.0

4.8

5.4

5.5

5.45

5.05

Sept.

4.8 

4.8

4.65

4.6

4.5

4.5

4.5

4.55

4.5

4.5

4.5

4.5

4.5

4.4

4.4

4.3

4.3

4.2

4.2

4.2

4.1

4.1

4.0

4.0

3.9

3.9

4.1

4.1

4.55

4.45

4.4

4.3

4.3

4.2

4.15 

4.1

4.1

4.0

3.9

3.9

3.95

4.05

4.1

4.1

4.0

Oct.

4.4 

4.5

4.2

4.0

4.0

4.0

4.0

3.9

3.9

3.9

3.9

3.9

3.9

3.9

3.85

3.85

3.8

3.8

3 8

3.8

3.8

3.75

3.75

3.75

3.75

3.7

3 7

3 7

3.7

3.7

3 7

3.9

3.9

3.9

4.05

4.2 

4.1

4.1

4.1

4.1

4.1

4.1

4.1

4.1

4.1

4.1

Nov.

3.05 

3.65

3.65

3.65

3.65

3.6

3.6

3.6

3.6

3.6

3.55

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.7

3.7

3.6

3.6

3.6

3.6

3.6

3.6

3.6

3.6

3.6

3.6

3.6

3.6

3.9

3.9

3.9

3.9

3.9 

3.85

3.85

3.85

3.85

3.85

3.8

3.8

3.8

3.8

3.8

Dec.

3.6 

3.6

3.6

3.55

3.55

3.55

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5 

3.5

3.6

3.6

3.6

3.6

3.6

3.6

3.6

3.6

3.6
174 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Daily gage height, in feet, of Clark Fork at Fromberg, Mont., for 1907 and 1908 Con.

Day.

1908. 

16...............

17..... ..........

18..............

10

20...............

21. .......

22..............

23..............

24 .............

25.............

27......... ....

28............ .

29..............

30...............

31...............

Jan.

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

0 £

3.5

3 5

3.5

3.5

Feb.

3.5

3.2

3.2

3.2

3.2

3.2

3.2

3.2

3.2

o 9

3.2

3.2

3.2

Mar.

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.48

3.45

3.45

Apr.

4.5

4.5

4.15

4.5

5.1

4.8

5

5.5

4.3

4.25

4.1

May.

4.7

4.6

4.6

4.9

5.4

4.02

4.75

4 85

5.1

5.05

5.8

0.6

June.

8.05

7.6

7.35

6.5

7-15

6.4

6.3

6.3

6.65

6.6

6.65

July.

6.7

6.6

6.4

6.4

5.95

5.85

5.7

5.6

5.65

5.6

5.45

Aug.

4.8

4.8

4.8

4.8

4.8

4.7

4.7

4.6

4.5

4.5

4.3

4.4

Sept.

4.0

4.0

4.05

4.05

4.0

4.0

4.0

4.0

4.0

4.0

3 0

3.9

3.9

3.9

Oct.

4.1

4.1

4.1

4.1

4.1

4.0

4.0

4.0

3.9

o Q

3.9

3.9

3.9

3.9

Nov.

3.8

3.8

3.8

3.7

3.7

3.7

3.7

3.6

3.6

3.5

3.5

3.5

Dec.

3.5

NOTE. Ice conditions January 4 to February 14, 1907; January 30 to February 13, 1908, and December 

17 to 31, 190.S. From January 4 to February 14, 1907, there was an open channel in the center above the 

bridge, but the river was frozen across below; the readings were taken to top of ice and there was considerable backwater effect. During December 17 to 31,1908, the river was frozen at the gage, but was open 

in the center.

Rating tables for Clark Fork at Fromberg, Mont. 

JUNE 3, 1905, TO JULY 5, 1907.

Gage 

height.

Feet.

3.20

3.30

3.40

3.50

3.00

3.70

3.80

3.90

4.00

4.10

4.20

4.30

4.40

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

250

296

346

400

458

520

587

660

738

821

908

999

1,094

Gage 

height.

Feet.

4.50

4.60

4.70

4.80

4.90

5.00

5.10

5.20

5.30

5.40

5.50

5.60

5.70

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

1,192

1,293

1,397

1,504

1,615

1,730

1,849

1,973

2,102

2,236

2,375

2,519

2,667

Gage 

height.

Feet.

5.80

5.90

6.00

6.10

6.20

6.30

6.40

6.50

6.60

6.70

6.80

6.90

7.00

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

2,819

2,975

3,135

3,300

3,475

3, 660

3,850

4,050

4,260

4,470

4,690

4,910

5,140

Gage 

height.

Feet.

7.20

7.40

7.60

7.80

8.00

8.20

8.40

8.60

8.80

9.00

9.20

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

5,600

6,080

6,570

7,070

7,590

8,130

8,680

9,240

9,820

10,400

10, 980

NOTE.-

dischargi 

7.5 feet.

-The above table is not applicable for ice orobstructed-channel conditions. It is based on twelve 

measurements made during this period, and is well defined between gage heights 3.5 feet and

JULY 6, 1907, TO DECEMBER 31, 1908.

3.20

3.30

3.40

3.50

3.60

3.70

3.80

3.90

4.00

4.10

4.20

4.30

4.40

190

228

272

320

370

425

485

550

015

685

700

835

915

4.50

4.60

4.70

4.80

4.90

5.00

5.10

5.20

5.30

5.40

5.50

5.60

5.70

1.000

1.085

1,175

1,270

1,370

1,470

1,580

1,700

1,820

1,950

2,080

2.220

2,360

5.80

5.90

6.00

6.10

6.20

6.30

6.40

6.50

6.60

6.70

6.80

6.90

7.00

2,510

2,060

2,820

2,980

3,150

3,320

3,500

3,680

3,870

4,060

4,250

4,450

4,650

7.20

7.40

7.60

7.80

8.00

8.20

8.40

8.60

8.80

9.00

5,080

5,530

6,010

6,520

7,070

7,660

8,280

8,940

9,620

10, 340

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on eight 

discharge measurements made during this period and upon the form of the previous curve. It is well 

defined between gage heights 3.5 feet and 8.0 feet.
YELLOWSTONE EIVEE DRAINAGE BASIN. 175

Monthly discharge of Clark Fork at Fromberg, Mont., for 1907 and 1908.

Month.

1907.

April................. . ....... ....... ............

May.............. ... ..............................

July.................................................

1908. 

February 14-29.. ... ....... ........................

July.............................. ..................

December i \ft

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

489 

520 

821 

4,360 

8,000 

10,800 

3,590 

1,270 

1,000 

425 

370

320 

320 

2,080 

3.870 

7,510 

8,280 

2,080 

915 "GO 

550 

370

Minimum.

412 

321 

357 

587 

3,300 

3,500 

1,000 

550 

425 

320 

320

Mean.

457 

405 

533 

2,030 

5,140 

6,180 

1,850 

888 

542 

309 

327

190 

190 

272 

798 

2,580 

2,020 

835 

550 

550 

320 

320

214 

290 

731 

1,680 

4,510 

4,180 

1,440 

645 

634 

458 

348

Run-off 

(total in 

acre-feet).

12,700 

24,900 

31,700 

125,000 

306,000 

380,000 

114,000 

52,800 

33,300 

22,000 

20, 100

1,120,000

6,790 

17,800 

43,500 

103,000 

268,000 

257,000 

88,500 

38,400 

39,000 

27,300 

11,000

900,000

Accuracy.

C. 

C. 

B. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

B. 

D.

C. 

B. 

A. 

A. 

B. 

B. 

A. 

A. 

B. 

B. 

C.

NOTE. Discharges for periods December to March that have been computed on the assumption of openchannel conditions should be accepted with caution, as no definite information in regard to exact ice conditions were obtained.

PRYOR CREEK AT HUNTLEY, MONT.

Pryor Creek rises in the Pryor Mountains in southern Carbon 

County, Mont., flows northeastward, and enters Yellowstone River 

from the south about 1.5 miles northeast of Billings.

The channel is straight with uniform slope for 800 feet above and 

below the station. The banks are steep and uniformly graded, are 

clean, and will not overflow. The current is moderate. The bed is 

composed of clay and gravel and may change somewhat. On the 

upper portion of the stream some water is diverted for irrigation.

The gaging station was originally established August 6, 1904, to 

determine the amount of water available for irrigation. On June 

15-16, 1906, the creek was turned into a new channel (PI. VI, B) by 

the United States Reclamation Service, and a station was established 

on the steel highway bridge crossing this channel one-half mile from 

the railroad station at Huntley. Since then the gage datum has not 

been changed.

The stream freezes over during the winter months. Results 

obtained are good.
176 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Discharge measurements of Pryor Creek at Huntley, Mont., in 1907 and 1908.

Date.

1907. 

April 8.........

May 30. .......

1908. 

March 28....... 

May 21.........

July 22o.......

October 12.....

ITydrographer.

J. E . Stewart. ......................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

J. E . Stewart. ...................................... 

.....do..............................................

.....do....-.-------------..-........................

J. E. Stewart. ......................................

Width.

Feet. 

34

34

34

34

25

25 

42

31.5

26.5

28.5

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

41.6

61.0

48.0

34.0

28.0

35.5 

129

12.6

40.4

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

1.43

2.00

1 91

1.23

1.13

1.32 

4.14

1.75

1.01

1.32

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

100

88.0

33.6 

514

71 3

10 9

30.4

a Made by wading.

Daily gage height, infect, of Pnor Creek at Hunthy, Mont., for 1907 and 1908. 

[Jack O'Neil, observer.]

Day.

1907. 

1. . .........

3............... 

4........ ......

8............... 

9...............

10...............

11...............

12...............

13...............

14............... 

15...............

16........ . ... 

17...............

18............... 

19... ........... 

20...............

21....... 

22............... 

23............... 

24....... . .. 

25...............

26............... 

27...............

28...............

29...............

30...............

31...............

1908.

2.---...........

3............... 

4...............

f>...............

8. . 

9............. 

10...............

g: -:-:----

13............... 

14.......... .. 

15...............

16............... 

17...............

18............... 

19.............

20. ..............

Jan.

l.EO

1.50 

l.EO

l.CO i.ro

l.CO 

1.10 

l.(0

l.CO

l.CO 

l.CO 

1.50

1.50 

1.50 

1.50 

1.50

 1.50

Feb.

4.'35

4.55 

3.80

3.38 

4.30 

4.20

3. 35 

2.15 

1.80 

1.50 

1.45

1.28 

1.35 

1.15

l.CO

1.50 

1.50

1.60 

l.CO 

l.CO 

l.CO

2.10

1.60

Mar.

1.25

1. 25

1.50 

1.30

.95

1.35 

1.35

1.10

1.05

1.10 

1.05

1.10 

1.10

1.15 

1.15 

1.18

1.12- 

1.10 

1.12 

1.08 

1.08

1.18 

1.22 

1.15

1.45

1 55

1.28

o no

"2.80" 

2 go

"3." 66'

Apr.

1.20 

1.15

1.10

1.30

1.45

1.40 

1.40

1.35

1.36

1.35 

1.35

1.35

1.36 

1.35 

1.35

1.35 

1.36 

1.36 

1.36 

1.41

1.45 

1.52 

1.65

1.81

l.CO

1.51 

1.50 

1.50

1.40 

1.48 

1. 50 

1.49 

2.00

1.45

1.49 

l.oO 

1.59

1.50 

1.59 

1.60 

1 fii

1.62

May.

2.27

1.80

1.55

1 ^

1..53 

1.50

1.50

1.60

2.47 

1.93

1.90

1.63 

1.73 

1.70

1.70 

1.70 

1.75 

1.85 

2. 03

4.40 

3.23 

2.27

1 97

1.90

1.90

1.51

l.iO 

1.58

1.51 

1.49 

1.40 

1.40 

1.40

1.46 

1.50

1.48 

1.40 

1.46

1.96 

1.90

1.58 

1.48

1.60

June.

1.85

1.81 

1.90

1 79

1.78

1 84

1.76 

1.72

1.62

1.62

1.52 

1.54

1.50

1.50 

1.50 

1.50

1.58 

1.70 

1.78 

1.80 

1.62

1.40 

1.38 

1.30

1 25

3 no

2.10 

1.90 

1 90

1.99 

l.CO 

2.10 

2.00 

2.00

1.80 Icn

1.70 

2.00 

1.70

1.70 

1.70 

1.70

1.70

July.

1.25

1 22

1.20 

1.20

1.20

1.20 

1.25

1 30

1.62

1.58

1.50 

1.78

2.08

2.18 

1.80 

1.58

1.50 

1.50 

1.48 

1.40 

1.40

1.25 

1.20 

1.20

1 22

1.25

1.40 

1.40

1.40 

1.40 

1.40 

1.40 

1.40

1.40

1.20 

1.10 

1.10

1.10 

1.10 

1.10 

1.10

1.20

Aug.

1.22

1.20

1.20 

1.20

1.20

1.10 

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1 20

1.15

1.20

1 00

1 00

1.00 

1.00 

1 00

1.00 

1.00 

1.00 

1.06 

.90

.90 

90

1.00 

1.00 

.90

.90 

.90 

.90 

90

1.00

Sept.

1.15

1.15

1.15 

1.10

1.10

1.15

1.18 

1.18

1.15

1.10

1.18

1.18 

1.15

1.15 

1.15

1.15 

1.10 

1.15

1.15 

1.15 

1.15 

1.15 

1.15

1.10 

1.15 

1.15

1.25

1 9^

1.10

1.20

1.20 

1.20

1.10 

1.10 

1.10 

1.10 

1.10

1.10 

1.10

1.10 

1.10 

1.10

1.10 

1.10 

1.10 

1.10

1.10

Oct.

1.28

2.35 

2.05

1 30

1.20

1.20 

1.20

1 20

1.20

1.20 

1.15

1.10

1.10 

1.10 

1.10

1.10 

1.10 

1.10 

1.10 

1.10

1.10 

1.10 

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10

1 29

1 I Q

1.20 

1.20

1.20 

1.20 

1.76 

2.10 

1.90

1.90 1 30

1.30 

1.29 

1.29

1.29 

1.39 

1.36 

1.27

1.28

Nov.

1.10

1.10 

1.10

1.10

1.10 

1.10

1.10

1.10

1.10 

1.40

1.40

1.40 

1.50

1.45 

1.40 

1.35 

1.30 

1.30

1.25 

1.00 

1.00

1.40

1.40 

1.40

1.40 

1.40 

1.40 

1.40 

1.39

1.30 1 30

1.29 

1.37 

1.37

1.37 

1.40 

1.40

1.40

Dec.

1.30

1 30

1.30

1 30

1.20

1.40

9 00

2 QO

2.00

2.00 

1.50

1.50

1.40 

1.30 

1.30

1.20 

1.30 

1.30 

1.20 

1.20

1.20 

1.20 

1.20

i w

1 W

1 Q9

1 30

1.30 

1.30 

i ^n

"i."70

"i.'70
YELLOAVSTONE EIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 177 

Daily gage height, in feet, of Pryor Creek at Huntley, Mont., for 1907 and 1908 Cont'd.

Day.

1908. 

21...............

22............... 

23............... 

24...... ........ 

25...............

27 28'.'.'.'.'.'.'.'.'.'.'.'.'.'.'. 

29. ..............

30............... 

31...............

Jan.

1.50

1.50 

1.50 

1.50 

1.00

.CO

.(0 

.CO 

.f,0

.CO

.60

Feb.

2.00

3.00

Mar.

1.40

1.40 

1.40 

1.30 

1.30

1.30

.30 

.32 

.32

.32 

.32

Apr.

1.70

1.80 

2.26 

2.20

2.28

1.28

1.28 

1.10 

1.40

1.40

May.

3.08 

4.10 

4.86 

3. CO

1 90

2.70

4.65 

4.45

3.40 

4.70

June.

1.70

1.70 

1.70 

1.70 

1.70

1.70

1.70 

1.50 

1.50

1.40

July.

1.10 

1.10 

1.10 

1.10

.50

.50 

.50 

.60

.80 

.90

Aug.

1.10 

1.10 

1.10 

1.10

1.10

1.10 

1.10 

1.10

1.10

Sept.

1.10

1.10 

1.10 

1.10 

1.10

1.10

1.10 

1.10 

1.10

1.10

Oct.

1 9S

1.28 

1.24 

1.22 

1.2.3

1.24 

1.2.3 

1.21

1.30 

1.29

Nov.

1.40

1.32 

1.50 

1.40 

1.40

1 40

"i."32~

1.32

Dec.

1 7^

NOTE. Ice conditions January 1 to February 14, 1907, November 15, 1907 to March 21, 1908, and after 

November 20, 1908.

Rating table for Pryor Creek at Iluntley, Mont., for 1907 to 1908.

Gage 

height.

Feet.

0.50

.60

.70

.80

.90

1.00

1.10

1.20

1.30

1.40

1.50

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

0

1

3

5

8

11

15

20

27

36

46

Gage 

height.

Feet.

1.60

1.70

1.80

1.90

2.00

2.10

2.20

2.30

2.40

2.50

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

56

67

78

90

102

115

128

142

156

171

Gage 

height.

Feet.

2.60

2.70

2.80

2.90

3.00

3.10

3.20

3.30

3.40

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

186

202

218

235

253

271

290

309

329

3.50 ! 350

Gage 

height.

Feet.

3.60

3.70

3.80

3.90

4.00

4.20

4.40

4.60

4.80

5.00

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

371

393

415

437

460

507

555

605

655

705

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on 15 

discharge measurements made during 1906-1908, and is well denned below gage height 2.5 feet. Above 

gage height 2.5 feet the rating depends upon one measurement at gage height 4.14 feet.

Monthly discharge of Pryor Creek at Huntley, Mont., for 1907 and 1908. 

[Drainage area, 800 square miles.]

Month.

1907.

May............................

July............................

1908.

July............................

The period ...............

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

592 

51 

95 

555 

90 

131 

21 

24 

149 

15

36 

218 

630 

329 

36 

15 

20 

115 

46

Minimum.

18 

10 

15 

46 

24 

20 

15 

15 

15 

15

27 

15 

36 

36 

0 

8 

15 

19 

26

Mean.

257 

21.2 

36.8 

111 

58.6 

42.4 

18.1 

18.1 

25.3 

15.0

30.2 

62.7 

184 

89.2 

20.6 

11.5 

15.7 

33.0 

34.8

Per 

square 

mile.

0.321 

.026 

.046 

.139 

.073 

.053 

.023 

.023 

.032 

.019

.038 

.078 

.230 

.112 

.026 

.014 

.020 

.041 

.044

Run-off.

Depth in 

inches on 

drainage 

area.

0.17 

.03 

.05 

.16 

.08 

.06 

.03 

.03 

.04 

.01

.02 

.09 

.27 

.12 

.03 

.02 

.02 

.05 

.05

Total in 

acre-feet.

7,140 

1,300 

2,190 

6,820 

3,490 

2,610 

1,110 

1.080 

1,560 

416

27,700

659 

3,730 

11,300 

5,310 

1,270 

707 

934 

2,030 

2,070

28,000

Accuracy.

B. 

B. 

B. 

A. 

B. 

B. 

C. 

B. 

B. 

C.

B. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

B. 

C. 

C. 

B. 

B.

NOTE. Discharge estimated August 14 to 28,1907 and August 31, November 27 to 30,1908. 

' 31260 IRR 246 10 12
178 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

BIGHORN RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 

DESCRIPTION.

Bighorn River is formed by the junction of Big and Little Wind 

rivers near Riverton, Wyo.

Big Wind River rises some 50 miles southeast of the Yellowstone 

National Park in the mountains of the Shoshone and Wind River 

ranges, whose highest peaks attain altitudes of more than 12,000 

feet, and flows in a general southeasterly direction for about 100 

miles to its mouth, where the elevation is 5,100 feet. The upper 

part of its basin is hilly and mountainous except along the river 

and its tributaries, where the bottom lands average a mile or so in 

width. About 40 miles above Riverton the valley broadens out and 

includes stretches of land several miles in width excellently adapted 

to agriculture. The most important tributary of Big Wind River 

is Bull Lake Creek; among other tributaries may be mentioned Red, 

Dinwoodie, Dry, Willow, and Meadow creeks.

Little Wind River rises on the eastern side of the Wind River 

Range and flows eastward for about 50 miles to its confluence with 

Big Wind River. At the junction of the North and South forks 

of the Little Wind, near Fort Washakie, the valleys of these streams 

wTiden out into an excellent agricultural section. Above Fort Washakie the drainage area is generally hilly and mountainous in character.

The principal tributary of Little Wrind River is the Popo Agie, 

which rises in the high mountains and flows in a northeasterly 

direction to its confluence with the Little Wind River at Arapahoe, 

Wyo., and which emerges from the mountains about 8 miles above 

Lander, Wyo. This stream at its mouth is considerably larger than 

Little Wind River. Important tributaries of the Popo Agie are the 

North Fork, which enters just below Lander, and the Little Popo 

Agie, which comes in at Hudson about 10 miles below Lander. The 

valleys of the Popo Agie and its tributaries are comparatively wide 

and form one of the oldest irrigated sections of Wyoming. Among 

the other tributaries of the Little Wind River are St. Lawrence, 

Sage, and Trout creeks.

From Riverton, Wyo., to its junction with the Yellowstone near 

Bighorn, Mont., a distance of about 250 miles, the Bighorn flows 

northward. At Thermopolis, 55 miles below Riverton, the elevation 

is about 4,200 feet; at the mouth of the Shoshone, 90 miles below 

Thermopolis, it is 3,800 feet; and at the mouth of the Bighorn it is 

about 2,700 feet.

Owl Creek, No Wood River, Grey Bull River, Shell Creek, Shoshone 

River, and Little Bighorn are important tributaries of the Bighorn. 

The drainage area of the Bighorn River above the mouth of the 

Shoshone is about 15,500 square miles.
YELLOWSTONE RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 179

The mountainous area drained by the Bighorn and its tributaries 

contain several hundred square miles of timber land, a great part 

of which is included in national forests. The remainder of the area, 

with the exception of occasional strips of land under cultivation, 

may be classed as range and sagebrush land.

The rainfall seems to vary from 20 inches or more above an altitude 

of 9,000 feet to an average of 12 to 15 inches at elevations from 

4,000 to 7,000 feet. Below an altitude of 4,000 feet the rainfall is 

locally less than 12 inches.

The winters on the upper Bighorn above an altitude of 4,500 feet 

are severe. Snowfall is abundant in the high mountains, and heavy 

snowstorms also take place in the more open country, but in the 

plains section the snow does not usually remain for long periods. 

As compared with those in the upper basin the winters in what is 

called the Bighorn Basin are fairly mild. This basin begins where 

the river emerges from the canyon above Thermopolis and extends 

nearly to the mouth of the river. Most of the lower 'drainage area 

of Shoshone River is included in this basin. This belt is subject 

to the influence of the so-called chinook winds. Nearer the mouth 

of the stream the winters are more severe.

Irrigation along Bighorn River is developing very rapidly. For 

a number of years irrigation has been practiced in comparatively 

restricted tracts at various points along the stream and its tributaries, as in the Lander and Thermopolis districts in Wyoming, 

and in the Crow Reservation in Montana, as well as on the No Wood, 

Grey Bull, Shoshone, and other tributaries; but such irrigation has 

used only a small part of the total flow of these streams. Extensive 

irrigation works now being constructed by the Indian Service on the 

Shoshone Reservation in Wyoming and the Crow Reservation in 

Montana will eventually serve probably 225,000 acres; the Shoshone 

project of the United States Reclamation Service will provide for 

the irrigation of more than 125,000 acres along Shoshone River; 

by using some of the storage sites on Big Wind River the Wyoming Central Irrigation Company will irrigate several hundred 

thousand acres of land near Riverton, and other private enterprises 

will irrigate considerable land near Basin. Many opportunities for 

additional projects are to be found on the tributary streams.

As a large part of the drainage area of Bighorn River has never 

been carefully surveyed, the full extent of the storage possibilities 

is-not very well known, but undoubtedly many excellent reservoir 

sites exist at the headwaters of Big Wind and Little Wind rivers. 

Among others may be mentioned the site on Bull Lake Creek, which 

is situated at a natural lake on this stream, and many similar lakes 

are to be found in that locality. It is believed that very good sites 

can be found for storing the flood waters of Paint Rock, Owl Creek,
180 SURFACE WATEE SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Shell Creek, and Grey Bull River. Many of these streams have a 

large annual run-off, but some of them are intermittent in character.

Probably the best reservoir site in the area is the one which the 

Reclamation Service is now developing on Shoshone River 8 miles 

above Cody, Wyo. With a dam 310 feet high above foundation, 

the reservoir will have a capacity of 456,000 acrer-feet. (See Pis. 

VIII and IX.)

The value of the land along the Bighorn River and its tributaries 

for agriculture will probably restrict water-power development to 

streams of the headwater regions. The fall of many of these streams 

exceeds 300 feet to the mile. Popo Agie and Little Wind rivers 

probably afford the best opportunities. In the canyon of the Bighorn above Thermopolis, where the Big Horn Company is now constructing a plant with a capacity of about 5,000 horsepower, at least 

25,000 horsepower can be developed. Of the 100,000 horsepower 

or more which might easily be developed, probably less than 1,000 

horsepower are now being utilized.

For gaging stations maintained in this basin see page 143.

BIG WIND RIVER NEAR RIVERTON, WYO.o

This station was established May 14, 1906, to determine the amount 

of water available for storage and irrigation, and was abandoned 

October 25, 1908, but records are available for only part of this 

period. It was located at Walker's ferry, 7 miles northeast of 

Arapahoe, about 2 miles above Riverton, and 2 miles above the 

mouth of Little Wind River.

Except for the canal systems of the United States Indian Service, 

which divert water from several tributaries, present diversions above 

this station are limited to one canal of the Wyoming Central Irrigation Company, which irrigates probably 20,000 acres. Other canals 

under construction or contemplation by this company will eventually 

divert water for the irrigation of several hundred thousand acres.

Ice prevails for several months during the winter season, but no 

winter records were kept.

On July 13, 1906, a new gage was installed, differing in location and 

datum from the original gage. This gage was replaced on August 24, 

1907, by another gage, near the site of the original gage and as nearly 

as could be determined at the same datum, and this last datum was 

used until the station was abandoned.

Very good discharge measurements were obtained at this station, 

and the results are considered very satisfactory, though the channel 

shifts considerably during floods.

a Referred to in Water-Supply Paper 208 as "near Arapahoe Agency."
U. S. GEOLOGICAL SURVEY WATER-SUPPLY PAPER 246 PLATE VIII

A. SHOSHONE DAW1 SITE, SHOSHONE RIVER. WYOMING. B. SHOSHONE DAM, SHOSHONE RIVER, WYOMING.
YELLOWSTONE KIVER DKAINAGE BASIN. 181

Discharge measurements of Big Wind River near Riverton, Wyo., in 1907 and 1908.

Date.

1907.

October 19.....

1908.

July 24. .......

Hydrographer.

.....do..............................................

J. B. Stewart.................... ...................

.....do..............................................

Width.

Feet. 

231

225

232

234

173

106

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

449

274

1 040

620

588

153

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

2.02

1.06

4.78

2.90

1.50

 0.21

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

1,740

685

7 840

3,600

1,760

578

Daily gage height, in feet, of Big Wind River near Riverton, Wyo., for 1907 and 1908.

[Andrew Walker, observer.]

Day. Aug.

1907.

3............. .......

5............. .......

6............. .......

8.. ........... .......

9. ............ ; .......

10. ............ .......

14............. .......

15............. .......

Day. May.

1903. 

1. ......... 1.1

4.......... 1.5

5.. ........ 1.5 

6.......... 1.55

7.......... 1.8

8.......... 2.0

9.......... 2.3

11.......... 2.05

12.......... 1.85

13. .........1 1.8

14..........! 1.8

15.......... 1.65

1

Sept.

QIC

1.42

1.45

1.38

1.40

1.32

1.30

1.12

1.12

1.08

June.

2.8

2.1

2.0

2.6

2.6

2.8

3.4

3.8

4.1

4 Q

4.6

Oct.

1 OA

1 30

1.30

1.28

1.20

1.20

1 25

1.20

1.15

1.12

1.10

1.10

1.15

1.12

July.

3 Q

4.2

4.6

4.2

4.0

3.9

4.0

4.2

4.2

3.95

3.9

3.7

Nov.

.95

.95

.95

QC

.90

.90

.90

.90

.85

.85

.85

.85

Aug. Sept.

2, 85

9 7^ 2.75

2 i

2.6 

2.6

2.55

2,5

?,. 35

2 2

2.1

2.2

2.1

2.6

0.8

.6

.55

.5

.4 

.4

.45

.5

.6fie;

.7

.7

.7

.7

.65

Dec. Day. Aug.

.95

.95

1907.

17............. .......

18............. .......

19............. .......

20. .. .. ....

.95 21............. .......

.95 2?

.95

.95

.98

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.00

Oct.

0.4

.6

.6

23

24. ............ 2.

25............. 2.

26............. 2.

27.............' 2.

28............. 2.

VS. ...... ...... 2.

30............. 2.

04 

30

15 

32 

30 

20

18 

IT

Day. May.

1908. 

16.......... 1.65

17.---...... 1.6

18.......... 1.6

19 . 1..)

.7 j 20.......... 1.65

.7 i 21 1.7

.6

.5

.6

.5

.45

.4

4

22.......... 1.6

23.......... 1.75

24.......... 1.85

25.......... 1.7

26.......... 1.9

27.......... 2.05

28.......... 1.9

M 1 8

.4 II 30 . 1.8

31 .......... 2. 05

Sept.

1

1

1

1

]

1 

1 

1 

1 

1

1 

1 

1 

1

1

09

.02

.09 

.09

.09 

.35 

.22 

.25 

.25

.25 

.25 

.25 

.32 

.38

June.

4.75 

4.7 

4.2 

3.9 

3.5

3.05

2.9 

2.8 

2.65 

3.1

3.6

4.1

4.1

3.6

3.75

July

3.7 

3.5 

3.45 

3.4 

3.4

3.35 

3.15 

3.1 

3.05 

3.05

2.95

2.9

3.05

3, 05

3 0

Oct.

1.05 

1.05

1.05 

1.05 

1.05 

1.05 

1.05

1.05 

1.05 

1.05 

1.05 

1.05 

1 00

 Aug.

2.3 

2.1 

1.9 

1.9 

1.95

1.9 

2.1 

2.2 

2.05 

1.8

1.6

1.5

g

Nov.

0.85 

.85 

.80 

.80 

.72

.62 

.72 

.80 

.85 

.90

.90 

1.00 

1.00 

1.00 

1.00

Sept.

0.6 

.7 

.7 

.7 

.6

.5 

.4 

.3 

.25 

.35

Dec.

1.00 

1.28 

1.55 

1.55 

1.55

1. 55 

1.55 

1. 55 

1.55 

1.90

1.90 

2.05 

2.05 

2.05 

2.05 

2.05

Oct.

0.35

.4 

.3 

.3 

.25

.2 

.15 

.15 

.1 

.15

NOTE. River frozen, December 17 to 31, 1907. The channel was away from the gage after October 25, 

1908
182 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Rating tables for Big Wind River near Riverton, Wyo. 

AUGUST 24, 1907, TO JULY 5, 1908.

Gage 

height.

Feet.

0.60

.70

* .80

.90

1.00

1.10

1.20

1.30

1.40

1.50

Discharge.

Gage 

height.

Sec.-ft. Feet.

380 ' 1.60

435

500

570

640

720

800

890

990

1,090

1.70

1.80

1.90

. 2.00

2. 10

2.20

2.30

2.40

2.50

Discharge.

Gage 

height.

Sec.-ft. Feet.

1 , 200 2. 60

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

Gage Disheight. charge.

Feet. Sec.-ft.

2,680 3.60 4,900

1,320 i 2.70 2,870 3.70 5,160

1,440

1,570

1,710

2.80 3,070

2.90

3.00

1,860 , 3.10

2, 010

2,170

2,330

2,500

3,280

3,500

3.80 5,430

3.90 5,710

4. 00 6, 000

3, 720 4. 20 6, 580

3.20 ! 3,950 4. 40 7,170

3.30 4,180 4.60 \ 7,780

4.40 4,410

3.50 4,650

4.80 1 8.430

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. I; K base 1 on three 

discharge measurements made during 1907-8 and the form of the 1906 curve, and is well defined between 

gage heights 1.0 foot and 5.0 feet.

JULY 6, TO OCTOBER 25, 1908.

Feet.

0.10

.20

.30

.40

.50

.60

.70

.80

.90

1.00

Sec.-ft.

760

820

880

945

1,010

1,075

1,140

1,210

1,280

1,350

Feet.

1.10

1.20

1.30

1.40

1.50

1.60

1.70

1.80

1.90

2.00

Sec.-ft.

1,430

1,510

1,590

1,670

1,760

1,850

1,950

2,060

2,180

2,300

Feet.

2. 10

2.20

2.30

2.40

2.50

2.60

2.70

2.80

2.90

3.00

Sec.-ft.

2,430

2, 560

2,700

2,840

2,980

3,130

3,280

3, 440

3,600

3,770

Feet.

3. 10

3.20

3.30

3.40

3.50

3.60

3.70

3.80

3.90

4.00

Sec.-ft.

3,950

4,140

4,340

4,550

4,760

4,980

5,220

5, 470

5, 730

6, 000

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on three 

discharge measurements made during this period,and is fairly well defined. Above gage height 4.0 feet it is 

the same as the preceding table.

Monthly discharge of Big Wind Hirer near Riverton, Wyo., for 1907 and 1908.

Month.

1907. 

August 24-31 . .......................................

1908.

July .................................................

August ..............................................

October ........................ . . . ... .

Discha 

Maximum.

2, 200 

1,940 

890 

640 

640

2,500

8, 260 

7.780 

3,520

1,210 

1,140

rge in seeonc 

Minimum.

1,770 

650 

640 

391 

605

720 

1,040 

3, 600 

1,280 

850 

680

-feet. 

Mean.

2. 020 

882 

741 

559 

630

1 . 390 

4,370 

5,110 

2,480 

1,040 

909

....

"Run-off 

(total in 

acre-feet).

32. 100 

52.500 

45 000 

33, 300 

38,700

202, 000

85.500 

260. 000 

314.000 

152,000 

61,900 

55,900

929.000

A ccnracv.

NOTE. Discharge estimated October 10 to 18, December 17 to 31,1907, and October 20 to 31,1908. The 

Wyoming Central canal was carrying 30 second-feet August 24,1907, and lOsecond-feet on October 18, 1907.

BIGHORN RIVER NEAR HARDIN, MONT.a

This station, which was established June 16, 1904, to determine the 

amount of water available for irrigation, is located at the bridge of 

the Burlington and Missouri River Railroad about one-half mile

Referred to as at "Fort Custer" in Water-Supply Paper 208, p. 96.
YELLOWSTONE ETVEE DBAINAGE BASIN. 183

above the junction of Bighorn and Little Bighorn rivers, and 2 miles 

from Hardin. Water is diverted a few miles above the station by a 

private irrigation company to irrigate land on the west side of the 

river.

The river freezes over during the winter months.

The present gage datum is 3 feet higher than that of the original 

gage; but on August 10, 1905, the gage was moved to the west span 

of the bridge and the datum lowered 2 feet. Gaging conditions at 

this station are good. The bed of the stream is of gravel, and is free 

from vegetation.

Discharge measurements of Bighorn River near Hardin, Mont., in 1907 and 1908.

Date.

3907.

May 29. ........

1908. 

March 27. ...... 

May 20. ........

July 21. ........

Hydrographer.

.....do................................... .........

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

J. E. Stewart. . ..................................... 

.....do..............................................

.... .do ......... .................................

Width.

Fr<t.

433

435

431

422

430 

437

447

439 499

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft..

2.360

? <??n

1,980

1,550 

2,110

2,830

Gage 

height.

Feet.

0 AA

5.20

5.11

4 40

3.49 

4.80

7 97

5.83

Discharge.

Sec.-1t.

9,290

1,8(50 

6,730

11,700

3,270

Daily gage height, infect, of Bighorn River near Hardin, Mont., for 1907 and 1908.

[J. S. Tupper observer.]

Day.

1907. 

1..... ............... .... s'.\'.'.'.'.'.'.".'.'.'.'.'.'.'.'..'.'.'.'.". 2

4.. ................... ..

(i................. ..... .

8............... ..... .

g

11..........................

12..........................

13...........................

14.........................

15... ..................... ..

18.............. ..... ....

If). .............. . ..

 >o.........................

21................ .... ....

22..........................

23.......... .

24........ . ....

25

2(i. ....

27

28. . ....

29................ .. .. ..

30. ... .....

31................ ... ......

Mar. Apr.

2.90

2.90 

2.95

3.00

3.00

3.05

2.95

2.98

3.15

3.10

3. 15

3.48

3.45

3.45

0.45

3.35

3. 25

3.32

3.45

3.75

3.70

3.65

May.

3.55

3.60 

3.55

3.58

3.52

3.55

3.55

3.55

3.52

3.70

4.12

4.65

5.00

5.35

5.58

5.75

6. GS

7.15

7.10

6.98

5.98

5. 78

June.

5.82

5.52 

5.52

5.75

5.92

0.28

6.52

0.95

7.30

7.18

7.02

6.78

6. 75

0 60

6.65

6.50

6.40

7.05

6. 65

6.60

6.70

7.10

July.

7. 35

7.40

7 95

8.45

8.50

8. 65

8.45

8.35

8.50

8.45

.15

90

.65

.45

35

.30

7.25

fi. 45

6.50

G. 45

Aug.

ti. 35

6.25

0.45

6.10

5.95

5.25

4.90

4 80

4.70

4.60

4.55

4.45

4.45

Sept.

4.55

4.30

4.20

4.10

4.10

4.05

3.95

3

QK

3.80

3.80

3.75

3.75

3.70

3.65

3.65

3.80

Oct.

3. 75

3.70

3.65

3.65

3.80

3.85

3.85

3.75

3.75

3.70

3 7A

3.70

3.70

3.70

3.65

3.60

3. CO

3.<0

Nov.

3. 60

3. C.O

3.50

3.50

3.50

3.50

3.50

3.55

3.55

3.50

3.45

3.40

3.35

3.35

3.35

3.40

3.40

3.40

3.35

3.35

3.35
184 SUEFACE WATEE SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Daily gage height, in feet, of Bighorn River near Har din, Mont., for 1907 and 1908- -Con.

Day.

1908. 

1..... ......................

2...........................

3...........................

4...........................

5..-. ........................

6...........................

7... ........................

8...........................

9. ..........................

10............. ..............

11...........................

12...........................

13...........................

14...........................

15...........................

16..........?................

17...........................

19...........................

20...........................

23. ..... ...................

24...........................

95

27........ ...................

28...........................

29...........................

30...........................

31 ...........................

Mar.

........

........

3.50

3.50

3.40

3.35

3.30

3.30

3.30

3.30

3.25

Apr.

3.20

3.15

3. ]5

3.15

3.10

3.10

3.10

3.15

3.20

3.20

3.30

3.40

3.45

3.50

3.60

3. SO

3.90

4.00

4.20

4.50

4.50

4.40

4.40

4.30

4.25

4.15

4.05

4.05

May.

3.95

3.90

3.90

3.90

3.80

3.80

4.10

4.30

4.50

4.70

4.70

4.60

4.50

4.40

4.40

4.50

4.50

4. CO

4.60

4.80

5.00

5.00

4.90

4.90

4. SO

4. SO

4.00

5.00

5.00

5.40

June.

6.00

6. CO

6. CO

7.40

6. SO

6.40

6.40

6.50

6. SO

7.10

7.40

8.00

8. CO

8. (0

8. SO

9. 10

9. SO

9.20

8.40

8.00

7. SO

7.70

7.20

7.00

0.90

6.80

6.70

6.70

6.70

6.90

July.

7.00

7 20

7.30

7.20

7.20

7.20

7.10

7.00

6. SO

6. SO

6. SO

6.70

6.70

6. CO

6.50

6.40

6.30

6.00

5.90

5.70

5. tO

5.50

5.40

5.30

5.20

5.20

5.20

5.20

5.20

Aug.

5.20

5.20

5.10

4. tO

4.60

4.90

4. SO

4.70

4.(0

4. CO

4.50

4. CO

4. CO

4. CO

4.70

5. 10

5.00

4 C 0

4. SO

4. SO

4.70

4.70

4. CO

4.60

4.40

4.30

4.30

4.20

4.20

Sept.

4.10

4.00

s.eo

3.90

3.90

3. SO

3. SO

3.70

3.70

3.70

3. CO

3. CO

3.70

3.70

3.80

3.90 o on

3.80

3.70

3.70

3.70

3.80

3.90

3.90

3.80

3.80

3.70

3.70

3.70

Oct.

3.70

3.70

3. SO

3.80

3.90

4.00

4.10

4.00

3. SO

3. SO

4.00

4.00

4. CO

3.90

3.90

3.80

3.80

3.70

3.70

3.70

3.70

3.70

3.70

3. CO

3. CO

3. CO

3. CO

!>-'*.

q r(\

^ t n

3.EO

3.50

3.40

3.30

3.30

3.30

3.30

3.20

3.20

3.30

3.40

3.40

0 CA

3.50

3. (0

3. CO

3 CO

3.70 3 ~n

3 7(1

3 ""0

NOTE. Probable ice conditions January to March, December, 1907 and January 1 to March 20, December, 1908.

Rating tables for Bighorn River near Hardin, Mont.

APRIL 1 TO JULY 25, ]907-

Gage 

height.

Feet.

2.90

3.00

3.10

3.20

3.30

3.40

3.50

Discharge.

Gage 

height.

1

Sec.-ft.

1,560

1,800

2,040

Feet.

4.10

4.20

4.30

2, 290 ! 4. 40

2, 550 4. 50

2,820 4.60

3,100 ' 4.70

3.60 3,390

3.70 3,680

4.80

4.90

3.80 ' 3,980 j 5.00

3.90

4.00

4, 290 5. 10

4,610 5.20

Discharge.

Gage 

height.

Sec.-ft.

4,930

Fid.

5.30

5, 260 5. 40

5, 600 ' 5. 50

5,950

6,300

5.60

5.70

6, 660 5. 80

7,030 5.90

7,400 ; 6.00

7,780

8,170

8,560

8,960

6.20

6.40

6.60

Discharge.

Gage 

height.

Sec.-ft. Feet.

9,380 6.80

9,820 || 7.00

10,280 i, 7.20

10,760 !l 7.40

11,260 ' 7.60

11,780 7.80

12,300 1 8.00

12,840 ' 8.20

13,980

15, 180

8.40

8.60

16,440 j, 8.80

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

17, 760

19,140

20,560

22, 040

23,580

25, 160

26, 800

28,450

30,110

31,780

33,460

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It, is based on three 

discharge measurements made during 1907 and the 1906 curve. It is fairly well defined between gage 

heights 2.9 feet and 7.0 feet. Above gage height 5.0 feet it is the same as the 1906 table.

JULY 20 TO NOVEMBER 30, 1907.

3.30

3.40

3.50

3.60

3.70

3.80

3.90

4.00

4.10

1,440

1,590

4.20

4.30

1,760 4.40

1,950 4.50

2, 160 4. 60

2,390

2,640

2,910

3,200

4.70

4.80

4.90

1

3,510

3,840

4,190

4,550

4.930

5,340

5,780

6,250

5.00

5.10

5.20

5.30

5.40

5.50

5.60

5.70

6,750

7,260

7,780

8,310

8,850

9,400

9,970

10,560

5.80

5.90

6.00

6.10

6.20

6.30

6.40

6.50

11,170

11,800

12,440

13,090

13,750

14,420

15, 100

15,800

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on three 

discharge measurements made during 1907 and form of previous curves. It is well defined above gage 

height 3.6 feet.
YELLOWSTONE RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 185

Rating tables for Bighorn River near Hardin, Mont. Continued. 

FOR 1908.

Gage 

height.

Feet.

3.10

3,20

3,30

'A. 40

3. oO

3.60

3.70

3.80

3.90

4.00

4.10

4.20

4.30

4.40

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

1,220

1,380

1,550

1,740

1,960

2,200

2,470

2,770

3,090

3,430

3,780

4, 140 '

4,510

4,900

Gage 

height.

Feet.

4.50

4.60

4.70

4.80

4.90

5.00

5. 10

5.20

5.30

5.40

5.50

5. (0

5.70

5.80

Discharge.

Gage 

height.

Sec.-ft. Feet.

5,300 . 5.90

5,720 1 6.00

6,150

6,590

7,040

7,500

7,970

8,440

8,920

9,410

9,910

10, 420

10, 950

11,500

6. 10

6.20

6.30

6.40

6.50

6.60

6.70

6.80

6.90

7.00

7.20

7.40

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

12, 070

12, 660

13, 2CO

13,880

14,510

15, 150

15,800

16, 460

17, 130

17,810

18,500

19, 200

20, 610

22,060

Gage

height.

Feet.

7.60

7.80

8.00

8.20

8.40

8. CO

8.80

9.00

9.20

9.40

9.60

9.80

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

23, 540

25, 040

26, 560

28, 100

29,6CO

31,230

32,810

34,400

36, 000

37.600

33, 200

40, 800

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on five 

dischar o measurements made during 1908 and is well defined.

Monthly discharge of Bighorn River near Hardin, Mont., for 1907 and 1908. 

[Drainage area, 20,700 square miles.]

Discharge in second-feet. Run-off.

Month.

1907.

July..........................

1908. 

March 21-31.... ..............

April .........................

July..........................

Maximum.

3,830

20, 200

32,200

15,400

4,930

2,520

1,950

1,960

5,300

9,410

40,800

21,300

8,440

3,780

3,780

2,470

Minimum.

1,560

3,160

10,400

15,100

4,190

2,060

1,950

1,520

1,460

1,220

2,770

12,700

8,440

4,140

2,200

2,200

1,380

Mean.

2,380

8,660

16,700

22,300

7,770

2,900

2,150

1,700

1,720

2,740

5,620

22,600

14, 600

6,230

2,770

2,850

1,930

Per

square 

mile.

0.115

.418

1.08

.375

.140

.104

.082

.083

.132

.271

1.09

.705

.301

.134

.138

.093

Depth in 

inches on 

drainage 

area.

0.13

.48

90

1.24

.43

.16

.12

.09

.03

.15

.31

1.22

.81

.35

.15

.16

.10

Total in 

acre-feet.

142,000

532, 000

994 000

1,370,000

478,000

173,000

132,000

101,000

3,920,000

37,500

163,000

346,000

1,340,000

898, 000

383, 000

165,000

175, 000

115,000

3,620,000

Accuracy.

NOTE. Discharge estimated for period August 28 to 31, 1907.

LITTLE WIND RIVER AT FORT WASHAKIE, WYO.

This station, which was established October 31, 1908, to obtain 

data for the use of the Indian Service in connection with irrigation 

development, is located about three-fourths of a mile below the 

junction of North and South forks, and 1 mile below Fort Washakie 

post-office. The river freezes during the winter.
186 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Discharge measurements of Little Wind River at Fort Washakie, Wy'o., in 1908.

Date.

October 30.....

Hydrographer.

Freeman and Gonin ................................

Width.

Feet.

54

Area of 

section.

SqJti<

11

Gage 

height.

Feet.

i.93

Discharge.

Scc.-fl.

124

Q9

0 Ice conditions.

Daily gage height, in feet, of Little Wind River at Fort WashaJcie, Wyo.,for 1908.

[J. J. Guyer, observer.]

Day.

1.. ..........

2............

3............

4............

5............

6............

7............

9............

10............

Oct. Nov.

1.9

1.95

1.9

1.9

1 9

1 Q

1.9

1 9

1.9

1.8

Dec.

2.0

1.8

2.3

2.3

2.25

9 9

2.2

2.25

2.25

2.3

Day.

Ul............

1 12............

1 13............

14............

15............

18............

19............

20............

Oct. Nov.

1.85

1.75

1.75

1.95

2.05

2.15

2.1

2.05

2.0

1.9

Dec.

2.3

2.35

2.35

2.35

2.35

9 35

2.4

2.3

2.55

2.6

Day.

21............

99

23. ...........

24............

25............

26............

27............

28............

29

30. ...........

31............

Oct.

::::::

1.9

Nov. ' Dec.

1. 9 2. 55

1.8 2.5

1.75 2.5

1.7 ; 2.55

1.9 2.5

1.9 2.5

2.1 2.5

...... 2.4

NOTE. Ice conditions probably began November 30.

LITTLE WIND RIVER ABOVE ARAPAHOE, WYO.

This station, which was established May 11, 1906, to determine the 

amount of water available for irrigation and storage, is located at the 

government bridge a short distance above the mouth of the Popo 

Agie River and about one-half mile west of the post-office at Arapahoe. 

The drainage area is about 650 square miles.

Water is diverted from Little Wind River and various tributaries 

above the station by the United States Indian Service canal systems, 

which will eventually irrigate several thousand acres of land. Some 

of the canals are already in operation.

The datum of the gage has not been changed since the station was 

established. Fair results have been obtained, but measurements are 

somewhat affected by the pile bents of the bridge. The river is icebound for several months during the winter season.

Discharge measurements of Little Wind River above Arapahoe, Wyo., in 1907 and 1908.

Date.

1907.

1908.

July 24.........

Hydrographer.

....do..............................................

J. B. Stewart. ......................................

.....do.............-....--..--..--...-..--.---.-....

Width.

Feet. 

100

57.5

103

102

102

111

58

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

122

65

327

197

195

169

78

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

1.40

.90

3.45

2.05

2.07

1.80

1.09

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

304 

106

1.620

643

637

446

112

a Made by wading.
YELLOWSTONE RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 187

Daily gage height, in feet, of Little Wind Hirer above Arapahoe, Wyo.,for 1907 and 1908.

[Charles H. Kealear, observer.)

Day.

1907. 

1... ....................

-1. .

(».

8...........................

9...... .....................

10.. ......

11.... ...

12..... ... .... .

13........... ..

14... ........................

15...........................

10. ..........................

17...........................

18........... ......

19...........................

20... ......... ....... . ...

21...........................

23.. .........................

24..... .... .. ....... .

95

20...........................

97

28...........................

29.... ..

30.... ......................

1908. 

1.. ......... ..............

2...

3............ ..............

4. ........

G.... .... .

8...........................

9...........................

10. ..........................

11..... ...... . . .

12.......--.-. .-...- .......

13...........................

l(i.

17.... ....

18.

19

20...........................

21...... ....................

99

23. ..................

24...........................

25

20.....................

27...........................

OD

29...........................

30...........................

Mar.

0.70

.72

.70

.75

.78

.80

.70

.65

.75

.65

68

.65

.60

.60

.60

60

.00

.65

.90

.80

.75

.70

.70

.70

.60

.58

1 65

1.7

1.5

1.45

1.2

1.15

.95

.9

g

.85

.85

.85

75

.65

.75

Apr.

.05

.05

.70

.70

.70

.58

.70

.70

.80

.82

.80

.80

.92

98

.95

80

.80

7 9

.80

so

.80

.78

.78

.72

.68

.8

.75

.75

.8

.8

.7

.7

.8

.8

.9

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.25

1.3

1.25

1.2

May.

.60

.70

.70

.70

.70

.70

.70

.70

.78

.80

1.10

1.25

1.10

1.05

1.05

1.50

1.1

1.1

 1.1

1 9^i

1.25

1.35

1.85

1.9

1.65

1.5

1.5

1.55

1.4

1 3

1 3

1.4

1.4

1.55

1.5

1.5

June.

........

1.6

1.5

1.4

1.4

1.35

1.3

1.6

1.65

1.85

9 2

2.75

2.9

3.3

3.55

3.25

3.25

2.95

2.65

2.35

2.4

2.45

2.25

2.85

3.2

2.7

July.

2.85

2.9

2.9

3.15

o 4

3.55

3.15

2.95

2.85

2.85

2.85

2.75

2.7

2.6

2.6

2.5

2.55

2.45

2.2

2.1

2.0

2.0

2.05

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.0

1.9

1.85

Aug.

2.30

2.40

2.25

2.10

1.90

1.80

1.70

.70

.70

.05

.70

.75

1.70

1.50

1.50

1.55

1.70

1.65

1.60

1.50

1.50

1.8

1.75

1.65

1.6

1.0

1.6

1.8

1.8

1.7

1.65

1.8

1.9

1.8

1.95

2.1

2.0

1.85

1.8

1.8

1.8

2.15

2.25

2.05

2.95

1.8

1.65

1.45

1.4

1.4

1.4

Sept.

1.50

1.40

1.40

1.35

1.30

1.20

1.25

1.20

1.20

1.20

1.20

1.20

1.10

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.00

.95

.90

.90

.90

.90

1.00

1.00

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.2

1.15

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.1

1.1

Oct.

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.00

.95

.90

.90

.80

.80

.80

.80

.90

.90

.90

.90

.90

.90

.90

.90

.90

.90

.98

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.00

Nov.

0.92

.90

.92

.98

1.00

.92

.90

.90

.90

.82

.80

.90

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

NOTE. Ice periods, January 1 to about March 13,1907, probably November 13,1907 to March 27,1908, and 

after November 8,1908. Probable backwater effect due to ice during first part of March, 1907 and March 

15-22, 1908.
188 SUEFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Rating tables for Little Wind River above Arapahoe, Wyo. 

JANUARY 1 TO MAY 20, 1907.

Gage Disheight. charge.

Feet. Sec.-ft.

0.50

.00

.70

50

72

97

Gage Disheight. charge.

Feet.

0.80

.90

1.00

Sec.-ft.

125

157

192

Gage ' Disheight. ' charge.

Feet.

1.10

1.20

1.30

Gage Disheight, charge.

Sec.-ft. Feet.

230

270

315

1.40

1.50

Sec.-ft.

3135

420

1. GO 480

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is a portion of the 

rating table published for this station in the 1900 report. It is not well defined.

AUGUST 1, 1907, TO JUNE 10, 1908.

0.60

.70

.80

.90

1.00

110

140

1.10

1.20

1.30

1.40

1.50

175

215

260

310

360

1.60

1.70

1.80

1.90

2.00

416

475

536

601

668

2.10

2.20

2.30

2.40

738

810

884

960

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on two 

discharge measurements made during 1907 and the form of the 1908 curve. It is well defined above gage 

heights 0.9 foot.

JUNE 11 TO SEPTEMBER 30, 1908.

0.70 40 1.50

.80

.90

1.00

1. 10

1.20

1.30

1.40

62

87

115

145

178

215

255

l.fiO

1.70

1.80

1.90

i 2.00

2.10

2.20

300

350

404

461

521

585

652

720

2.30

2.40

2.50

2.M)

2.70

2.80

2.90

3.00

788 1

856

925

994

1,064

1,135

1,207

1,280

3.10

3.20

3.30

3.40

3.50

3. CO

1,351

1,429

1,505

1,582

1,660

1,740

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. Itis based on five discharge measurements made during 1908, and is fairly well defined between gage heights 1 foot and 3.5 feet.

Monthly discharge of Little Wind River above Arapahoe, Wyo., for 1907 and 1908.

Month.

1907.

April ................................................

August 9 31 .........................................

1908.

May.................................................

July. -.....-......--...-.-.......-....--......-....-.

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

157 

185 

450 

960 

360 

140 

140

285 

601 

1,700 

1,700 

1,240 

215

Minimum.

84 

72 

310 

110

80 

80

55 

175 

260 

491 

255 

130

Mean.

83.0 

117 

192 

512 

182 

120 

112

140 

339 

907 

943 

484 

158

Run-off 

(total in 

acre- feet).

5,100

6, 960 

7,620 

23, 400 

10,800 

7,380 

2.670

8,330 

20, 800 

54,000 

58, 000 

29, 800 

9,400

180,000

NOTE. On October 21,1907. the Indian ditch was diverting about 5 second-feet.
YELLOWSTONE RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 189

LITTLE WIND RIVER BELOW ARAPAHOE, WYO.

This station, which was established May 11, 1906, to obtain data 

for use in general studies of run-off, is located at the government 

bridge, 200 yards below the mouth of Popo Agie River, one-half mile 

south of the post-office at Arapahoe, and about 6 miles above the 

junction of Little Wind and Big Wind rivers. Beaver Creek enters 

from the south between the station and the mouth of the river. The 

drainage area of Little Wind River at its mouth is about 1,900 square 

miles.

The records at this station show practically the entire flow of 

Little Wind River except a small amount of water used for irrigation.

Many diversions are made for irrigation from Little Wind and Popo 

Agie rivers above this station, but opportunities for additional development both for power and irrigation yet remain.

The location of the rod gage has remained unchanged since the 

establishment of the station, but the bridge was raised 0.17 foot at 

the gage when the ice went out in the spring of 1908, and all the gage 

readings for 1908 are low by that amount. They have not been corrected to the old datum.

Conditions at this station are not favorable for accurate results 

because of the eddies around the pile bents at all stages and the sluggishness of the current at low water. The stream is icebound for 

several months during the winter season.

Discharge measurements of Little Wind River below Arapahoe, Wyo., in 1907 and 1908.

Date.

1907.

1908.

Do.....--.-

Hydrographer.

..... do. .............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do.-.............----..-.......-.--........-.-.

Width.

Feet. 

90

93

104

97.3

97.8

92.5

95

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

441

857

481

303

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

2.46

5.75

2 98

2.00

1 08

1.08

2.00

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

GOO

4,120

830

a 3 10

300

a Combined discharges of Little Wind River (discharge 142 second-feet) and Popo Agie River (discharge 

204 second-feet) above their junction. These measurements were made by wading and give the combined 

discharge more accurately than the other measurement of November 5, which was made below the junction 

and at a poor measuring section.

b Ice conditions.
190 STJKFACE WATEE SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Daily gage height, in feet, of Little Wind River belotv Arapahoe, Wyo.,for 1907 and

1908.

[Charles H. Kealear, observer.]

Day.

1907. 

1............................

2...........................

3...........................

4............. .............

6...........................

8...........................

9...........................

10. ..........................

12...........................

13...........................

14 ...........................

15...........................

17...........................

18...........................

20...........................

21...........................

22...........................

23...........................

24...........................

25...........................

26...........................

27 ...........................

28...........................

29...........................

30...........................

1908. 

1...........................

2...........................

3...........................

4...........................

5...........................

9...........................

10...........................

11............. ..........

12...........................

13. ..........................

15...........................

17...........-.....-----.-...

19

20...........................

21...........................

22 ...........................

23 ...........................

24...........................

25 ...........................

26...........................

27. ..........................

28...........................

30...........................

Mar.

1.75

1.65

1.60

1.50

1.15

1.20

1.15

1.30

1.30

1.90

1.70

1.48

1.4S

2.8

2.8

2.8

2 7

9 7

2.0

2.45

2.5

2.4

2.3

2.35

1.5

.95

Apr.

1.50

1.50

1.62

1.70

1.70

1.62

1.85

2.00

1.90

2.05

2.25

2.32

2. 30

2.22

2.00

1.90

1.95

2.00

1.95

1.90

1.90

1.82

1.1

1.1

1.0

1.1

1.1

1.2

1.2

1.1

1.1

1.2

1.3

1.8

1.8

9 9

2.25

2.45

2.6

2.6

2.5

2.45

2.2

2.1 !

2.05 |

2.1

2.0

May.

1.80

1.80

1.75

1.70

2.12

2.85

2.60

2 90

2.0

2.05

2.1

2.2

3.25

2.9

2.65

2.65

2.5

'2. 35

2.55

2.6

2.75

3.0

2.85

2.95

2.9

2.95

3.0

0 A

June.

3.05

2.8

2.8

2.75

2.6

2.9

3.05

4.95

5.6

5.4

5.6

4.7

4.2 !

3.75 ,

4.1

4.05

3.85

4.25

5.05

4.75

4.3

r

July.

4.4

4.3

4.65

4.25

4.25

4.2

4.0

3.9

3. 3

3.05

3.0

2.95

2.95

3.05

3.0

2.9

2.9

2.8

2.8

2.7

2.7

Aug.

3.60

0 CA

2.95

2.85

2.50

2.70

2.70

2.62

2.52

2.6

2.5

2 4

2 35

2.5

2.3

2.35

2.45

2 7

2.8

3.15

2.85

2.7

9 7

2.7

2.8

3.4

3.35

3.1

2.85

2.7

2.55

2.35

2.15

2.0

Sept.

1

1

2.30

2 30

2.30

2.20

2 on

1 90

1.80

1.80

1.78

1.72

1.70

1.70

1.70

1.60

1.75

1 90

2.0

1 9

1.75

1.7

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.7

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.55

1.5

1.4

1.75

2.0

2.0

1.95

1.9

1.8

1.65

Oct. ' Nov.

1 QA 1 "A

1 DA 1 no

1.70 ' 1.60

1.70 1. .......

1.70 '........

1.70 ........

1.70 ! ........

1 60

1.60 1........

1 60

1 60

1 60 '

1 60

1.70 '........

1.70 ........

1.70 ........

1.70 ........

1.70 ........

........ 1.75

........ 1.7

........ 1.7

........ 1.7

........; 1.6

i

NOTE. Ice conditions January 1 to about March 12, 1907, and probably from November 12, 1907, to 

March 27, 1908, and after November 9, 1908.
YELLOWSTONE RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN.

Rating tables for Little Wind River below Arapahoe, Wyo. 

FOR 1906 TO 1907.

191

Gage

height.

Feet.

1.10

1.20

1.30

1.40

1.50

l.tiO

1.70

1.80

Dis- Gage

charge, height.

Sec. -ft. I Feet.

125 I 1.90

150

Dis- Gage

charge.

Sec.-ft.

300

I 2. 00 405

175 !| 2.10 450

200

225

255

285

320

2.20 500

2.30 555

2.40 015

2.50 075

2.60 740

height.

Feet.

2.70

2.80

2.90

3.00

3.10

3.20

3.30

3.40

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

805

875

945

1,020

1,095

1,175

1,255

1,340

Gage Disheight, charge.

Feet.

3.50

3.60

: 3.70

3.80

3.90

Sec.-ft.

1,430

1,520

1,615

1,710

1,810

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-c'iannel conditions. It is based on 23 

discharge msasurements made during 1906 and 1907, and is well djfin.' 1.

FOR 1908.

0. 80 100

.90

1.00

1.10

1.20

1.30

1.40

1.50

1.60

1.70

1.80

120

140

105

190

220

255

290

325

300

400

1.90 445

2.00 490

2. 10 540

2. 20 595

2. 30 | 055

2. 40 i 720

2. 50 ! 785

2.60 i 850

2. 70 ' 920

2.80 ' 995

2.90 ! 1,070

3.00 | 1,150

3.10

3.20

3.30

3.40

3.50

3.60

3.70

3.80

3.90

4.00

1.235

1,320

1,410

1,500

1.590

1,090

1,790

1,890

1,990

2,090

4.20

4.40

4.60

4.80

5.00

5.20

5.40

5. CO

! 5.80

0. 00

2,300

2,535

2,790

3,050

3,320

3, 595

3,875

4,105

4,400

4,760

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on four 

discharge measurements made during 1908 and the form of the 1907 curve, and is fairly well defined. The 

difference between the 1907 and 1908 ratings is due to a change in gage datum and not because of shiftingchannel conditions.

Monthly discharge of Little Wind River beloiv Arapahoe, Wyo.,for 1907 and 1908.

Month.

1907.

April................................................

May 1-20 ............................................

1908.

May...............................................

Julv............. ...................................

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum. Minimum. Mean.

511 

567 

1,810 

1,520 

003 

300 

285

850 

1,300 

4,310

1,500 

490 

380

225 

285 

627 

255 

255 

255

130

490 

850 

920 

490 

255 

325

220 

364 

061 

884 

417 

293 

206

401 

908 

2,310 

1.890 

896 

365 

358

Run-off 

(total in 

acre-feet).

10.100 

21,700 

20,200 

40,300 

24, 800 

18.000 

6, 330

23.900 

55,800 

137,000 

110,000 

55,100 

21,700 

5,080

415.000

Accuracy.

C. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

C.

B. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

C. 

C.

NOTE. Discharge estimated March 8-12, 1907.

LITTLE POPO AGIE RIVER AT HUDSON, WYO.

This station, which was established August 26, 1907, to determine 

the amount of unused water in the stream available for additional 

irrigation and storage, is located at the highway bridge three-eighths 

of a mile southwest of the post-office at Hudson, Wyo., and a few
192 STJEFACE WATEE SUPPLY, 1907-8.

hundred yards above the mouth of the stream. The station is bolow 

all the tributaries of the Little Popo Agie. The drainage area is 

about 360 square miles.

For 20 miles or more above this station small ditches take out 

water to irrigate the valley lands along the stream.

The present chain gage, which wT as established on June 13, 1908, 

is located 100 yards downstream from the bridge and the old rod gage. 

It was set at a different datum from the old gage, but the reading was 

the same as the reading of the old gage at the time it was located.

High-wT ater measurements were taken from the bridge, but the 

location is not specially good. There is a bend in the stream a short 

distance above, the right bank is subject to overflow at high stages, 

and the bridge itself is sometimes overflowed at extreme stages. 

However, the results obtained here have been ve^y satisfactory. 

The flow is affected by ice for several months during the winter 

season.

Discharge measurements of Little Popo Agie River at Hudson, Wyo., in 1907 and 1908.

Date.

1907.

1908. 

June 13. .......

July 26. .......

Hydrographer.

.....do....................:............

.....do.................................

....do.................................

.....do.................................

Width.

Feet. 

34 

33

33.5 

33.5 

33.5 

35 

35 

3.3.5

Area of 

action.

Sq.ft. 

55 

48

151 

103 

109 

60 

55 

51

Gage height.

Old gage.

Feet. 

2.50 

2.30

5.25 

3.90 

4.00 

2.70

2.47

New gage.

Feet.

5.33 

4.05 

4.18 

2.80

2.02 

2.48

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

72 

44

662 

341 

387 

96 

74 

01

Daily gage height, in feet, of Little Popo Agie River at Hudson, Wyo., for 1907 and 1908.

[O. S. Riggs, observer.]

Day.

1907.a 

1............. 

2.............

3.............

4.............

5. ............

d

..............

9............. 

10.............

11.............

12.............

13............. 

14.............

15.............

Aug.

.......

Sept.

2.50 

2. 50

2.48

2.45 

2.45

2.45 

2.45 

2.40

o oc

2.35

2.32 

2.30

2 30

Oct.

2.35 

2.35 

2.40

2.40

2.38

2.35 

2.35 

2.35 

2.35

2.25

2.25 

2.25

2.25

Nov.

2.30 

2.30 

2.30

2.30

2.30 

2.30 

2.30 

2.30

2. 25

2.25 

2.22

Dec.

2.20 

2.20 

2.10

2 20

2.20

2.20 

2.20 

2.15 

2.10

2 30

2.35

2.35 

2.30

2.15

Day.

1907. 

16............. 

17.............

18.............

19

20............. 

21.............

22............. 

23............. 

24.............

25.............

2,\............

28.............

29.............

30..,,,........

31..,,......,..

Aug.

.......

..:....

2.50

2.52

2.50 

2.50

2.50

Sept.

2.30 

2.30 

2.30

2.30 

2.30

2.30 

2.30 

2.30

2.28

2.25

2.30 

2.30

Oct.

2.25 

2.30 

2.30

2.30

2.30 

2 30

2.30 

2.30 

2.30 

2.30

2

0C

2.35

2.35 

2.35

2.30

2.30

Nov.

2.22 

2.32 

2.30

2.22

2.30 

2.35

2.20 

2.20 

2.20 

2.32

2.22

2.25 

2.20

2.20

Dec.

2.25 

2.30 

2.25

2.35

2.55

2.00 

2.60

a, Gage heights affected by ice Pecember 11-24,1907.
YELLOWSTONE RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 193

Daily gage height, in feet, of Little Popo Agie River at Hudson, Wyo., for 1907 and

1908 Continued.

Day.

1908.<*

2

3....................................

8...... .............................

9 ...................................

10....................................

12....................................

13....................................

l^. ............ .......................

16....................................

17.. ................................ ..

18....................................

19.... ...............................

21 ....................................

22....................................

23....................................

24......... ..........................

25....................................

26....................................

27....................................

28....................................

29....................................

30.................................... 01

Apr.

2.2

2.2

2.2

2.2

2.2

2.25

2.3

2.2

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.35

2.4

2.5

2.45

2.55

2.55

2.6

2.6

2.7

2.75

2.75

2.7

2.7

2.6

2.5

2.55

2.6

2.6

May.

2.6

2.6

2.6

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.75

2.8

3.0

3.0

2.8

2.75

2.7

9 S

2.85

2.8

2.75

2.75

2.8

3.0

2.95

2.95

3.15

3.25

3.1

3.1

3.15

3.15

3.25

3.3

June.

3.2

3.2

3.15

3.1

3.1

3.05

3.2

3.4

3.6

3.5

3.6

4.7

4.35

4.6

4.35

5.C-5

4.05

3.8

3.6

3.7

3.75

3.6

3.65

3.8

4.0

3.8

3.6

3.5

July.

3.7

3.55

3. 05

3.95

3.7

3.6

3.5

3.4

3.45

3.65

3.6

3.4

3.3

3.25

3.1

3.1

3.0

2.9

2.9

 2.9

2.8

2.8

2.8

2.8

2.75

2.8

2.7

2 7

Aug.

2.0

2.6

2.6

2.6

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.7

2.6

2.8

3.9

2.9

2.7

2.65

2.65

2.7

2.7

2.8

2.75

2.7

2.6

2.6

2.5

2.5

2 4

2.4

Sept.

2.4

2.4

2.35

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

9 3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.4

2.6

2.6

2.55

2.55

2.6

Oct.

2.6

2.9

2.8

2.8

2.6

2.6

2.6

2.6

2.6

2.6

2.6

2.6

2.6

2.55

2.55

2.6

2.6

2.55

2.55

2.6

2.55

Nov.

2.55

2.55

2.5

2.5

2.4

a. Ice conditions December 11, 1907, to about February 29, 1908, and after November 11, 1906. 

Rating tables for Little Popo Agie River at Hudson, Wyo.

Gage

height.

Feet.

2.10

2.20

2.30

2.40

2.50

2.60

2.70

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

27

35

45

56

70

85

100

Gage

height.

Feet.

2.80

2.90

3.00

3.10

3.20

3.30

3.40

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

117

135

154

174

195

216

238

Gage

height.

Feet.

3.50

3.C.O

3.70

3.80

3.90

4.00

4.10

Dis- i. Gage

charge.

Sec.-ft.

2<,0

282

305

328

351

height.

Feet.

4.20

4.30

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

420

443

4. 40 466

4. 50 489

4. CO

374 ! 4. 70

397

512

535

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on seven 

discharge measurements made during 1907-8 and is well denned between gage heights 2.3 feet and 5.0 feet.

JUNE 14 TO NOVEMBER 10, 1908.

2.30

2.40

2.50

2. (0

2.70

2.80

2.90

3.00

3.10

44

53

63

3.20

1 3.30

3.40

73 !i 3. 50

84 i 3. (,0

97 3.70

111

128

147

3.80

3.90

4.00

167

187

207

227

248

270

292

314

337

4.10

4.20

1 4.30

4.40

4.50

4.60

4. 70

4.80

4.90

SCO

3S3

406

429

453

477

502

527

552

5. 00 577

5. 10 602

5. 20 628

5. 30 054

5. 40 681

5. 50 708

5. 60 . 735

5. 70 ' 763

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is ba^ed on six 

discharge measurements made during 1907-8 and is well denned between gage heights 2.4 feet and 5.3 feet.

31260 IRR 246 10- -13
194 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-3.

Monthly discharge of Little Popo Agie River at Hudson, Wyo., for 1907 and 1908.

Month.

1907.

October. .............................................

1908.

July .................................................

The period

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

73 

70 

56 

50 

35

108 

216 

749 

326 

314 

73 

111 

68

Minimum.

70 

40 

40 

31 

25

35

85 

164 

84 

53 

44 

63 

53

Mean.

70.5 

51.3 

47.0 

41.2 

28.3

66.9 

138 

296 

181 

81.4 

49.5 

74.9 

63.5

Run-off 

(total in 

acre-feet).

839 

3,050 

2,890 

2,450 

1,350

3,980 

8,480 

17, 600 

11,100 

5,010 

2,950 

4,610 

1,260

55, 000

Accuracy.

A. 

A. 

A. 

B. 

D.

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

B. 

A. 

A.

SHOSHONE RIVER AT CODY, WYO.

This station, which is located at the highway bridge 1 mile 

northeast of Cody, Wyo., was established April 26, 1902, to obtain 

data to be used in connection with the Shoshone reclamation project.

The principal tributaries are the North and South forks, which unite 

8 miles above Cody to form the Shoshone. The drainage area above 

the gaging station is 1,400 square miles, but the entire run-off from 

this area does not pass the station as a number of private irrigation 

canals divert water from the Shoshone and its branches above the 

station. These canals irrigate about 35,000 acres of land. Below 

Cody irrigation has been carried on quite extensively by means of 

private canal systems that serve about 45,000 acres.

The conditions for obtaining accurate discharge data are good. 

Ice does not affect the flow at this station, as the river is kept open 

by springs which enter the river a short distance above the gage. 

The gage datum has remained unchanged.

Discharge measurements of Shoshone River at Cody, Wyo., in 1907 and 1908.

Date.

1907. 

April 18. ......

April 20........

June 24. .......

July3.........

1908.

April 18........ 

April 21........

May 9. .........

Do.........

June 12. .......

Hydrographer.

G. F. Harley . . .....................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

G. L. Blakeslee. ...................................

Blakeslee and Downey .............................

. . . . .do. .............................................

.....do..............................................

. . . . .do. .............................................

.....do..............................................

Width.

feet. 

134

126

178

196

196

118

118

148

152 

158

163

148

195

Area of 

section.

Sq.feet.

752

813

798

1,170

1,070

331

240

488

465

594

4-0

876

Gage 

height.

Feet.

2.83

r on

5.40

5

rn

6.80

2.70

2.20

3.75

6.00

discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

1,120

895

^ 9*.n

9 930

7,250

537

1,720

1,840

non

1,400

1,360
YELLOWSTONE EIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 195

Daily gage height, in feet, of Shoshone River at Cody, Wyo.,for 1907 and 1908. 

[S. C. Bovard, observer.]

Day.

1907. 

1..... ..........

2...............

3...............

4...............

5...............

6...............

8...............

9..... .........

10...... .........

11...............

12...............

13...............

14...............

15...............

16...............

17...............

18...............

19...............

20...............

21...............

22...............

23...............

24...............

25...............

26...............

27...............

28...............

29... .......

30...............

31...............

1908. 

1...............

2.

3......... ....

4............. .

5...............

6...............

1. ..............

8...............

9...............

10...............

11...............

12...............

13...............

14...............

15.. ....... ......

16...............

17...............

18...............

19

20...............

21...............

22...............

23...............

24. ..............

25...............

26...............

27. ..............

28...............

29...............

30...............

31...............

Jan.

1.8

1.8

1.7

1.65

1.95

1.9

1.9

1.85

1.8

1.7

1.8

1.85

1.7

1.7

1.65

1.7

1.75

1.8

1.9

1.9

1.8

1.9

2.0

1.9

1.8

1.8

1.9

1.9

1.9

2.35

2.35

2.35

2.25

2.2

2.2

2.2

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.35

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.35

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.35

2.4

2.35

2.4

2.2

2.2

2.2

2

0C

2.2

2.2

2.2

Feb.

1.95

1 9

1.7

1.6

1.65

1.85

1.95

1.95

1.9

1.9

1.9

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.1

2.05

2.1

2.1

2.15

2.0

2.0

1.9

1.9

2.2

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.2

2.1

2.2

Mar.

1.95

1.85

1.9

1.85

2.05

2.1

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.0

1.95

1.9

1.85

1.9

1.95

2.0

2.0

2.95

3.0

2.8

2.55

2.5

2.45

9 1

2.1

2.2

2.2

2.4

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.1

2.1

9 1

2.2

2.3

2.4

2 9

9 ^

2.4

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.1

o 1 c

2.1

9 1

2.1

2.1

2.1

Apr.

2.5

2.65

2.65

2.6

2.7

2.55

9 ^

2.4

2.5

2.8

3.15

3.1

3.35

3.5

3.4

3

J.K

3.1

3.0

2.9

2.8

2.9

3.0

3.1

2.9

2.9

2.75

2.7

2.65

2.7

2.1

2.1

9 <;

2.4

2.4

2.3

2.75

q nc

q Q

3.6

q Q

3.8

q 7

Q 0

q Q

4 05

A q

4.0

Q 7

Q e

3

0

Q 9

3 1 f\

3.2

May.

2.7

2.65

2.7

2.75

2.9

2.9

2.9

3.2

3.65

4.0

4.4

3.9

3.8

3.6

4.3

5.0

5.5

5.6

5.2

5.3

5.3

4.0

3.9

4.0

4.1

3.7

4.0

q 7

4.0

4.6

4 3

0 QC

3.7

3.6

3.7

3.6

3.5

3

AK.

3.4

Q Q

o 7

4.0

o 7C

q Q

4.0

3

QE

4 05

4.1

4.9

June.

4.35

5.55

5.2

5.1

5.4

5.6

C QE

5.8

5.5

5.0

5.2

5.5

5.0

5.0

4.8

4.6

5.7

6.2

6.1

6.2

6.0

5.5

C C

5.2

5.6

6.4

6.6

6.6

^ 1

4 5

4.3

4.25

4 75

5.0

5.2

6.0

6.4

6.7

6.5

6.0

5.5

5 2

5.0

A 0

5.0

5.6

6

1

6.7

July.

6.5

7.0

7.1

8.0

7.5

6.9

7.1

6.8

7.0

6.8

6.8

6.5

6.5

6.4

6.2

5 4

re A

6.0

6.2

6.2

6.0

6.1

6.0

6.0

5.8

5.6

5.5

5.6

5.6

5.6

6.3

6.2

6.4

6 9

6.6

6.0

6.1

6 9

6.7

6.3

6.3

6.2

6.1

C Q

5.6

5.5

5.6

5.5

5 4

c q

5.2

5.1

5.1

5 4

5.0

4.9

Aug.

5.4

Z 9

5.2

5.5

5.0

4.9

5.0

4.9

4.9

4.8

4.3

4.1

4.1

4.1

4.3

4.1

4.0

4.0

4.0

3.7

3.7

3.7

3.7

3.8

3.7

3.8

3.8

3.7

3.8

4.9

4.7

4.3

4.3

4.2

4.2

4.3

A 1 C

4.0

3.9

3 Q

3.8

4.5

4.1

4.1

4.1

4.1

3 Q

n 0

3 7

3 7

3 7

3.6

3.6

Sept.

3.6

3.6

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3

C

3.5

3.5

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.3

0 q

1 9

3.1

Q 1

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.0

3

n

3.5

q Q

3

0C

1 9

q OC

3

OC

Q 9

Q 9

3 1

Q 1

Q 1

3 4

Q 9

Q 9

3 1

3

0

q o

3 1

q A

q n

2 9

q ft

1 fl

3 0

q n

3

n

3 O

3.0

Oct.

3.0

q n

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.0

2.9

2.9

2.85

2.85

2.85

2.85

2.8

2.8

2.8

2.65

2.65

2.65

2.65

2.6

2.6

2.6

2.6

2.6

2.6

2.5

2.5

3

n

2.9

q n

3

n

q 9

1 9

3 45

D A

3.3

3

9c

3 9

3

n

3.0

q A

3.6

3

Oe

3

0

q 9

q 1

2 9

9 Q

9 Q

2 9

2 Q

9 Q

9 Q

2 9

2 9

2.9

2.9

Nov.

2.5

2.45

2.45

2.45

2.35

2.35

2.35

2.4

2.35

2.35

2.2

2.05

2.2

2.2

2.4

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.45

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.5

2.5

3.0

3

n

o n

3.0

q n

1 0

3

n

2.9

9 n

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.7

9 7

9 7

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

Dec.

2.5

2.4

2.4

2.35

2.3

2.7

2.45

2.4

2.35

2.3

2.3

2.45

2.4

2.35

2.2

2.2

2 3

2.25

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.1

2.1

2.25

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.3

2.3

2.3

9 *i^

2.35

9 "i^

2.35

2.35

2.2

2.2

2.2

2.2

2.2

2 9

2.2

2.2

2.2
196 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Rating tables for Shoshone River at Cody, Wyo. 

JANUARY 1 TO JULY 25, 1907.

Gage 

height.

Feet.

1.60

1.70

1.80

1.90

2.00

2.10

2.20

2.30

2.40

2.50

2.60

2.70

2.80

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

160

190

225

265

310

360

415

475

540

610

685

765

845

Gage 

height.

Feet.

2.90

3.00

3.10

3.20

3.30

3.40

3.50

3.60

3.70

3.80

3.90

4.00

4.10

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

930

,020

,110

,210

,310

,420

,540

,660

1,790

1,920

2,060

2,210

2,360

Gage 

height.

Feet.

4.20

4.30

4.40

4.50

4.60

4.70

4.80

4.90

5.00

5.20

5.40

5.60

5.80

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

2,520

2.680

2,850

3,030

3,220

3,420

3,630

3,850

4,080

4,570

5,100

5,670

6,280

Gage 

height.

Feet.

6.00

6.20

6.40

6.60

6.80

7.00

7.20

7.40

7.60

7.80

8.00

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

6,930

7,620

8,350

9,150

10, 000

10, 900

11, 800

12,800

13, 800

14, 800

15, 800

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on 

seven ivedischarge discharge measurements _.___ . made during this period and the general form of previous curves at low

stages and is well defined.

JULY 26 TO DECEMBER 31, 1907.

2.00

2.10

2.20

2.30

2.40

2.50

2.60

2.70

2.80

195 '

230

270

315

365

425

490

560

640

2.90

3.00

3.10

3.20

3.30

3.40

3.50

725

820

920

1,030

1,140

1,260

1,380

3.60 , l',510

3.70 1,640

3.80

3.90

4.00

4.10

4.20

4.30

4.40

4.50

4.60

1,780

1,930

2,080

2,240

2,400

2,570

2,750

2,930

3,120

4.70

4.80

4.90

5.00

5.20

5.40

5.60

5.80

3,320

3,530

3,750

3,980

4,580

5,140

5,750

6,380

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on two 

discharge measurements made during this period and the form of the subsequent curve and is fairly well 

defined.

JANUARY 1 TO JULY 31, 1908.

2.00

2.10

2.20

2.30

2.40

2.50

2.60

2.70

2.80

2.90

3.00

180

210

250

300

350

410

475

545

620

700

790

3.10

3.20

3.30

3.40

3.50

3.60

3.70

3.80

3.90

4.00

4.10

890

1,000

1,110

1,230

1,360

1,490

1,630

1,780

1,930

2,090

2,260

4.20

4.30

4.40

4.50

4.60

4.70

4.80

4.90

5.00

5.20

5.40

2,430

2,610

2,800

3,000

3,200

3,410

3,620

3,840

4,070

4,560

5,090

5.60

5.80

6.00

6.20

6.40

6.60

6.80

7.00

5,660

6,270

6,930

7,620

8,350

9,150

10,000

10, 900

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is 

seventeen discharge measurements made during 1907-8 and is well defined.

AUGUST 1 TO DECEMBER 31, 1908.

2.20

2.30

2.40

2.50

2.60

2.70

2.80

2.90

190

225

265

310

360

420

480

550

3.00

3.10

3.20

3.30

3.40

3.50

3.60

3.70

620

700

790

890

1,000

1,120

1,250

1,390

3.80

3.90

4.00

4.10

4.20

4.30

4.40

4.50

1,540

1,700

1,870

2,050

2,240

2,440

2,640

2,850

4.60

4.70

4.80

4.90

5.00

3,070

3,300

3.530

3,770

4,010

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on one 

discharge measurement made during this period and the general form of the previous curve and is not 

well defined.
S. GEOLOGICAL SURVEY

WATER-SUPPLY PAPER 2+6 PLATE IX

A. BOX CANYON IMMEDIATELY BELOW SHOSHONE DAM SITE, SHOSHONE 

RIVER, WYOMING.

B. CORBETT TUNNEL, CORBETT DIVERSION DAM, SHOSHONE PROJECT, 

WYOMING.
YELLOWSTONE RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 197

Monthly discharge of Shoshone River at Cody, Wyo.,for 1907 and 1908. 

[Drainage area, 1,480 square miles.]

Month.

January... 

February.. 

March.....

April......

May.......

June.... .

July.......

August....

September. 

October. .. 

November. 

December.

The year.

January... 

February.. 

March.....

April......

May.......

June......

July.......

August....

September. 

October... 

November. 

December.

1908.

The vear.

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

310

387

1,160

1,540

5,670

9,150

15,800

5,440

1,510

820

425

560

15, 800

350

250

700

2,700

3,840

9,570

10, 400

3,890

1,120

1,250

620

265

10, 400

Minimum.

175

160

245

540

725

2,760

5,100

1,640

820

425

212

195

160

250

210

180

210

1,060

2,520

3,840

1,250

550

550

265

190

180

Mean.

234

291

442

926

2,520

5,630

8,280

2,690

1,120

641

366

325

1,960

310

218

246

1,170

1,970

5,380

6,680

2,200

744

707

449

219

1,690

Per 

square 

mile.

0.158

.197

.299

.626

1.70

3.80

5.59

1.82

.757

.433

.247

220

1.32

.209

.147

.166

.791

1.33

3.64

4.51

1.49

.503

.478

.303

.148

1.14

Run-ofl.

Depth in 

inches on 

drainage

area.

0.18

.21

.34

.70

1.96

4.24

6.44

2.10

.84

.50

.28

.25

18.04

.24

.16

.19

.88

1.53

4.06

5.20

1.72

.56

.55

.34

.17

Total in 

acre-feet.

14, 400

16, 200

27, 200

55,100

155, 000

335, 000

509, 000

165, 000

66,600

39,400

21,800

20,000

1,420,000

19, 100

12,500

15, 100

69, 600

121,000

320, 000

411,000

135, 000

44, 300

43, 500

26, 700

13,500

15.60 ll, 230, 000

Accuracy.

A.

A.

A.

A.

A.

A.

A.

A.

A.

B.

B.

B.

A.

B.

A.

A.

A.

A.

A.

A.

B.

B.

C.

D.

-

SHOSHONE RIVER AT CORBETT DAM, WYO.

This station, which is located 8 miles below Cody, Wyo., at the 

Corbett diversion dam built by the United States Reclamation Service, was established April 20, 1908.

The dam is a reinforced concrete structure of the buttressed type, 

having on the upstream side a deck 2-| feet thick, sloping 1 to 1, and 

supported by buttresses 2 feet thick, spaced 14 feet on centers. It 

raises the low-water elevation of the river 10.2 feet. The length 

between abutments is 400 feet. (See PL IX, B.)

Sage Creek, the only important tributary that enters between 

this station and that at Cody, drains only about 25 square miles. 

During the irrigating season of 1908 about 75 second-feet were 

diverted above the dam through Corbett tunnel and used on the 

Shoshone reclamation project.

The gage is situated 40 feet above the crest of the dam, and it reads 

the height of the water above the crest.
198 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Daily gage height, in feet, of Shoshone River at Corbett dam, Wyo.,for 1908. 

[John A. Fleming, observer.]

Day.

1.. ..................................

2...... ... ....................

3....................................

4...................!................

5....................................

6....................................

7 ....................................

8....................................

9....................................

10....................................

11....................................

12....

13....................................

14....................................

15....................................

16....................................

17....................................

18....................................

19....................................

20......... .......................

21...... . . ....

22............ .......................

23....................................

24.......... .......................

25....................................

26....................................

27....................................

28....................................

29......... .. ...................

30....................................

31............ ......................

Apr.

1.50

1.56

1.45

1.31

1.10

.95

.90

.76

.75

May.

0.80

1.02

1.28

1.00

1.00

1.22

1.52

1.72

1.58

1.45

1.22

1.08

1.12

1.00

.98

.98

.92

.90

.88

1.18

.92

.92

1.25

1.02

1.20

1.35

1.25

1.40

1.25

1.30

1.72

June.

2.02

1.60

1.62

1.70

1.50

1.45

1.60

1.65

2.00

2.20

2.55

2.75

2.75

3.00

3.30

3.10

3.10

2.65

2.25

2.00

2.00

1.95

1.75

1 80

2.20

2.65

3.00

2.30

2.10

2.50

July.

2.80

2.90

3.10

3.45

2.50

2.40

2.90

3.00

3.10

2.80

 2.75

2.80

3.00

2.70

2.60

2.50

2.30

2.10

2.20

2.20

2.10

2.10

1 95

1.90

1.90

1.80

1.90

1.95

1.75

1.65

Aug.

1.60

1.65

1.60

1.40

1.30

1.35

1.30

1.25

1.20

1.15

1.30

1.15

1.00

1.10

1.40

1.10

1.05

.95

1.70

1.40

1.20

1.20

1.15

1.15

1.10

1.00

.90

.85

.85

.85

.90

Sept.

0.80

.70

.70

.70

.70

.70

.70

.70

.65

.65

.65

.65

.65

.75

.70

.65

.65

.75

.65

.60

.60

.60

.55

.55

.60

.70

.65

.60

.70

.65

Oct.

0.60

.60

.60

.65

.70

.70

.70

.81

.73

.70

.68

.66

.65

.65

.80

.89

.77

.68

.66

.63

.60

.60

.59

.63

.61

.60

.60

.63

.61

.60

.58

Mov.

0.56

.56

.56

.56

.56

56

.55

.55

.55

.54

.54

.54

.54

.(<*)

a Sluice gates open; no water flowing over dam. 

Rating table for Rhoshone River at Corbett dan>, Wyo.,for 1908.

Gage

height.

Feet.

0.50

.60

.70

.80

.90

1.00

1.10

1.20

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

420

580

750

930

1,120

1,320

1,530

1,750

Gage

height.

Feet.

1.30

1.40

1.50

1.60

1.70

1.80

1.90

2.00

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

1,980

2,220

2, 465

2,720

2,980

3,245

3,520

3,800

Gage

height.

Feet.

2.10

2.20

2.30

2.40

2.50

2.60

2.70

2.80

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

4,090

4,390

4,700

5,020

5,350

5,690

6,040

6,400

Gage

height.

Feet.

2.90

3.00

3.10

3.20

3.30

3.40

3.50

3.60

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

6,770

7,150

7,550

7,960

8,380

8,810

9,240

9,680

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It was computed 

from data for weir model described in Water-Supply Paper 200, page 90.

Monthly discharge of Shoshone River at Corbett dam, Wyo.,for 1908.

Month.

April 20-30. ................................................

July.......................................................

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

2,620 

3,030 

8,380 

9,020 

2,980 

930 

1,100 

516

Minimum.

786 

930 

2,340 

2,850 

1,020 

500 

548 

484

Mean.

1,520 

1,720 

4,630 

5,360 

1,770 

689 

687 

502

Run-off 

(total in 

acrefeet).

33,200 

106,000 

276,000 

330,000 

109,000 

41,000 

42,200 

13,900

951,000
YELLOWSTONE RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 199

SOUTH FORK OF SHOSHONE RIVER AT MARQUETTE, WYO.

This station, which was established April 26, 1903, to determine the 

amount of water available for the Shoshone project of the United 

States Reclamation Service, is located at the highway bridge at Marquette, 12 miles west of Cody. It was discontinued during 1904, but 

was again established during 1905. On April 4, 1906, the station was 

moved If miles downstream to a point about one-half mile above the 

Shoshone dam. The station was discontinued September 30, 1908.

The drainage area is 500 square miles, but the entire run-off from 

this area does not pass the station, as about 10,000 acres of land are 

irrigated from this stream and all the water is diverted above the gaging station.

The conditions for obtaining accurate discharge data are good 

except during the winter months, when the gage heights are affected 

by ice.

Discharge measurements of South Fork of Shoshone Hirer at Marquette, Wyo., in 1907

and 1908.

Date. Hydrographer.

..do..............................................

..do----...-.-..-......-..---.--.-.-..--......--..

. 0 . Downe v ......................................

Width.

Feet. 

144

144

144

144

144

144

144

Area of 

Section.

Sq.ft. 

464

346

600

441

233

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

4.20

3.65

5.50

4.55

3.90

3.55

2 70

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

3,070

1,870

4,450

3,180

2,680

914

Robert Follansbee.

144

144

129

130

144

124

188

292

306

165

180

306

130

2.20

2.30

2.75

2.75

1.80

1.88

3.45

2.09

639

520

1,130

1,100

364

413

1,790

287

Daily gage height, in feet, of South Fork of Shoshone River at Marquette, Wyo., for 1907

and 1908.

Mar.

1.05

1.05

1.05 1.1

1.05

1.1 

1.1

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.05

1.0

1.0

1....

2

3.....

4. ....

5.....

6...

9.....

;o.....

11.....

12.... .

13.....

14.....

15.....

Day.

1907.

Apr.

1.3

1.4

1.35

1.35

1.25

1.3

1.3

1.2

1.25

1.4

1.45

1.5

1.5

1.8

1.9

May.

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.5

1.55

1.55

1.65

2.15

2.4

2.65

2. 1 i

1.95

2.0

June.

2.9

3.35

3.1

3.5

3.85

4.1

3.85

3.55

3.25

3.2

3.6

0 C O. J

3.15

3.05

July.

4.7

5.0

5.2

6.1

5.5

5.65

5.6

4.7

4.75

4.5

4.3

4.2

4.3

4.0

3.9

Aug.

3.8

3.65

3.55

3.45

3.3

3.15

3.3

3.35

3.2

3.2

3.0

2.75

2.8

2.7

2.9

Sept.

2.35

2.2

2 2

2^15

2.3

2.3

2.45

2.3

2.1

2.05

2.05

2.05

2.0

2.0

2.0

Oct.

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.65

1.65

1.65

1.6

1.55

1.55

1.55

1.7

Nov.

1.25

1.25

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.1

1.0
200 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Daily gage height, in feet, of South Fork of Shoshone River at Marquette, Wyo.,for 1907

and 1908 Continued.

Day.

1907. 

16...........................

17...........................

18...........................

19...........................

20...........................

21...........................

22. ..........................

23...........................

24...........................

25...........................

26...........................

27...........................

28...........................

29...........................

30...........................

31...........................

Mar.

1 05

1.05

1.5

1.4

1.3

1.3

1.3

4.4

Apr.

1 9

1.7

1.7

1.55 14

1.4

1.4

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.35

1.4

1.4

1.4

May.

2.6

2.85

3.0

3.5

3.45

3.4

3.5

3.15

2.9

2.5

2.35

2.4

2.4

2.5

June.

2 8

3.3

4.2

4.3

4.4

3.9

3.6

3.7

3.0

3.6

4.4

4.9

July. Aug.

3.5 

3.3 

3.2

3.8

3.9

3.8

3.9

3.9

4.0 

4.05

3.8

3.8

4.0

4.7

4.05

3.9

2.65

2.6

2.65

2.7

2.5

2.4 

2.3

2.2

2.3 

2.35

2.4

2.3

2.4 

2.3 

2.45 

2.4

Sept.

1.95

1.9

1.9

1.9

1.9

1.85

1.8

1.75

1.75

1.75

1.7

1.75

1.7

Oct.

1.55

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.35

1.35

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.25

Nov.

Day.

1908. 

1..........

2..........

3..........

5..........

8. . ........

9

10. ....... .-

11..........

10

14..........

1 f»

Apr.

1.25

1.2

1.3

1.35

1.4

1 *?^

1.35

1 cc

1.8

9 2.63

May.

2.05

2.35

2.05

9 95

9 £

2.8

2.15

1.95

June.

2.9

2.65

2.50

3.15

4.0

July.

4

1 r

3.9

4.35

3.95

4.15

4.35

4.6

4.25

4.3

4.0

Aug.

3.3

q 9

3.0

2.9

2.8

2.8

2.75

2.7

2.7

2.65

2.7

2.5

2.6

2.8

Sept.

2.0

1 95

1.95

1 9

1.9

i 1 9

1.85

1.85

1 Q

1.8

1 QC

1.85

1 Q

Day.

1908.

17..........

18..........

19..........

20..........

21 ..........

22..........

23..........

24..........

25..........

27..........

28..........

30..........

31 ..........

Apr.

2.25

2.2

2.2

2.55

2.9

2.4

2.2

2.05

1 9

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

2.0

1.95

1.9

1.9

1.95

1.95

2.0

2.75

2.25

2.45

2.6

2.45

2.65

2.45

2.65

,3.3

June.

4.2

4.05

3.7

3.45

3.15

3.05

2.95

2.75

2.95

3.65

4.0

4.55

3.65

3.45

3.95

July.

3.85

3.95

3.8

3.45

3.5

3.7

3.6

3.65

3.45

3.4

3.35

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.3

3.25

Aug.

2.45

2.45

2.5

3.2

2.8

2.8

2.7

2.65

2.6

2.5

2.45

2.3

2.1

1.95

2.2

2.1

Sept.

1.75

1.75

1.9

1.8

1.75

1.75

1.75

1.75

1.75

1.75

1.75

1.75

1.75

1.8

1.8

NOTE. Ice conditions March 26-31, November 12 to December 31, 1907. Gage heights August 15 to 

November 11, 1907, and June 5 to September 30, 1908, are unreliable owing to settling of gage and uncertainty of gage datum.

Gage heights for October and November, 1907, were furnished by D. W. Cole, construction engineer, 

United States Reclamation Service.

Rating tables for South Fork of Shoshone River at Marquette, Wyo.

APRIL 4, 1906, TO JUNE 21, 1907, AND APRIL 1 TO JUNE 5, 1908.

Gage

height.

Feet.

0.90

1.00

1.10

1.20

1.30

1.40

1.50

1.60

1.70

1.80

Discharge.

Sec. -ft.

95

115

137

161

188

218

251

287

326

368

Gage

height.

Feet.

1.90

2.00

2.10

2.20

2.30

2.40

2.50

2.60

2.70

2.80

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

413

463

518

578

648

723

808

900

1,000

1,110

Gage

height.

Feet.

2.90

3.00

3.10

3.20

3.30

3.40

3.50

3.60

3.70

3.80

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

1,220

1,340

1,460

1,590

1,720

1,860

2,000

2,140

2,290

2,440

Gage

height.

Feet.

3.90

4.00

4.20

4.40

4.60

4.80

5.00

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

2,590

2,740

3,060

3,380

3,710

4,050

4,390

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on 1!) 

discharge measurements made during 1906 and is well defined between gage heights 1.0 foot and 3.5 feet

JUNE 22 TO AUGUST 14, 1907. 

[Indirect method for shifting channels used.]
LITTLE MUDDY RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 201

Daily discharge, in second-feet, of South Fork of Shoshone River at Marquette, Wyo.,

for 1907.

Day.

1907. 

1... .......

2... .......

3..........

4..........

6..........

8..........

9

10..........

June. July.

3,360

3,770

4,050

5,300

A 4FU1

4,680

4 720

3,360

3,140

Aug.

2,260

2,000

1,880

1,760

1,380

1,630

1,440

Aug.

2,260

2,000

1,880

1,760

1,380

1,630

1,440

Day.

1907. 

11..........

12..........

13..........

14..........

16..........

18..........

19

20..........

June. July.

2,900

2,780

2,960

2,570

2,470

1,960

1,650

2,680

Aug.

1,210

1,000

914

Day. June.

1907. 

21..........'.......

22.......... 3,250

23.......... 2,420

24.......... 1,900

25 1 9oO

26.......... 1,100

27.......... 1,830

28.....--... 2,940

30.......... 3,490

31.......... --..-..

July.

2,480

2,630

2,600

2,940

2,410

2,660

2,670

2,400

Aug.

NOTE. These discharges were obtained by the indirect method for shifting channels. Discharges for 

July 4 and 7 were estimated from a comparison of hydrographs of stations at Cody and Marquette, Wyo.

Monthly discharge of South Fork of Shoshone River at Marquette, Wyo., for 1907 and 1908. 

[Drainage area, 500 square miles.]

Month.

1907.

April...........................

July............................

November

Discharge i.i second-feet.

Maximum. Minimum.

269 

413 

2,000 

3,630 

5,300 

2,260

December

1908.

1,220 

1,720 

1,400

115 

174 

218 

1,100 

1,650

161

347 

950

Mean.

80 

100 

161 

243 

844 

2,120 

3,030 

915 

381 

218 

124 

110

Per 

square 

mile.

0.160 

.200 

.322 

.486 

1.69 

4.24 

6.06 

1.83 

.762 

.436 

.248 

.220

694 1.38

481 

713 

1,180

.962 

1.43 

2.36

Run-off.

Depth in 

inches on 

drainage 

area.

0.18 

.21 

.37 

.54 

1.95 

4.73 

6.99 

2.11 

.85 

.50 

.28 

.25

18.96

1.07 

1.65 

.44

Total in 

acre-feet.

4,920 

5,550 

9,900 

14, 500 

51,900 

126, 000 

186.000 

56, 300 

22,700 

13, 400 

7,380 

6,760

505, 000

28,600 

43, 800 

11,700

Accuracy.

C. 

C. 

B.

B! 

B. 

B. 

C. 

C. 

C. 

C. 

C.

B. 

B. 

B.

NOTE. Owing to the unreliability of the gage heights the monthly estimates of flow for January and 

February, and August 14 to December 31, 1907, are made by taking 34 per cent of the discharge at the 

station at Cody, Wyo. These estimates are fairly approximate.

LITTLE MUDDY RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN.

DESCRIPTION.

Little Muddy River is a prairie stream that receives the drainage 

from an area of about 1,000 square miles 35 miles from north to 

south and 30 miles from east to west in the center of Williams 

County, the northwestern county of North Dakota. It flows southward and joins the Missouri at Williston. About one-sixth of the 

whole area of the Little Muddy is drained by Stony Creek, a tributary
202 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

which enters a few rods above its mouth. Altitudes in this basin 

range from 1,850 to 2,400 feet above sea level. The area is entirely 

without trees or shrubs, but is everywhere covered with rank prairie 

grass. The mean annual rainfall is about 15 inches.

Only a minor fraction of the run-off from this drainage area is carried by the stream. The entire region is deeply covered by glacial 

drift and there are many hollows and pools that receive the run-off 

and hold it till it evaporates, except when the rains are very heavy 

and long continued or the annual rainfall unusually great.

The headwaters of the main stream and the tributaries afford some 

storage sites, but only in shallow reservoirs from which evaporation 

is rapid. Several such reservoirs holding from 10 acre-feet to 200 

each are already in use, and a number of small irrigation plants with 

ditches carrying 2 or 3 second-feet or less are in operation.

About 50 filings for water rights, aggregating 2,000 second-feet, 

were made on this stream and its tributaries prior to the passage by 

the legislature in 1905 of the revised irrigation code, but many of these 

claims have been abandoned and nearly all call for quantities greater 

than are ever available except sometimes during a few days of spring 

flood.

About 12,000 acres in this valley are included in the Williston 

reclamation project, 8,500 acres being under canals already completed. Owing to the variability in annual discharge of the Little 

Muddy, which even with complete storage would probably not furnish 

an adequate supply in dry years, the water for the Williston project 

is obtained by pumping from the Missouri.

One station has been maintained in this basin: Little Muddy River, 

near Williston, N. Dak., 1904 to 1908.

LITTLE MUDDY RIVER NEAR WILLISTON, N. DAK.

This station, which is located about 7 miles north of Williston, 

N. Dak., at the center of sec. 19, T. 155 N., R. 100 W., was established 

February 4, 1904, to determine the value of the stream for irrigation.

Camp Creek, a small tributary, comes in from the right a few rods 

below the station. The drainage area above this point is about 800 

square miles.

The gage datum has not been changed since the station was established. Changes in channel conditions have been slight. Low-stage 

estimates of discharge are correct within a few second-feet, although 

the flow is so small that a change of one-tenth of a foot in gage height 

indicates a very large percentage change in flow. As only a few 

discharge measurements have been made at high water the highstage rating table is not perfectly checked, but the monthly estimates 

at such times are fairly good.
LITTLE MUDDY EIVEE DRAINAGE BASIN. 203

Discharge measurements of Little Muddy River near Williston, N~. Dak., in 1907 and 1908.

Date.

1907. 

May 7 .........

1908. 

May 24.........

Hydrographer.

J . H . Turner .......................................

.....do..............................................

G.H. Ellis................ .........................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

..... do. ............................................

 d°-- ---- --------

Width.

Feet. 

22

. 8.4

8.1

16

3.3

4.0

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

30.5

8.9

7.3

327

67

81

30.3

5.6

5.6

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

3.30

2.57

2.44

3.50

3.60

4.65

2.20

2.20

2.20

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

59.5

8.9

7.3

96

103

144

6.0

5.3

5.2 ^ 9

a Measurement made during flood; gage height fluctuated rapidly. Recorded gage height was probably 

at or near crest height, but measurement was made 1 mile downstream and before flood arrived 

Measurement rejected.

NOTE. These measurements were made at various sections.

Daily gage height, infeet, of Little Muddy River near Williston, N. Dak., for 1907 and 1908.

[W. O. Hollar, observer.]

Day.

1907. 

1

2

2

4

g

g

Q

10

11.. ....... ........

12.. ..... ........

13...................

14.

15...................

16...................

17...................

18.. ...... .........

19

20...................

21...................

22...................

23......... .........

24...................

25...................

26...................

27. ....

29...................

30...................

01

1908. 

1...................

2

3...................

4...................

5...................

6...................

8.... .... .......

9...................

10...................

Feb.

........

3.2

3.3

Mar.

4.6

3.6

4.1

4.4

4.45

Apr.

4.65

4.75

4.85

4.8

4.75

4.85

4.7

4.8

4.9

4.9

5.05

5.0

4.9

5.25

5.4

5.65

5.85

5.9

5.6

5.3

5.3

5.45

5.7

5.55

5.3

5.05

4.7

4.05

3.7

3.45

2.85

2.85

2.85

4.25

6.65

5.7

5.2

4.85

4.65

4.1

May.

3.25

3.35

3.25

3.05

3.1

3.2

3.25

3.35

3.45

3.5

3.6

3.6

3.45

3.3

3.3

3.3

3.3

3.3

3.3

3.2

3.2

3.1

3.0

3.1

3.2

3.2

3.2

3.2

3.1

3.1

3.0

3.0

2.9

2.8

2.8

2.8

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.7

June.

3.0

3.0

3.0

2.9

2.9

2.8

2.8

2.9

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.0

2.9

2.9

2.8

2.8

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.8

2.8

2.8

3.0

3.0

2.9

3.0

3.85

4.3

4.1

3.85

3.7

3.45

July.

2.8

2.8

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.6

2.6

2.6

2.6

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.4

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.8

2.7

2.65

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

Aug.

2.5

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.3

2.2

2.2

2.2

2.2

2.2

2.2

2.2

2.2

2.2

Sept.

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.6

2.6

2.6

2.6

2.6

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.2

2.2

2.2

2.2

2.2

2.2

2.2

2.2

2.2

2.2

Oct.

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

Nov.

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.4

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3
204 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Daily gage height, in feet, of Little Muddy River near Williston, N. Dak., for 1907 and

1908 Continued.

Day.

1908. 

11...................

12...... ...... .

13...................

14...................

15...................

16...................

17. ..................

18...................

19..................

20...................

21..................

22...................

23...................

24. ..................

25. ..................

26. ..................

27...................

90

29...................

30...................

31...................

Feb. Mar.

........

........

Apr.

2.8

2.8

2.7

2.7

2.8

2.8

2.9

2.75

2.85

2.85

May.

3.9

3.8

3.65

3.6

3.35

3.15

3.1

2.9

2.8

2.8

2.8

2.7

2.7

3.1

3.1

3.15

3.2

o oc

3.2

3.05

June.

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.8

2.8

2.9

2.9

2.9

2.9

2.9

3.05

3.2

3.45

3

ac

3.8

3.8

3.7

3

CC

3.35

3.3

3.2

July.

3.4

3.15

2.95

2.8

2.8

2.8

2.7

2.7

3.05

3.35

3.55

3.4

3.4

o q

3.2

3.1

3.0

2 g

2.9

2.8

Aug.

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.3

2 3

2.3

2.3

2.3

Sept.

2.2

2.2

2.2

2.2

2.2

2.2

2.2

2.2

2 2

2.2

2.2

2.2

2.2

2.2

2.2

2.2

2 2

2.2

2.2

2.2

Oct.

2.2

2.2

2.2

2.2

2.2

2.2

2.2

2.2

2.2

2.2

2.2

2.3

9 1

9 '*

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

Nov.

2.3

2.3

0 Q

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

9 ^

9 ^

2.5

9 K

2.5

9 K

9 A

9 A

2.4

NOTE. Ice conditions January 1 to March 31, 1907, November 17, 1907, to March 21, 1908, and after 

November 9, 1908.

Rating table for Little Muddy River near Williston, N. Dak., for 1907 and 1908.

Discharge.

Gage 

height.

Feet.

2.20

2.30

2.40

2.50

2.60

2.70

2.80

2.90

3.00

3.10

3.20

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

5

6

7

9

12

16

21

27

34

42

51

Gage 

height.

Feet.

3.30

3.40

3 50

3.60

3.70

3.80

3.90

4.00

4.10

4.20

4.30

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

61

74

92

114

140

170

203

239

277

318

361

Gage 

height.

Feet.

4.40

4.50

4.60

4.70

4.80

4.90

5.00

5.10

5.20

5.30

5.40

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

405

450

495

540

585

630

680

730

780

830

880

Gage 

height.

Feet.

5.50

5.60

5.70

5.80

5.90

6.00

6.20

6.40

6.60

6.80

Sec.-ft. 

930 

980 

1,035 

1,090 

1,145 

1,200 

1,310 

1,430 

1,550 

1,670

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or qbstructed-channel conditions. It is based on discharge measurements made during 1904 to 1908, and is well defined between gage heights 2.2 feet and 

4.0feet. Above gage height 4.0 feet the rating curve is based on one measurement at gage height 5.4 feet.

Monthly discharge of Little Muddy River near Williston, N. Dale., for 1907 and 1908. 

[Drainage area, 800 square miles.]

Month.

J90T. 

Aprit..... ......................

May............................

July............................

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

1,140 

114 

34 

21 

9 

12 

9 

9

Minimum.

83 

34 

16

7 

6 

7 

9 

9

Mean.

696 

59.0 

26.2 

11.5 

6.4 

9.0 

9.0 

9.0

Petsquare 

mile.

0.870 

.074 

.033 

.014 

.0080 

.011 

.011 

.011

Run-off.

Depth in 

inches on 

drainage 

area.

0.97 

.09 

.04 

.02 

.009 

.01 

.01 

.007

Total in 

acre-feet.

41,400 

3,630 

1,560 

707 

394 

536 

553 

286

49, 100

Accuracy.

B. 

A. 

B. 

C. 

C. 

C.

c. 

c.
LITTLE MISSOUEI RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 205

Monthly discharge of Little Muddy River near Williston, N. Dak., for 1907 and 1908 

Continued.

Month.

1908.

May............................

July............................

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

27 

1,580 

170 

361 

21 

6 

7 

9 

7

Minimum.

16 

16 

16 

16 

6 

5 

5 

6 

6

Mean.

20.9 

214

48.1 

74.2 

8.7 

5.0 

5.4 

7.1 

6.1

Per 

square 

mile.

0.026 

.268 

.060 

.093 

.011 

. 0062 

.0068 

.0089 

.0076

Run-off.

Depth in 

inches on 

drainage 

area.

0.01 

.30 

.07 

.10 

.01 

.007 

.008 

.01 

.003

,

Total in 

acre-feet.

415 

12,700 

2,960 

4,420 

535 

307 

321 

437 

109

22,200

Accuracy.

B. 

B. 

A. 

A.

C. 

C.

c. 

c.

c.

LITTLE MISSOURI RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 

DESCRIPTION.

Little Missouri River rises in northeastern Wyoming, flows northward and slightly to the east through the southeastern corner of 

Montana and the northwestern corner of South Dakota into North 

Dakota, parallels the western boundary of North Dakota, near the 

middle of which it turns sharply and flows eastward to Missouri 

River at the Fort Berthold Indian Reservation. Its length by general course is about 270 miles and its drainage area comprises somewhat more than 10,000 square miles.

The Little Missouri has many small tributaries that are dry during 

the greater part of the year. Its only important tributary is Beaver 

Creek, which flows northward nearly parallel to the river for 130 

miles through eastern Montana and enters the river at its big bend. 

This creek drains about one-fifth of the entire basin.

The upper portion of the area is mountainous, but the river flows 

for the most part through the high prairies a rolling country with 

occasional ranges of steep hills carrying a little timber. Near the 

mouth of the river its altitude is 1,725 feet above sea level, but most 

of the basin in North Dakota is between 2,000 and 3,300 feet above 

sea. In the portion of the basin in North Dakota the mean annual 

rainfall is 12 to 16 inches, more than half of which falls in the months 

of May, June, and July; hence flood flows are most likely to occur 

in the river at two periods in March or April, when the snow goes 

off, and in late May, June, or early July, following heavy precipitation. The flow is, however, very irregular. All the lower course of 

the river is through badlands, and as a result the stream is very 

flashy, rising suddenly after violent storms when there is a quick 

run-off from the hillsides. In a single day its discharge sometimes 

increases from a few score second-feet to as many thousands.
206 SUEFACE WATEE SUPPLY, 1907-8.

On account of the great fluctuations in the flow of the stream, the 

unfavorable nature of the topography, and the absence of any rock 

in place that would afford a really good foundation for structures, 

no projects for the utilization or diversion of the main stream in its 

lower portion in any extensive manner, either for power or irrigation, have ever been found.

The following stations have been maintained in this basin:

Little Missouri River at Alzada, Mont., 1904-1906. 

Little Missouri River at Camp Crook, S. Dak., 1903-1906. 

Little Missouri River at Medora, N. Dak., 1903-1908.

LITTLE MISSOURI RIVER AT MEDORA, N. DAK.

This station, which is located at Medora, N. Dak., where the river 

is crossed by the Northern Pacific Railway, was established May 12, 

1903, to determine the value of the stream for irrigation. The 

drainage area above this point is 5,780 square miles.

The gage datum has not been changed. The channel is very 

unstable and changes in depth at every flood. Satisfactory rating 

curves can not be made without very frequent discharge measurements, and the monthly estimates are liable to large errors; but as 

these errors are in considerable part compensating, the annual totals 

are supposed to be fairly good.

The station was discontinued October 31, 1908.

Discharge measurements of Little Missouri Rixer at Medora, N. Dak., in 1907 and 1908.

Dale.

1907. 

May 29. ........

July 28. ........

1908. 

May 15. ........

May 27. ........

Hydrographer.

T. B. Atkinson. ....................................

P. N. Ford.........................................

.....do..............................................

E. F. Chandler. ....................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

Width.

Feet. 

330

98

278

53.5

80

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

1,810

378

221

782

39

87

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

12.08

4 79

3.74

7.13

3.4G

4.28

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

14,000

1,020

366

3,890

70

81

267

a Made by wading.
LITTLE MISSOURI RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 207

Daily gage height, in feet, of Little Missouri River at Medora, N. Dak., for 1907 and 1908. 

[Carl Anderson and Agnus Pelette, observers.]

Day.

1907. 

1...............

2...............

3...............

5...............

6...............

7. ..............

8... .........

9...............

10...............

11... ...........

12... .........

13... .......

14... . ......

15... ...........

16...

17... ...........

18...............

19... ...........

20...............

21.

22.. . ......

23...............

24.

25...............

26...............

27...............

28. .

29...............

30...............

31...............

1908. 

I.. . ......

2. Z.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.'.~.~.

4.. .............

5...............

6...............

7...............

8.... .......... 

9...............

10. ..............

11.. ......

12...............

13...............

14............... 

15...............

16...............

17...............

18...............

19...............

20...............

21.. ...... 

22...............

23...............

24.. . .... 

25...............

26...............

27...............

28...............

29...............

30............... 

31...............

Jan.

2.1

Feb.

8.0

8.9

9.3

8.7

7.8

6 9

6.4

5.9

5.7

5.6

5.0

Mar.

4.5

4.1

4.2

4.7

5.0

5.2

5.1

5.0

5.0

4.8

4.9

r: 9

5.4

5.4

5.4

5.4

5.4

5.5

5.6

5.3

5.0

4.7

4 5

4.3

4.0

4.0

6.0

5.8

5.6

5.4

4.8

5.0

5.2 

4.4

4.2

4.0 

3.9

3.8

3.7

3.6

3.5

3.6 

3.8

Apr.

4.0

3 9

3.9

3.8

3.7

q 7

3.7

3.8

3.8

3.8

q o

3.8

3.8

3.7

3.7

3.6

3.6

3.5

3.5

q c

3.5

3.5

3.5

3

C

3.5

q c

3 A

4.6 

4.6

4.5

4.3

3.9 

3.6

3.6

3.5

3.4

3.3

3.3 

3.2

3.2

3.2

3.1 

3.1

3.0

2.9

2.9

4.9

4.6

4.3

4.2

May.

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.3

3.3

3.3

3.3

3.3

3.3

3.3

3.3

3.3

3.4

3.5

10.0

11.3

11.5

11.0

4.1 

4.0

4.0

4.0

4.0

4.0

4.0 

4.0

3.8

3.7

3.6

3.4

3.2 

3.7

3.6

3.5

3.4

3.4

3.9

4.6 

5.2

5.4

6.0 

6.5

7.1

7.1

7.1

7.0

7.2 

7.3

June.

10.0

9.2

8.4

6.7

6.0

5.8

5.8

5.8

5.9

5.9

6.0

6.0

6.1

0.2

6.4

6.2

5.8

5.6

12.8

a 14. 5

10.0

8.0

6.2

5.6

7.8

8.0

8.1

9 0

10.3

10.1

9.0

8.2

7.7

6.5

5.8

5.5

5.3

5.0

4.8

4.7

4.6

4.5

4.2 

4.8

5.2

5.8

5.9

5.8

5.6

July.

4.7

4.6

4.6

4.6

4.6

4.7

4.6

4.5

4.5

4.7

5.1

5.7

5.8

6.1

6.9

6.0

4.7

6.3

6.3

6.7

6.0

5.6

7.0

8.5

4.8

4.7

5.5

4.5 

4.4

4.3

4.0

4.0

3.9

3.9 

3.9

3.9

3.9

3.9

3.7

3.7

3.6

3.9

4.0

4.2

4.0

4.0

4.0 

4.0

4.7 

4.0

4.0

3.8

3.7

3.7

3.6 

3.5

Aug.

4.8

4.8

4.6

4.4

4.2

4.0

3.9

3.8

3.8

3.7

3.6

3.5

3.5

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.3

3.3

3.3

3.3

3.2

3.2

3.2

3.1

3.1

3.2

3.3

3.2 

3.2

3.2

3.2

3.2

3.2

3.2 

3.2

3.2

3.2

3.2

3.2

3.2 

3.6

5.0

4.0

3.7

3.4 

3.4

3.4

3.4 

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.A

3.4

3.3 

3.2

Sept.

3.3

3.3

3.2

3.2

3.2

3.2

3.1

3.1

3.1

3.1

3.1

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.1

3.1

4.3

3.9

3.6

3.4

3.3

3.2

3.2

3.2

3.2 

3.2

3.2

3.2

3.2

3.1

3.0 

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.8

3.4 

3.2

3.0

3.0

3.8

3.4

3.1

3.0 

3.0

3.0

3.0 

3.4

4.0

3.6

3.5

4.0

4.2

Oct.

3.1

3.2

3.2

3.1

3.1

3.1

3.1

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.0

2.9

2.9

2 9

2.9

2.9

2.9

2.9

2.9

2.9

2.8

2.8

2.8

3.8 

3.6

3.4

3.2

3.2

3.2

3.8 

4.0

4.0

3-8

3.8

3.6

3.7 

3.9

4.0

4.4

5.0

5.9 

6.0

5.8

4.7 

4.4

4.3

4.2

4.1

3.9

3.7

3.4

Nov.

2.8

2.8

2.8

2.8

2.8

2.8

2.8

2.8

2.8

2.8

2.8

2.8

2.8

2.8

2.8

2.8

2.8

2.8

2.8

2.8

2.8

2.8

2.8

2.8

2.8

2.8

2.8

2.8

2.8

2.8

-------

.......

.......

Dec.

2.8

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.3

a Maximum recorded gage height was 16.0 feet at 7 a. m. 

NOTE. Probable ice conditions January 1 to February 16,1907, December 15, 1907, to March 13,1908,
208 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Rating tables for Little Missouri River at Medora, N. Dak.

MARCH 23, 1906, TO MAY 25, 1907.

Gage 

height.

Feet.

3.30

3.40

3.50

3.60

3.70

3.80

3.90

4.00

4.10

4.20

4.30

4.40

4.50

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

29

54

85

118

152

187

223

260

298

337

377

418

460

Gage 

height.

Feet.

4.60

4.70

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

503

547

4. 80 592

4. 90 f 39

5. 00 ('88

5. 10 740

5. 20 795

, 5. 30 855

5. 40 920

5.50

5. CO

5.70

990

1,060

1,135

5.80 1,215

Gage 

height.

Feet.

5.90

6.00

6.10

6.20

6.30

6.40

6.50

6.60

6.70

6.80

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

1,295

1,380

1,470

1,565

1,665

1,770

1,880

1,990

2,100

2,220

6. 90 2, 340

7.00

7.20

2,470

2,730

Gage 

height.

Feet.

7.40

7.60

7.80

8.00

8.20

8.40

8.60

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

3,000

3,280

3,580

3,890

4,210

4,530

4.850

8. 80 5, 170

9. 00 5, 500

9. 20 ! 5, 840

 9.40 1 6,180

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on fifteen 

discharge measurements made during 1905-6, and is fairly well defined below gage height 9.0 feet.

MAY 26, 1907, TO JULY 23, 1908.

2.70

2.80

2.90

3.00

3.10

3.20

3.30

3.40

3.50

3.60

3.70

3.80

3.90

4

8

14

24

44

80

120

165

210

260

315

370

430

4.00

4.10

4.20

4.30

4.40

4.50

4. CO

490

550

615

680

750

820

890

4.70 970

4.80 1,050

4.90

5.00

5.10

5.20

1,130

1,220

1,310

1,400

5.30

5.40

5.50

5.60

5.70

5.80

5.90

6.00

6.20

6.40

6.60

6.80

7.00

1,500

1,600

1,700

1,810

1,920

2,030

2,150

2,270

2,520

2,780

3,060

3,350

3,660

7.20

7.40

7.60

7.80

8.00

8.20

8.40

8.60

8.80

9.00

3,990

4,330

4, 690

5,070

5, 460

5,860

6,260

6,660

7,080

7,500

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on four 

discharge measurements made during 1907-8, and is only approximate.

JULY 24 TO OCTOBER 31, 1908.

3.00

3.10

3.20

3.30

3.40

3.50

3.60

3.70

16

23

34

46

60

77

96

117

3.80

3.90

4.00

4.10

4.20

4.30

4.40

4.50

139

162

186

213

243

277

316

360

4.60

.4.70

4.80

4.90

5.00

5.10

5.20

5.30

410

465

520

580

640

710

780

850

5.40

5.50

5.60

5.70

5.80

5.90

6.00

930

1,010

1,090

1,170

1,250

1,340

1,430

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on three 

discharge measurements made during this period and upon the general form of the preceding curves. It 

is only approximate.
KNIFE RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 209

Monthly discharge of Little Missouri River at Medora, N. Dak., for 1907 and 1908, 

[Drainage area, 5,780 square miles.]

Month.

1907.

July............................

1908. 

March 1 4-3 1 ....................

May............................

July............................

Discharge in second-feet. Run-off.

Maximum.

6,010 

1,060 

260 

15,500 

19,000 

6,460 

1,050 

680 

80 

8 

8

Minimum.^

688 

260 

54 

29 

970 

820 

44 

24 

8 

8 

4

!

2,270 

1,130 

4,160 

10,200 

1,700 

640 

243 

1,430

210 

14 

80 

615

77 

34 

16 

34

Mean.

2,890 

671 

142 

2,500 

4,160 

1,820 

290 

115 

29.5 

8.0 

4.3

Per 

square 

mile.

0.500 

.116 

.025 

.433 

.720 

.315 

.050 

.020 

.0051 

.0014 

.00074

936 . 162 

383 : . 066 

1,280 .221 

3,320 .574 

473 . 082 

94. 5 . 016 

56. 9 . 0098 

294 ! . 051

Depth in 

inches on 

drainage 

area.

0.22 

.13 

.03 

.50 

.80 

.36 

.06 

.02 

.006 

.002 

.0004

Total in 

acre-feet.

68,800 

41,300 

8,450 

154,000 

248,000 

112,000 

17,800 

6,840 

1,810 

476 

119

660,000

.11 33,400 

. 07 22, 800 

.25 78, 700 

.64 198,000 

. 09 29, 100 

.02 5.810 

.01 3,390 

. 06 18, 100

389, 000

Accuracy.

B. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

C. 

C. 

D. 

D. 

D.

B. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

C. 

C. 

C.

KNIFE RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN.

DESCRIPTION.

Knife River rises in the northeastern portion of Billings County, 

N. Dak., and flows eastward to Missouri River at Stanton, N. Dak., 

90 miles in a direct line. It drains a basin whose greatest width is 

40 miles and whose area comprises about 2,500 square miles. Onefifth of this basin is drained by the chief tributary, Spring Creek, 

which enters the Knife about 20 miles above its mouth.

Altitudes range from 1,700 to 2,500 feet above sea level. The 

mean annual rainfall varies from 15 to 17 inches. There are no 

forests and only a few scattered trees along the streams.

Through most of the year the flow is small, but owing to the steep 

slopes of the sides of the valley there are occasional sudden floods 

after heavy rains.

The land in the lower portion of the valley is very favorably located 

for irrigation if the flood waters can be stored, but no really economical 

localities for storage have yet been found.

One station has been maintained in this basin;

Knife River at Broncho, N. Dak., 1903 to 1908. 

31260 IRR 246 10 14
210 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

KNIFE RIVER AT BRONCHO, N. DAK.

This station, which is located at C. D. Smith's ranch, in the SE. 

i sec. 4, T. 142 N., R. 90 W., the former site of the post-office of 

Broncho, N. Dak., was established on May 29, 1903, to determine 

the amount of water available for irrigation.

Spring Creek enters about 15 miles below the station and Elm 

Creek one-half mile above. The drainage area is 1,260 square miles.

The station was originally 2 miles farther down the river, but it 

was moved to its present location March 23, 1905, and since that time 

the gage datum has been unchanged. The drainage areas at the two 

locations are practically identical, the area at the lowest point being 

perhaps about 5 square miles greater.

The channel conditions at this point do not change perceptibly. 

Sufficient discharge measurements at high stages have not yet been 

made to check the rating curve satisfactorily, but it is approximately 

defined.

Discharge measurements of Knife River at Broncho, N. Dak. in 1904-1908.

Date.

1904. 

April 9.........

1905.

July 5. .........

Do.........

1906.

Dot.......

1907.

1908.

Hydrographer.

E. F. Chandler .....................................

E . F. Chandler .....................................

.....do..............................................

L. L. Wilcox. ......................................

.....do..............................................

. .do . .....

.....do..............................................

E . F. Chandler .....................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

P. N. Ford ...... ..................................

E. F. Chandler. ....................................

Width.

Feet.

87

16

10.5

52

47

31.5

11

9

34

13

17

40

23.5

18

34

9

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

616

23

6.2

9.0

10

» fi

261

233

40

2.9

6.3

97

28

33.2

13.0

31.4

74.8

5.0

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

11.32

.86

.71

.85

80

.88

0 QQ

3.6

7.51

6.92

4 05

3.35

3.37

4 flft

3.87

3.34

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

2,010

13.5

2.9

5.6

4.2

5.2

1 ft

9 8

486

2

3.1

35.4

QQ n

13.5

51.1

18.6

61

2.1

a Made by wading. b Made 3 miles above the gage.
KNIFE RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 211

Daily gage height, in feet, of Knife River at Broncho, N. Dak., for 1907 and 1908.

[C. D. Smith, observer.]

Day.

1907. 

1...................

2 .. ..... .....

3...................

4...................

6...................

8...................

9....... . ........

10...................

11...................

12...................

13...................

15...................

18...................

19...................

20...................

21...................

22...................

23...................

24...................

25...................

26...................

27...................

28...................

29...................

30...................

31...................

1908. 

1...................

2..... ..............

3...................

4............... .

5...................

6...................

8...................

9...................

10...................

n...................

12...................

13...................

14...................

15...................

16...................

17...................

18...................

19...................

20...................

21...................

22...................

23...................

24...................

25...................

26...................

27...................

28...................

29...................

30...................

31 ...................

Mar.

6.1

7.1

7.7

6.9

6.4

5.65

5.5

5.5

6.3

6.3

6.2

6.0

5.5

5.0

4.9

4.8

4.8

4.7

Apr.

5.4

5.3

5.2

6.3

6.1

5.4

4.9

4.7

4.5

4.5

4.4

4.4

4.3

4.3

4.2

4.2

4.2

4.2

4.2

4.2

4.2

4.2

4.1

4.1

4.1

4.1

4.0

4.6

4.6

4.7

6.5

5.4

5.2

5.2

4.6

4.5

4.5

4.5

4.6

4.6

4.4

4.2

4.1

4.0

4.0

3 9

3.9

3.9

3.8

3.8

3.8

3.9

4.4

4.3

4.2

May.

4.0

4.0

4.0

4.0

4.0

3.9

3.9

3.9

3.9

3 9

3.9

3.9

3.9

3.9

3 9

3.9

3.8

3.8

3.8

3.8

3.8

3.8

3.8

3.8

3.9

3.9

3.9

3.9

3 9

4.0

3.8

3.8

3.8

3.8

3.7

3.7

3.7

3.6

3.6

3.7

3.7

3.7

3.7

3.7

3.9

4.1

4.1

6.15

7.15

7.35

6.5

5.7

4.7

4.4

4.2

4.2

June.

3.8

3.8

3.8

3.8

3.8

3.8

3.8

3.8

3.8

3.8

3.8

3.8

3.9

3.9

3.9

3 9

4.0

4.0

3.9

3.9

3.9

3.9

5.7

4.7

4.6

4.2

4.1

4.1

4.0

3.9

4.6

5.3

8.75

7.95

6.4

6.0

5.3

4.8

4.3

4.1

4.1

4.0

3.9

3.8

4.25

5.4

4 95

4.4

4.15

4.05

4.0

4.2

4.2

4.0

3.95

3.9

July.

3.9

3.8

3.6

3.6

3.6

3.6

3.5

3.5

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.5

3.5

Q K

3.6

3.6

3.6

3.6

3.7

3.7

3.7

3.6

3.6

4.1

3.9

3.9

3.8

3.8

3.8

3.8

3.8

3.8

3.7

3.6

3.6

3.6

3.6

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.4

3.4

3.5

3.5

3.6

3.5

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.5

3

K

3.5

3.5

Aug.

3.6

3.5

Q A

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

4.1

3.9

3.8

3.8

3.8

3.7

3.6

3.6

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

 * 4

3.4

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.4

Sept.

3.6

3.6

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.4

3.4

3.3

3.3

3.3

3.3

3.3

Q Q

3.3

3.3

3.3

3.3

3.3

3.3

3.3

3.3

3.3

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.3

3.3

3.3

3.3

3.2

3.2

3.1

Q 0

0 0

3

Q

3 ?

3

0

3.3

3 A

Oct.

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.3

3.3

3.3

3.3

3.3

3.3

3.3

3.3

3.3

3.3

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.7

3.6

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3

K

Nov.

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.4

Dec.

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.6

3.6

3.6

3.6

NOTE. Probable ice conditions December 15, 1907, to March 11, 1908, and after November 21, 1908.
212 SURFACE WATEK SUPPLY, 1907-8. 

Rating tables for Knife River at Broncho, N. Dak.

FOR 1904.

[Indirect method for shifting channels used for 1904.] 

FOR 1905-1908.

Gage 

height.

Feet.

3.10

3.20

3.30

3.40

3.50

3.60

3.70

3.80

3.90

4.00

4.10

4.20

4.30

4.40

4.50

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

0

1

2

4

7

10

14

19

25

32

40

49

59

70

82

Gage 

height.

Feet.

4.60

4.70

4.80

4.90

5.00

5.10

5.20

5.30

5.40

5.50

5.60

5.70

5.80

5.90

6.00

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

95

108

122

136

151

166

181

197

216

232

249

266

283

300

318

Gage 

height.

Feet.

6.10

'6.20

6.30

6.40

6.50

6.60

6.70

6.80

6.90

7.00

7.20

7.40

7.60

7.80

8.00

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

336

354

373

392

411

431

451

471

492

513

555

597

641

685

729

Gage 

height.

Feet.

8.20

8.40

8.60

8.80

9.00

9.20

9.40

9.60

9.80

10.00

11.00

12.00

13.00

14.00

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

775

821

867

913

960

1,010

1,060

1,110

1,160

1,210

1,460

1,710

2,060

2,310

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on discharge measurements made during 1905-1908 and is well denned between gage heights 3.2 feet and 4.5 feet. 

Above 4.5 feet the rating curve is based on two measurements.

Daily discharge, in second-feet, of Knife River at Broncho, N. Dak., for 1904.

Day.

1....

2... .

3... .

4. . ..

5. . . .

6. ...

7. ...

8--..

9.. ..

10.. ..

11....

12....

13....

14....

15....

Apr.

710

1,050

1,700

2,800

3,500

2,900

2,600

2,200

2,030

1,620

1,680

1,620

1,500

1,040

830

May.

330

290

231

164

164

164

134

120

106

92

78

78

65

65

65

June.

39

39

39

65

65

350

231

310

120

213

164

39

4

2

65

 Tuly.

14

12

12

12

6

6

6

6

6

26

39

26

26

20

14

Aug.

4

4

4

4

4

4

4

4

4

4

4

4

4

3

3

Sept.

4

4

4

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

Oct.

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

4

4

5

5

Nov.

5.5

5.5

5.5

5.5

5.5

5.5

5.5

5.5

5.5

5.5

5.5

5.5

5.5

5.5

5.5

Day.

16. ..

17. ..

18...

19. ..

20...

21...

22...

23...

24. ..

25...

26...

27. ..

28...

29...

30...

31

Apr.

670

490

310

196

134

134

120

106

134

164

164

164

180

196

196

May.

65

65

65

65

65

58

52

45

39

39

39

39

39

39

39

39

June.

52

52

26

26

26

26

26

26

26

26

26

26

26

26

26

July.

9

9

5

5

5

5

5

5

5

5

5

5

5

5

5

5

Aug.

3

3

3

4

4

4

4

4

4

4

3

3

3

3

3

3

Sept.

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

2

Oct.

f,

5

5

5

5.5

5.5

5.5

5.5

5.5

5.5

5.5

5.5

5.5

5.5

5.5

C C

<j. u

Nov.

5.5

5.5

5.5

5.5

5.5

5.5

5.5

5.5

5.5

5.5

5.5

NOTE. These discharges were obtained by the indirect method for shifting channels.
KNIFE RIVEE DRAINAGE BASIN. 213

Monthly discharge of Knife River at Broncho, N. Dak., for 1904-1908. 

[Drainage area, 1,260 square miles.]

Month.

1904.

July............................

1905.

July............................

1906.

May............................

July............................

The period

1907.

July............................

1908. 

March 12-31 ....................

July............................

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum .

3,500 

330 

350 

39 

4.0 

4.0 

5.5 

5.5

25 

14 

25 

597 

555 

283 

4 

5.5 

7.0

1,100 

2,410 

2,420 

1,700 

36 

22 

10 

10

373 

32 

266 

40 

40 

10 

7 

7 

10

663 

586 

597 

902 

19 

7 

4 

14 

7

Minimum .

106 

39 

2 

5 

3.0 

3.0 

3.0 

5.5

Mean.

1,040 

94.8 

72.9 

10.3 

3.65 

3.10 

4.42 

5.50

14

4 

4 

4

1 

0 

2 

2

8.5 

5.5 

44 

16 

16 

10 

7.0 

10.0

32 

19 

19 

4 

4 

2 

2 

7

108 

19 

10 

19 

4 

4 

0 

4 

4

18.3 

7.40 

10.4 

81.4 

58.3 

15.8 

1.42 

2.40 

4.08

116 

397 

748 

103 

24.6 

14.4 

9.71 

10.0

Per 

square 

mile.

0.825 

.075 

.058 

.0082 

.0029 

.0025 

.0035 

.0044

.015 

.0059 

.0083 

.065 

.046 

.013 

.0011 

.0019 

.0032

.092 

.315 

.594 

.082 

.020 

.011 

.0077 

.0079

Run-off.

Depth in 

.inches on 

drainage 

area.

0.92 

.09 

.06 

.009 

.003 

.003 

.004 

.005

.005 

.007 

.01 

.07 

.05 

.01 

.001 

.002 

.003

..........

.10 

.36 

.66 

.09 

.02 

.01 

.009 

.005

i

98.7 

24.6 

38. 2 

12.1 

8.29 

3.86 

4.32 

7.0 

7.1

293 

102 

114 

156 

9.67 

4.58 

2.37 

5.52 

5.43

1

.078 

.020 

.030 

.0096 

.0066 

.0031 

.0034 

.0056 

.0056

.233 

.081 

.090 

.124 

.0077 

.0036 

.0019 

.0044 

.0043

.09 

.02 

.03 

.011 

.008 

.003 

.004 

.006 

.003

.17 

.09 

.10 

.14 

.009 

.004 

.002 

.005 

.003

Total in 

acre- feet.

61,900 

5,830 

4,340 

633 

224 

184 

272 

327

73,700

327

440 

640 

4,840 

3,580 

972 

84.5 

148 

210

11,200

6,900 

24,fOO 

44,500 

6,330 

1,010 

857 

597 

317

85,400

5,870 

1,510 

2.270 

744 

510 

230 

266 

417 

197

12,000

11.600 

6,070 

7,010 

9,280 

595 

282 

141 

339 

226

35,500

Accuracy.

A. 

B. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

B. 

D. 

D. 

D.

A. 

B. 

B. 

A. 

B. 

B. 

C. 

C.

B. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

C. 

0. 

C. 

C. 

C.

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

B. 

C. 

C. 

C. 

C.

NOTE. The monthly estimates of flow for 1904 are only approximate. Monthly estimates for 1905- 

1908 are subject to some error due to the changing conditions at this station.
214 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

HEART RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN.

DESCRIPTION.

Heart River rises in eastern Billings County, N. Dak., flows eastward and southeastward for about 100 miles by general course, then 

turns abruptly to the north and northeast for 30 miles and enters 

Missouri River at Mandan, N. Dak. The entire drainage area is 

3,350 square miles.

The largest tributaries are Big Muddy Creek, which enters from 

the north a few miles above the big bend and drains 480 square miles, 

and Green River, which is one of the headwaters and drains 340 

square miles.

Altitudes range from 1,640 feet above sea level at Mandan to about 

2,700 feet at the western boundary of the basin. The mean annual 

rainfall is from 13 to 17 inches, of which about half falls in the three 

months of May, June, and July. There is no forestation, merely 

scattering fringes and groves along the streams.

In this basin one station has been maintained:

Heart River near Richardton, N. Dak., 1903 to 1908.

HEART RIVER NEAR RICHARDTON, N. DAK.

This station, which is located at the steel highway bridge 10 miles 

south of Richardton, N. Dak., in or near sec. 21, T. 138, R. 92, and 

half a mile below the mouth of Blacktail Creek, was established 

May 18, 1903, to obtain data as to irrigation possibilities. The 

drainage area above this point is 1,250 square miles.

The datum of the gage has been unchanged, but the channel 

bottom is not permanent and occasional small changes in the rating 

curve are required. No extreme high stage measurements have yet 

been obtained, and not enough medium high stage measurements to 

properly define the upper portion of the rating curve; hence the 

estimates of the extreme floods are only approximate.

Discharge measurements of Heart River near Richardton, N. Dak., in 1906-1908.

Date.

1906. 

April 11........

1907. 

May 29. ........

July 28. ........

Do a.......

1908. 

May 7. .........

May 29. ........

Hydrographer.

E. F. Chandler. ....................................

.....do..............................................

T. R . Atkinson. ....................................

.....do..............................................

P. N.Ford.. .......................................

.... .do. .............................................

E. F. Chandler .....................................

Width.

Feet. 

64

18

00

58

25

24

11

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

61

12

21.3

163

27

14.4

199

2.6

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

5.05

4.50

5.03

4.10

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

48 3

53

177

1.8

'- Made by wading.
HEART RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 215

Daily gage height, in feet, of Heart River near Richardton, N. Dak., for 1907 and 1908.

[W. F. Church, observer.]

Day.

1907.

2.. ..... .... ....

3...................

4...................

5............. .....

6

8. .. .. ........ 

9. ....... .........

10........... .......

11...................

12.......... ........

14...................

16. ..... ..........

19.. .................

20...... ............

21..... .............

22 ............

oo

25...................

20................. ..

27...................

29...................

30 ...................

31 ...................

1908. 

1........ .........

9

3...................

8...................

9...................

10...................

1(5.. .................

17...................

18...................

19...................

20...................

21...................

22.. .................

23.....--....--......

25...................

26...................

27...................

28...................

29

30...................

Feb.

5.2

6. 7 

8.1

7.4

7.1

0.3

6.7

(i. 7

i

i

Mar.

6.9

7.6

10.1

13.4

14.2

12.5

11.3

10.9

10.8

9.7

9.3

8.2

7.7

0.9

4.9

5. 7

5.4

7.0

7.8

8.0

7.9

7.3

0.8

6.5

6.1

0.0

5.9

5.8

5.6

5.5

Apr.

6.4

6.1

5.9

5.8

5.7

5.7 

5.6

5.6 

5.6

5.5

5.5

5.4 

5.4

5.3

5.3

5.3

5.3

5.2

5.2

5.2

5.1

5.0

49

4.8

4.8

4.7

4.6

4.6

4.6

4.6

5.5

5.5

5.5

u. O

5.5

5.5

6.0

6.5

6.3

6.0

6.0

5.9

5.6

5.5

5.1

4.9

4.8

4.7

4. 7

4.7

4.6

4.0

4.6

4.7

4.9

4.9

4.8

May.

4.5

4.5

4.5

4.5

4.5

4.5

4.5

4.5 

4.5

4.5

4.5

4.5 

4.4

4.4

4.4

4.4

4.4

4.4

4.4

4.4

4.4

4.4

4.4

4.4

4.6

4.8

4.8

4.8

4.7

4.6

4.8

4.7

4.6

4.6 

4 5

4.5

4.5

4.5

4.5

4.4

4.4

4.4

4.4

4.5

4.5

4.5

4.4

4.4

4.7

4.8

4.9

9.0

10.5

9.9

8.3

7.5

6.2

6.0

5.8

5.6

June.

4.5

4.5

4.4

4.4

4.4

4.4 

4.5

4.5

4.5

4.4

4.4

4.4 

4.4

4.4

4.4

4.4

4.4

4.4

4.4

4.4

4.4

4.4

4.4

4.6

6.1

5.0

4.8

4.7

4.6

5.5

5.4

5.5

5.7 

7.6

6.8

7.0

6.7

6.0

5.6

5.3

5.2

6.0

6.0

5.9

5.7

5.4

5.2

5.1

5.0

4.9

4.9

4.8

4.8

4.8

4.8

4.8

4.7

4.7

4.7

July.

4.5

4.4

4.4

4.3

4.2

4.1 

4.1

4.1 

4.4

4.2

4.3

6.6

6.0

5.8

5.6

5.3

5.1

6.8

8.1

6.6

8.6

7.9

7.8

7.6

7.2

6.4

4.9

4.8

4. 7

4.6

4.5

4.5

4.5 

4.4

4.4

4.4

4.3

4.3

4.3

4.3

4.3

4.3

4.3

4.3

4.3

4.3

4.3

4.3

4.4

4.4

4.5

4.6

4.7

4.7

4.6

4.5

4.5

4.4

5.0

4.8

Aug.

4.6

4.5

4.5

4.5

4.5

4.4

4.4

4.4

4.4

4.4

4.4

4.3

4.3

4.2

4.2

4.1

4.1

4.1

4.1

4.1

4.8

4.4

4.3

4.3

4.3

4.3

4.2

4.2

4.6

4.5

4.5

4.3

4.3

4.2

4.2

4.2

4.2

4.2

4.1

4.1

4.1

4.1

4.1

4.1

4.1

4.1

4.1

4.1

4.0

4.0

4.0

4.0

4.0

4.0

4.0

4.0

4.0

4.0

Sept.

4.2

4.2

4.2

4.1

4.1

4.1 

4. 1

4.1 

4.1

4.0

4.0

4.0 

4.0

4.0

4.0

4.0

4.0

4.0

4.3

4.3

4.3

4.2

4.2

4.2

4.1

4.1

4.1

4.1

4.1

4.1

4.1

4.1

4.0

4.0

4.0

4.0

3.9

3.9

3.9

3.9

3.9

3.9

3.9

3.9

3.9

3.9

3.9

3.9

3.9

3.9

3.9

3.9

4.1

4.2

4.2

4.2

4.2

4.2

Oct.

4.2

4.2

4.2

4.2

4.2

4.2

4.2

4.2 

4.2

4.2

4.2 

4.2

4.2

4.2

4.2

4.2 

4.2

4.2

4.2

4.2

4.2

4.2

4.2

4.2

4.2

4.2

4.2

4.2

4.3

4.3

4.2

4.2

4.2

4.2 

4.3

4.3

4.2

4.2

4.2

4.2

4.2

4.2

4.2

4.2

4.2

4.2

4.2

4.2

4.3

4.4

4.6

4.8

5.1

5.9

5.7

5.4

5.1

4.9

4.8

4.7

4.6

Nov.

4.2

4.2

4.2

4.2

4.2

4.2 

4.2

4.2 

4.2

4.6

4.6

4.5

4! 4

4.4

4.3

4.3

4.2

4.2

4.2

4.2

4.2

4.2

4.3

4.3

4.4

4.4

4.4

4.4

NOTE. -Ice conditions January to March, 1907, and November 10, 1907, to March 18, 1908; November 

9-20, November 28 to December 31,1908. Water over the ice on February 16-24,1907.
216 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Rating table for Heart River near Richardton, N. Dak., for 1906-1908.

Gage 

height.

Feet.

3.90

4.00

4.10

4.20

4.30

4.40

4.50

4.60

4.70

4.80

4.90

5.00

5.10

5.20

5.30

5.40

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

0.3

1

2

4

7

11

16

21

27

33

40

48

56 j 65

75

86

Gage 

height.

Feet.

5.50

5.60

5.70

5.80

5.90

6.00

6.10

6.20

6.30

6.40

6.50

6.60

6.70

6.80

6.90

7.00

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

98

111

124

138

152

167

182

197

212

228

244

260

277

294

311

329

Gage 

height.

Feet.

7.20

7.40

7.60

7.80

8.00

8.20

8.40

8.60

8.80

9.00

9.20

9.40

9.60

9.80

10.00

11.00

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

365

403

442

482

523

565

607

651

695

741

788

836

885

935

990

1,270

Gage 

height.

Feet.

12.00

13.00

14.00

15.00

16.00

17.00

18.00

19.00

20.00

21.00

22.00

23.00

24.00

25.00

26.00

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

1,570

1,920

2,270

2,670

3, 070

3,470

3,920

4,370

4,870

5, 370

5,870

6,420

6,970

7,520

8,070

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-chaimel conditions. It is based on discharge measurements made during 1906-1908, and is fairly well denned between gage heights 4.0 feet and 

8.0 feet. Above gage height 8.0 feet it is based on one measurement at gage height 11.10 feet and is only 

roughly approximate.

Monthly discharge of Heart River near Richardton, N. Dak., for 1906-1908. 

[Drainage area, 1,250 square miles.]

Month.

1906.

July............ ........

October ........

November 1-10. . ....

1907. 

March 18-31....................

April...........................

July......................... ..

1908. 

March 19-31. ...................

May............................

July............................

The period

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

812 

695 

1,830 

8,020 

33 

33 

16 

7 

11

2,350 

228 

33 

182 

651 

33 

7 

7 

4

384 

244 

1,120 

442 

48 

21 

4 

152 

21

I

Minimum.

311 

11 

11 

27 

11 

11 

4 

4 

7

311 

21 

11 

11 

2 

2 

1 

4 

4

98 

21 

11 

27 

7 

1 

0.3 

4 

4

Mean.

503 

100 

276 

1,090 

24.0 

19.2 

8.0 

4.3 

8.0

1,060 

82.2 

16.2 

20.7 

156 

9.3 

2.6 

4.2 

4.0

208 

94.2 

156 

112 

14.3 

4.1 

1.26 

24.0 

8.5

Per 

square 

mile.

0.402 

.080 

.221 

.872 

.019 

.015 

.0064 

.0034 

.0064

.848 

.066 

.013 

.017 

.125 

.0074 

.0021 

.0034 

.0032

.166 

.075 

.125 

.090 

.011 

.0033 

.0010 

.019 

.0068

Run-off.

Depth in 

inches on 

drainage 

area.

0.09 

.09 

.25 

.97 

.02 

.02 

.007 

.004 

.004

.44 

.07 

.02 

.02 

.14 

.009 

.002 

.004 

.001

.08 

.08 

.14 

.10 

.01 

.004 

.001 

.02 

.007

Total in 

acre-feet.

5,990 

5,950 

17,000 

64,900 

1,480 

1,180 

476 

264 

254

97,500

29,400 

4,890 

996 

1,230 

9.590 

573 

153 

258 

71.4

47,200

5,360 

5,610 

9,590 

6,660 

879 

252 

75 

1,480 

455

30,400

A ecuracy.

B. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

B.

C. 

C.

D. 

C. 

D. 

D. 

C. 

D. 

D. 

D. 

D.

B. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

C. 

D. 

B. 

C.
SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8. 217 

CANNON BALL RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 

DESCRIPTION.

Cannon Ball River is formed by the junction of its north and south 

branches (the South Branch being also known as Cedar River), which 

rise in the southwestern part of North Dakota and flow eastward and 

southeastward nearly parallel with each other for a distance of 100 

miles in a direct line before joining. The drainage area of each branch 

is 1,700 square miles or a little more. Below the junction the stream 

flows northeastward 45 miles to Missouri River, which it enters 35 

miles north of the South Dakota line. The total drainage area is 

about 4,200 square miles.

The only important tributaries are Dogtooth Creek, which enters 

20 miles above the mouth of the river and drains 340 square miles, and 

Thirtymile Creek, which enters the North Branch 40 miles above the 

junction of the branches and drains 250 square miles.

The only trees grown in the Cannon Ball basin are the fringes of the 

streams and the occasional very small groves in the bottom land. 

Altitudes range from 1,600 feet at the mouth to 3,000 feet, with a few 

hills at the western margin rising to 3,500 feet. The mean annual 

rainfall varies from 12 to 17 inches in different parts of the area.

The basin contains many reservoir sites, some with capacities of 

20,000 acre-feet or more. Large tracts of land in the valley might be 

advantageously irrigated by stored water if routes can be found for 

diversion canals that will not be unduly expensive, but the topography 

of the valley does not as a rule favor the construction of long canals, 

and the fall of the main river through most of its length is only from 

3 to 6 feet to the mile.

One station has been maintained in this basin:

Cannon Ball River at Stevenson, N. Dak., 1903 to 1908.

CANNON BALL RIVER AT STEVENSON, N. DAK.

This station, which is located one-half mile west-northwest of the 

post-office at Stevenson, N. Dak., in sec. 20, T. 133, R. 82, about 40 

miles south of Mandan, N. Dak., was established June 10, 1903, to 

determine the availability of the stream for irrigation. The station 

is 25 miles above the mouth of the river and 4 miles above the mouth 

of Dogtooth Creek. The drainage area at this point is 3,650 square 

miles.

The channel is of gravel and small stones and is permanent, and no 

appreciable changes in the rating curve from year to year are necessary. An excellent rating table has been deduced.

On account of the nature of the banks and the destruction caused 

by ice in the spring freshets, it is difficult to keep a gage fixed immov-
218 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

ably and satisfactorily permanent, although it can be precisely 

replaced as often as necessary. Hence, systematic errors as great 

as 0.1 foot, or even slightly more, may sometimes, have entered the 

daily gage record for several weeks without discovery. In 1908, 

owing to an unnoticed accident to the gage, the records were not accurate from the opening of the season until August 1. It seems probable 

that they were continuously somewhat too large for that period. 

Except as thus specified, the records are satisfactory and reliable.

Discharge measurements of Cannon Ball River at Stevenson, N. Dak., in 1907 and 1908.

Date.

1907. 

April 22 a ......

Do.........

Do.........

July 25. ........

Do.a .......

1908.

Hydrographer.

T. R. Atkinson. . ...................................

.....do..............................................

E . F. Chandler .....................................

.....do..............................................

.....do................... .......................... -

.....do.............. ................................

.....do..............................................

E. F. Chandler. ....................................

.....do..............................................

Width.

Feet. 

39

38

109

110

109

109

108

106

42

38

38

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

47.2

42.7

310

338

291

287

267

194

67

32.4

31.6

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

3.46

3.16

4.62

4.77

4.47

4.33

4.16

3.55

3.54

2.73

2.71

Discharge.

Sec. -ft. 

84

78

532

631

467

416

335

128

129

8.6

9.0

a Made by wading.

Daily gage height, in feet, of Cannon Ball River at Stevenson, N. Dale., for 1907 and 190s.

[Donald Stevenson, observer.]

Day.

1907. 

1... ...................

2......................

3......................

4......................

5......................

6......................

7......................

8......................

9......................

10......................

11......................

12......................

13......................

14......................

15......................

16......................

17......................

18......................

19......................

20......................

21......................

22......................

23......................

24......................

25......................

26......................

27......................

28. .....................

29......................

30......................

31......................

Feb.

7.1

9 7

9.8

9.7

9.0

5.0

Mar.

7-2

6.4

5.2

6.4

6.5

6.2

4.7

4.6

Apr.

5.7

5.1

5.2

4.9

4.9

4.8

4.7

4.6

4.5

4.3

3.6

3.4

3.6

3.4

3.5

3.2

3.3

3.2

3.1

3.3

3.2

3.2

3.2

3.3

3.1

3.3

i n

3.1

3.1

May.

3.3

3.1

3.2

3.2

3.4

3.3

3.4

3.5

3.6

3.4

3.5

3.1

3.2

3.0

3.0

2.9

3.2

3.5

3.4

3.7

3.8

4.1

4.6

4.9

3.2

3.4

3.5

3.2

3.3

June.

3.2

3.2

3.4

3.4

5.7

7.4

8.2

8.4

3.2

3.1

3.4

5.6

6.2

5.7

5.0

3.6

3.7

3.7

3.7

3.6

3.6

3.6

.......

July.

3.4

3.5

3.5

3.4

3.3

3.3

3.3

3.8

3.6

3.6

3.7

3.5

3.5

3.5

4.5

4.5

3.7

3.3

3.5

3.7

5.4

5.6

4.9

4.7

4.2

4.0

3.9

4.9

3.5

3.2

3.1

Aug.

2.9

2.8

2.8

2.2

2.3

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.3

2.4

3.2

3.2

3.2

3.1

3.0

3.0

3.0

2.7

2.7

2.5

2.5

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.2

2.2

2.1

2.1

Sept.

2.0

2.0

1.7

1.7

1.6

1.6

2.1

2.1

2.0

1.9

1.9

1.8

1.8

1.6

1.8

2.0

2.0

2.3

2.4

1 9

1 9

1.8

1.8

1.9

1.9

2.4

Oct.

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.4

2-1

1 9

2.1

2.1

2.1

1.7

2.1

Nov.

2.2

2.3

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.2

2.3

2.2

9 Q

2.9

2.7

2.7

2.6

9 ^

2.0

2.1

2.2

2.1

2 1

2.1

2.1

Dec.
CANNON BALL RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 219

Daily gage height, in feet, of Cannon Ball River at Stevenson, N. Dak., for 1907 and

1908 Continued.

Day.

1908. 

1.. ...........................

3. ............................

9

11.............................

16.............................

18....-...-..-..-..--.-........

19

20............--...--...-..--..

23 .............................

24.............................

27....----..-.-................

29

30.............................

31 .............................

Mar.

3.3

4.5

8.0

6.0

6.0

5.5

5.0

4.5

5.0

7.0

8.0

9 0

7.5

4.5

4.5

4.3

4.0

4.0

3.9

3.7

3.5

3.5

3.7

Apr.

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.6

3.6

3.7

3.8

3.8

3.9

4.0

4.7

4.7

4.7

4.2

4.5

5.0

5.4

5.2

5.0

4.8

4.5

May.

4.0

4.0

4.0

3.8

3.8

3.8

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

4.2

4.9

4.5

5.7

5.6

4.9

4 9

4.6

4.6

4.6

4.4

4.9

5.5

6.6

6.2

June.

5.4

7.2

7.5

7.3

6.8

6.5

7.3

7.0

7.0

6.5

7.0

7.5

6.5

6.0

5.5

4. ^

4.2

4.0

3.5

3.5

3.2

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.5

July.

4.0

4.0

3.5

3.0

3.0

2.8

2.5

2.4

3.0

4.5

4.8

4.2

4.0

3.9

3.5

3.4

4.0

3.7

3.5

3.2

3.0

3.0

2.5

2.5

2.4

2.5

2.5

2.7

2.7

Aug.

2.7

2.7

2.8

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.7

3.0

2.8

2.5

2.4

2.4

2.2

2.2

2.4

2.5

2.4

2.5

2.5

2.4

2.4

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.0

2.0

2.2

2.2

2.25

Sept.

2.3

2.4

2.4

2.5

2.3

2.5

2.5

2.45

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.3

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.1

2.2

2.2

2.1

2.3

2.5

2.5

Oct.

2.5

2.8

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.0

2.0

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.1

3.0

4.1

4.2

4.25

3.2

3.0

2.6

3.1

2.5

2.8

2.2

2.3

2.1

2.0

Nov.

2. 1

2.1

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.1

2.1

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.6

3.0

3.0

3.0

Dec.

3.1

3.1

3.5

2.5

NOTE. Ice conditions, January 1 to March 23, 1907; December 1,1907, to March 10,1908; November 12 

to December 31, 1908. Water running over ice and ice gorging, February 17-22, 1907; light ice, November 

17,1907. March 8 to July 31,1908, the gage was in poor condition and the gage heights are only approximate.

Rating table for Cannon Ball River at Stevenson, N. Dak., for 1907 and 1908.

Gage 

height.

Feet.

2.00

2.10

2.20

2.30

2.40

2.50

2.60

2.70

2.80

2.90

3.00

3.10

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

0.0

.5

1.1

2

3

4

5

9

16

24

33

44

Gage 

height.

Feet.

3.20

3.30

3.40

3.50

3.60

3.70

3.80

3.90

4.00

4.10

4.20

4.30

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

58

74

93

115

140

168

199

233

270

309

350

393

Gage 

height.

Feet.

4.40

4.50

4.60

4.70

4.80

4.90

5.00

5.20

5.40

5.60

5.80

6.00

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

438

485

534

585

638

693

750

868

994

1,127

1,265

1,410

Gage 

height.

Feet.

6.20

6.40

6.60

6.80

7.00

7.20

7.40

7.60

7.80

8.00

9.00

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

1,570

1,730

1,890

2,050

2,210

2,384

2,558

2,732

2,906

3,080

4,000

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on discharge measurements made during 1903-1908, and is well denned between gage heights 2.5 feet and 5.0 

feet. Above gage height 5.0 feet it is based on one high-water measurement at gage height 7.18 feet and 

is only approximate.
220 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Monthly discharge of Cannon Ball River near Stevenson, N. Dak., for 1907 and 1908. 

[Drainage area, 3,650 square miles.]

Month.

1907. 

March 24-31 ....................

July............................

1908. 

March 11-31. ...................

May............................

July............................

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

2,380 

1,200 

693 

3,450 

1,130 

58 

3.0 

3.0 

24

4,000 

1,060 

1,890 

2,640 

638 

33 

4 

372

Minimum.

534 

33 

24 

44

44

115 

115 

115 

33 

3 

0 

0 

0

Mean.

1,380 

264 

124 

655 

261 

13.7 

.47 

.52 

3.0

1,060 

358 

569 

1,210 

143 

5.45 

1.72 

40.4

Per 

square 

mile.

0.378 

.072 

.034 

.180 

.072 

.0038 

.00013 

.00014 

.00082

.291 

.098 

.156 

.332 

.039 

.0015 

.00047 

.011

Run-off.

Depth in 

inches on 

drainage 

area.

0.11 

.08 

.04 

.20 

.08 

.004 

.0001 

.0002 

.0009

.23 

.11 

.18 

.37 

.04 

.002 

.0005 

.01

Total in 

acre-feet.

21,900 

15,700 

7,620 

39,000 

16, 000 

842 

28.0 

32.0 

179

101, 000

44, 100 

21, 300 

35,000 

72,000 

8,790 

335 

102 

2,480

184, 000

Accuracy.

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

B. 

D. 

D. 

D.

B. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

C. 

D. 

D.

NOTE. Discharge estimated for days when gage heights are missing.

GRAND RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 

NORTH FORK OF GRAND RIVER AT HALEY, N. DAK.

The North Fork of Grand River unites with the South Fork to form 

the Grand in the northeastern part of Butte County, S. Dak., the 

main stream flowing from this junction eastward across the Standing 

Rock Indian Reservation to the Missouri.

This station, which is located about 20 rods south of the post-office 

at Haley, N. Dak., near the northeast corner of sec. 36, T. 129, R. 100, 

was established May 17, 1908, to obtain data for the reclamation 

project under survey at that point. The drainage area above the 

station includes only the North Fork of the Grand and comprises 

about 500 square miles. As no measurements at high stage have yet 

been made, no rating curve has been prepared.

Discharge measurements of North Fork of Grand River at Haley, Ar. Dak., in 1908.

Date.

May 11«. ......

Hydrographer.

P. N. Ford. ........................................

E. F. Chandler. ....................................

Width.

Feet. 

9

1.0

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

1 9

.19

Gage 

height.

Feet.

a Made by wading.
NIOBRARA RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 221 

Daily gage height, in feet, of North Fork of Grand River at Haley, N. Dak., for 1908.

Day.

1....................................

3......---...-.-.-.......---..-..---.

4....................................

5....................................

6....................................

7....................................

8....----...--......------.-.---.....

9....................................

10....................................

11....................................

12.. ...... ............................

13....................................

14....................................

16................. .................. .

17....................................

18....................................

19

20....................................

21 ....................................

22.. ..................................

23....................................

24........... ........................ .

25....................................

26....................................

28....................................

29....................................

30....................................

May.

1.0

1.0

1.0

3.8

4.8

5.5

5.6

3.8

3.8

3.2

2.75

2.0

1.8

1.8

1.8

June.

1.7

2.0

2.5

2.8

1.8

1.2

1.8

1.7

1.65

1.5

1.4

1.45

1.3

2.8

4.7

3.0

3.0

2.05

1.2

1.9

1.4

1.8

1.3

1.1

1.2

1.4

1.9

1.4

1.0

1.7

July.

1.65

1.3

1.1

1.1

1.0

1.4

1.3

1.3

1.6

1.3

1.0

.9

.9

.9

.9

.9

.85

i.i 1.1

1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1

1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1

Aug.

1.1

.8

.85

.85

.85

.85

.85

.85

.85

.85

.85

.85

.85

.85

.9

.9

.9

.9

Sept.

0 9

9

9

9

9

9

9

9

9

9

9

9

9

9

9

9

9

9

9

9

9

9

9

9

9

9

g

9

9

9

Oct.

0.9

.9

.9

.9

g

.9

.9

.9

.9

.9

.9

9

.9

.9

.9

9

.9

.9

1.0

1.0

1.0

.9

.9

9

.9

.9

9

.9

.9

.9

9

Nov.

0.9

9

9

.9

g

9

9

.9

9

.9

g

g

.9

9

9

.9

.9

g

9

.9

.9

.9

g

9

9

9

.9

9

.9

Dec.

0.9

g

9

9

9

9

9

.9

9

.9

9

9

.9

9

9

.9

.9

9

9

.9

.9

.9

.9

9

.9

.9

.9

9

.9

.9

NOTE. Ice conditions November 5 to December 31.

NIOBRARA RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 

DESCRIPTION.

Niobrara River rises in the mountains of eastern Wyoming, flows 

eastward through the northern portion of Nebraska, and empties 

into the Missouri in Knox County at the city of Niobrara. Its 

drainage basin is narrow in the upper portion but broadens considerably near the mouth; it comprises about 9,000 square miles.

Precipitation within the basin varies from 15 to 18 inches in the 

upper portion, from 18 to 21 inches in the middle portion, and from 

21 to 24 inches in the lower portion. Evaporation is 6, 5, and 4i feet 

in the upper, middle, and lower portions, respectively. Sixty-nine 

per cent of the precipitation falls during April, May, June, July, and 

August, and about one-half of the remainder is snowfall.

The river is not subject to periodic rises of any importance, owing 

to the fact that the sand hills which form so large a portion of its 

drainage area act as storage reservoirs for the rain and snow, which 

are afterwards fed to the stream in the form of spring water, thus 

equalizing the flow and making the constancy of the discharge almost 

phenomenal.
222 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

The principal tributaries are Verdigris, Keyapaha, and Snake 

rivers, and Minnechaduza Creek. The drainage area of the Snake 

is similar in nearly all respects to that of the western part of the 

Niobrara.

The water resources of the Niobrara are at present almost wholly 

undeveloped, irrigation being limited to the low, narrow flood plains 

in the bottoms of the canyons. On Minnechaduza Creek at Valentine 

an artificial lake has been formed by a dam, and a power plant has 

been installed for lighting and for furnishing the city with water. 

On the lower course of the Niobrara a number of mills are in operation, 

receiving their power from small tributaries. On Snake River opportunities for power development are phenomenal, but long transmission 

lines would be required to make it of practical value.

The following gaging stations have been maintained in this basin:

Niobrara River near Valentine (Fort Niobrara), Nebr., 1897,1899, 1901-1906. 

Niobrara River near Spencer, Nebr., 1908. 

Niobrara River near Niobrara, Nebr., 1902. 

Red Deer Lake near Woodlake, Nebr., 1904-5.

NIOBRARA RIVER NEAR SPENCER, NEBR.

This station, which was established May 15, 1908, and discontinued 

December 31,1908, is located at the Whiting highway bridge, 6i miles 

south of Spencer, in sec. 30, T. 33 N., R. 11 W.

The records at this point show practically the entire flow of the 

river, Verdigris River being the only important tributary below. 

Keyapaha River enters 20 miles above.

A few ditches taking water for irrigation for the low, narrow flood 

plain constitute the only diversion from the river. Ice probably 

does not affect results materially. Measurements are difficult on 

account of the high velocity of the current. The bed is composed 

partly of shifting sand, and frequent measurements are necessary 

to obtain good results. Sufficient data have not been obtained to 

form a basis for computations of discharge.

Discharge measurements of Niobrara River near Spencer, Nebr., in 1908.

Date.

May 15. ........

May 16. ........

July 23 ........

Hydrographer.

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

Width.

Feet.

120

150

150

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

409

400

334

189

Gage 

height.

Feet.

4.70

4.60

4.62

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

2,830

2,590

1,280

867
PLATTE RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 223

Daily gage height, infect, of Niobrara River near Spencer, Nebr.,for 1908. 

[A. J. Lamb, observer.]

Day.

1....................................

2.. ................... ......

3

5....................................

6.... ................................

7....................................

9....................................

10....................................

11....................................

12......--.-......--.-.-----.. ..-.--.

13............................. .....

14-..........-......--....-- .......

IS....................................

16....................................

17....................................

18....................................

19...................................

20...................................

21....................................

22...-..--.......-.--.-........--..-..

23

24.,..-.----.....-...-............---.

25-... . ..... ......... ......

26.. ...... .....

27....................................

28....................................

29.............. ........... ........

30....................................

31 ....................................

May.

4.8

4.7

4.6

4.7

4.6

4.6

4.7

4.4

4.5

4.6

June.

4.6

4,5

4.5

4.4

4.8

4.6

5.0

4.8

4.5

4.5

6.0

4.5

4.6

4.6

5,5

4.8

4.2

4.1

4.7

5 9

4,5

4.4

4.4

4.2

4.4

4.4

July.

4.4

4.5

4.4

4.3

4.3

4.3

4.4

4.4

4.3

4.4

4 t:!

4 4

4.6

4.0

4.7

4.5

4.8

4.6

4. S

4.7

5.0

4.6

4.5

4.4

4.5

Au£.

4.3

4,4

4.5

4.6

4.7

4.6

4.6

5.0

4.6

4 4

4.3

4. (i

4.8

4.5

4.6

4.5

4.3

4.6

4.6

7.0

5.0

4.7

4.8

Sept.

4.3

4.7

4.6

4.4

4.7

4.5

4.9

4.6

5.0

4.8

4.7

5.0

5.0

5.0

4.8

4.9

5.0

5.0

5.0

4.8

4.8

6.0

4.4

4.5

Oct. Nov Dec.

4.6

4.5

4.7

4.5

4. 7

4.9

4.8

4.6

4.6

4.7

4.6

4.6

4.7

4.0

4.6

4.7

4,6

4.6

4.7

5.4

5. 2

s!o

4.7

4.6

4,7

4.8

4.7

4,6

4.5

4.7

4.8

4.6

4.5

4.7

4.8

4.8

4.8

4.7

4.8

4. 7

4.8

4.7

4.8

o.O

5.1

5.0

4.S

5.0

5.8

5.4

4.9

4.8

4,8

4.9

4.9

4.9

5.3

5.0

5.3

5.2

5.6

5.1

4.8

4.9

5.1

5.0

5.5

5. 1

5.2

5.1

5.2

5.3

5.1

5.0

5.0

5.2

5.0

4.7

4.7

4.8

4.7

4.8

5.0

4.8

4.9

5.0

5.0

5.2

5.0

4.9

4.7

4.8

NOTE. Possible ice conditions during December.

PLATTE RIVER'DRAINAGE BASIN. 

GENERAL FEATURES.

Considered only with regard to extent of the area drained, the 

Platte is the most important tributary of the Missouri. It is formed 

by two forks, North Platte and South Platte, which rise, respectively, 

in northern and in central Colorado and unite a little southwest of the 

center of Nebraska. Its entire drainage basin comprises about 

84,000 square miles, of which 28,500 square miles belong to the 

North Platte and 24,000 to the South Platte. The lower course of 

the river is fairly well settled, but farther west the population is more 

scattered.

For convenience the description of the basin is divided, and the 

North Platte, Platte River proper, and South Platte are considered 

separately, being arranged in downstream order.

NORTH PLATTE RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 

DESCRIPTION.

The source of North Platte River is in North Park, Colorado, or 

rather in the mountains which, rising to elevations from 4,000 to 

5,000 feet above its general level, hem it in on all sides. The park is
224 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

just east of the Continental Divide, some of the peaks of which in that 

locality exceed 12,000 feet in altitude. From the steep slopes of the 

mountains numerous small streams descend, unite below into large 

creeks, and flow outward to the center of the basin. The two which 

may be said to form the real head of the North Platte are Grizzly and 

Little Grizzly creeks, but within the park the river is joined by four 

large tributaries, Roaring Fork and North Fork from the west and 

Michigan and Canadian creeks from the east. Leaving the park, the 

river makes a bold curve northward into Wyoming, but near Casper, 

on the north side of the Casper Range, it turns abruptly to the east 

and southeast, maintaining the latter course to its point of junction 

with the South Platte in central Nebraska.

Within North Park the topographic features are diversified, including every degree of roughness from the snow-capped peaks of the Park 

and Medicine Bow ranges to the level prairie mesas along the lower 

portion of the stream. Dense forests cover the mountain tracts, the 

heaviest being those on the east slope of the Park and the west slope 

of the Medicine Bow ranges. At an elevation of 8,500 feet above 

sea level the forests give way to the open prairie country, which, with 

the exception of the dense growth of willows along the river bottoms, 

is entirely free from forests of any description.

The soil, composed principally of sandy and gravelly loam on the 

mesas and of sandy and black loam along the river bottoms, is in general fertile, but climatic conditions are such that the agricultural 

products are limited to wild hay, roots, and a few of the hardier 

grains.

In its northward course through Wyoming the stream receives many 

tributaries, the Snowy Range on the east contributing its drainage 

through Douglas, French, and Brush creeks, while the northeast slope 

of the Sierra Madre is drained by Beaver, Big Cow, and Spring creeks 

and Grand Encampment River. Medicine Bow and Sweetwater 

rivers are added to the North Platte between Saratoga and Casper, 

beyond which the only important tributary is the Laramie, which 

enters at old Fort Laramie.

The greater part of the region below Saratoga is a rolling, undulating prairie. The soil throughout Wyoming is a sandy loam of 

sufficient depth to produce meadows of rich grasses, even up to elevations of 7,000 feet. At lower elevations the soil becomes more 

friable and deeper.

Throughout its course in western Nebraska the valley of the North 

Platte is 10 to 15 miles wide. The present floor, consisting of sediments deposited in a former greater valley, is bordered by terraces 

and table-lands scarred by numerous tributaries and arroyos. The 

stream is broad and shallow, with a flood plain from 1 mile to 4 miles 

wide.
U. S. GEOLOGICAL SURVEY WATER-SUPPLY PAPER 246 PLATE X

A. PATHFINDER DAM SITE BEFORE CONSTRUCTION, NORTH PLATTE PROJECT, NEBRASKAWYOMING.

B. PATHFINDER DAM, NORTH PLATTE PROJECT, NEBRASKA-WYOMING.
PLATTE RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 225

The character of the river bed at the Big- Bend and at the Seminoe 

Mountains, in Wyoming, seems to indicate a considerable underflow. 

A part of this is collected at the Big Bend, and probably the entire 

amount is brought to the surface as the river passes through the Seminoe Range. In its lower course the bed of the stream is of fine quicksand underlain at a depth of 15 to 20 feet by a hard layer which seems 

to be clay.

The total length of the river from source to mouth is nearly 650 

miles. At Pinkhampton, Colo., it is about 8,000 feet above sea level; 

at Fort Steele, Wyo., about 500 miles above its mouth, it is 6,500 feet; 

and at Fort Laramie it is 4,200 feet, and at Xorth Platte, Nebr., 2,800 

feet.

The drainage area includes about 28,800 square miles, of which 

1,800 square miles are in Colorado, 20,000 in Wyoming, and nearly 

7,000 in Nebraska.

In the mountain districts precipitation, usually in the form of 

snow during the winter and spring months, varies from 7 to 15 inches, 

the average being about 11 inches; in the high mountains it is 20 

inches and upwards. Throughout the lower portion of the basin the 

precipitation is from 15 to 18 inches, and the evaporation from the 

water surface is 5 to 6 feet annually.

The stream is subject to periodic floods which reach the maximum 

at the mouth some time during the latter part of June and are caused 

by the melting snow ori the high ranges. The river runs lowest in 

winter and is usually covered with thick ice. High water prevails 

from the middle of April until the middle of July, during which period 

the river is frequently bank full.

The winters are quite severe throughout the entire basin of this 

stream, and particularly so above an altitude of 4,000 feet. On the 

plains areas, although there is considerable snowfall, the snow does 

not lie for more than a few days at a time.

Agriculture in the basin of the Nortli Platte has been confined 

largely to the valleys of the tributaries, and most of the available 

agricultural lands on these tributaries are now occupied. At present 

irrigation is most extensively practiced on Laramie and Little Laramie rivers in the vicinity of Laramie; on the Laramie in the vicinity 

of Wheatland, and on the North Platte itself for a considerable distance on both sides of the Wyoming-Nebraska line.

The Laramie-Poudre project will divert a considerable portion of 

the flow of Laramie River in Colorado across the divide by means of a 

tunnel into the headwaters of the Cache la Poudre, where the waters 

will be used to irrigate land in the South Platte drainage. Construction is about to be begun on this project. The nearly completed 

North Platte project of the Reclamation Service will provide for the 

31260 iRR 246 10 15
226 SURFACE WATEK SUPPLY, 1907-8.

irrigation of about 100,000 acres of land along the North Platte in 

Nebraska and Wyoming. (PI. XI, A and B.) Numerous other 

irrigation projects are contemplated or are in course of construction, 

and many additional opportunities for development by storage of 

flood waters still remain.

The basin contains many excellent reservoir sites, a few of which 

have been developed. The most notable is the Pathfinder reservoir 

of the United States Reclamation Service. This reservoir, with a 

dam 215 feet high, will have a capacity of over 1,000,000 acre-feet. 

(See PI. X.) Another excellent site is at what is usually known as 

the "DevilsGate" on Sweetwater River a few miles above its mouth. 

It has a capacity of over 300,000 acre-feet, but has never been developed on account of the inadequacy of the water supply; and as the 

Pathfinder reservoir will store the flood waters of the Sweetwater it 

is not likely that the Devils Gate reservoir will ever be built. On the 

North Platte and its tributaries in Colorado are several fairly good 

reservoir sites, the largest being on the North Platte near Pinkhampton, which would have a capacity of nearly 100,000 acre-feet with a 

dam 100 feet high. JjlThe reservoir site on Laramie River near Glendevey, Colo., has a capacity of about 15,000 acre-feet.

Power development on the North Platte will be limited largely to 

the upper river and its tributaries and probably never will be in 

excess of 50,000 horsepower. Present development amounts to only 

a few hundred horsepower.

The more recent records of the United States Geological Survey 

indicate 1902 as the driest and 1907 as the wettest year, but it is 

believed that 1899 was a much higher year than 1907.

The following stations have been maintained in this basin:

Grizzly Creek at Hebron, Colo., 1904-5. 

North Platte River near Hebron, Colo., 1904-5. 

North Platte River near Cowdrey, Colo., 1904-5. 

North Platte River near Pinkhampton, Colo., 1904. 

North Platte River at Saratoga, Wyo., 1903-3906. 

North Platte River at Pathfinder, Wyo., 1905-1908. 

North Platte River at Alcova, Wyo., 1904-5. 

North Platte River near Douglas, Wyo., 1894. 

North Platte River near Orin Junction, Wyo., 1895-3900. 

North Platte River near Fort Laramie, Wyo., 3887-1889. 

North Platte River at Guernsey, Wyo., 1900-1908. 

North Platte River near Mitchell, Nebr., 1901-1908. 

North Platte River near Gering, Nebr., 1897-1900. 

North Platte River near Camp Clark, Nebr., 1896-1900. 

North Platte River at Bridgeport, Nebr., 1902-1906. 

North Platte River at North Platte, Nebr., 1894-1908. 

Little Grizzly Creek at Hebron, Colo., 1904-5. 

Roaring Fork of North Platte near Hebron, Colo., 1904-5. 

North Fork of North Platte at Higho, Colo., 1904-5. 

Michigan Creek near Walden, Colo., 1904-5.
U. S. GEOLOGICAL SURVEY WATER-SUPPLY PAPER 246 PLATE XI

A. INTERSTATE CANAL WASTEWAY AT MOLLIES FORK, NORTH PLATTE PROJECT, NEBRASKAWYOMING.

B. GRAIN FIELD UNDER THE INTERSTATE CANAL, NORTH PLATTE PROJECT, NEBRASKAWYOMING.
PLATTE RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 227

Michigan Creek near Cowdrey, Colo., 1904-5.

Canadian River at Cowdrey, Colo., 1904-5.

Grand Encampment Creek near Peryam's ranch, \Vyo., 1900.

Medicine Row River near Medicine Row, Wyo., 1901.

Sweetwater River near Splitrock, Wyo., 1902-3.

Laramie River at Glendevey, Colo., 1904-5.

Laramie River near Jelm, Wyo., 1904-5.

Laramie River near Woods Landing, Wyo., 1895-1900.

Laramie River near Uva, Wyo., 1895-1900, 1903.

Mclntyre Creek near Gleneyre, Colo., 1904-5.

Little Laramie River near Ilatton, Wyo., 1902-3.

Little Laramie River near Laramie, Wyo., 1903.

WORTS PLATTE RIVER AT PATHFINDER, WYO.

This station, which is located one-half mile south of Pathfinder 

post-office and 500 feet below the mouth of the canyon, in gee. 24, T. 

29 N., R. 84 W., sixth principal meridian, Wyoming, was established 

May 9, 1905, and has been maintained by the United States Reclamation Service to show the amount of water available for storage in connection with the North Platte project.

The Pathfinder dam site (PL %, <A) is about one-fourth mile above 

the station, which is at an elevation of nearly 5,700 feet. Sweetwater 

River enters the North Platte about 3 miles above the station. The 

drainage area is about 12,000 square miles.

Very little water is diverted above the station. Some land is irrigated on the North Platte and its tributaries, but opportunities for 

much additional development can be found.

The datum of the gage has remained constant during the maintenance of the station. The flow is affected by ice for several months 

during the winter season. The results obtained at this station have 

been on the whole very satisfactory.

Date.

IQO.'i.

Octohn 3......

Do.........

1900.

Mav 11 .........

May 22.........

1907.

IMS.

Hydrogifaphrr.

.....do.......... .... ............. ....... . .

.....do........... ..................................

.....do............................... ..............

.....do......................................... ....

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

Width.

.Fff(.

79

82

199

204

209

249

171

Area of 

section.

&?./(.

3S1

l.QSO

2,100

515

Cage 

heignt.

y«v.

0 SS

1.57

1 97

4.00

7. <0

S.02

6158

Discharge.

arc.-/?. 

189

434

199 ?79

2,1M)

8.030

11,400

349

« Gaging made through ice.

4 Gage height to water surface through hole in ice. Ice 18 inches thick.
228 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Daily gage height, in feet, of North Platte River at Pathfinder, Wyo., for 1905, 1907,

and 1903 a

[Charles E. Hamilton and William F. Costello, observers.]

Day.

1905.

3...............

9...............

10.......-.-.---.

12...............

13...............

14...............

19

23...............

29. ..............

30...............

01

1907. 

1...... .........

3...............

6.-......-.--...

8.'..... .'.....'...

9............... 

10...............

13...............

14............... 

15...............

16...............

18............... 

19

20...............

21...............

22............... 

23...............

26...............

27...............

28...............

29............... 

30...............

31...............

Jan.

1.92

1. So

1.55

1. 70

1.50

1.78

1.85

1.88 

1.70

1 88

1 90

1.92 

1.98

1.92

1.98 

1.85

1.78

1.70

1.88 

1.75

1 90

1.90

1.82

1.98

1.92 

1.95

1.98

Feb.

2.00

1.92

1.95

2.08

2.08

2.28

2.35 

2.52

2.48 

2.40

9 4t;

2.45

2.42

2.38 

2.42

2.40

2.42

2.45

2.60

2.78

2.75 

2. 85

2.82

2.78

2.82

2.65

2.22

Mar.

i

2.05

2.20

2.15

2.58

2.68

2.52

2.60

2.60 

2.60

2.60

2. 32 

2. 22

2.30

2.52 

3.18

3.80

5.25

6.50 

7.00

4.52

4.40

3.90

3.40 

3.40

3.35

Apr.

3.25

3.10

3.18

3.25

3.58

3.72

3.82

3.68 

3.38

3.35

4.52

4.95 

4.92

5.10

5.68

4.92

4.25

4.08 

4.10

4.10

4.18

4.05

4.25 

4.35

May.

4.05

4.42

4.50

4.30

4.10

3.98

3.90

3.82

4.48

5.22

6.02

6.32

6.70

6.98

7.28

7.20

7.25

7.15

7.35

7.12

6.92

4.35

4.15

4.05

3.92

3.92

3.92

3.90 

3.85

3.80 

3.85

4.12

4.80

5.28 

5.52

5.42

5.25

5.22

6.30

7.00

7.65

8.18

8.48

7.90

7.50

7.32 

7.22

7.05

June.

6.95

7.18

7.45

7.78

8.70

9.20

8.95

8.85

8.88

9.28

9.50

9.15

8.92

8.68 

8. 10

8.22

8.12

8.12

7.30

6.75

6.68

6.60

6.75

6.28

6.12

5.78

6.95

6.82

7.12

7.78

7.95

8.22

8.78

9. 22 

9.18

8.62

8.32

8.30

8.50 

8.62

8.80

8.95

8.92 

8.90

8.90

8.65

8.58 

8.52

8.38

8.30

8. 15

8.20 

8.02

July.

5.05

4.85

5.02

4.72

4.00

3.65

3.65

3.65

3.65

3.50

3.32 

3.18

3.10

3.00

2.92

2.85

2.85

2.95

2.88

2.80

2.68

2.52

2.48

2.68

2.58

8.08

8.10

8.22

8.20

8.05

8.08

7.92

7. 52 

7.28

7.12

6.92

6.60

6.38 

6.38

6.68

6.02 

5.55

5.25

5.05

4.95 

4.90

4.68

4.62

4.88

5.02 

4.98

4.68

Aug.

2. 40

2.45

2. 72

2.62

2.50

2.32

2.15

2. 10

2.05

2.00

1.92

2.10

2.35 

2 ''2

2.05

2.00

1.95

1.80

1.68

1. 48

1.35

1.30

1.30

1.25

1.22

1.20

1.22

1.08

1.00

1.00

4.35

4.20

4.00

3.90

3.85

3.75

3.98 

3.75

3.48 

3.32

3.18

3.00

2 90 

2.82

2.70

2.70 

2 62

2.60

2.60

2.58 

2.52 

2.50 2 41 -"

2.38

2.30

2.38

2.35 

2.48

2.38

Sept.

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.00

.98

1.60

1.38

1.60

1. 48

1.42

1.38

1. 28

1.08

.88

1.00

1.00

.95

.90

.85

.85

.85

.90

.88

.88

.85

.82

.80

1.00

2. 35

2.28

2.20

2.20

2.15

2.08

2.00 

1.98

1.95 

2.00

2.05

2.08

1.98

1.88 

1.78

1.70

1. 70

1.70 

1. 75

1.80

1.75

1.75 

1.80 

1.70

1.70

1.38

1.38

1.52 

1.65

Oct.

1.20

1.65

1.65

1. <0

1.35

1.28

1.25

1.20

1.20

1.15

1.15

1.20

1.20 

1.20

1.30

1.40

1. 40

1.40

1.48

1 35

1. 40

1.38

1. 45

1.60

1.60

1.62

1.60

1.82

1.90

1.95

2. 02

2.10

2.10 

2.15

2. 10 

2.18

2 22

2 99

2 20 

2.20

2.10

2.05 

2.05

2. 02

1.92

1.95 

1.95 

1 99

1 90

1.88

1.85

1.85

1.88 

1.90

1.95

Nov.

1.38

1.45

1. 60

1.82

1. SO

1.60

1.50

1.48 

1. 45

1.65

1.70

1. CO

1. 42

1.30

1. 10

1.35

1.45

1.30

.85

1.95

1.95

1.90

1 90

1.85

1.85

1.88 

1 90

1.85 

1.78

1 72

1.42

1.30 

1.30

1.30

1.38 

1.52

1.42

1.45

1.30 

1.22

1.38

1.50

1.50

1. 55

1.68

Dec.

1 45

1.30

1 32

1.30

1.10

1 1C\

1.25

1.20 

1.25

1.18

1.15

1.15

1.22

1.18

1.20

1.20

1.48

1.42

1.45

1.45 

1 62

1.52

1 42

1.50

1.45

1.50

.82

1.10

.75

1.40

1.28 

1.30

1.42

1.45

1.40

1.40 

1.40

1.40

a The following gage heights for this station for 1906 were missing in the 1906 report (Water-Supply Paper 

208): January 1, 1.12 feet; January 2, 1.05 feet; January 3, 0-.85 foot; January 4, 1.12 feet; January 5, 1.40 

feet; January 6,1.40feet.
PLATTE BTVER DRAINAGE BASIK. 229

Daily gage height, in feet, of Xorfh Platte I\irer at Pathfinder, Wyo., for 1905, 1907,

and 1908 Continued.

Day.

100S. 

1... ..... . ....

2

3........ ......

7..'. .'.'.'.'.'.'.'.'....

8

10...............

11...............

15...............

16...............

17...... ........

19...... ........

99

23.. ... ......

26............... 

97

28

30...............

31

Jan.

1.35

1.35

1. 4

1.4

1. 4

1. 4 

1.35

1. 35

1. 35

1. 35

1. 35

1. 35 

1. 35 

1.35

1.4

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5 

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

Fe 1 .

1.

1.

1.

1.

1. '->

1. 55

1. i 

1.6

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.6

Mar.

1.65

1.65

1.75

1.8

1.7

1.65 

1.65

1. 65

1. 7

1.9

2.15 

2. 35

2. 6

2.6

2.6

2 5 r>

2 5

2 7

2.65

2.65

2.6

Apr.

2.5

2. 45

2.9

2.7

2.2

2.2 

2. 35

2.6

2. 7 

9 g

3.1

3.1

3.3

3. 55 

3. 7

4.0

4. 1

4.3

4.05 

3 9

3.65

3.5

3.4

May.

3.25

3.3

3.35

3.4

3.0

3.7 

3.5

3.5

3.6

4.1

4.0

3.9

3.7

3. 65 

3.6

3.9

3.9

4.25

4.3

4.25

4. So 

5.25

5.4

5. 45

June.

5.5

5.5

5.6

5. 4

5.3

5.15

5. 2

d. 35

(>. 0

6.15 

6.3

6.4

6.55

6.4

6.3

6.2

3.4

3.5

3.6

July.

4.5

5.2

5.05

5.0

5.0

4.95 

5.0

4 9

4.5 

4.1

3.7

3.5

3.5

3.7 

3.6

3.2

3.15

3.05

2.85

9 7

2.55

2. 4 

2.3

2.3

2.95

Aug.

3.0

3.0

2.8

2.7

2.5 

2. 4

2.4

2. 4

2.4

2.5 

2. 4

2.5

3.2

3.2

3.3 

3.1 

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.05

Q A

4.0

3.6

2.95 

2.8

2.6

2. 4

2.3

Sept.

2.15

2.0

1.95

1.85

1.8 

1.75

1. 7

1.65 

1.6

1.7

2.1

2.1 

1.9 

1 9

1.8

1.7

1.65

1.55

1.5

1.6 

1. 65

2.05

1.85

1.8

Oct.

1.7

1.75

1.8

1.8

1.8 

1.95

1.95

1.95

1 95

2.0 

2.0

1.95

1 9

1.8

1.8 

1.8 

1 9

1.9

2.1

2.1

2.2

2.15

2.0

2 05

2.1 

2.2

2.3

2.25

2.2

2.2

Nov.

2.3

2.3

2.35

2.35

2.3

2.25 

2.15

2 1

2.15

1.85 

1.3

1.4

1.5

1.4

1. 7 

1.95

2.0

1.95

2.0

2.0

1.95

1.9

1 9

1.8 

1.6

1.65

1.5

1.4

Dec.

1.1

1.2

1.7

1.8

1.9

1.9 

1.7

1.5

1.4 

1.1

1.3

1.9

1.8 

1. 55

1.0

1.5

1.7

1.65

1.85

2.0

1.9

2.2 

2.3

2.15

2 1

2.2

2.2

NOTE. River frozen over after November 29, 1905. Ice conditions January 1 to February 27, 1907, and 

DecemberlS, 1907, to February29, 1908, and after November 12,1908. On February 17, 1908", theicewas 12 

inches thick. There was a little ice March 5 to 15, 1908, which probably did not materially affect the gage 

heights. The flow was affected at times from April to July, 1908, by gate regulation of the Pathfinder 

Tunnel.

Rating table for North Platte Rirer at Pathfinder, Wyo., for 1905 to 1908.

Gage 

height.

Discharge.

Gage 

height.

Feet. Sec.-ft. Feet.

0.80 168 : 2.10

.90

1.00

1.10

1.20

1.30

1.40

1.50

l.GO

1.70

1.80

1.90

192

218

2.20

2.30

245 2. 40

276 2. 50

313 ] 2. 60

354 2.70

397 <; 2.80

444 1. 2.90

494 j 3. 00

546 ! 3.10

000

2. 00 656

3.20

3.30

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

714

774

836

900

Gage 

height.

Feet.

3.40

3.50

3.60

3.70

966 3. 80

1, 032 ! 3. 90

1,100 4.00

1,168 4.20

1,236

1,308

4.40

4.60

1,382 4.80

1,460 5.00

1,540 ; 5.20

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

1,630

1,720

1,810

1,900

2,000

2,100

2,200

2,400

2,000

2,830

3,100

3,400

3,700

Gage 

height.

Feet.

5.40

5.60

5.80

6.00

0.20

6.40

6.60

6.80

7.00

8.00

9.00

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

4,020

4, 360

4,730

5,110

5,515

5,935

6,360

6,800

7,240

9,440

11,650

NOTE. The above tnble is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on 10 

discharge measurements made in 1905-1907, and is well denned. Above gage height 6.6 feet the rating 

curve is a tangent, the difference being 2.20 per tenth.
230 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Monthly discharge of North Platte River at Pathfinder, Wyo.,for 1905 to 190S.

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum. Minimum.

Apn

May

June

July.

August

Septembei

October

November 1-1

March

April

May,

June

July

August

September

October

November

December

NOTE. Discharge estimated December 21, 1907, to February 29, 190X. This is the only ice period for 

which there is sufficient data to warrant even an approximate estimate of discharge.

NORTH PLATTE RIVER AT GUERNSEY, WYO.

This station, which was established June 14, 1900, to obtain statistical data concerning the flow of the river, was originally located 

at the highway bridge about one-half mile northwest of Guernsey, 

Wyo., in sec. 35, T. 27 N., R. 66 W., but at the opening of the season, 

of 1902 the gage was removed to the railroad bridge, 300 feet above 

the first location. Discharge measurements have been made from 

the highway bridge. During the last few years the records obtained 

have been especially valuable to the United States Reclamation 

Service in connection with the North Platte project.
PLATTE EIVEE DRAINAGE BASIN. 231

The station is located about 15 miles above the mouth of Laramie 

River. No other important tributaries come in anywhere in the 

vicinity of the station. The drainage area above the station is about 

16,000 square miles, and the elevation of the gage zero is 4,317 feet 

above sea level. The station was abandoned November 30, 1908.

Very little irrigation is practiced along the North Platte proper 

above this point, but there are many diversions for irrigation on the 

tributary streams. The canal systems of the North Platte project 

will divert water a few miles below the station.

At the beginning of the season of 1902,'when the gage was removed 

to the new location, the datum was changed. This gage was washed 

out by flood waters on June 1, 1908, and was replaced on June 13, 

1908, by another rod gage at the same location but with the datum 

1 foot lower.

About June 3, 1908, a maximum height of 11.50 feet (old gage 

datum), said to be the highest for over twenty years, was recorded.

Owing to the shifting character of the channel, comparatively frequent measurements are necessary to obtain the best results.

During the winter seasons the river is frequently covered with ice 

a foot or more in thickness, and results are affected by ice for about 

three months each year.

Discharge measurements of North Platte River at Guernsey, Wyo., in 1907 and 1908.

Date.

1907.

March 25. ......

April 12. ......

1908.

JulyG. .........

July 20.........

October 14......

Hydrographer.

J. M. Giles .........................................

.....do.............................................

.....do.............................................

.....do.............................................

.....do.............................................

.....do.............................................

.....do.............................................

.....do. ............................................

.....do.............................................

.....do.............................................

.....do.............................................

.....do.............................................

Width

Feet. 

193

310

310

309

308

308

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

399

1,340

1,260

758

1,500

1,500

Gage 

height .

Feet. 

1.30

4.00

2.37

3.20

5.70

5. 60

5.60

3.20

3.90

2.90

2.90

1.90

1.90

2.00

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

1,020

7,850

7,270

2,910

5,810

6,990

6,500

2,400

3,600

1,950

1.530

530

556

NOTE. Beginning with measurement of June 17,1908, gage heights refer to new gage, the datum of which 

is 1 foot lower than that of old gage.
232 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Daily gage height, in feet, of North f'lattc Hirer at Guernsey, Wyo.,for 1907 and 1908.

[W. F. Peterson, observer.]

Day.

1907. 

1.

2

3...............

4.

5. . .

0.

7.

8. ....

9...............

10...............

11.........

12. .

13.......

14.........

15.........

16......... 

17......... 

18......... . . 

19........... .

20...............

21......... . 

22..... . 

23..... ...

24..... ... 

25..... .

26.........

27......... .

28..... . 

29.........

30......... 

31.....

1908.a 

1..... . .

2...

3...

4...

5...

6...

7......... .

8... . .

9... 

10...

11...

12..... . 

13.........

14......... . 

15........... ..

16..... ...

17...............

18........... 

19........... . 

20. ..............

21...............

22..... . 

23..... .

24..... . 

25...............

26..... ... 

27......... 

28.......... 

29............... 

30..... .. 

31........... .

Jan.

1.00

.90

.95

.65

.75

.85

1.00

.85

1.00 

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.00 

1.00

1.00 

1.00 

1.10 

1.60

1.8

1.8

1.8 

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8 

1.8

1.8 

1.8

1.8

1.8 

1.8

1.8 

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8 

1.8 

1.8

1.8

1.8 

1.8

1.8 

1.8

1.8 

1.8 

1.8 

1.8 

1.8 

1.8

Feb.

1.8

1.8

1.8 

1.8

1.8

1.8 

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8 

1.8

1.8 

1.8

1.8

1.75 

1.7 

1.7

1.7

1.65 

1.6

1.6 

1.6

1.55 

1.45 

1.35 

1.2

Mar.

1.30

1.30

1.35

1.50

1.50 

1.50

1.50

1.50

1.52

1.50 

1 50

1.50 

1.47 

1.42 

1.40 

1.40

1.85 

2.30

3.70 

4.10

3.80

3.45

3.10 

2.95

2.90

2 en

1.2

1.15 

1.0

.9

9

.9 

.8

.8 

.85

95

1.0 

1.0

1.0 

1.0

1.15

1.2

1.2 

1.2 

1.2

1.2

1.15 

1.1

1.1 

1.05

1.0 

1.2 

1.2 

1.25 

1.25

Apr.

2. 65

2.45

2.35

2 30

9 30

2.30

9 QO

2.40 

2.40

2.40

2. 37

9 32

2.30 

2 30

2.60 

3.10 

3.40 

3. 50 

3. 45

3. 30 

3.25 

3.15

2.85 

,70

2.70

2.60 

2.50

2,50

1.15

1 0

1.0 

1.0

1.0

1.2 

1 05

1.0 

1.0

1.0

1.0 

1.15

1.2 

1.3

1.4

1.55 

1.75 

1.9

2.0

2.1

2 2

2.25 

2.3

2.45

2.55 

2.6 

2.35 

2.2

May.

2.60

 » -9

2. 02

2.55

9 50

2.32 

2.30

2.42

2.55 

2.72

3.10 

3.60 

3.80 

3.87 

3.70

3. 75 

4.05 

4 59

4.95 

5.40

5.90

6 15

6.12

6.00

2.0

2.0

2.0 

1 9

1 9

1 9

1.9

1 9

2.1 

2.0

2.0

2.15 

2.35

2.45 

2.55

2.6

2.5

2.3 

2.2 

2.1

2.0

2.0 

2 15

2.75 

3.45

3.25 

3.1 

3.9 

5.5 

5.3

June.

5.85

5.80

5.72

6.00

6.10

6.15

6.50 

6.90

6.75

6-45

6.40 

6.40 

6.42 

6.55 

6.50

6.40 

0. 32

6.25 

6.20

6.15

5.90 

5.85

5.70

5.65 

5.8

5.75

5.7 

5.6 

5.6

5.6

5.85

5.55 

5.45

5.35 

5.2 

4.9 

4.55 

4.0

July.

5.70

5.60

5.55

5.50

5.50

5.50

5.40

5.35

5.30 

5.00

4.85

4.75

4.62

4.40 

4.00

4.00 

4.20 

4.00 

3.98 

3.75

3.75 

3.35

3.05 

3.10

2.85

2.75

2.62 

2.50

2.55

3.45

3.2

3.2 

3.65

4.0

3.9

3.7

3.55 

3.45

3.2 

3.1

3.05

2 95

2.8 

2.85 

2.9

2.8

2.75

2.6 

2.5

2.45 

2.4 

2.35 

2.3 

2.35 

2.4

Aug.

2.60

2.58

2.45

2.35

2.28

2.15

1 90

1.88

1.80 

5.68

1 60

1.58

1.50

1.45

1.30 

1.30 

1.28 

1.20 

1.20

1.12 

3.08 

1 00

1.00 

1.00

1.00

1 00

1.00

1.55 

i nn

2.4

2.4

2.45

O OC

2.4

2.4 

2.4

2.4

2.2 

2.25

2.45

2.5

2.5

9 7

2.9 

2.75

2.7

2.7

2.6

2.55 

2.7

2.9 

2.85 

2.75 

2.6 

2.5 

2.4

Sept.

1.00

1.00

1.00

1 00

1 00

1.00

9 =

.95 

1.00

1 00

1 00

1.00

1.00 

i rtn

.98 

.95 

.80 

.80 

.80

.80 

.75

75

.75 

.75

.80

QA

1.00 

1.00

1.00

2.4

2.3

2.3 

2.2

2.1

9 O^

2.0

2.0

2.0 

2.0

1 QK

1.9 

1 9

1.9 

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.9 

1.9 

1.9

2.0

1.9 

1 9

1.9 

1.9

1.85 

1.8 

1.8 

1.8 

1.8

Oct.

0.92

.82

.80

.80

.80

.80

.80

.85 

.85

90

90

.95

.95

1.00 

1.00 

1.00 

1.00 

1.00

1.00 

1.00 

1 00

1.00 

LOO

1.00

.92 

.90

.85 

on

1.8

1.8

1.8 

2.0

1.9

1.9

1.9 

1.9

2.0 

2.0

2.0 

2.0

2.0 

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.0 

2.05 

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.15

2.2 

2.2 

2.2 

2.2 

2.2 

2.2

Nov.

0.80

.80

.80

.80

.85

.90

.95

1 00

1.05 

1.10

1.10

1.20

1.20

1.20 

1.22

1.25 

1.30 

1.50 

1.52 

1.60

1.65 

1.80 

1.80

1.85 

1.88

1.90

2.00 

2.25

2.30

2.2

2.2

2.2 

2.2

2.2

2 2

2.2 

2.2

2.2 

2.15

2.1

2.0 

2.0

1.9 

1.9

1.95

2.0

2.2 

2.3

2.4

2.4

2.4 

2.4

2.4 

2.4

2.4 

2.4 

2.4 

2.4 

2.4

Dec.

2.20

2.20

2.18

2.15

2.12

2.10

2.10

2.10

2.10 

2.10

2.10

2.00

2.00

2.00 

2.00

2.00 

1.90 

1.90 

1.88 

1.85

1.85 

1.80 

1.80

1.80 

1.80

1.80

1.85

1.82 

1.80

1.80 

1.80

« Gage washed out June 1,1908, by high water that reached a maximum gage height of 11.5 feet on June 2 

or 3,1908. New gage installed June 14,1908.

NOTE. Probable ice conditions existed January 1 to March 4,1907, November 16,1907, to March 1,1908, 

and after November 17,1908. On February 1, 1908, the ice was 14 inches thick.
PLATTE RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 233

Rating tables for North Platte River at Guernsey, Wyo. 

MARCH 5 TO MAY 22, 1907.

NOTE. The 

discharge mea 

heights 1.3 fee

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

1.30 

1.40 

1.50 i.to

1.70 

1.80 

1.90 

2.00

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

1,020 i,iro

1,310 

1,4CO 

1,620 

1,790 

1,970 

2,150

Gage Disheight. charge.

Feet. 

2.10 

2.20 

2.30 

2.40 

2.50 

2. (0 

2.70 

2.80

Sec.-ft. 

2,340 

2,540 

2,750 

2,970 

3,200 

3,440 

3,690 

3,940

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

2.90 

3.00 

3.10 

3.20 

3.30 

3.40 

3.50 

3.60

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

4,200 

4,480 

4,770 

5,070 

5,380 

5,700 

6,030 

6,370

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

3.70 

3.80 

3.90 

4.00 

4.10

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

6,720 

7,080 

7,460 

7,850 

8,250

above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on four 

surements made during this period and one made in 1906 and is well defined between gage 

; and 4.1 feet. 

MAY 23 TO NOVEMBER 17, 1907.

0.70

.80

.90

1.00

1.10

1.20

1.30

1.40

1.50

1.60

1.70

1.80

1.90

750

850

960

1,080

,200

,330

,460

,600

,750

,900

2,OCO

2,220

2,380

; 2.00

; 2.10

' 2.20

; 2.30

2.40

2.50

! 2. CO

2.70

2.80

2.90

3.00

3.10

3.20

2, 550

2,730

2,920

3,110

3, 300 '

3,500 

3,700

3,900

4,100 ,

4,310

4,520

4,730

4,950

3.30

3. 40

3.50

3.1.0

3.70

3.80

3.90

4.00

4.20

4.40

4. CO

4.80

5.00

5,180

5,410

5,650

5,890

6,130

6,380

6,640

0,900

7,420

7,950

8,490

9,030

9,590

5.20

5.40

5. CO

5.80

6.00

6.20

6.40

6.(0

6.80

7.00

10, 160

10, 740

11,320

11,900

12,500

13, 100

13, 700

14, 300

14, 920

15, 550

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is developed 

from the form of the curve used in the latter part of 1906 and the relation of the curves in the first part of the 

year to the latter part. It is not well denned, but is probably a fairly close approximation. No discharge 

measurements were made during this period.

MARCH 1 TO MAY 31, 1908.

0.80

.90

1.00

.10

.20

.30

.40

.50

.CO

.70

.80

730

850

980

1,110

1,250

1,390

1,540

1,700

1,870

2,050

2,240

1.90

2.00

2.10

2.20

2.30

2.40

2.50

2. CO

2.70

2.80

2.90

2,440

2,650

2, SCO

3,080

3,310

3,550

3,800

4,OCO

4,330

4,600

4,880

3.00

3.10

3.20

3.30

3.40

3.50

3.60

3.70

3.80

3.90

4.00

5,170

5,480

5,800

6,130

6,470

6,820

7,180

7,550

7,930

8,320

8,720

4.20

4.40

4.60

4.80

5.00

5.20

5.40

5.60

9,560

10, 440

11, 320

12, 200

13, 100

14, 000

14, 900

15, 800

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on one 

discharge measurement made during this period and the form of the curve used in the earlier part of 1907 

and is not well defined.

JUNE 14 TO JULY 24, 1908.

2. CO 1.570

2.70

2.80

2.90

3.00

3.10

3.20

3.30

1,690

1,820

1,950

2,080

2,220

2,370

2,520

3.40

3.50

3. CO

3.70

3.80

3.90

4.00

4.10

2,670

2,830

2,990

3,150

3,310

3,480

3,650

3,820

4.20

4.30

; 4.40

4.50

4.60

4.70

4.80

4.90

4,000

4,180

4,360

4,540

4,720

4,900

5,090

5,280

5.00

5.20

5.40

5.60

5.80

6.00

5,470

5,850

6,250

6,670

7,090

7,510

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on six 

discharge measurements made during this period, and is fairly well defined.

JULY 25 TO AUGUST 14, 1908.

[Indirect method for shifting channels used.]

AUGUST 15 TO NOVEMBER 17, 1908.

1.80

1.90

2.00

500

540

580

2.10

2.20

2.30

650

740

840

2.40

2.50

2.60

940

1,050

1,160

2.70

2.80

2.90

1,280

1,400

1,530

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on four 

discharge measurements made during this period and is not well defined.
234 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Daily discharge, in second-feet, of North Platte River at Guernsey, Wyo.,for 1908.

Day.

\. ...............

0

C

6................

0

10................

July. Aug.

1.120

1,120

1,120

990

Day.

11..............

1 Q

15.. ............

16 ..............

1 ft

19....--------..

20....---.-...-.

July. Aug.

840

1,100

Day.

21..............

22..............

23. .......... ...

24.. ............

25..............

26 ....--..-----.

27....---.-...-.

28 ..............

29..............

30..............

31..............

July.

1,350

1,290

1,230

1,170

1,110

1,170

1,230

Aug.

NOTE. These discharges were obtained by the indirect method for shifting channels.

Monthly discharge of North Platte River at Guernsey, Wyo., for 1907 and 1908. 

[Drainage area, 16,200 square miles.]

Month.

1907. 

March 5-31. ....................

April...........................

July............................

1908.

July............................

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

8,250 

6,030 

13,000 

15, 200 

11, 600 

3,700 

1,080 

1,080 

1,400

1,390 

4,060 

17,000 

30,000 

3,650 

1,530 

940 

740 

740

Minimum.

1,020 

2,750 

2,640 

11, 600 

3,500 

1,080 

800 

850 

850

730 

980 

2,440 

3,650 

1,110 

840 

500 

500 

540

Mean.

2,720 

3,650 

6,430 

13,300 

7,510 

1,850 

994 

981 

1,100

Per 

square 

mile.

0.168 

.225 

.397 

.821 

.464 

.114 

.061 

.061 

.068

1

1,090 

1,960 

4,690 

10,500 

2,240 

1,150 

583 

614 

670

.067 

.121 

.289 

.648 

.138 

.071 

.036 

.038 

.041

Run-off.

Depth in 

inches on 

drainage 

area.

0.17 

.25 

.46 

.92 

.53 

.13 

.07 

.07 

.04

.08 

.14 

.33 

.72 

.16 

.08 

.04 

.04 

.03

Total in 

acre-feet.

146, 000 

217,000 

395,000 

791.000 

462, 000 

114,000 

59, 100 

60, 300 

34,900

2,230,000

67,000 

117,000 

288,000 

625,000 

138,000 

70,700 

34,700 

37,800 

22.600

1,400,000

Accuracy.

B. 

B. 

B. 

C. 

B. 

C. 

D. 

D. 

D.

B. 

B. 

C. 

D. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

B.

NOTE. Discharges May 31 to June 13,1908, interpolated. These interpolations are based on an estimated 

flood discharge of 30,000 second-feet on June 3 and the measurement made on June 10,1908.

NORTH PLATTE RIVER NEAR MITCHELL, NEBR.

This station, which was established June 3, 1901, to replace the 

station at Gering, is located at a highway bridge 1 mile south of 

Mitchell, Nebr., in sec. 27, T. 23 N., R. 56 W. The records at this 

point show the amount of water passing the Wyoming-Nebraska 

state line, and are of especial value in connection with interstate 

questions concerning the distribution of water. Laramie River and 

Rawhide Creek enter the river in Wyoming below the Guernsey station, and Horse Creek comes in just below the state line. No important tributaries enter below the station. Important diversions for 

irrigation are made both above and below the station.
PLATTE RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 235

The datum of the gage was lowered 1 foot May 3, 1902, to obviate 

negative readings. As the river sometimes freezes solid, few records 

have been obtained during the winter.

As the bed of the river is of shifting sand, and the measurements 

aro insufficient in number to indicate all changes, the results obtained 

are unsatisfactory. 

Discharge measurements of North Platte River near Mitchell, Nebr., in 1907 and 1908.

Date.

1907.

July 17.........

1908.

July 10. ........

July 28. ........

August 29

Do .........

December 31i..

Hydrographer.

Arthur Dobson ......................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do...-.....--....---......--......---...........

G. W. Bates.......................................

Adna Dobson ......................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do...-.......-.-.--.-....--....-.-..-.........-.

G. W. Bates. .......................................

.....do...-....---..............--.....---.-.....-...

L. F. Flower. ......................................

Width.

Feet. 

999

1,040

1,050

998

814

638

669

592

738

875

1,020

1,030

972

700

762

180

462

588

CIO

694

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

1,400

2,270

2,030

600

411

505

494

653

3,980

2,250

1,170

425

510

65

201

410

404

449

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

3.50

4.02

5.25

3.90

2.65

2.42

2.45

2.53

2.35

2.50

5.35

4.02

2.89

2.35

2.40

1.60

1.98

2.27

2.25

2.34

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

3,080

7,040

6,000

1,300

726

844

904

956

1,330

16,800

7,340

2.805

866

992

61

305

766

732

509

a. Slush ice affected discharge measurement.

Daily gage height, in feet, of North Platte River near Mitchell, Nebr., for 1907 and 1908.

[B. H. Newbold, observer.]

Day.

1907. 

1..... ...........

5...................

9................... 

10...................

13...................

14..... ...........

15...................

17...................

18...................

19...................

20. .... ...........

21...................

<yt)

23....... ...........

24...................

25...................

20.

27...................

28.............. ....

29...................

30. ..................

31...................

Mar. Apr.

3.7

3.0

3.6

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.5

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.3

3.5

3.6

3.6

3.8

3.7

3.5

3.4

3.3

0 0

May.

3.3

3.4

3.4

3.4

3.3

3.3

3.3 

3.3

3.3

3.3

3.3

3.3

3.4

3.5

3.8

3.9

3.9

4.0

4.4

5.1

5.2

5.1

K 1

5.0

June.

5.0

4.9

5.0

5.0

C 1

5.2

""'5.' 3"

5.5

5.5

5.5

5.2

5.1

5.0

4.9

4 Q

4.8

4 S

4.8

4

0

A C

4 9

4.9

A Q

July.

4.8

4.7

4.7

4.6

4.6

4.5

4.6

4.5

4.4

4.3

3.9

3.8

3 9

3 9

o 7

o 7

3.5

3 5

3 5

3.5

3.4

O 0

3.3

Aug.

3.3

3.3

3 ?

3.2

3.1

3.0

3.0

3.0 

3.0

3.0

2.9

2.9

2.8

o o

2.8

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.7

Sept.

2.7

2.6

2.6

2.6 

2.6

2.6

2.5

2.5

2 5

2.5

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2

C

Oct.

2.6

2.5

2 5

2.4

2 4

2.4

2.4 

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

Nov.

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2

0

9 3

Dec.

2.3

9 ?

2.3

2.3

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4
236 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Daily gage height, in feet, of North I'latte River near Mitchell, Nebr., for 1907 and

1908 Continued.

Rating tables for North Platte River near Mitchell, Nebr.

APRIL 1 TO MAY 20, 1907.

[Daily discharges were obtained by the indirect method for shifting channels.] 

MAY 27 TO DECEMBER 14, 1907.

Gage 

height.

Feet.

2.30

2.40

2.50

2.60

2.70

2.80

2.90

3.00

3.10

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

600

760

930

1,130

1,360

1,620

1.910

2,230

2,570

Gage 

height.

Feet.

3.20

3.30

3.40

3.50

3.60

3.70

3.80

3.90

4.00

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

2,930

3,310

Gage 

height.

Feet.

4.10

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

7,070

4.20 7,610

3, 700 4. 30

4, 120

4, 570

5. 030

5,510

6,010

6,540

4.40

4.50

4. (,0

4.70

4.80

4.90

8, IdO

8,720

9,290

9,880

10, 470 11, oeo

11,660

Gage 

height.

Feet.

5.00

5.10

5.20

5.30

5.40

5.50

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

12, 270

12,890

13,510

14, 140

14,770

15, 400

Day.

1908. 

1............ .......

2. .. .....

3...................

4.. ................

7...................

9

10...................

11...................

13

14...................

18...................

19................... 

20. ..................

21.. ................

22...................

23...................

24.. ................

25...................

27.. ..--.- ...........

28...................

29

30...................

31........-...---.--.

Mar.

2.25

2.25

2.25

2.35

2.55

2.55

2.25

2.25

2.25

2.35

2.35

2.35

2.2

2.3

2.3 

2.3

2.4

2 4

2.4

2.5

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.5

Apr.

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.4

2.4

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.2

2.2

2.2

""2.3

2.3

2.4

2.4

2.5

2.6

2.7

2.9

3.0

2.8

May.

2.7

2.7

2.0

2.7

2.6

2.6

2.0

2.5

2.6

9 7

2.8

2.8

2.8

2.9

3.0

2.9

2.8

2.7

2.7

2.7

3.0

3.5

3.4

3.4

4.05

4.7

June.

5.1

6.0

5.0

5.S

4.4

4.2

4.0

3.9

3.9

3.8

3.7

3.7

3.8

3.8

3.7

3.8

3.9 

3.9

3.8

3.8

3.9

3.8

3.7

3.7

3.6

3.0

........

July.

3.4

3.0

2.9

2.8

3.1

3.1

3.0

3.0

3.0

2.9

3.1

2.9

2.8

2.8

2.8

2.7 ""i'e"

2.5

2.7

2.6

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.4

2.3

2.3

2.3

Aug.

2.3

2.4

2 4

2.3

2.4

2.4

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.2

2.3

2.3

2.2

2.2

2.3 

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.4

2.3

Sept.

2.2

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.0

2 0

2.0

2.0

2.0

1.9

1.9

1.0

1.6

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.5

1.5

Oct.

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.0

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.8

1.9

1.9

2.0

2.0

2.0

1.9

1.9

1.8

1.8

1.8

Nov.

2.2

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.3

2.4

2.5

2.7

2.8

2.3 

2.3

2.4

2.5

2.:>

2.5

2.4

2.3

2.3

2.3

Dec.

2.4

2.4

2.5

2.7

2.8

2.8

2.7

2.5

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.5

2.5

2.6

2.6

2.5

2.4

2.4

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on five 

discharge measurements made during this period and the form of the 1906 curve, and is well defined 

between gage heights 2.4 feet and 5.25 feet.

MARCH 2 TO DECEMBER 31, 1908.

1.40

1.50

1.60

1.70

1.80

1.90

2.00

2.10

2.20

2.30

2.40

2.50

25

40

61

90

130

210

330

470

630

810

1,020

1,260

2.60

2.70

2.80

2.90

3.00

3.10

3.20

3.30

3.40

3.50

3. CO

3.70

1,510

1,780

2,070

2,380

2,700

3,050

3,430

3,830

4,250

4,700

5,170

5,060

3.80

3.90

4.00

4.10

4.20

4.30

4.40

4.50

4.00

4.70

4.80

4.90

6, ICO

6,670

7,200

7,750

8,330

8,940

9,570

10, 230

10, 930

11,650 .

12, 380

13, 130

5.00

5.10

5.20

5.30

5.40

5.50

5.60

5.70

5.80

5.90

0.00

13, 900

14, 700

15, 520

16,360

17, 220

18,100

19, 000

20,000

21, 000

22, 000

23, 000

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice conditions. It is based on 12 discharge measurements 

made during this period and is not well defined above gage height 4.0 feet.
PLATTE RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 237

Daily discharge, in second-feet, of North Platte River near Mitchell, Nebr.,for 1907.

Day. Apr. May.

3,800

3,400

3,400

3, 400

3,400

Day.

11..............

12..............

14..............

15. .............

16. ............ .

17..............

18. .............

19

20. ...... .......

Apr.

3.450

3,250

3,050

3,950

May.

3,400

3,450

3, 450

4,300

6,000

6,300

Day.

21..............

2>

24. ........... ..

25..............

26. ........ -----

27.. . ...........

23....--------..

29

30. .............

Apr.

4,900

S fiftn

May.

9,000

9,600

NOTE. These discharges were obtained by the indirect method for shifting channels.

Monthly discharge of North Platte River near Mitchell, Nebr.,for 1907 and 1908.

Month.

1907.

July. ..............................................

1908.

April ...................... ...................

July. ..............................................

December ................. ....................

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

5,400 

13,500 

15, 400 

11,100 

3,310 

1,360 

1,130 

760 

760

1,380 

2,700 

12,700 

23,000 

4,250 

1,020 

630 

330 

1,260 

1 , 020

Minimum.

3,050 

3,300 

11,100 

3,310 

1,130 

760 

760 

600 

600

630 

630 

1,260 

5, 170 

810 

630 

25 

40 

330 

510

Mean.

3,960 

6,190 

12,400 

7,110 

1,920 

960 

7S3 

749 

703

931 

1,210 

2,980 

7,950 

2,030 

815 

229 

121 

898 

859

Kun-oiT 

(total in 

acre-feet).

236, 000 

381,000 

738, 000 

437,000 

118,000 

57, 100 

48,100 

44,600 

19, 500

2, 080, 000

57, 200 

72, 000 

183, 000 

473, 000 

125, 000 

50, 100 

13,600 

7,440 

53, 400 

52, 800

1,090,000

Accuracy.

B. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

B.

C. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

C. 

D. 

B. 

D.

NOTE. Discharge was interpolated for days on which gage was not read.

NORTH PLATTE RIVER AT NORTH PLATTE, NEBR.

This station, which was established October 5, 1894, to determine 

the amount of water below all diversions contributed by the North 

Platte to the Platte, is located 3^ miles above the junction of North 

and South Platte rivers at a highway bridge about one-half mile north 

of the city of North Platte, in sec. 28, T. 14 N., R. 30 W. The gage 

is at the Union Pacific Railway bridge, 2 miles below.

Many diversions are made between this point and the Mitchell 

station. One small tributary, Birchwood Creek, maintains a small 

flow of water at the gaging station at times when the river itself 

would otherwise be dry.

The drainage area is 28,500 square miles.

During the winter the river often freezes solid, as it is very shallow. 

Records at this station are subject to the same limitations of shifting
238 SUEFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

channel and poor measuring conditions as other stations on the river, 

though to a somewhat less degree.

The datum of the gage has remained unchanged since the station 

was established.

Discharge measurements of North Platte River at North Platte, Nebr., in 1907 and 1908.

Date.

1907. 

April 4

Hydrographer.

Arthur Dobson. . . ............... ................

June 16 1 Arthur Dnhsnn

November 8. ... 

1908.

April 24. .......

July 12.. .......

July 29. ........

September 16...

.....do..............................................

.....do.............. ................................

.....do..............................................

G. W. Bates. . .....................................

.....do....................... .......................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

G. W . Bates. .......................................

Width.

Feet. 

1,720 

1,940 

1,970 

1,940 

408 

355 

1,080

1,100 

1,010 

1,900 

1,810 

1,050 

665 

512 

150 

650 

1,020

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

2,200 

2,890 

4,710 

3,190 

772 

493 

670

950 

704 

5,010 

2,830 

1, 160 

490 

283 

124 

588 

1,160

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

2.65 

2.88 

3.70 

3.35 

1.80 

1.65 

2.00

2.25 

2.10 

3.85 

3.20 

2.60 

1.80 

1.85 

1.42 

2.05 

2.30

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

5,830 

7,910 

16, 000 

9,270 

1,500 

1,020 

1,400

1,860 

1,580 

14,000 

7,330 

2,960 

1,050 

553 

206 

1, 150 

2,590

Daily gage height, in feet, of North Platte River at North Platte, Nebr.Jor 1907 and 1908. 

[Henry Deck and C. P. Miller, observers.]

Day.

1907.a 

1............. ......

2...................

3...................

4...................

5...................

6...................

8...................

9...................

10. ..................

11...................

12...................

13...................

14...................

15...................

16...................

17...................

18...................

19...................

20...................

21 ...................

22. ..................

23...................

24...................

25. ..................

26. ..................

27. ..................

28...................

29...................

30...................

31........:. .........

Mar. Apr.

2.60

2.60

2.60

2.60

2.55

2.45

2.45

2.40

2.38

2.35

2.52

2.55

2.60

2.62

2.58

May.

2.38

2.40

2.48

2.50

2.42

2.38

2.35

2.40

2.38

2.30

2.20

2.20

2.20

2.20

2.20

2.78

2 90

2.90

2 90

2 95

3.42

3.40

June.

3.40

3.40

3.40

3.40

3.30

3.30

3.50

3.60

3.60

3.60

3.40

3.15

q vi)

3.60

3

cn

July.

3.32

3.30

3.30

3.30

3.30

3.30

3.22

3.18

3.00

3.00

Q on

3.00

2.88

2.70

2.45

2.30

Aug.

2.30

2.40

2.45

2.30

2.20

2.10

2.10

2.00

1.90

1.85

1.85

"i 8^

1.85

1.85

1.85

1.85

1 0£

-I OK

1 OC

1 8^

1 00

2.00

Sept.

1.95

2.10

2.00

2.00

1.90

1.85

1.75

1.75

1.70

1.70

1.70

1.70

1.70

1.70

1.70

1.70

1.65

1 Q(\

1 ft^

Oct.

2.25

2.10

2.10

2.10

2.00

1.90

1 90

1.85

1.80

1.80

1 80

1.80

1.80

1.80

1 80

1.85

1 90

1 DC

1.82

1.80

Nov.

1.80

1.80

1.80

1.80

1.82

1.88

1.90

2.00

2.00

2.00

2.00

2.05

2.15

2.20

2.20

2.30

2.20

2.05

2.00

2.00

1.90

1.90

1.80

1.80

1.80

1.80

1.90

1.90

1.90

1.95

1.95

2.00

2.00

2.00

2.00

2.00

a Ice conditions after November 13,1907.
PLATTE KIVER DEAINAGE BASIN. 239

Daily gage height, in feet, of North Platte River at North Platte, Nebr.,for 1907 and 1908 

Continued.

Day.

1908.1 

1...................

4...................

6...................

7...................

9...................

10...................

11...................

12...................

18...................

19

22...................

23. ................

24...................

25...................

26...................

27...................

28...................

29...................

30...................

31...................

Mar.

2.

2.2

2.25

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.25

2.2

2.4

9 3

2.1

1 9

1 9

1.9

2 25

2.05

2.1

2.1

2.1

9 1

2.15

2.2

2.2

2.2

2.2

Apr.

2.2

2.2

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.2

2.2

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.1

1.9

1.9

2.0

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.2

May.

2.1

2.25

2.3

2.4

2.5

2.6

2.5

2.5

2.45

2.4

2.4

2.5

2.6

2.7

2.6

2 4

(*>)

(*>)

(»)

<»)

3 A

3.4

3.65

3.6

3.6

3.6

3.6

3.6

3 R

3. G

3.7

June.

4.1

4.1

4.0

4.7

4.5

4.55

3.6

3.2

3.1

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.25

3.0

3.0

Q A

3.05

3.35

3.0

2.85

3.15

3.0

3.35

3.0

3.0

3.2

3.0

3.0

July.

2.9

2.9

2.85

2.0

2.0

2.3

2.2

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.4

2.5

2.5

2.2

2.2

2.1

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.0

1.9

1.9

1.9

1.8

1.75

1.8

1.8

Aug.

1.7

1.7

1.6

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.7

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.9

1 9

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.0

1.8

1.8

Sept.

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.6

1.6

1.4

1.35

1.3

1.2

1.2

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.5

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.3

1.3

1.4

1.4

Oct.

1.45

1.4

1.4

1.35

1.35

1.35

1.4

1.45

1.55

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.55

1.55

2.5

2.6

2.6

2.35

2.15

2.1

1.95

1.9

1.8

1.8

1.9

1.9

1.85

Nov.

1.9

1.95

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.6

2.3

2.1

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.1

2.3

2.4

2.5

2.6

2.5

2.4

2.3

2.2

2.1

2.0

1.9

1.85

Dec.

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.9

1.9

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.1

2.1

2.2

2.3

2.3

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

a Gage heights for August and September, 1908, uncertain, b High water May 17-20,1908, no readings.

Daily discharge, in second-feet, of North Platte River at North Platte, Nebr., for 1907

and 1908.

Day.

1907. 

1. ..................

3...................

7.-.--.------.......

9

10..-----..--...-.-..

12...................

13...................

14. ..................

15.-.-.....--...---..

16...................

17...................

18...................

19....-.-........--..

20..----.............

21...................

22...................

23...................

24...................

26...................

27...........

28...................

29...................

30...................

31...................

Mar. Apr.

5,500

5,500

5,350

4,500

4,200

4,300

4,000

4,150

4,000

4,000

4,000

5,000

5,200

5,100

May.

4,200

4, 350

4,900

4,300

3,800

4,300

3, 800

3, 350

3, 350

3,350

o ocn

3, 600

7,100

8,100

12, 800

June.

12, 800

11,800

12,800

12,800

14, 900

14,900

12,800 1 9 onn

10, 100

9, 650

1 0 OAA

n

oriA

July.

10,600

10,100

9,900

9,800

9 200

8

orr\

6,500

6,200

5,300

4,800

4,300

3, 600

3

0 CA

2,900

Aug.

q rnn

3,100

2,200

2 250

1^900

1 350

1,400

i eifvn

1,600

1 650

1,750

o con

2,300

Sept.

2,100

2,800

9 ^fl

o ocn

1,700

i ^fin

1 450

i onn

1,250

1 200

1,200

1,200

1,200

1 Oflfl

1 9Afl

i nnn

1,000

oon

2 1 nn

9 son

Oct.

3,600

2,800

9 snn

1,600

1,400

1 OAA

1 300

1,100

1,100

1,100

1,100

1,100

1,100

1,100

1,100

1,100

I

orm

1,100

1,100

1,050

onn

800

Nov.

800

800

850

1 AAn

1,400

1,400

1,400

1,400

1 400

1,400

1,400

1,400

1,400

1,400

1,400

1,100

1,100

Dec.

800

800

800

1,100

1,100

1,100

1,100

1,100

1,100

1,100
240 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Daily discharge, in second-feet, of North Platte River at North Platte, Nebr.,for 1907

and 1908 Contimied.

Day.

1908. 

1... ................

2...................

3...................

4...................

5...................

6...................

7....... ............

8...................

9...................

10...................

11...................

13...................

14...................

15...................

16...................

17...................

18...................

19...................

20...................

21...................

22...................

23. ..................

24...................

25...................

26...................

27...................

28...................

29...................

30...................

31...................

Mar.

1,670

1,670

1,860

2,080

2,080

2,080

2,080

1,860

1,670

1,150

1,860

2,550

2,080

2,080

1,300

750

750

850

1,450

2,030

1,830

1,280

1,450

1,450

1,450

1,450

1,630

1,820

1,820

1,820

1,820

Apr.

1,820

1,820

1,450

1,450

1,450

1,820

1,450

1,450

1,580

1,580

1,580

1,580

1,580

1,580

1,580

1,580

1,580

1,580

1,580

1,580

940

940

1,230

1,580

1,580

1,960

May.

1,440

2,000

2,240

2,700

3,270

3,850

3,270

3,000

2,700

2,450

3,700

4,300

3,700

2,450

9,400

9,400

12, 00(1

11,500

11,500

11,500

11,500

11,500

11,200

12, 300

June.

17,100

17, 100

15,900

25, 500

23, 300

11,200

7,300

6, 550

5,800

5,800

5,800

7,800

5,800

5,800

5,800

6,200

8,700

5,800

5,800

5,800

4,550

7,000

5,600

8,450

5,600

5,600

7,200

5,600

5,600

July.

4,900 

4,900 

4,500 

750 

750

1,650 

1,250 

700 

700 

700

700

2,450

2,450

1,530

1,530

1,180

1,120

1,120

1,120

1,120

1,120

1,070

1,070

1,070

800

900

1,050

1,050

1,050

1,050

Aug.

780 

780 

460 

310 

310

310 

310 

630 

460 

460

360

360

360

360

360

360

360

270

780

780

570

570

570

1,050

860

860

860

460

Sept.

320 

320 

380 

270 

270

140 

140 

120 

70 

70

130

130

190

200

200

200

200

200

270

200

180

180

180

180

150

150

180

180

Oct.

220 

180 

160 

130 

130

130 

160 

180 

250 

300

300

300

300

300

270

270

240

240

3,200

3,800

2,350

1,520

1,350

900

740

530

530

740

740

630

Nov.

740 

850 

990 

1,100 

1,100

1,100 

1,100 

1,100 

1,160 

1,160

1,160

4,000'

2,300

1,600

270

1,250

1,250

1,600

2,600

3,150

3,750

4,400

3,750

3,150

2,600

2,130

1,720

1,370

1,050

900

Dec.

780 

780 

780 

780 

780

670 

670 

670 

670 

670

NOTE. Those discharges were obtained by the indirect method for shifting channels. 

Monthly discharge of North Platte River near North Platte, Nebr.,for 1907 and 1908.

Month.

1907. 

April 3-30. ........................................

July. ..............................................

1908.

May (27 days). ....................................

July...............................................

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

5,800 

13,000 

14,900 

10,600 

3,800 

2,800 

3,600 

1,400 

1,100

Minimum.

4,000 

3,350 

9,650 

2,900 

1,350 

900 

800 

800 

800

Mean.

4,830 

5,710 

12,500 

6,710 

2,020 

1,510 

1,450 

1,240 

1,010

2,550 

1,960 

12,300 

25,500 

4,900 

1,050 

380 

3,800 

4,400 

780

750 

940 

1,440 

4,550 

700 

270 

70 

130 

740 

670

1,670 

1,540 

6,320 

9,220 

1,530 

527 

190 

803 

1,850 

725

Run-off 

(total in 

acre-feet).

268,000 

351, 000 

744, 000 

413,000 

124, 000 

89,800 

89,200 

73,800 

28,000

2, 180, 000

103, 000 

91,600 

338,000 

549, 000 

94, 100 

32, 400 

11; 300 

49, 400 

110,000 

14, 400

1,390,000

Accuracy.

B. 

B. 

B. 

C. 

D. 

B. 

D. 

D. 

D.

D. 

C. 

D. 

C. 

D. 

D. 

D. 

D. 

D. 

D.
PLATTE ETVEK DRAINAGE BASIN. 241

PLATTE E1YER DRAINAGE BASIN. 

DESCRIPTION.

From the point of junction of North and South Platte rivers the 

main stream winds eastward across Nebraska for over 200 miles, 

uniting with the Missouri at Plattsmouth, about 10 miles south of 

Omaha. Its course lies chiefly through broad, level bottom lands, 

rather sandy in places, but for the most part fertile, bordered by 

bluffs varying in height from 50 to 300 or 400 feet. From its source 

to a point near Ashland, Saunders County, it is a broad, shallow 

stream, flowing in many places as a network of interlacing channels 

among numerous islands and sand bars, but farther east it is confined between heavily wooded limestone bluffs. The average fall 

is about 6 feet per mile.

The average annual precipitation is about 23 inches, of which 69 

per cent falls during the five months of the growing season, from 

April to August and about one-half of the remainder is snowfall. The 

evaporation averages about 4-| feet. The stream is subject to periodic floods caused by melting of snows in the headwaters regions of 

North and South Platte rivers. These floods reach a maximum in 

June and July and often do considerable damage to property on the 

lower portions of the stream. In the western part of the drainage 

area the waters of the stream are extensively used for irrigation.

The Loup and its branches, which form the most important tributaries of the Platte below the forks, drain an area 13,540 square 

miles in extent, lying in the heart of Nebraska. The Loup proper is 

formed by the junction of North and Middle Loup rivers, which unite 

near the city of St. Paul, the middle Loup in turn receiving the 

South Loup in the southwestern part of Howard County. The 

principal tributaries are Beaver, Cedar, Calamus, and Dismal creeks. 

A comparatively small amount of water is diverted for irrigation, 

the ditches generally being small and covering limited areas. A 

number of power plants are in operation and others of considerable 

extent have been proposed, particularly one near Columbus, by 

which it is believed that about 20,000 continuous horsepower may 

be developed.

The records of the Survey indicate 1905 as a year of high water, 

and 1902 and 1908 as low-water years. On Loup River the flow was 

probably lowest in 1895.

The following gaging stations have been maintained in this section 

of the Platte basin:

Platte River near Lexington, Nebr., 1902-1906. 

Platte River at Columbus, Nebr., 1895-1908. 

Platte River near South Bend, Nebr., 1903. 

Loup River at Columbus, Nebr., 1894-1908.

31260 IRR 246 10 16
242 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Middle Loup River near St. Paul, Nebr., 1895, 1897, 1899, 1903.

North Loup River near St. Paul, Nebr., 1895, 1897, 1899, 1903.

Elkhorn River near Norfolk, Nebr., 1896-1903.

Elkhorn River near Arlington, Nebr., 1898-1903

South Fork of Elkhorn River near Norfolk, Nebr., 1896.

PLATTE RIVER AT COLUMBUS, NEBR.

This station, which was established June 4, 1895, and has been 

kept continuously since that date except during the winter months, 

is located above the mouth of Loup River, at Meridian bridge, about 

3 miles south of Columbus, in sec. 31, T. 17 N., R. 1 E. No important tributaries enter the river between the junction of the North 

Platte and the South Platte and this station, and Loup River and 

Elkhorn River are the only large tributaries below. The drainage 

area is 56,900 square miles.

In the late summer practically all the water of the river disappears, 

either from diversion or evaporation from the wT ide shallow channels. 

No records have been obtained during the ice period of the winter.

The bed of the river is of shifting sand and at low water the stream 

flows in many shallow channels, so that determination of discharge 

is largely a matter of estimation. Poor measuring conditions, combined with shifting channel, render the records liable to considerable 

error. The gage datum has remained the same throughout.*

Discharge measurements of Platte River at Columbus, Nebr., in 1907 and 1908.

Date.

1907.

July 24

October 12.....

1908.

July 1. .........

July 22.........

August 22......

October 10.....

Hydrographer.

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

. ....do... ........................................ ...

.....do..............................................

G. W. Bates. .................... ..................

-....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

G. W. Bates. .......................................

.....do.. ............................................

.....do..............................................

Width.

Feet. 

2,070

1,860

2,300

2,260

1,000

630

1,510

1,930

1,750

1,130

860

2,320

2,210

1,550

1,180 

70

560

Area of 

action.

Sq.ft.

864

3,240

411

265

816

2,320

883

494

1,540

1,050 

32

Gage 

height.

Feet.

2.60

4.60

3.74

1.75

1.60

2.35

2.80

2.66

2.23

4.48

2.97

2.70

1.65

2.30

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

1,860

14,600

8,420

758

1,760

2,890

6,660

1,520

845

6,970

3.210

2,130 

33.4

b 65, 0

861

a Data collected at this station prior to 1908 have been compiled in Water-Supply Paper 230, Surface 

water supply of Nebraska. 

6 Estimated.
PLATTE RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 243

Daily gage height, in feet, of Platte River at Columbus, Nebr.,for 1907 and 1908. 

[W. D. Benson, observer.]

Day.

1907. 

1..... ..............

2. . .........

3...................

4.... ...............

6.. .... ..........

8............. .....

9........ ....... ..

10......... .........

11........... .......

12.. ... ... ......

13...................

14.

15.. .... ..........

10.......... ........

17........ ..........

18...................

19

20. ..................

21........ ... ......

22. ........

23.. ..............

24 .... ....

25.. ..............

26. ..................

27... .... ..........

28

29

30...................

31...................

1908. 

1. . .........

2...................

3...................

4.. .. . .........

5...................

G........ ..........

7...................

8...................

9...................

10...................

11........ .........

12...................

13.. ... .......

14...................

15...................

16...................

17...................

18......... .... ....

19...................

20...................

21. ... ....

22.

23...................

24...................

25.. .... ... ..

26...................

27...................

28. ..................

29...................

30...................

31...................

Mar.

6.2

6.25

3.65

3.1

2.95

3.0

3.0

2.3

3.0

2.75

2.6

2.5

2.35

2.35

2.45

2.7

2.6

2.45

2.45

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.3

2.4

2.4

2.45

2.45

2.45

Apr.

2.85

3.35

3.15

3.40

3.55

3.25

3.1

3.15

2.75

2.65

2.65

2 7

2.5

2.5

2.5

2. (5

2.7

2.85

2.9

2.6

2.9

3.35

3.25

3.4

2.3

2.45

2.45

2.4

2.55

2.65

2.45

2.3

2.35

2.35

2.5

2.3

2.25

2.15

9 d^

2.55

2.65

2.35

2.45

2.3

2.2

2.15

2.05

2.1

2.05

2.0

May.

3.2

3.15

3.35

3.1

3.3

3.2

3.0

3.0

2.85

3.0

3.05

2.65

2.65

2.7

2.7

2.65

2.5

2.55

2.6

2.65

2.6

3.25

3.25

3.7

3.9

3.8

3.85

3.9

1.8

1.75

1.55

2.35

2.6

2.7

3.0

3.0

3.0

3 A

2.95

9 Q

2.95

2 85

2.95

9 9

3.0

3.2

3.0

2.6

2.85

2.95

2.95

3.15

9 Q^

3.1

June.

4.25

4.35

4.45

4.5

4.5

4.8

4.55

4.35

4.75

5.5

4.45

4.7

4.75

4.6

4.65

4.85

4.85

4. 5o

4.35

4.2

4.15

4.0

4.05

4.05

4.05

4.2

4.25

3.2

3.1

4.6

4.75

5.95

5.85

4.8

4.65

4.3

4.3

4.35

4.3

4.3

4.3

4.2

4.2

4.2

4.15

3.9

3.9

July.

4.25

4.15

4.1

4.05

4.05

4.2

4.0

4.0

4.05

4.1

4.15

4.1

4.25

4.4

4.45

4.0

3.85

3.9

3.85

3.5

3.4

3.15

3.95

3.8

3 9

3.8

3.9

4.2

3.8

3.45

3.0

3.0

2.8

2.3

2.95

2.6

2.75

2.95

2.75

2.6

2.8

2.5

2.05

Aug.

3.0

2.9

3.0

0 1

3.15

2.9

3.05

2.85

3.05

3.0

2.4

2.0

1 Q^

1 9

2.0

9 rt

1.95

1.6

1.5

1.4

1.85

1.9

2.5

2.15

2.75

2.65

2.3

2.2

2.2

1 Q^

Sept.

2.6

2.35

2.45

2.4

2.3

2.1

1 9

1.85

1.75

1.7

1.35

1.3

1.2

1.25

QC

1.65

1.65

1.5

1.3

.75

.8

.8

.8

.7

.8

1.05

1.05

1.05

Oct.

2.8

2

0

2 85

3.0

2.8

2.4

2.35

2.3

2.2

2.15

2.3

2.4

2.35

2.4

2.45

2.45

2.5

9 T

0.8

.7

1 9

1.75

1.85

1.6

1.5

1 dZ

1 o

1 Q

1.8

1.75

1.6

1.5

1.5

1.5

2.6

9 C

2.8

2.7

2.5

2.35

Nov.

2.5

2.4

2.4

2.45

O 0

9 1

9 ^

9 ^T

2.25

2.15

2.5

2 45

2.15

2.05

2.10

2.4

2.5

2.6

2 65

2 7

2 65

9 Q

9 S

2 7

2.55

2 35

9 ^

9 9S

9 9S

2.3 9 "}

2.3

2.25

9 n

1 Q^

1 9

1 Q^

9 n

2.15

2.2

9 9

2.3

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.5

9 %

2 QI:

2.9

9 Q

2.85

2.7

Dec.

2.65

2.6

2.6

9 7^

2.7

2.65

9 ^

........

::::::::

2.3

2

CC

9 ^

2.85

9 Q

9 Q

2 95

9 S^

9 R

2.8

2.8

2 9

3

0

3.25

NOTE. Probable ice conditions January to March, 1907, December 10. 1907, March 2,1908, Decemhpr, 

1908.
244 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Rating tables for Platte River at Columbus. Nebr. 

APRIL 1 TO JULY 31, 1907.

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

2.50

2.60

2.70

2.80

2.90

3.00

3.10

3.20

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

1,600

1,900

2,300

2,750

3,200

3, 700

4,250

4,850

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

3.30

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

5,500

3. 40 6, 150

3. 50 6, 850

3. 60 7, 550

3. 70 8, 250

3. 80 8, 950

3.90

4.00

9, 650

10, 400

Gage 

height.

Fed. 

4.10

4.20

4.30

4.40

4.50

4.60

4.70

4.80

Discharge.

Sec. -ft. 

11.150

11,900

12, 650

13, 400

14. 150

14,900

15, 700

16, 500

Gage 

height.

Discharge.

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstrncted-channel conditions, 

discharge measurements made during this period and is fairly well defined.

AUGUST 1 TO DECEMBER 31, 1907.

It is based on four

0.90

1.00

1.10

1.20

1.30

1.40

1.50

50

80

125

175

235

310

400

1.60

1.70

1.80

1.90

2.00

2.10

2.20

510

650

800

950

1,100

1,270

1,460

2.30

2.40

1,650

1,860

2.50 i 2,080

2.60

2.70

2,310

2,570

2. 80 ! 2, 900

2.90 3,280

3.00

3.10

3.20

3.30

3.40

3.50

3,700

4,250

4,850

5,500

6,150

6,850

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on four 

discharge measurements made during this period and is well defined between gage heights 1.6 feet and 

2.8 feet.

MARCH 3 TO JULY 8, 1908.

1.50

1.60

1.70

1.80

1.90

2.00

2.10

2.20

2.30

2.40

2.50

170

225

290

365

450

540

640

755

890

1,040

1,210

2.60

; 2.70

| 2.80

i 2.90

i 3.00

i 3.10

1,420

1,670

1,960

2,320

3.70

3.80

3.90

4.00

2,750 i 4.10

3. 220 i 4. 20

i 3. 20 3, 730

; 3.30

1 3.40

1 3.50

1 3.60

4,270

4, 860 i

5,500

6,170 !

4.30

4.40

4.50

4.60

4.70

6,900

7,680

8,490

9,340

10, 230

11,170

12, 130

13, 120

14,140

15, 170

16, 220

4.80

4.90

5.00

5.20

5.40

5.60

5.80

6.00

17, 290

18,370

19, 460

21,650

23. 870

26, 130

28, 430

30, 750

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on five 

discharge measurements made during this period and is fairly well defined between gage heights 2.2 feet 

and 4.5 feet. Below gage height 2.2 feet it is very uncertain.

JULY 9 TO AUGUST 31, 1908.

1.30

1.40

1.50

1.60

1.70

1.80

1.90

200

255

320

395

475

565

670

2.00

2.10

2.20

2.30

2.40

2.50

2.60

790 |

920 i

1,060

1,220 '

1,400

1,620

1,880

2.70

2.80

2.90

3.00

3.10

3.20

3.30

2,180

2,520

2,900

3,340

3,830

4,360

4,920

3.40

3.50

3.60

3.70

3.80

5,520

6,160

6,840

7,550

8,300

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on two discharge measurements made during this period and the form of the preceding curve. It is not well defined.
PLATTE RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 245

Monthly discharge of 1'latte River at Columbus, Nebr.,for 1907 and 1908,

Discharge in second-feet.

i Maximum.

1907. 

April...................... ....................... 7,200

May. .............................................. 9. 650

June............. ......... ...................... 22,100

July. ..... ........................................ 13, 800

September. ........................................ 2,310

October... ............... . .................. 3,700

November. ........................................ 3, 280

December 1-1 \... . ................................. 2,740

Minimum.

1,600 

1,600 

10,400 

4,530 

400 

65 

1,270 

1,180 

2,200

1908. 

March ............................ ................ 6, 540

April .............................................. 1 , 540

May. .............................................. 4, 860

June. .............................................. 30, 200

July. ............................................. .' 1 1 , 200

890 

540

198 

3,220 

855

228

The period

Mean.

3,770 

4,450 

14,000 

10,000 

2,500 

756 

1,990 

2,030 

2,430

1,930 

991 

2.350 

11,800 

4,250 

888

Run-off 

(total in 

acre feet).

224,000 

274,000 

833,000 

615,000 

154,000 

45, 000 

122,000 

121,000 

67, 500

2, 460, 000

119,000 

59,000 

144, 000 

702, 000 

261,000 

54,600

1,340,000

Accuracy.

B. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

C.

C. 

D. 

C. 

C. 

C. 

D.

NOTE. There are not sufficient data for computing discharges for September to December, 1908. 

LOUP RIVER AT COLUMBUS, NEBR.

This station, which was established October 13, 1894, is located at 

the highway bridge in the outskirts of Columbus and about 5 miles 

above the mouth of the river, in sec. 25, T. 17 N., R. 1 W.

The records show the total discharge of the river at its mouth, and 

are valuable in connection with power development. They show also 

the remarkably uniform flow of the stream. A comparatively small 

amount of water is diverted for irrigation.

Records have usually been suspended during the winter months on 

account of the severe ice conditions.

Measurements at this station are rough at best, owing to the soft 

and constantly shifting bed and the high and uneven velocity. Gage 

heights are only an approximate index of discharge, as the swift current changes the channel very rapidly, and at least one measurement 

a week would be required to give even fairly good results.

No daily discharges have been computed for 1907 and 1908, as any 

computation based on the data at hand would be misleading, and a 

fair idea of the discharge can be obtained from the discharge measurements. Two gages have been used at this station: A chain gage at 

the highway bridge has been used since 1904, and a staff gage at the 

former cable location, li- miles above, was used prior to that time. 

No changes in datum have been made.
246 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Discharge measurements of Loup River at Columbus, Nebr., in 1907 and 1908.

Date.

1907.

1908.

April 20........

Hydrographer.

.....do..............................................

.....do.................................... ..........

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

G. W. Bates. ......................................

G. W. Bates ........... A ..........................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

G. W. Bates. ......................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............--....-..-.......-.---...----...

Width.

Feet. 

667

600

677

606

532

445

338

676

700

790

800

860

140

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

1,040

1,200

770

846

598

1,210

843

929

949

1,170

1,080

516

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

4.46 

4.40 

4.75 

4.80 

4.40 

4.60 

4.52 

4.50

4.56 

4.74 

4.58 

5.65 

5.25 

4.35 

4.27 

4.44 

4. (,0 

4.45 

4.72

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

2,720 

2,850 

5,450 

3,390 

1,810 

2.620 

2,120 

2,650

3,510

3,140

2,840

9,920

7,620

2,780

2,270

2,890

2,380

2,580

2,300

a Slush ice.

Daily gage height, in feet, of Loup Rirer at Columbus, Nebr., for 1907 and 1908. 

[\V. D. Benson, observer.]

Day.

1907.

4...................

5...................

6.......-.--.----.--

9

10. ..................

12.....-..------.--.-

14.....-..-....-...-.

15.....-..-...----.--

1 8

19

20...................

21...................

23..... ..-.....--...

24...................

25........-.---......

26...................

27...................

29...................

30...................

31...................

Mar. Apr.

4.35

4.45

4.4

4.5

4.6

4.55

4.5

4.4

4.3

4.35

4.25

4.3

4.25

4.25

4.35

4.45

4.45

4.4

4.4

4.4

4.6

4.65

4.5

4.5

4.6

4.55

May.

4.4

4.35

4.45

4.55

4.55

4.45

4.4

4.3

4.4

4.4

4.4

4.45

4.4

4.45

4.5

4.45

4.65

4.6

4.65

4.7

4.75

4.85

5.55

5.2

5.2

5.5

4.8

4.85

4.9

4.7

June.

4.7

4.85

5.0

4.7

4.85

4.85

4 9

4.7

4.85

5.4

5.05

4.9

4.95

4.95

4.9

4.85

5.1

4.7

4.9

4.9

4.55

4.45

4.45

4.55

4.65

4.35

4.6

4.75

4.75

July.

4.6

4.45

4.45

4.4

4.4

4.5

4.7

5.25

4.85

4.7

4.55

4.5

4.5

4.9

5.4

6.0

4.8

5.2

5.35

5.1

5.05

4.85

4.8

4.85

4.9

4.65

4.6

4.7

4.7

4.65

4.6

Aug.

4.55

4.6

4.6

4.7

4.55

4.55

6.05

5.5

4.25

4.05

4.05

4.05

4.25

4.35

4.65

4.45

4.25

4.2

4.25

4.25

4.4

4.45

4.4

4.55

4.45

4.7

4.75

4.85

4.85

Sept.

4.7

4.65

4.6

4.6

4.65

4.65

4.55

4.55

4.55

4.55

4.65

4.65

4.65

4.55

4.6

4.65

4.5

4.6

4.6

4.55

4.65

4.7

4.65

4.6

4.6

4.6

4.8

4.9

5.0

Oct.

5.2

5.1

4.9

4.9

4.7

4.65

4.45

4.4

4.4

4.45

4.6

4.4

4.5

4.45

4.4

4.55

A f^K.

4.55

4.7

4.7

4.75

4.7

4.7

4.6

4.65

4.55

4.5

4.5

4.7

Nov.

4.9

4.5

4.8

4.7

4.7

4.8

4.85

4.8

4.7

4.55

4.4

4.4

4.6

4.8

4.7

4.6

4.5

4.55

4.3

4.55

4.55

4.6

4.7

Dec.

4. 65

4.75

4.7

4 05

A -jr.
PLATTE RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 247 

Daily gage height, in feet, of Loup River at Columbus, Nebr.,for 1907 and 1908 Cont'd.

Day.

1908. 

1..... ... .......

2. ..................

3...................

4...................

5... . . . ........

6..... ............

7...................

8...................

9...................

10...................

11..... ... ........

12...................

13...................

14. ..................

15...................

16..... ... ..... .

17...................

18. . . .. ..

19...................

20. ..

21................ .. 2'>

23..... ... .......

24...................

25. .. ... . ..

2G...................

27...................

28...................

29...................

30..... .......... .

31...................

Mar.

4.75

5.0

4.4

4.4

4.4

4.7

4.7

4.6

4.55

4.6

4.6

4 6

4.65

4.6

4.65

4.4

4.35

4.55

4.4

4.6

4.45

4.55

4.5

4.45

4.25

4.55

4.5

4.5

4.45

4.3

Apr.

4.45

4.6

4.55

4.55

4.5

4.5

4.8

4.55

4.6

4.6

4.5

4.7

4.6

4.6

4.65

4.6

4.85

4.65

4.75

4.75

4.7

4.6

4.5

4.45

4.65

4.35

4.5

4.2

May.

4.25

4.3

4.3

4.55

4.95

4.85

4.75

4.45

4.45

4.4

4.8

4.5

4 45

4.6

4.65

4.55

4.75

4.75

4.7

4.6

4.4

4.35

4.55

4.5

4.7

4 7^

4.8

4.9

4.75

4.9

June.

4.7

5.0

4.45

4.6

7.2

6.25

5.95

6.0

5.45

5.2

4.95

5.5

5.15

5.3

4.85

4.85

5.3

5.2

4.85

4.45

4.55

6.25

5.55

4.9

4.8

4.25

4.2

4.1

4.15

July.

4.35

4.45

4.65

4.5

4.4

4.4

4.55

4.6

4.5

4.3

4.3

4.35

4.15

4.1

4.3

4.2

4.25

4.2

4.2

4.45

4.3

4.85

4.85

4.6

4.4

4.2

Aug.

4.15

3.95

4.05

4.05

4.0

4.1

4.1

4.1

4.25

4.3

4.4

5.1

4.85

5.3

5.95

4.6

4.6

4.75

4.4

4.5

4.75

4.4

4.4

4.4

4.45

4.45

4.45

4 45

4.35

4.3

Sept.

3.1

4.45

4.25

4.35

4.25

4.2

4.2

4.2

4.15

4.15

4.15

4.15

4.15

4.15

4.2

4.2

4.2

4.15

4.25

4.2

4.25

4.2

4.2

4.2

4 9<;

4.35

4.4

4.5

4.25

Oct.

4.3

4.3

4.25

4.2

4.5

5.0

4.55

4.6

4.5

4.55

4.6

4.5

4.5

4.5

4.5

4.5

4.5

4.6

4.75

4.65

4.45

4.35

4.35

4.35

4.25

4.2

4.3

Nov.

4.35

4.45

4.45

4.45

4.45

4.45

4.45

4.5

4.45

4 45

4.5

4.5

4.25

4.25

4.4

4.45

4.65

4.55

4.5

4.55

4.55

4.6

4.65

4.55

4.35

4.45

4.65

4.5

Dec.

4.05

4.05

4.05

4.6

4.85

4.7

4.7

4.85

4.85

4.9

5.2

5.1

5.05

4.95

4.8

4.7

4.65

4.45

4.45

4.35

4.6

4.55

4.55

4.6

4.65

4.6

4.7

4.65

4.65

NOTE. These gage heights afford only an approximate index of discharge. Owing to the extremely 

shifting character of the river bed no daily discharges can be computed that will be in any way reliable.

Probable ice conditions January to March, 1907, December 11, 1907, to February 29, 1908, and December, 1908.

SOUTH PLATTE RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN.

DESCRIPTION.

The South Platte rises in the mountainous region surrounding 

the large basin near the center of the State of Colorado, known as 

South Park, and in the long eastern slopes of the high mountains 

forming the Continental Divide. The river might properly be said 

to be formed at South Platte, Colo., by the junction of the North and 

South forks. The drainage area of the South Fork comprises about 

2,150 square miles, and that of the North Fork only about 450 square 

miles, but there is little difference in the mean annual flow of the two 

branches. The North Fork is about 50 miles long and the South 

Fork a little over 100 miles. Geneva Creek, with a drainage area 

of 50 square miles, is the most important tributary of the North 

Fork, other tributaries being Deer Park, Elk, and Buffalo creeks. 

Tarryall Creek and Goose Creek are the principal tributaries of the 

South Fork.

South Fork, usually considered the main branch of the river, flows 

in an easterly direction to Lake George, then northward to its junction with the North Fork, and on to the mouth of the Cache la Poudre
248 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

near Greeley. From Greeley its general course is eastward, until it 

joins the North Platte at the town of North Platte, Nebr.

At the mouth of the South Platte its elevation is 2,800 feet above 

sea level; 100 miles above the mouth it is 3,600 feet; at Denver, 288 

miles above the mouth, it is 5,170 feet; and at South Platte about 

6,100 feet. Lake George, about 50 miles up the South Fork, is 

8,000 feet above sea level, and Cheesman Keservoir, 23 miles up 

from South Platte, is 6,850 feet. At the mouth of Geneva Creek, at 

Grant, Colo., 40 miles up the North Fork from South Platte, the 

elevation is about 8,500 feet.

The drainage basin, which comprises about 20,000 square miles 

above Julesburg, Colo., is bisected in an irregular way by the channel of the South Platte. To the north and west lies the mountainous 

portion, which consists of a long, narrow strip, extending in a northsouth direction from a point a short distance above the south boundary of Wyoming to Palmer Lake, Colo. This area furnishes at 

least 90 per cent of the total run-off of the basin. South and east 

of the river the basin lies entirely within the plains region.

The mountainous region consists of peaks and jagged masses of 

granite, with sedimentary rocks cut and gashed by stream channels 

along the foothills. The stream gradients are steep, and many of 

the streams consist of series of cascades and rapids. The soil cover 

as a whole is light, and except during spring freshets or heavy storms 

the streams are remarkably free from sediment in suspension.

The lower basin, somewhat scarred and broken along the foothills, 

gradually merges farther east into the undulating prairies so characteristic of the Great Plains east of the Rocky Mountains. The soils 

of the plains are the product of the disintegration of shales and sandstones, and range from adobe clays to sandy loams. The controlling 

vegetation is largely native grasses, the only timber being a few 

bunches of scraggly cottonwoods along the stream channels and small 

patches of pine, cedar, and piiion along the higher portions.

The forest cover of the mountains, consisting originally of coniferous trees, is rapidly disappearing, but through the occurrence of 

fires a foothold has been furnished for the deciduous aspen, which is 

gradually increasing its dominion. Most of the timber land in this 

drainage is included in the Pike and Medicine Bow national forests; 

in all there are probably 1,000 square miles of merchantable timber 

lands.

The tributaries of the South Platte comprise, first, the small streams 

that rise on the eastern slope of the Rocky Mountains, and, second, 

the plains streams. The mountain streams furnish a perennial 

supply of water, the amount of which, however, varies with the snowfall, being light during the latter part of the summer and in the fall 

and winter, and large during the spring floods. This water is almost
PLATTE EIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 249

entirely diverted for irrigation and does not reach the South Platte 

except in times of heavy floods. The principal streams of this class 

are Bear, Clear, Boulder, and St. Vrain creeks and Big Thompson 

and Cache la Poudre rivers. The plains streams are all intermittent 

in their nature and furnish water only during storms or in the season 

of melting snow. The chief streams of this class are Cherry, Lone 

Tree, Kiowa, Box Elder, Bijou, Beaver, and Pawnee creeks.

In the mountainous regions the flow of the South Platte is perennial, but in the plains area the volume is greatly diminished by the 

numerous irrigation diversions. At North Platte, Nebr., just above 

the mouth of the river, the stream channel is dry for the greater part 

of the year, or consists of several small channels carrying a few secondfeet of water.

The river is subject to periodic floods that occur in May and June, 

the magnitude varying from year to year with seasonal precipitation 

and temperature. At Julesburg, Colo., the stream flow varies from 

nothing up to 12,000 second-feet.

The rainfall is 25 inches or more in the highest mountains; 15 to 

20 inches between altitudes of 5,500 and 9,000 feet; 10 to 15 inches 

between 4,000 and 5,000 feet; and in the lower basin, below an elevation of 4,000 feet, from 15 to 20 inches annually.

The winters are very severe, especially above the points where the 

mountain streams emerge into the more open country. In the 

mountain sections the snowfall is heavy, and snowstorms are common on the plains areas, but here the snow usually disappears within 

a few days after each storm. During the winter months the river 

and its tributaries are frequently frozen over throughout their entire 

courses. The ice period varies from about two months in the vicinity 

of Julesburg, Colo., to about five months in the high mountains, 

where the streams are frozen almost to the bottom. (See PI. XII.)

The South Platte basin contains the oldest cultivated and irrigated areas in Colorado. At present nearly 1,000,000 acres are 

under irrigation in Colorado from the South Platte and its tributaries. 

In fact, the entire normal flow is being used for this purpose, and 

additional irrigation will necessitate the construction of storage reservoirs or the diversion of water from other drainage areas. The 

North Grand ditch, which has been in operation for several years, 

diverts water from the North Fork of Grand River across the divide 

into Cache la Poudre River. The Laramie-Poudre project, which will 

soon be begun, contemplates the diversion of the headwaters of 

Laramie River in the watershed of the North Platte, into the Cache 

la Poudre, in the watershed of the South Platte; and the Denver 

Reservoir and Irrigation Company proposes to divert the headwaters of Fraser River, a tributary of the Grand, into the headwaters 

of South Boulder, a tributary of the South Platte. Other similar
250 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

projects are under, consideration. The storage of the flood waters 

of the intermittent streams in the lower basin offer opportunities for 

considerable irrigation development. Very little is known as to the 

flow of these streams, but it is certainly very large at times and 

many excellent storage sites are available.

About a half million acre-feet of the annual flow from the mountain 

section of this basin are now being stored for irrigation in many small 

reservoirs, and a large part of the mountain flow is still available for 

irrigation by proper conservation and storage.

Conditions on the upper South Platte and its tributaries are unusually favorable for storage (PL XII, A). Some of the many good 

sites are natural depressions or are situated on small tributaries, so 

that the reservoirs will have to be supplied by feeder canals. Of this 

type is the Standley reservoir of the Denver Reservoir and Irrigation 

Company. This reservoir, which is now under construction, will have 

a maximum capacity of about 100,000 acre-feet.

The largest reservoir which has been constructed in the South Platte 

basin is the Cheesman Lake of the Denver-Union Water Company. 

This reservoir, which was completed in 1904, has f ^aximum capacity 

of 79,000 acre-feet. Among other proposed reserv. may be mentioned the Antero, Tarryall, Lake George, Lost Park, Eagle Rock, and 

Geneva. Opportunities for storage are also found on Clear Creek, 

Boulder, St. Vrain, Big Thompson, and the Cache la Poudre. Some 

excellent reservoir sites have been surveyed on the last-named stream, 

and no doubt will be developed shortly. The reservoirs on the upper 

portions of these streams will be used primarily for powrer development, but the stored waters can also be used for irrigation in the 

valleys belowT .

Water-power development is necessarily limited to the mountainous parts of the drainage area. Many favorable opportunities for 

such development are presented on Geneva Creek, the South Fork, 

Clear Creek, Boulder Creek, Big Thompson, and Cache la Poudre. 

Many power sites have been filed upon. The ultimate power development in this drainage basin will probably amount to nearly 200,000 

horsepower, but present development is limited to numerous small 

plants with a total capacity of less than 5,000 horsepower. Most of 

these plants are on Clear Creek and Boulder Creek. The plant of the 

Eastern Colorado Power Company, on Boulder Creek, a few miles 

above Boulder, Colo., is now under construction, and when completed will have a capacity of probably 20,000 horsepower.

Of the years for which Survey records are available, 1902 seems to 

be the driest and 1907 the wettest. It is believed, however, that the 

flow of the streams in 1899 was considerably higher than in 1907, and 

that in 1900 was quite high in some parts of the basin.
U. S. GEOLOGICAL SURVEY WATER-SUPPLY PAPER 246 PLATE XII

A. PORTION OF ELKHORN RESERVOIR SITE ON CACHE LA POUDRE RIVER. 

Capacity will be i 13,757 acre-feet with a dam 400 feet high. Mouth of Elkhorn Creek in foreground.

B. CONTINENTAL DIVIDE NEAR TOLLAND, COLO.
fLATTE RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN.

The following gaging stations have been maintained in this drainage 

basin:

South Fork of South Platte River near Cheesman Lake, Colo., 1899-1901.

South Fork of South Platte River at South Platte, Colo., 1905-1908.

South Platte River at South Platte, Colo., 1902-1908.

South Platte River near Deansbury (Platte Canyon), Colo., 1887-1892, 1895-

1900.

South Platte River at Denver, Colo., 1895-1906. 

South Platte River near Kersey, Colo., 1901-1903, 1905-1908. 

South Platte River near Orchard, Colo., 1895-1900. 

South Platte River near Julesburg, Colo., 1902-1906, 1908. 

South Platte River near Big Spring, Nebr., 1902-3. 

Goose Creek near Cheesman Lake, Colo., 1899. 

North Fork of South Platte River at Cassells, Colo., 1908. 

Geneva Creek near Grant, Colo., 1908. 

Bear Creek near Morrison, Colo., 1888-1891, 1895-1902. 

Clear Creek at Forkscreek, Colo., 1899-1908. 

Clear Creek at Golden, Colo., 1897-1898. 

St. Vrain Creek near Lyons, Colo., 1888-1892, 1895-1903. 

Boulder Creek at Orodell, Colo., 1907-8.

Boulder Creek near Boulder, Colo., 1888-1892, 1895-1901, 1907-8. 

North Boulder Creek near Boulder, Colo., 1887-1890. 

South Boulder Creek near Marshall, Colo., 1888-1892, 1895-1901. 

Big Thompson Creek near Arkins, Colo., 1888-1890, 1895-1903. 

Handy Ditch near Arkins, Colo., 1903. 

Cache la Poudre River near Fort Collins, Colo., 1884-1901. 

Cache la Poudre River near Greeley, Colo., 1903. 

Middle Crow Creek near Hecla, Wyo., 1902-3.

SOUTH FORK OF SOUTH PLATTE RIVER AT SOUTH PLATTE, COLO.

This station, which was established May 8, 1905, to determine the 

run-off in this basin and the amount of water available on this branch 

of the South Platte for power and irrigation, is located at South 

Platte, Colo., in T. 7 S., R. 70 W.

The North and South forks of the South Platte unite about 500 feet 

below the station, and the Cheesman reservoir, which intercepts the 

flow of Tarryall and Goose creeks in addition to that of the main 

branch, is about 20 miles above. No very important tributaries 

enter below Cheesman Lake. The drainage area above the station 

is 2,160 square miles, of which probably less than 20 per cent can be 

classed as timbered land.

No water is diverted above this point except for the irrigation of 

hay lands in South Park, but the flow is regulated by the Cheesman 

reservoir, which has a capacity of 79,000 acre-feet. So many filings 

for power development have been made on this stream that it is 

doubtful whether additional filings can be made except near the headwaters.

The flow of the river at this station is affected by ice for about 

three months in the winter season.
252 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

No change has been made in the gage since it was first established, 

and the datum remains the same.

Fair results should be obtained at this station, but as the bed is 

shifting frequent measurements are necessary. The gage heights 

are apt to show fluctuation at certain times of the year owing to 

storage or release of water in the Cheesman reservoir.

Discharge measurements of South Fork of South Platte River at South Platte, Colo., in

1907 and 1908.

Date.

1907.

Do.........

1908.

Do. a &.....

Ilydrographer.

C. L. Chatfleld .....................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do.................................: ...........

C. L. Chatfield. ....................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

J. B. Stewart. ......................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

"W 13 Freeman

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

Width.

Feet. 

34

61

at\

63

48

22

OK

62

42

50

48

Area of 

section.

Sq. ft. 

29

49

61

85

103

163

96

28

83

47

36

16.2

Gage 

height.

Feet.

1.85

1.85

2.15

9 45

9 3^

1.61

98

1.08

2.10

1.58

1 80

1.68

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

251

479

 31 C

149

137

59

Oft

31

186

1^9

153

20.6

a Ice conditions. & Made by wading.

Daily gage height, in feet, of South Fork of South Platte River at South Platte, Colo., for

1907 and 1908.

[Miss E. II. Jardine, observer.]

Day.

1907.

1. ....................

9

3.....................

6.....................

7.....................

9

10.....................

11. .................. ..

12.....................

13.....................

14.....................

15.....................

16.....................

17.....................

18.....................

19.....................

20.....................

Feb.

1.20

1.30

1.30

1.35

1.30

1.35

1.40

1.40

1.40

Mar.

1.65

1. 65

1. fia

1.62

1.70

1.62

1.70

1.72

1.75

1.68

1.70

1.70

1. 65

1.50

1.48

1.50

1.70

1.80

2.08

Apr.

1.52

1. (;0

1.70

2.15

2.00

2.00

1.90

1.98

2 w

2.15

2.10

2.10

2.05

2.05

2.00

2.00

2.00

May.

2.02

2. 12

2.20

2.20

2.28

2. '0

2.85

2.80

2.72

2.70

2.55

2.50

2.50

2.50

2.50

2.40

2.40

Juno.

2. 88

3.02

2. !-6

2.60

.48

.48

.42

.40

2.45

2.50

2.45

2.70

2.80

3.25

3. 45

3.50

3.70

3.95

July.

3. 42

3.58

3.55

3.70

3.60

3. 55

3.40

3.45

3.50

3.48

3.25

3.00

3.30

3.30

3. OS

2.65

2.52

2.35

Aug.

3.58

3.52

3.45

3.95

2.75

2.50

2.40

2.40

2.45

2.50

2.45

2.38

2.35

2.45

Sept.

2.40

2.40

2.40

2.30

2. 30

2.00

1 92

1.75

1.75

1.75

1.75

1.78

1.82

1.82

2.10

Oct.

1.80

1.40

1.50

1.50

1.50

1.60

1.62

1.60

1.60

1.60

1.60

1.60

1.60

1.60

1.60

1.50

1.50

Nov.

1.55

1.55

1.70

1. CO

1.55

1. tO

1.55

1.42

1.40

1.30

1.30

1.30

1.30

1.30

1.25

1.20

1.30

Dec.

1.15

1.10

1 00

1.20

1. 18

1.10

1. 02

1.00

1 1 ^

98

1.05

.85

.92

1.10

1.50

1.72

1.82
PLATTE BIVEE DRAINAGE BASIN. 253

Daily (jag e height, in feet, of South Fork of South Platte River at South Platte, Colo., 

for 1907 and 1908 Continued.

Day.

1907. 

21 .....................

22.....................

23 ..................... 

24. 

25.. ...................

26 . .... .... 

27.....................

29

01

1908.

2.....................

0

4.....................

6.....................

g

10. ....................

12 .....................

15.....................

18.....................

19

21.....................

22.....................

23 .....................

24.....................

25.....................

97

29 

30.. '.__....."...--....

31.....................

Feb.

1.45

1 4n

1.50 

1. CO 

1.60

1.62 

1. 65

1.65

Mar.

2.10

2.30

2.25 

2. 20 

2.00

2.00 

1.80

1. SO

1.78

1.0

.9

.9

9

.9

95

.95

1.2

1.9

2.1

2.05

2.05

1.9

1.8 

1.7

1.7

1. 7

1.6 

1.6

1.5

Apr.

1.85

1.85

1.95 

1.98 

2. 15

2. 2s 

2. 25

2.25

2. ''0

2. 12

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.65

1.75

1.8

1. 7

1. 7

1.6 

1.55

1.5

1.5 

1.5

May.

2.40

2.45

2.50 

2.45 

2.45

2 40 

2. 35

9 9Q

9. 99

2. 50

2.75

1.5

1.55

1.5

1 4

1.6

1. 65

1.5

1.4

1.35

1.3

1.3

1.2

1.25

1.3

1.35

1.4

1.45

1.3

1.3 

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.25

1.2 

1.3

1.3

June.

4.20

4.10

3.88 

3.60 

3.50

3. 50

3. 58

3. 48

1.9

1.35

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.9

1.9

1.9

1.9

1.9

1.8

1.8

1.5

1.5

1.45

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1. 75 

1. 75

July.

2.28

2.28

2.30 

2.70

2.85

3.10

3.78

A ~ K.

4.90

4.42

1.75

1.8

1.8

1.65

1.65

1.65

1.65

1.65

1.6

2.25

1.6

1.75

1.9

1.9

1 9

1.9

2.1

2.05

2.0

2.0

2.0

1.95 

2.0

2.0

2.0

1.9

1.8 

1.8

1.9

Aug.

2.55

2.60

2.52 

2.40 

2.40

2. 38 

2.38

2.42

2.38

2.0

2.4

2.35

2.5

2.6

2.35

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.1

2.25

2.3

*> *3

2.3

2.5

2 7

2.6

2.55 

2.45

2.4

2.35

1.7

1.7 

2.05

9. 0

Sept.

2.10

2.10

2.08 

2.00 

2.00

2.05 

2.05

1.92

1.80

....... 

2.0

1.8

1.65

1.5

1.5

1.5

1 4n

1.4

1.35

1.4

1-2

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.0

1.9

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8 

1.6

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7 

1.6

Oct.

1.50

1.50

1.50 

1.52 

1.58

1.50 

1. 60

1.65

1.70

1.80

1.6

1.55

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.4

1.35

1.35

1.35

1 q

1.25

1.25

1.3

1.25

1.25

1.25

1.3

1.3

1.35

1.4

1.4

1.3

1.25 

1.3

1.3

1.2

1.2

1.45 

1.35

1.2

Nov.

1.30

1.30

1.30 

1.30 

1.30

1.15

1.18

1.05

1.15

1 9

1.2

1.2

.8

.7

7

7

.7

.6

.9

1.1

1 9

1.0

.9

.9

.8

.7

.65

.75

.8

1.05

1.0 

1.15

Dec.

1. 82

1.82

1.52 

1.42 

1.42

1.42 

1.15

1.98

1.10

1.4

1.4

1.3

1.3

1.2

1.15

1.2

1.45

1.45

1.55

1.2

1.3

1.3

1.45

1.3

1.4

1. 4

1.5

2.0

2.0

2.0

1.8 

1.4

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8 

1.75

1.9

NOTF.. Ire conditions January 1 to about February 12, 1907, December 15, 1907, to March 7, 1908, and 

after November 13, 1908. Water standing in pools NoVember 4-13, 1908.

Eating tables for South Fork of /South Platte River at South Platte, Colo. 

FEBRUARY 12 TO JULY 31, 1907.

Gace

height.

Discharge.

Fed. Sec.-ft.

1. 00 55

1. 10 63

1.20 ' 72

1. 30 : 82

1. 40 ' 92

1. 50 102

l.(iO , 113

1.70

1.80

127

145

Gage

height.

Discharge.

Feet. Scc.-ft.

1. 90 1C.5

2.00

2.10

2.20

2.30

2.40

2.50

2. CO

190 , 215

240

270

300

335

370

2. 70 410

Gage

height.

Feet.

2.80

2.90

3.00

3.10

3.20

3.30

3.40

3.50

3. CO

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

455

505

SCO

615

670

730

790

850

915

Gage

height.

Feet.

3.70

3.80

3.90

4.00

4.20

4.40

4.60

4.80

5.00

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

980

1,045

1,110

1,175

1,310

1 450

1,590

1,730

1 870

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on eight 

discharge measurements made during the above period and on the form of the 1906 curve. It is well 

denned above gage height 1. 2 feet. Above gage height 1.8 feet it is the same as the 1906 table.
254 SUBFACE WATEE SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Rating tables for South Fork of South Platte River at South Platte, Colo. Continued.

AUGUST 1 TO DECEMBER 31, 1907.

Gage 

height.

Feet.

0.90

1.00

1.10

1.20

1.30

1.40

1.50

1.60

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.,

50

eo

70

85

100

115

130

150

Gage 

height.

Feet.

1.70

1.80

1.90

2.00

2.10

2.20

2.30

2.40

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

170

190

215

240

265

295

330

370

Gage 

height.

Feet.

2.50

2. CO

2.70

2.80

2.90

3.00

3.10

3.20

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

410

450

495

540

585

630

675

720

Gage 

height.

Feel.

3.30

3.40

3.50

3. CO

3.70

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

770

820

870

925

980

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on five discharge measurements made during the above period and the form of previous curves. It is well defined.

MARCH 8 TO MARCH 30, 1908.

0.90

1.00

1.10

1.20

35

40

45

52

1.30

1.40

1.50 i.eo

61

72

84

98

1.70

1.80

1.90

2.00

112

128

147

166

2.10 186

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on one 

discharge measurement made during the above period and the form of preceding curves. It is not well 

defined.

MARCH 31 TO APRIL 25, 1908.

[Indirect method for shifting channels used.]

APRIL 26 TO NOVEMBER 3, 1908.

1.20

1.30

1.40

1.50

71

80

94

110

1.60

1.70

1.80

1.90

126

144

162

181

2.00

2.10

2.20

2.30

200

222

247

274

2.40

2.50

2.60

2.70

303

335

370

410

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on five 

discharge measurements made during the above period and the form of preceding curves, and is well 

defined between gage heights 1.2 feet and 1.9 feet

Daily discharge, in second-feet, of South Fork of South Platte River at South Platte,

Colo., for 1908.

Day.

1..............

2. .............

5..............

6..............

7. .............

8..............

g

10..............

Mar.

........

Apr.

86

89

93

96

98

100

104

106

108

Day.

11..............

12..............

13..............

14..............

1 c

16. .............

17. .............

18..............

19

20. .............

Mar. Apr.

110

112

115

120

133

145

150

155

Day.

21..............

22..............

23..............

24..............

26. .............

28. .............

29. .............

30. .............

31..............

Mar.

84

Apr.

130

125

120

115

NOTE. These discharges were obtained by the indirect method for shifting channels.
PLATTE EIVEK DEAINAGE BASIN. 255

Monthly discharge of South Fork of South Platte River at South Platte, Colo.,for 1907

and 1908.

Month.

1907. 

February 12-28. .....................................

April ................................................

June.... ....... . . ....... ........... ........

July ................................................

1908.

April................................................

July. ................................................

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

120 

270 

264 

480 

1,310 

1.800 

914 

370 

190 

170 

85

180 

155 

144 

181 

200 

410 

200 

126 

71

410

Minimum.

72 

100 

104 

195 

300 

264 

350 

180 

115 

65 

35

Mean.

96.8 

140 

194 

325 

607 

782 

472 

255 

149 

111 

53.3

35

86 

71

71 

126 

144 

87 

71 

0

0

30 

30 

80.7 

115 

95.5 

127 

173 

269 

144 

88.4 

29.9 

23.4

100

Run-off 

(total in 

acre-feet) .

3,200

8,980 

11,500 

20,000 

39,700 

48, 100 

29,000 

15,200 

9,160 

6.600 

3,280

195,000

1,840 

1,730 

4,960 

6,840 

5,870 

7,560 

10,600 

16,500 

8,570 

5,440 

1,780 

1,440

73.100

Accuracy

C. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

B. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

C.

D. 

D. 

C. 

B. 

B. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

D. 

D.

NOTE. Discharge estimated December 10, 1907, to March 7, 1908, and November 14 to December 31, 

1908. No flow November 4-13,1908.

SOUTH PLATTE RIVER AT SOUTH PLATTE, COLO.

This station, which was established March 28, 1902, furnishes valuable data for use in connection with storage, irrigation, and waterpower development. It is located on the Colorado and Southern 

Railroad in T. 7 S., R. 7 W., about 9 miles above the mouth of the 

canyon and just below the junction of the North and South forks. 

Records at Platte Canyon and at Deansbury, a few miles below, 

extend back to 1887, with the exception of the years 1893 and 1894, 

and records at Platte Canyon are still being taken by the Denver 

Union Water Company. The earlier records, 1887-1892, were taken 

by the state engineer, and the records from 1895 to 1898 were taken 

under the direction of the Denver Power and Irrigation Company.

The station is especially important because of its location above 

the head-gates of all irrigation systems and also above the intake of 

the Denver Union Water Company. The location of the Cheesman 

storage reservoir on the South Fork, 20 miles above this station, and 

the proposed installation of several power plants on both forks of the 

river above add to the importance of the station.
256 SUEFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

A great many filings for power development have been made on 

the tributaries of the river above this point, but doubtless opportunities for additional filings still exist.

The flow of the South Fork of the South Platte is regulated by 

storage in Cheesman reservoir. The flow of the North Fork is natural, except for slight variations due to the many ice and fish ponds 

for 30 miles above its mouth.

The river and its tributaries are usually frozen over from two to 

four months during the winter time.

On May 7, 1905, the gage was moved from the county bridge to a 

point 150 feet downstream, which no doubt caused some change in 

the relation of gage readings.

The stream bed is more or less shifting, and frequent discharge 

measurements are necessary to obtain the best results. The gage 

readings taken twice each day are apt to show considerable fluctuation owing to the regulation of the flow from the Cheesman reservoir.

Discharge measurements of South Platte River at South Platte, Colo., in 1907 and 1908.

Date.

1907.

April 10........

Do.........

May 9..........

May 28. ........

June 28........

October 12.....

1908.

March 19. ......

May 11.........

JuneG... ......

July 3. .........

Septembers....

October 28. ....

Hydrographer.

C. L. Chatfleld .....................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do. .............................................

J. B. Stewart. ......................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

J. B . Stewart. ......................................

.....do..............................................

.....do............ .................................

J. B . Stewart. ......................................

.....do..............................................

.....do.................................... ..........

.....do..............................................

Width.

Feet. 

73

75

75

75

78

79

78

79

76

78

77

75

39

36.5

76

76

75

7^

23

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

65

90

100

103

202

187

242

285

196

165

102

83

62

44

45

111

83

90

102

97

76

38

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

1.70

2.00

3.15

2.85

4.12

2.72

2.05

1.74

1.45

2.10

2.08

2.15

2.20

1.80

1 ^

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

129

211

258

665

1,200

751

510

196

80

93

190

207

236

232

145

59

« Ice conditions.
PLATTE RIVEE DEAINAGE BASIN. 257

Daily gage height, in feet, of South Platte River at South Platte, Colo.,for 1907 and 1908.

[E. H. Jardine, observer.]

Day.

1907. 

1.....................

4..................... 

5.....................

6.....................

7.....................

g

10. ....................

11.....................

12 .....

13... -......-.....-.---

14.....................

15.....................

16. ....................

18.....................

19

20. ....................

22. ....................

23............--.---... 

24..................... 

25. ....................

26. .................... 

27.....................

OQ

29. ....................

30. ....................

31. ....................

1908. 

1.....................

2..... ............... 

3.....................

5.....................

6.....................

8.....................

g

10.....................

12.....................

13.....................

14.....................

15.....................

16 .....................

17.....................

18.....................

19

20.....................

21.....................

22.....................

23.....................

24.....................

25.....................

26.....................

27.....................

28..................... 

29.....................

30.....................

31.....................

Feb.

1.65 

1.65

1.65

1.65 

1.70

1.75 

1.75

1.75

1 80

1.82 

1.85 

2.00 

1.95

1.95 

1.95

1.95

Mar.

1.95

1.98

1.95

1.90 

1.92

1.98

1.92

1.92

1.95

1.98

1.98 

1.92

1.90 

1.90

1.82

1.88

2.00 

2.00

2.38 

2.30 

2.38 

2.30

2.50 

2.20

2.10

2.05

2.00

2.00

1.5

1.5

1 4=;

1.5

1.5

1.7

2 2

2.3

2.25 

2.2

2.1

2.1

2 1

2.1

2.1 

2.0

2.0

2.0

Apr.

2.02

2.00

2.00

2.20 

2.35

2.30

2.20

2.20

2.20

2.18

2.30

2.42

2.45 

2.40

2.40

2.38

2.30 

2.30

2.20

2.10

2.22 

2.32 

2.38 

2.40

2.48 

2.45

2.40

2.40

2.40

2.0

2.0 

1.95

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.05

2.1

2.1

2.15

2.15

2.2

2.25

2.2

2.15 

2.15

2.1

2.1

2.05

2.0

1.95

1.95 

1.95

1.95

May.

2.30

2.45

2.42

2.55 

2.50

2.50

2.70

2.90

3.15

3.12

3.10 

3.15

3.12

2.95

2.90

2.90

2.90

3.40 

3.30 

3.20 

3.10

3.08 

2.95

2.90

2.90

3.08

3.20 

1.95

1.95 

1.95

2.1

2.05

1.95

2.2

1.95

1 95

1 9

1.9

1.9

1.95

2.0

2.2 

2.2

2.2

2.1

2.1

2.0 

2.0

2.0

2.0

June.

3.40

3.45

3.32 

3.30

3.50

3.35

3.25 

3.25

3.60 

3.70

3.78

3.95

3.95 

4.22

A 09

4.40 

4.32 

4.30 

4.05

4.00 

4.15

4.08

4.05

4.00

2.0

2.35 

2.3

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.0

2.0

2.4

2.4

2 5

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.2 

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.05

2.2 

2.2

2.2

July.

4.05

4.18

4.22

4.20 

4.20

4.02

4. 10

3.85

4.00 

4.00

3.70 

3.62

3.70

3.70 

3 40

3.65 

2.90

2.85

2.85 

2.90 

3.10 

3.20

3.65

4.78

5.10

4.48

4.12 

2.2

2.2 

2.2

2.1

2.1

2.1

2.05

2.6

2.4

2.4

2.35

2.35

9 41

2.3

2.3 

2.3

2.3

2.35

2.3

2.3

2.2 

2 2

2.2

2.45

Aug.

4.00

3.88

3.75

3.40

3.12

3.10

3.00

3.00 

2.90

2.90 

2.90

3.00

2.90

2.80

2.90 

2.82 

2.75 

2.68

2.70 

2.80

2.88

2.80

2.80

2.80 

2.4

2.65 

2.6

2.5

2.6

3.2

2.5

2.5

9 1

2.5

2.3

2.3

2.4

2.5

2.6

2.85 

2.9

2.8

2.75

2.7

2.35 

2.3

2.4

2.4

Sept.

2.80

2.80

2.80

2.60 

2.60

2.60

2.65

2.55

2.40

2.40

2.35 

2.30

2.25 

2 25

2.25

2 22

2. 25

2.22 

2.35

2.40 

2.40 

2.35 

2.32

2.40 

2.40

2.30

2.25

2.30

2.35 

2.25

2.2

2.1

2.0

1.9

2.0

2 2

2.2

2.4

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.2 

2.2

2.2

2.2

2.2

2.2

2.2 

2.2

2.1

Oct.

2.25

2.00

2.00 

2.10

2.10

2.20

2.15

2.20 

2. 10

2.10 

2.10

2.10

2.10 

2.10

2.00

2.00 

2.00 

2.05 

2.10

2.02

2.15

2.15

2.15

2.00 

2.0

2.0 

2.0

2.05

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.0

1 9

2.0

1.8

1 9

1.9

1.9

1 9

1 9

1.9 

2.0

2.0

1 9

1.8

1.8

1.9 

2.0

1.9

1.8

Nov.

2.02

2.10

2.05 

2.00

2.00

2.08

2.05

2.00

1.90 

1.95

1.80 

1.70

1.70

1.70

1.65 

1.62

1.70

1.70 

3.70 

1.70 

1.70

1.78 

1.72

1.70

1.78

1.72

1.8

1.8

1.55

1.45

1.8

2.0

2.1

1 95

1.8

1.7

1.65

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.65 

1.7

1.7

Dec.

1.68

1.62

1.72

1.75 

1.72

1.75

1.75

1.75

1.72

1.68

1.65 

1.72

1.68 

1.75

1.72

1.82 

2 00

2.35 

2.55

2.78

2.55 

2.42 

2.40 

2.42

2.40 

2.32

2.02

2.48

2.60

2.50 

1.7

1.8

1.8

1.6

1.65

1.6

1.7

1.7

1.65

1.55

1.65

1.6

1.7

1.8

2.0 

2.1

2.1

2.0

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.75

1.7

1.85

NOTE. Ice conditions January 1 to February 12, 1907, November 25,1907, to March 7.1908, and after 

November 14, 1908.

31260 IRR 246 10 17
258 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Rating tables for South Platte River at South Platte, Colo.

FOR 1907.

Gage 

height.

Feet.

1.60

1.70

1.80

1.90

2.00

2.10

2.20

2.30

2.40

i

Discharge.

Sec. -ft.

Gage 

height.

Feet.

105 '> 2. 50

125

145

170

200

2.60

2.70

2.80

2.90

230 3. 00

265 3. 10

300 ! 3. 20

340 , 3. 30

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

385

435

490

545

600

660

720

785

850

Gage

height.

Feet.

3.40

3.50

3. CO

3.70

3.80

3.90

4.00

4.10

4.20

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

920

990

1,0(0

1,130

1,200

1,270

1,340

1,410

1,480

Gage

height.

 Feet.

4.30

i 4.40

i 4.50

4. CO

4.70

4.80

4.90

5.00

5.20

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

1,550

1,625

1,700

1,775

1,850

1,930

2,010

2,090

2,250

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is bas'r-d on thirteen discharge measurements made during 1907 and on earlier high-water measurements. It is well denned 

between gage heights 1.7 feet and 3.5 feet. Above gage height 3.9 feet it is the same as the 1905 table.

MARCH 8 TO NOVEMBER 14, 1908. 

[Indirect method for shifting channels used.]

Daily discharge, in second-feet, of South Platte River at South Platte, Colo., for 1908.

Day.

1. ..........................

2...........................

3...........................

5. ..........................

6...........................

8............-.-.-.--..-....

9...........................

10...........................

11...........................

12...........................

U 1 \ ......................

16...........................

18...........................

19...........................

20...........................

21 ...........................

22...........................

23...........................

24...........................

25...........................

26 ...........................

27...........................

28...........................

29...........................

30...........................

Q1

Mar.

63

62

68

68

68

68

90

200

230

230

21o

200

172

172

172

172

172

172

150

Apr.

145

168

168

168

180

180

195

195

210

225

240

210

195

180

168

152

152

152

May.

152

152

152

152

220

250

220

190

152

152

140

140

140

160

172

215

230

200

230

230

200

172

172

June.

180

295

280

210

210

210

182

182

182

182

360

320

320

320

360

320

320

320

320

255

220

220

208

208

208

255

255

July.

255

255

220

220

220

208

194

208

275

335

335

312

312

312

312

335

280

280

295

280

245

OJ.C

245

335

Aug.

315

428

405

360

740

360

360

360

360

315

280

280

280

315

360

405

410

510

485

485

460

460

435

285

265

Sept.

285

285

250

202

175

162

150

202

175

175

202

240

240

350

312

275

275

275

275

240

240

240

210

240

210

240

210

Oct.

188

188

188

188

188

162

188

140

162

162

162

168

168

194

168

140

168

145

Nov.

1 4^

1 4^

94

94

94

88

88

SO

NOTE. The discharges were obtained by the indirect method for shifting channels.
PLATTE EIVEE DEAIKAGE BASIN. 259

Monthly discharge of South Platte River at South Platte, Colo.,for 1907 and 1908. 

[Drainage area. 2,610 square miles.]

Month.

1907.

July................. .........

\-UgllSt

December

190S. 

January

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

200 

385 

376 

920 

1,720 

2,170 

1,380 

545 

300 

230 

84

July..........................

December

230 

- 240 

250 

360 

420 

740 

350 

215 

145 

105

Minimum.

115 

150 

200 

300 

818 

572 

479 

272 

200 

91 

80

55 

145 

140 

180 

194 

265 

150 

140 

75 

60

Mean.

148 

218 

299 

637 

1,200 

1,190 

708 

355 

231 

153 

82.3

80 

90 

123 

173 

1S3 

255 

276 

391 

236 

175 

91.2 

71.3

Per 

square 

mile.

0.057 

.084 

.115 

.244 

.460 

.456 

.271 

.136 

.089 

.059 

.032

.031 

.034 

.047 

.066 

.070 

.098 

.106 

.150 

.090 

.067 

.035 

.027

Run-off.

Depth in 

inches on 

drainage 

area.

0.04 

.10 

.13 

.28 

.51 

.53 

.31 

.15 

.10 

.07 

.04

Total in 

acre-feet.

4,990 

13, 400 

17,800 

39,200 

71,400 

73,200 

43, 500 

21,100 

14,200 

9,100 

5,060

313,000

. 04 4, 920 

. 04 5, 180 

.05 ' 7,560 

. 07 10, 300 

.08 11,300 

.11 j 15,200 

. 12 , 17, 000 

. 17 i 24, 000 

. 10 ! 14, 000 

.08 ! 10,800 

. 04 5, 430 

. 03 4, 380

179 .068 .93 130,000

Accuracy.

B. 

A. 

A. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

B. 

D.

D. 

D. 

0. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

C. 

D.

NOTE. Discharge estimated November 25, 1907, to March 7,1908, and November 15 to December 31, 

1908, the probable frozen periods.

SOUTH PLATTE RIVER NEAR KERSEY, COLO.

This station, which was established April 27, 1901, is located at 

a pile bridge about 1^ miles north of Kersey on the Union Pacific 

Railroad about 6 miles east of Greeley in T. 5 N., R. 64 W. The 

station was discontinued during the fall of 1903, but was reestablished 

March 5, 1905.

The station is below all the important tributaries of the South 

Platte that derive their supply from the mountain region, and the 

records are therefore particularly important as showing the amount 

of water available for storage reservoirs in northeastern Colorado.

Cache la Poudre River, a very important tributary of the South 

Platte, enters 2 or 3 miles above the station. Crow Creek and Boxelder Creek, two intermittent streams, come in from the north and 

south sides, 4 or 5 miles below. The drainage area at Kersey is 

9,500 square miles.

Above Kersey are numerous irrigation and canal systems serving 

one of the most extensively irrigated areas in Colorado. Nearly 

790,000 acres were irrigated above this station in 1907, about 380,000 

acre-feet of water were stored, and about half of it used during the
260 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

season. In 1908 about 300,000 acre-feet were stored, all of which 

was used for irrigation.

No important water-power plants are operated on the South 

Platte or its tributaries above the station, but one or two are now 

under construction and several are contemplated. In order to secure 

additional water rights for irrigation it will be necessary to construct 

storage works on some of the tributaries, as filings greatly in excess 

of the natural flow of the stream have been on record for a number of 

years.

The river is generally frozen over from the middle of December to 

the first of March.

In the fall of 1906 a chain gage was established on each of the two 

channels into which the river is divided at ordinary stages. Formerly 

one rod gage was used, but it was found that the elevation of the 

water surface in the two channels differed considerably. Owing to the 

shifting character of the stream bed, a slight change in the datum of 

the gage is not apt to seriously affect the value of the results, as 

marked changes occur in the rating curve from one season to the 

next and often during a single season.

Measurements should be taken at this station on an average of 

at least once every three weeks, except when the river is at a constant stage. Accurate results are rather difficult to obtain on account 

of the piles of the bridge and the fact that the bridge is not at right 

angles to the direction of the current. Whenever possible measurements should be taken by wading. At high stages the river flows 

in three channels and during extreme floods overflows into one or 

two channels on the left bank.

Discharge 'measurements of South Platte River near Kersey, Colo. (gage No. 1), in 1907

and 1908.

Date.

1907.

May 31.........

July 2. .........

July 28. ........

October 22.....

1908.

July 226. ......

Hydrographer.

.....do..............................................

W. B. Freeman... ................................. 

.....do..............................................

C. L. Chatfleld .....................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

J. B. Stewart. ...................................... 

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do.............................................

.....do..............................................

Width.

Feet. 

110

105

114 

116

159

63

96

92 

60

72

32

26

31.5

30.5

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

118

103

218 

223

453

55

129

119 

99

88

22.7

25.2

37.1

31

60

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

2.97

2.50

2.60

3.82 

3.76

5.88

5.56

2.33

3.12

2.95 

2.90

2.69

1.79

1.98

1.85

2.60

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

195

619 

545

93

214 

246

163

54.0

a Slush ice and ice around piles and on the edges. Made by wading.
PLATTE RIVEE DRAINAGE BASIN. 261

Daily gage height, in feet, of South Platte River near Kersey, Colo. (gage No. l),for 1907

and 1908.

[C. A. Maisner and Mrs. J. C. Maisner, observers.]

Day.

1907.

2. ......... ...........

3.....................

4.....................

5.....................

6.....................

B/.'.'.'........-.--..-..

Q. .................... 

10.....................

11.....................

12..................... 

13.....................

14.....................

lo. ....................

16.....................

17..-..-.........--..-- 

18.....---....-.-.-....

19..................... 

20.....................

21..................... 

2'2. ......... ........... 

23 .....................

25.. ...... .............

26-.-...--.......-..--- 

27 ..................... 

28. .................... 

29 .....................

30. ....... .............

31.....................

1908. 

1. ....................

2. .................. --

3.....................

4.. ...................

6.....................

7

8. ....................

9.....................

10.....................

11. .... ................

12.....................

13.....................

14.....................

15.....................

16.....................

17.....................

18.....................

19

20.....................

21.....................

22 .....................

23 ..................... 

24.....................

25. .. ..................

26.....................

27 .....................

28 .....................

30......-..-.-.....-.--

31 .....................

Feb.

3.00

3.00

3.00

2.95 

2.90

2.85 

2.85

2.85

2 wf\

2.90

2.90 

2.90 

2.90

Mar.

2.90 

2.85

2.85

2.80

2.75 

2. 75 

2. 75 

2.70

2.70

2.70 

2.70

2. Go

2.G5

2. 60

2. GO

9 ()Q

2. GO 

2. 55

2. 55 

2. 55 

2. 55

9 ij..

2.55

2. 55 

2.55 

2. 55 

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.6

2.6

2.6

2.G

2.G

2.3

2.3 

2.25

2.25

2.25

2.2

2.2

2.2

Apr.

"2." 60

2. 45 

2. 35

2 99

2. 30

2.00

1 99

1.78

1.70

1.70 

1.65

l.t>0 

2.00

2.62 

2.92 

2.50 j nn

2.90

2.82 

2.78 

2.75

3.12

2.15

2.15

2.1

t) 1

2.1

2.5

1.95

1 95

1.95

1.95

1.9

1 9

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8 

1.7

1.75

1.7

1.7

May.

3.12

3. 15 

3.18

3.20

3 30

3. 42

3.68 

3. 85 

3.88

3.85

3.80 

3.92

4.28

4.58

4.55

4.35 

4.18

3.98 

4.02

4.25 

4.25 

4.32

4.38

4.38 

3.98 

3.50

3.18

3.00 

1.7

1.7

1.7

2.0

2.2

2.2

2.4

2.2

1.9

1.85

1.85

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1 Si

1.75

1.75

1.75

1.75 

2.3

2.2

2.3

2.0

June.

4.45 

4.50

4.80

4 45

4.30

4. 55

4.62 

4.42

3.85

3.15 

3.20

3.70

4.40

3. 65 

3. 85

3.70 

3.70 

3. 75 

4 15

4.20

4.82 

5.50 

5.60

2 A

1 9

1.9

1.85

1.85

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

2.0

2.2

1.95

1 9

2.0

2.0

1.9 

1 9

1.9

1.85

1.8

1.9

1 9

July.

5.75

5.32

5.05

5. 12

4.78 

4.40 

4.20 

3.75

3.78

3.65 

3.35

3.20

3.12

2.80

2. 45 

2.38

2.22 

2.22

2.28 

2.20

2.20

2.25 

4.60

5.48

5.62

5.52 

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1 £

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.85

1.85

1.85

1 «

1.8

2.0

1.9

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

1.8

3.3

Aug.

4.92

4.78

4. 62

4

c4.30

4.00 

3.60 

3.30 

3.15

2.92

2.85 

2.65

2.50

2.48

2.40

2.38

2.38 

2. 43

2.40 

2.30 

2.30

2.28

2.30 

2.30 

2.30

2.48

2.75 

2.3

1.95

1.9

1.8

1 «

1.8

1.85

2.0

1.95

2.0

1.95

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.5

2.1

2.15

2.2

2.5

2.65 

2.6

2.2

2.05

1.9

1.85

1.8

1.8

Sept.

2.45

2.45

2.40

2

0-

2.32

2.42 

2.40

2.48

2.55

2.52 

2.50

2.45

2.50

2.52

2. 55

2.58

2. 60 

2.60

2.65

2.65 

2.68

2.75

2.75 

2.80 

2.80

3.00

1.8

1.8

1.85

1.85

1.85

1.85

1.9

1.9

1.9

1.9

1.9

1.95

1.95

1.95

2.0

2.0

2.0

2.0

1.95

1.9 

1.9

1.95

1.95

2.0

2.2

2.2

Oct.

3

1 O

3.28

3.28

3.20

3.15 

3.15 

3.15 

3. 15

3.15

3.15

2.95

2. 95

2.90 

2.92

2.95 

2.95 

2.92 

2.92

2.98

3.00 

3.00 

3.05

3.05

3.05 

2.15

2.2

2.2

2.2

2 2

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.4

2.4

2.8

3.0

3.5

3.0

2.9 

2.9

2.8

2.8

2.8

2.75

2.75

2.75

Nov.

3 00

3.00

3

ns.

3.05

3.05 

3.08 

3.10

3 1 ^

3.15

3.15 

3.20

3.15

3.15

3.15 

3.15

3.15 

3.15 

3.10

3

ns.

3.05

3. 05 

3.05 

3.05

3.05

2.7

2.6

2.6

2.6

2.6

2.55

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.6

2.7

2.7

2.8

2.8

2.8

2.8

2.75 

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.9

Dec.

3.05

3.05

3.05

3.05 

3.05 

3.05

3.05

3.00 

3.05

3.02

3.00

3.00 

2.92

2.90 

2.95

2.90 

2.90 

2.98

2

nu

3.05

3.08 

3.05 

3.10 

3.10

3.00

2.90

NOTE. Probable ioe conditions January 1 to February 12, 1907, January 1 to March 9, and December, 

1908.
262 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Rating tables for South Platte River near Kersey, Colo. (gage No. 1). 

FEBRUARY 1 TO MAY 6, 1907.

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

2.60 

2.70 

2.80 

2.90 

3.00

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on 

three discharge measurements made during the above period and is well denned above gage height, 2.5 feet.

MAY 7 TO DECEMBER 31, 1907.

Gage

height.

Feet.

1.50

1.60

1.70

1.80

1.90

2.00

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

98 . 105

112

119

127

135

Gage

height.

Feet.

2.10

2.20

2.30

2.40

2. ,50

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

143

151

160

170

180

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

191

203

217

233

250

Gage 

height.

Discharge.

Feet. Sec.-ft.

3. 10 275

3. 20 , 310

3.30

3.40

3.50

350

390

435

2.20

2.30

2.40

2.50

2.60

2.70

2.80

2.90

3.00

3.10

70

90

110

130

150

170

195

220

250

280

3.20

3.30

3.40

3.50

3. GO

3.70

3.80

3.90

4.00

4.10

315

355

395

440

485

530

580

030

685

740

1 

4. 20 795

4. 30 850

4.40

4.50

905

965

4.60 1,025

4.70

4.80

4.90

: 5. 00

5.10

1,085

1,150

1,215

1,280

1,350

5.20

5.30

1,420

1,490

5.40 1,565

5.50

5.60

5.70

5.80

5.90

1,640

1,720

1,800

1,880

1,960

6. 00 2, 040

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on seven 

discharge measurements made during the above period and is fairly well denned.

MARCH 10 TO NOVEMBER 30, 1908.

1.70 37

1.80 42

1.90 : 49

2.00 56

2. 10 i 65

2.20

2.30

2.40

2.50

2.60

75

86

100

118

140

2.70 165

2. 80 191 '

2.90

3.00

3.10

220

250

280

3.20

3.30

3.40

3.50

315

350

385

425

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on six discharge measurements made during 1908 and is fairly well defined between gage heights 1.8 feet and 2.8 feet.

Discharge 'measurements of South Platte River near Kersey, Colo. (gage Aro. ?}, in 1907

and 1908.

Date.

1907.

March 29.......

May 31.........

July 2..........

July 28. ........

October 12.....

October 22.....

December 18 a..

1908. 

March 13.......

May 13. ........

July 22 i>.......

Hydrographer.

C. L. Clatfleld. .....................................

.....do....... ......... ... .

.....do..............................................

C. L. Chatfield. ....................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

J. B. Stewart. ................................ .....

W. B. Freeman. ................................... 

.....do..............................................

J. B. Stewart. ................................. .... 

.....do......... ........... ......... .....

.....do..............................................

Width,

Feet. 

135 

148 

136 

143 

143 

287 

245 

54 

134 

136 

127

129 

69

42 

58

132

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

232 

166 

191 

339 

273 

848 

795 

53 

236 

204 

179

153

50 

35

48 

47 

ISO

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

3.01 

2.50 

2.70 

3.86 

3.67 

5.55 

5.58 

1.83 

3.22 

3.01 

2.90

2.80 

1.70 

1.41 

1.94 

1.90 

2.75

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

446 

330 

378 

1,150 

797 

2,500 

2,730 

59 

508 

425 

391

252 

60 

37 

89 

90 

280

Slush ice and ice around piles and on the edges. 6 Made by wading.
PLATTE RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 263

Daily gage height, in feet, of South Plattc River near Kersey, Colo. (gace No. 2), for 1907

and 1908.

[0. A. Maisner and Mrs. J. C. Maisner, observers.]

Day.

1907.

2. ....................

4.................... 

5.....................

7.. ..................

9.................... 

10....................

11..................... 

12.....................

13.....................

16.....................

17..................... 

18.....................

19

20.....................

21 ..................... 

22.....................

23..................... 

24.....................

25.....................

26 ..................... 

27..................... 

28..................... 

29..................... 

30..................... 

31 .....................

1908.

2.....................

3.....................

4.....................

5..................... 

6................. ..

7.....................

8.....................

9.....................

10.....................

11.....................

12.....................

13.....................

14.....................

IV. ....................

18...... .........

19.....................

20.....................

21 ..................... 

22.....................

23.....................

24..................... 

25 .....................

26 .....................

27.....................

28.....................

29 .....................

31.. ...................

Feb.

3.10

3.10

3.05

3.00

3.00 

3.00

2.9.5

2.92 

2 95

2.95 

2.92

2.95

2.95 

2.92 

2.92

Mar.

2.92

2.92

2.88

2.88 

2. 82

2. 75

2.75 

2.70

2.70 

2.70

2.70

2.68

2.68

2.65 

2.65

2.62

2.62 

2.62

2.62 

2 62

2.62

2.60 

2.60 

2.60 

2.52 

2.52 

2.52

9 S

2.8

2.8

2.8

2.8

2.7

2.7

2.6

2.6

2.6 

2 5

2.4 

2.4

2.4

2.35

2.3

2.3

2.2

Apr.

2.65

2. 50 

2.40

2. 25 

2.30

2.25

1.95

1.82

1.75

1.75 

1.72

1.70

2.20

2.80 

3.12

3.20 

3.15

3.05

2.90 

2.85 

2. S5 

3.18 

3.32

2.2

2.2

2.2

2.15

2.1

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.55

1.55

1.5 

1.4

1.3 

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.35

May.

3.25

3 32

3.28

3. 25 

3.38

3.48

3.72

3. 85

3.85 

3. 85

3.S8 

3.85

4.25

4.32

4.52

4.45

4.32 

4.18

4.30

4.15

4.15 

4.12

4.35

4.18

4.60

4.35 

3.92 

3.58 

3.35 

3.25 

3.68

1 35

1.35

1.85 

2.25

2.25

2 45

2.3

9 9^

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.6 

1.6

1.9

2.65

2.5

2.4

2.4

2.4

2.25

2.1..

June.

4.50

4.40 

4.40

4.75 

4.42

4.28

4.52

4.40 

4.42

3.90 

3. 25

3.08

3.32

3.85

4.18

4.28 

4.10

3.65

3.85

3.72 

3.70

3.78 

4.10

4.12

4. 75 

ft. 45 

5.50 

5.42 

5.12

2.0

1.95

1.95

1.8 

1.7

1.6

1.5

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.45

2.2

2.0

1.9

1.9 

2.0

1.8 

1.8

1.7 I.-

July.

5.20

5.38 5 9->

4.90 

4.65

4.75

4.02

3. 58 

3. 30

3.35 

3.40

2.90

2.55

2.70

2. CO

2.38

2.28

2.30

(«) 

(«)

2.12

( a )

(")

2.10 

4.70 

5.50 

5.45 

5.62 

5.28

1.7

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.6 

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.65

1.6

1.8

2.0

2.0 

1 9

1.6 

1.6

1.6

1.6

3.3

Aug.

5.15

4.85 

4.68

4.52

4.48

4. 15

3.40

3. OS

2.85

2.72 

2.40

(a)

(«)

(a)

( a )

( a ) 

fat

(a)

(a)

1.80 

1.80

1.80 

1.75

1.75

1.75 

1.75 

1.75 

1.75 

2.08 

2.42

1.7

1.6

1.6 

1.6

1.65

1.9

2.0

1.85

1 9

1.9

1 9

1 9

1.9

1.9

2.25

2.2 

2.25

2.75

2.8 

2.3

2.2

2.05

1.9

1.75

1.7

1.7

Sept.

2.15

2.02 

2.00

1.95

1.88

1.82

1.98

2.30 

2.45

2.10 

2. 15

2.50

2.50

2.10

2.12

2.12 

2.32

2.42

2.45

2. 50 

2.60

2.65 

2.65

2.75

2.75 

2.80 

2.88 

2.98 

3.50

1.7

1.65

1.65

1.65 

1.65

1.65

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.7

1.75

1.75

1.75

1.75

1.75

1.75 

1.8

1 7^

1.8 

1.8

1 9

2.2

2.2

2.2

Oct.

3.18

3.28 

3.30

3.30 

3.35

3.20

3.30

3.28

3.25 

3.30

3.20

3.20

3.15

3.08

3.06 

3.00

3.00

3.00

3.00 

3.00

3.00 

3.00

3.05

3.10 

3.05 

3.08 

3.10 

3.10 

3.10

2.2

2.2

2.3

2.3

2.4

2.4

2.45

2.45

2.45

2.45

2.45

2.45

2.45

2.5

2.5

2.7

2.9

3.0

3.1 

3.15

3.0

3.0 

2.9

2.9

2.9

2.85

2.85

2.85

2.85

Nov.

3.05

3.10 

3.10

3. 15 

3.15

3.15

3.15

3.15

3.15 

3.15

3.20 

3.20

3.20

3.20

3.18

3.15

3.20 

3.20

3.20

3.20

3.20 

3.20

3.15 

3.10

3.10

3.10 

3.10 

3.10 

3.10 

3.10

2.8

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.7

2.65

2.6

2.6

2.6

2.6

2.6

2.7

2.8

2.8

2.8

2.9

2.9

2.9

2.9

2.9 

2.9

2.85

2.8 

2.8

2.8

2.7

2.8

2.9

3.0

Dee.

3.10

3.10 

3.10

3.10 

3.10

3.10

3.10

3.10 

3.10

3.10 

3.08

3.10

3.15

3.10

3.00

3.00 

2.92

2.90

2.95

2.95 

2.95

3.02 

3.05

3.10

3.15 

3.12 

3. 20 

3.18 

3.05 

2.95

a Xo water under gage. 

NOTE. Probably ice conditions January 1 to February 12,1907, January 1 to March 9, and December, 1908.
264 SURFACE WATEft SUPPLY, 1901-8.

Rating tables for South Platte River near Kersey, Colo. (gage No. 2}.

FEBRUARY 1 TO MAY 6, 1907.

Gage Dis- Gage

height, charge. height.

Feet. Sec.-ft.

1. 70 245 . 1. 80 250

1. 90 260

2. 00 , 270

2. 10 280

Feet.

2.20

2.30

2.40

2.50

2.10

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

290

305

320

335

350

Gage

height.

Feet.

2.70

2.80

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

i

Gage Disheight, charge.

1

Feet.

370 3. 20

390 : 3. 30

2. 90 415

3. 00 ' 445

3.10 480

3.40

3.50

Sec.-ft.

520

51.0

G05

655

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on three 

dis ischarge measurements made during this period and is well deflned between gage heights 2.5 feet and 3.0

feet

MAY 7 TO JUNE 19, 1907.

[Indirect method for shifting channels used.]

JUNE 20 TO DECEMBER 31, 1907.

1.70

1.80

1.90

2.00

2.10

2.20

2.30

2.40

2.50

2. CO

20

50

80

110

140

170

200

230

2oO

290

2.70

2.80

2.90

3.00

3.10

3.20

3.30

3.40

3.50

3.60

320

355

390

425

465

510

555

605

655

7JO

3.70

3.80

3.90

4.00

4.10

4.20

4.30

4.40

4.50

4. CO

770

835

905

980

1. 055

1,135

1,215

1,300

1,390

1,485

4.70

4.80

! 4.90

1,585

1,690

1,800

5.00 1,920

5. 20 2, 175

5.40

5.60

2,455

2,770

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on 

seven discharge measurements made during this period and is not well deflned.

MARCH 10 TO NOVEMBER 30, 1908.

1.30

1.40

1.50

1.60

1.70

1.80

30

36

43

52

03

75

1.90

2.00

2.10

2.20

2.30

2.40

89 2.50

105

122

142

103

185

2.60

2.70

1 2.80

2.90

3.00

,

209 ' 3. 10

233

257

281

308

338

3.20

3.30

1

373

410

450

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on six 

discharge measurements made during 1908 and is fairly well deflned between gage heights 1.4 feet and 2.8 

feet.

Daily discharge, in second-feet, of South Platte River near Kersey, Colo. (gage No. 2),

May 7 to June 19, 1907.

Day.

1. .............

2..............

3..............

4. ............ -

5..............

6..............

8..............

Q

10 .............

May.

920

1,070

1,090

June.

1,740

1,620

1 , 620

2,000

1,600

1,440

1,700

1,650

1,460

1,520

Day.

11..............

12. .............

13..............

14.. ............

15..............

16..............

17..............

19

20..............

May.

1,120

1,120

1,480

1,560

1,780

1,700

1,560

1,520

1,400

June.

1,040

520

630

960

1,210

1,280

790

Day.

21 ..............

22..............

23......-...--..

24..............

25..-.....--....

26..............

27 ..............

30..............

31

May.

1,400

1,600

1,420

1,860

1,600

1,200

940

720

June.

NOTE .--These discharges were obtained by the indirect method for shifting channels.
PLATTE RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 265

Monthly discharge of South Platte River near Kersey, Colo.,for 1907 and 1908. 

[Drainage area, 9,470 square miles.]

Month.

1907.

April.....'.....................

July. ....... --- ...............

November ..... .....

1908.

May............................

July .... .......................

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

730 

654 

955 

2,790

4,540

905 

915 

825 

790

446

240 

465 

265 

SOO 

421 

217 

817

Minimum.

646 

518 

350 

822 

835 

195 

121 

150 

645 

695 

610

217 

67 

70 

78 

94 

94 

104 

212 

351

Mean .

677 

568 

550 

1,790 

2.240 

1,770 

790 

370 

759 

767 

707

339 

127 

166 

128 

128 

176 

128 

399 

434

Per

square 

mile.

0. 071 

.060 

.058 

.189 

.237 

.187 

.083 

.040 

.080 

081 

.075

. 036 

.013 

.018 

.014 

.014 

.019 

.014 

.042 

.046

Kun-otT.

Depth in 

inches on 

drainage 

area.

0.04 

.07 

.06 

.22 

^26 

.22 

.10 

.04 

.09 

.09 

.09

.03 

.01 

.02 

.02 

.02 

.02 

.02 

.05 

.05

!

Total in 

acre-feet.

21,500 

34, 900 

32, 700 

110, 000 

133,000 

109,000 

48, (100 

22,400 

411,700 

45,600 

43, 500

648, 000

14, 800 

7,560 

10,200 

7,620 

7,870 

10,800 

7,620 

24,500 

25,800

117,000

Accuracy.

A. 

A. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

A. 

B. 

B. 

A. 

A 

B

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A 

A.

NOTE. These discharges represent the combined flow of the two channels. Discharge estimatedforeach 

channel for days on which the gage was not rend.

SOUTH PLATTE RIVER NEAR JTJLESBTJRG, COLO.

This station, which is located 1 mile south of Julesburg, Colo., in 

T. 12 N., R. 44 W., below all irrigation ditches taking water from the 

South Platte in Colorado except one, was established April 2, 1902, 

but was not in operation during 1907. It was reestablished on May 

12, 1908, at a new pile bridge about 2,000 feet upstream from the old 

location.

The greatest value of this station lies in the fact that it is situated 

less than a mile from the Colorado-Nebraska line, and its records therefore show the amount of water passing into Nebraska. It has also 

some importance in obtaining data on the flow of return waters.

All the tributaries for 100 miles or more above the station are intermittent streams and none are of any importance. The same may be 

said of the tributaries between Julesburg and North Platte, where 

the river joins North Platte River to form the Platte. The drainage 

area at Julesburg is 20,600 square miles. Numerous irrigation systems and reservoirs are located on the South Platte and tributaries 

above Julesburg for a distance of 250 miles. In 1907 more than 

900,000 acres were irrigated in this valley. Nearly 450,000 acre-feet 

were stored in reservoirs, and over half of this quantity was used for
266 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

irrigation in that year. Additional rights can not be provided for in 

the South Platte Valley without constructing reservoirs to store 

surplus flood waters.

The flow of the river at Jtilesburg during the irrigation season 

depends on the amount of water diverted above and is likely to be 

small except when the river is in flood. During the nonirrigating 

season considerable water is diverted by feeder canals to storage 

reservoirs from the main river or its tributaries or is intercepted by 

reservoirs on the tributaries.

The river is usually frozen over wholly or in part for two or three 

months during the winter.

When the station was reestablished in 1908 the gage was moved 

2,000 feet upstream and it is in no way referred to the old gage. 

However, the recorded gage heights give no indication of the discharge 

of the river from one season to the next because of the sandy and 

extremely shifting character of the stream bed. In low water the 

river consists of a number of small rivulets flowing between sand bars. 

In order to procure reliable results measurements should be taken as 

often as once every two weeks throughout the year.

Discharge measurements of South J'latte Hirer near Julesburg, Colo., in 1908.

Date.

May 12. ........

June 10.. ......

July 22. ........

Hydrographer. Width.

Feet. 

W. B. Freeman. . ...................... 56

.....do................................. 191

.....do................................. 132

.....do................................. 142

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

24 

38

47

88

Gage height.

Old gage.

Feet. 

1.35 

1.48 

1.38

1.65

New gage.

Feet. 

1.30 

1.34 

1.22 

1.33 

1.45

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

29 

45 

36 

64 

140

a Made by wading.

Daily gage height, in feet, of South Platte River near Julesburg, Colo., for 1908. 

[Mrs. W. K. Green and Miss May C. Wood, observers.]

1........ ........... ................

2...................... ..............

3....................................

4....................................

6....................................

7....................................

8....................................

9....................................

10....................................

11....................................

12....................................

13....................................

14....................................

15....................................

1.3

1.6

1.5

1.3

1.3

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

July1.3

1.3

1.2

1.2

1.3

1.4

1.3

1.3

1.2

1.2

1.1

1.3

1.2

1.3

1.3

Aug.

1.3

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.3

1.3

1.2

1.3

1.2

1.3

1.2

1.2

1.3

1.2

pt.

1.2

1.3

1.3

1 2

1 ^

1.3

i q

1.2 1 2

1.2

1 2

1 4

1.2

1 2

1.2

Oct. Nov.

1.35

1.4

Dec.

2.1

2.3

2.3

2.2

2.1
PLATTE RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 267

Daily gage height, in feet, of South Platte River near Julesburg, Colo.,for 1908 

Continued.

Day.

10....................................

17...................... ............

18 .

19....................................

20. ................. .. ...........

21....... ....... . . ... ..

22... ..... . ....

23... ....... . . ... .

24.... .... . ... .

9^

26... ...... . . ...

27.................. ... ... ... ..

28....................................

29, ...................................

30.................. ... ...........

31....................................

May.

1.5

1.5

1.4

1.3

1.3

1.5

1.6

1.4

June.

1.5

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.2

1.3

1.3

1.2

1.2

1.2

July.

1.2

1.2

1.3

1.4

1.3

1.4

1.5

1.35

1.3

1.3

1.3

Aug.

1.3

1.4

1.4

1.3

1.3

1.4

1.3

1.4

1.3

1.3

1.25

1.3

1.3

1.2

Sept.

1.3

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1 O

1.2

1.3

1.2

Oct.

.......

........

Nov.

1.45

1.45

1.5

1.5

1.6

1.6

1.6

1.4

Dec.

2.5

2.4

2.15

1.95

2.0

NOTE. Probable ice conditions during December.

Rating tables for South Platte River near Julesburg, Colo. 

MAY 12 TO JUNE 10, 190S.

Gage

height.

Feet.

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

1.20 12

1. 30 29

Cage

height.

Feet.

1.40

1.50

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

70

140

Gage Disheight, charge.

Feet.

1.60

1.70

Sec.-ft.

240

SCO

Gage

height.

Feet.

i 1.80

i 1.90

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

500

660

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on two 

discharge measurements made during May and June and is not well defined.

JUNE 11 TO DECEMBER 31,1908.

1.10 

1.20

20 

32

1.30 

1.40

54 

102

1.50 188 1.60 307

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on three 

discharge measurements made during this period and is fairly well defined.

Monthly discharge of South Platte River near Julesburg, Colo., for 1908. 

[Drainage area, 20,600 square miles.]

Month.

May 12-31. 

June......

July.......

August.... 

September. 

November.

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

660

248

188

102

102

307

Minimum.

29

12

20

32

32

78

Mean.

167

57.6

61.6

52.7

39.5

154

Per 

square 

mile.

0.0081

.0028

.0030

.0026

.0019

.0075

Run-off.

Depth in 

inches on 

drainage 

area.

0.006

.003

.003

.003

.002

.008

Total in 

acre-feet.

6,620

3,430

3,790

3,240

2,350

9, 160

Accuracy.

0.

B.

B.

B.

B.

C.

NOTE. Discharge interpolated for missing days in November.
268 SUEFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

NORTH FORK OF SOUTH PLATTE RIVER AT CASSELLS, COLO.

This station, which is located at Cassells, Colo., was established 

July 4, 1908, to determine the value of the stream for power development.

Geneva Creek, one of the most important tributaries, comes in 

about 2 miles above, and supplies a large part of the water passing 

the station.

The drainage area above the station comprises about 100 square 

miles, a considerable part of which is timbered. No diversions of any 

importance are made above this point on the main stream or any of 

its tributaries, but many filings have been made for power sites, 

especially on Geneva Creek. Additional power sites are, however, 

probably available.

The stream is liable to freeze over from the middle of November 

to the 1st of Apiil.

No change has been made in the datum of the gage since it was 

first established.

Very good results should be obtained except in extremely high 

water. Measurements can be taken by wading the greater part of 

the year. Frequent measurements are necessary to determine the 

winter flow accurately. 

Discharge measurements of North Fork of South Platte River at Cassells, Colo., in 1908.

Date.

July 4..........

October *^7

Hydrographer.

.....do...................... ............. ...........

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

Width.

Feet. 

28.5

28.5

29

29

9 5

11

16.7

10. 5

Area of 

section.

*,/,

K K

47

55

17.3

22.4

12.3

11.6

Gage 

height.

Feet.

1.30

1.30

1.47

1.10

1.10

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

89

78

a 29

13.4

15.1

12.8

a Discharge probably low. Some ice. b Made by wading. Ice conditions.

Daily gage height, in feet, of North Fork of South Platte River at Cassells, Colo., for 1908.

[Lulu Cassell, observer.]

Day.

1. .........

2..........

3..........

6..........

7. .........

8.. ........

9

10..........

12..........

13..........

15..........

July.

1.3

1.2

1.2

1.3

1.2

1.15

1.15

1.2

1.25

1.3

1.3

1.25

Aug.

1.2

1.2

1.25

1.2

1.25

1.2

1.15

1.25

1.2

1.2

1.3

1.2

Sept.

1.1

Oct.

1.15

1. 1

1.1

1. 1

1.1

1.05

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.05

1.0

1.0

Nov.

1.2

1.1

1.15

1.2

1.1

1.2

1.05

1.1

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.0

Dec.

0.7

.8

.8

.8

.8

.9

.8

.9

1.3

1.4

1.4

1.45

1.45

Day.

16..........

17 ..........

18..........

19..........

20..........

21..........

22..........

23 ..........

24..........

25..........

20..........

27..........

28..........

29..........

30..........

July.

1.45

1 ?T

1 ^!

1.25

1.2

1 i

1.2

1.2

1.25

1.2

1.1

1.2

1.3

1.2

1.3

Aug.

1.2

1.25

1.2

1.2

1.3

1.2

1.3

1.3

1.2

1.2

1.25

1.2

1.3

1.25

1.2

Sept. Oct.

1.05

1. 1

1.0

.9

1.0

1.3

1.3

1.25

1.25

1.15

1.2

1.3

1.3

1.25

1.2

1.2

Nov.

1.1

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.1

1. 1

1.1

1.1

9

.8

.8

.9

.9

Dec.

1.45

1.45

1.45

1.3

1.35

1.3

1.3

1.2

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.05

1.1

1.1

NOTE. Ice conditions November 15 to December 31, 1908.
PLATTE EIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 269

Rating table for North Fork of South Platte River at Cassells, Colo., for July 1 to August

31, 1908.

Gage

height.

Feet.

0. DO

Discharge.

Scc.-fi.

21

1.00 31

Gage

height.

Feet.

1.10

1.20

Dis- Gage

charge, height.

Scc.-ft. ; 45

61

Feet.

1.30

1.40

Discharge.

-Scc.-ft.

77

95

| | (rage

height.

Feet.

\ 1.50

1

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

113

XOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-rhannel conditions. It is based on three 

discharge measurements made during July and August, 1908, and is well defined between gage heights 

i.Ofoot and 1.4 feet.

Monthly discharge of North Fork of South Platte River at Cassells, Colo., for 1908.

Month.

July... --.---.....-.-........---.--..--- ...........

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

104

77 

21

Minimum.

45 

53 

13

Mean.

68.4 

64.9 

15.5

Run-off 

(total in 

(acre-feet).

4, no

3,990 

953

Accuracy.

A. 

A.

C.

NOTE. December estimated on account of ice conditions.

GENEVA CREEK NEAR GRANT, COLO.

This station, which is located at Sullivan's ranch, 31 miles above 

Grant, Colo., in T. 6 S., R. 74 W., was established July 5, 1908, to 

obtain data concerning the run-off from a small mountain drainage 

area and also to determine the flow available for power development.

The station is about 3j miles above the confluence of Geneva 

Creek with the North Fork of the South Platte, about 50 feet below 

the mouth of Gold Run, or Threemile Creek, and about a mile below 

the mouth of Scott Gomer Gulch, which is called on some of the old 

maps the North Fork of the South Platte. The drainage area, 

which is very mountainous and part of which area is heavily timbered, comprises 49 square miles above the station.

No water is diverted above the station. Several power sites have 

been filed on, but the stage of construction at none of these has yet 

been reached. The creek has a fall of 900 feet in the last 4 miles, 

and a very much greater fall above. With proper storage it will be 

possible to develop 10,000 horsepower during a six months' period. 

The development of the Continental reservoir site, about 3 miles 

above the station, is under consideration.

The creek is frozen wholly or in part for four or five months during 

the year.

The datum of the gage has not been changed since the station was 

established.
270 SURFACE WATEE SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Very good results should be obtained except at very high stages, 

when the current is likely to be swift. Measurements can be made 

by wading at most seasons of the .year, but for flood measurements a 

cable must be installed.

Discharge measurements of Geneva Creek near Grant, Colo., in 1908.

Date.

July 5. .........

December 28 &

Hydrographer.

J. R. Stewart. ......................................

.....do................................... .........

.....do.............................................

W. B. Freeman...... ...............................

..do..............................................

.....do..............................................

Width.

Feet. 

24

29

25

23

11.5

11

13

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

34

32

25.2

26

15.8

9.8

10.6

Gage 

height.

Feet.

.00

.48

.48

.35

.20

.20

Discharge.

Sec. -ft.

50

32

29

14.6

11.2

14.1

a Ice conditions. 

NOTE. All measurements made by wading.

Daily gage height, in feet, of Geneva Creek near Grant, Colo., for 1908. 

\J. Brace Mather and Edward Sullivan, observers.]

Day.

2

4.............

6.............

g

10.............

14

15.............

July.

0.6

.65

.6

.7

.7

7

.65

Aug.

0.65 

.65

.6

.65

.6

.6

.65

.6

Sept.

0.5

.55

.55

.6

.55

.45

.5

.45

.5

.4

.4

.5

.5

.55

Oct.

0.45 

.4

.4

.35

.35

.35

.4

.35

.4

.4 

.4

.4

.4

4

.35

Nov.

0.5 

.4

.4

.4

.45

.4

.45

.4

.5 

.4

.5

.45

.4

C

Day.

16............. 

17...... .......

18.............

21.............

2°

23... ..........

25.............

27.............

28.............

29.............

30... ..........

July.

0.7

.7

.65

.65

.65

.65

.65

.6 

.5

.5

.5

.5

.65

Aug.

0.7

.8

.75

.7

.6

.6

.6 

.55

..6

.55

.5

.55

Sept.

0.5 

.5

.45

.4

.4

.4

.4

.4

.4

.4 

.5

.4

.45

.4

.4

Oct.

0.4

.4

.4

.4

.45

.4

.5

.4

.4

.4

.4

.4

.4

.4

.45

.5

Nov

NOTE. Ice conditions November 15 to December 31.

Rating table/or Geneva Creek near Grant, Colo., for July 1 to November 14, 1908.

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

0.30

.40

Discharge.

Set. -ft. 

14

21

Gage 

height.

Discharge.

Feet. Sec.-ft. 

0.50 33

.60 54

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

0.70

.80

Discharge.

Sec. -ft. 

SI

112

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or pbstructed-channel conditions. It is based on seven 

discharge measurements made during 1908, and is fairly well defined between gage heights 0.30 foot and 

0.65 foot.
PLATTE RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN.

Monthly discharge of Genera Creek near Grant, Colo., for 1908.

271

Discharge in second-feet.

, Maximum. Minimum.

July................................................. 96 33

August.............................................. 112 33

Mean.

04. 3 

01.fi 

29.3 

21. (i 

21.3 

14.3

Run-off 

(total in 

acre feet).

3,950 

3,790 

1,740 

1,330 

1,270 

879

13,000

Accuracy.

B. 

B. 

A. 

A. 

0. 

C.

NOTE. Discharge estimated for period July 1-4. Discharges for frozen period, November 15 to December 31, have been estimated on the basis of three measurements.

CLEAR CREEK AT FORKSCREEK, COLO.

This station, which is located at Forkscreek, Colo., in T. 3 S., R. 

71 W., was established May 29, 1899, to determine the amount of 

water available for irrigation and power development.

The station is a few hundred feet below the mouth of the North 

Fork. No other important tributaries enter between this fork and 

the mouth of the stream. For 13 miles below the station the creek 

flows in a deep canyon, falling in that distance 1,225 feet. It then 

emerges into a broad valley, where the entire normal flow is used for 

irrigation. The drainage area above the station comprises a narrow 

strip of very mountainous country, composed entirely of granitic 

rock, in many places barren of soil and studded with heavy patches 

of coniferous timber, remnants of a once extensively forested area. 

This area is 345 square miles.

Two of the oldest mining districts in Colorado lie in this basin, and 

in these districts the waters of the upper tributaries of the stream 

have been used for mining. The stream now carries in suspension 

immense quantities of tailings and sediment, and the name Clear 

Creek has long been a misnomer.

The water is used to some extent for power, and 4,000 horsepower 

are at present developed by about a dozen small plants. Several 

other plants are planned or in the course of construction. By utilizing all the storage facilities on the stream above Forkscreek it will 

be possible to develop about 30,000 horsepower for six months during 

the year, and 20,000 more between that point and its mouth.

The natural flow of the stream is more or less affected by storage 

in various ponds and reservoirs above. The creek is frozen over for 

three or four months during the winter.

On July 19, 1905, the gage was moved 30 feet upstream from its 

original location, but it is not likely that the relation of gage heights 

was materially affected thereby. Very good results should be ob-
272 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

tained at this station except in times of high water, when it is very 

difficult to measure on account of the swiftness of the current. As 

the channel is occasionally shifted by floods, new rating curves must 

from time to time be constructed.

The creek is subject to disastrous floods, due to the heavy rains in 

summer months, which frequently wash out the tracks of the Colorado 

and Southern Railway in the bottom of the canyon.

About December 1, 1908, the Denver Reservoir and Irrigation 

Company established a station about 2 miles above Golden and 10 

miles below Forkscreek, and discharges for December are based on 

records at this station.

Discharge 'measurements of Clear Creek at Forkscreek, Colo., in 1907 and 1908.

Date.

1907.

Do.........

May 10........

July 19........

1908.

May 21 ........

October 30 . . . . .

Do.6 .......

Hydrographer.

C. L. Chatfleld .....................................

..... do........ ----.------...------.-....-----.--.-..

.... .do ..............................................

.....do...-..........--.-----....-.--.--......--.....

.....do.............--..----....-.-..-.......--.....

.....do...-..........-----.-.....---.........-.......

W. B. Freeman . ................................

. ....do.. ..-.-----.--....-.--.-.--.-----...-----.. ...

.....do....---..-....-------..-.--.-.------..---.....

.....do...............-.----......---........--......

.....do..............................................

J. B. Stcwart. ......................................

.....do..............................................

.....do....-.-------.--.-.--.-...---.-.........-.-...

.....do .............................................

.....do.....--..........--------..----..-.-..----....

..--.do----.-..-----..-..-...-----.--..-.------..--..

W. B. Freeman.. ................................

.....do---. .......-.-.-.--......---.-.........-...-.

Width.

Feet. 

22

97

28

33

30

32

36

36

42

37

28.5

27.5

14

30

34

44

39

38

28

21

Area of 

section.

"A,

22

44

52

90

136

110

74

52

41

31

27

16

58

104

48

29

43

42

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

1.90

1.98

2.70

2.75

2.90

3.77

4.77

5.53

5.00

4.57

4.40

5.22

4.88

5.88

5.20

5.02

5.37

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

35

49

120

177

502

1,070

553

314

158

100

49

63

247

525

172

78

48

51

a Ice conditions. & Measured by wading; ice conditions. 

Discharge measurements of Clear Creek near Golden, Colo., in 1908.

Date.

Do.........

Hydrographer. Width.

Feet. 

30

30

20

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

40

27.4

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

0.43

.02

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

fA

37
PLATTE RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 273

Daily gage height, in feet, of Clear Creek near Forkscreek, Colo.,for 1907 and 1908. 

[C. \V. Hoisington, observer.]

Day.

1907. 

1.. .............

1.. .............

3...... .........

5... ........... .

1. ..............

8..-.....-.-.--.

9...............

10...............

11............'...

12...............

13............... 

14...............

15...............

16...............

17...............

18............... 

19...............

21.. .............

22...............

23...............

25...............

27...............

2S. ..............

30...............

31...............

1908. 

1... ............

2...............

5........--...-.

6...............

8...............

11...............

13............... 

14...............

16...............

10

19

20

21 ............... 

22............... 

23........ .......

24...............

ZJ.. .............

on

30...............

31.... ...........

Jan.

4.9

4.85 

4.75

4 95

5.0

4.9

5.15

5.2 

5.3

5.4

5.35 

5.35

5.35 

5.45

5.35 

5.35

5.45

5.4

5.3 

5.3 

5.2

5.35

5.2

5.15

5.15

5.2

5.1

5.0

5.1

Feb.

5.45

5.45 

5.4

c o

5.25

5.2

5.2

5.2

5.3

5.3

5.2

5 9

5.15 

5.15

4.95

5.2

5. 15 

4.95

4.8

4.5

4.7

4.95

4.75

4.2

4.0

Mar.

1.83

1.85

1.87

1.93

2.00

2.05

2.07 

2.03

1 97

2.00

2.33 

2. 35 

2.37

2.47 

2.43

2.40

2.37

2.37

2.47

2.47

2.45

2.25

2.30

2.33

4.0

4.1 

4.1

4.0

4.0

4.0

3.85

3.85

3.9

3.85

3.95 

3.95

4.0

4.05 

4.15

4.15

4.0

3 9

3.85 

3. 85 

3.85

3.8

3.9

3.8

4.0

3.95

3.8

4.0

3. 95

Apr.

2.45

2.43

2.45

2.50

2.50

2.47

2.47

2.60

2.70

2.70

9 77

2.85

3.00

2.93 

2.85 

2.80

2.80 

2.83

2.80

2.83

2.60

2.77

2.70

2.95

3.9

3.75 

3.7

0 Q

3.8

3.8

4.2

3.9

0 QK

4.15

4.4 

4.4

4.5 

4.5

4.5

4.25

4.35

4.5 

4.6 

4.7

4.55

4.45

4.3

4.4

4.1

May.

2.85

2.70

2.80

2.80

2.75

2.85

2.85

2.93

2.90

3.13

3.20

3.33 

3.27

3.30

3.37

3.37 

3.45 

3.60

3.80

3.97 

4.23

4.23

4.20

4.05

3.90

3.83

3.75

3.70

3.63

3.60

4.1

4.3

4.5

4.6

4.6

4.6

4.55

4.55

4.55 

4.5

4.6

4.6 

4.65

4.7

4.8

4.9 

4.9 

4.9

5.0

5.0

5.0

4.95

4.9

4.85

4.85

4.8

June.

3.65

3.75

3.88

4.00

4.22

4.25

4.30

4.20

4.15

4.22

4.38

4.48 

4.60

4.72

4.80

4.62 

4.82 

4.98

4.58

4.68

4.75

4.95

4.98

5.05

5.05

4.95

4.98

5.0

5.2

5.3

5.5

5.4

5.4

5.3

5.25 

5.3

5.6

5.8

5.7

5.8

5. 75 

5.9

5.5

5.5 

5.7 

5.6

5.65

5.6

5.6

5.65

5.65

5.5

5.2

July.

4.95

5.00

4.95

4.90

4 80

4.75

4.75

a 5. 50

6.15

5.85

5.85

5.85 

5.90

5.78

5.65

5.60 

5.55 

5.52

5.48

5.35 

5.35

5.55

5.55

5.52

5.82

5.70

5.60

5.50

5.38

5.38

5.5

5.35 

5.35

5.35

5.35

5.3

5.3 

5.3

5.3

5.3

5.25

5.3 

5.25

5.25

5.25

5.2

5.1

5.1

5.1 

5.05

5.05

5.0

4.9

4.85

4.85

4.9

5.1

5.0

Aug.

5.30

5.30

5.25

5.15

5.05

5.00

5.00

5.00

4.95

4.90

4.90 

4.88

4.90

4.85

4.80 

4.75 

4.75

4.78

4.80 

4.75

4.70

4.70

4.85

4.75

4.75

4.70

4.78

4.70

5.4

5.4 

5.3

5.2

5.2

5.2

5.25

5.2 

5.2

5.2

5.2 

5.25

5.2

5.2

5.2

5.5

5.4

5.4

5.5

5.65 

5.8 

5.4

5.4

5.35

5.3

5.3

5.2

5.2

5.2

5.15

Sept.

4.70

4.70

4.70

A K.K.

4 65

4 60

4 60

4.55

4.55

4.55

4.52

4.50

4.45

4.45

4.45

4.45 

4.45 

4.45

4.45 

4.45

4.45

4.25

4.28

4.42

4.48

4.42

4.42

5.1

5.1 

5.1

5.1

5.1

5.1

5.1

5.1

5.1

5.1

5.1 

5.1

5.1 

5.1

5.15 

5.1

5.1

5.1

5.1 

5.1 

5.1

5.0

5.0

5.1

5.15

5.1

5.0

5.0

Oct.

A AQ

A AG.

A 4£

4 4^

A KQ

4.55

4.40 

A An

4.35 

4.35

4.30 

4.30

4.30

4.30

4.28

4.28

5.0

5.0 

5.0

5.0

5.0

5.0

5.0

5.0 

5.0

5.0

5.0 

4 9

4.9 

4.9

4 9

4.95 

5.0

4.95

4.95

4 95

4.95 

4.95 

5.0

5.0

4.95

4.95

4.95

5.0

5.0

5.0

5.0

Nov.

4 25

4.28

4.25

4.25

4 22

4.22

4 99

4 15

o ?n

3.85

0 or

5.0

5.0 

5.0

5.0

5.0

5.0

5.0

5.0 

5.0

4.9

4.95 

4.95

5.2 

5.3

5.2

5.2

5.2 

5.2 

5.1

5.0

4.9

4.9

5.0

5.2

5.3

5.45

Dec.

4.05

5.05

4.70

A QC

4.85

4.95

5.6

5.65 

5.8

5.65

5.5

5.4

5.5

5.6

5.45

5.4

5.35 

5.3

5.4 

5.3

5.5

5.6

5.7

5.75 

5.65

5.8

5.9

5.85

5.75

5.7

5.6

5.35

5.0

a Maximum gage height was 9.2 feet.

NOTE. Ice conditions January 1-March 6,1907; November 17, 1907, to February 27, 1908, and after November 14,1908.

31260 IRE 246 10 18
274 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Rating tables for Clear Creek at Forkscreek, Colo. 

MARCH 7 TO JULY 9, 1907.

Gage

height.

Fat.

1.80

1.90

2.00

2.10

2.20

2.30

2.40

Discharge.

Sec. -ft.

28

32

37

44

52

61

72

2. 50 I 85

2. 60 100

Gage

height.

Feet.

2.70

2.80

2.90

3.00

3.10

3.20

3.30

3.40

3.50

Discharge.

Sec. -ft.

119

142 , 169

199

231

265

301

339

380

Gage

height.

Fee/.

3.60

3. 70

3.80

3.90

4.00

4.10

4 20

4.30

4.40

Dis- Gage

charge, i height.

i

Sec. -ft. i Feet..

423 4. 50

469 4. 60

517 4. 70

568 , 4.80

622

676

730

785

840

4.90

5.00

5.20

5.40

5.60

Discharge.

Sec. -ft.

895

951

1,009

1,068

1,129

1,192

1,321

1,453

1,587

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on eight 

discharge measurements made during this period and is well defined between gage heights 1.8 feet and 4.8 

feet.

JULY 10, 1907, TO MAY 20, 1908.

3.70

3.80

3.90

4.00

4.10

23

29

36

4.40

4.50

4.60

43 4. 70

52

4.20 i 63

4.30 80

4.80

4.90

5.00

103 5.10 351 ' 5.80

133 5.20 394 5.90

165

199

234

271

310

5. 30 439

o. 40 485

5. 50 532

5. 60 ,580

3. 70 628

6.00

6.10

6.20

676

724

773

823

873

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obbtructed-channel conditions. It is based on six 

discharge measurements made during this period anj is well defined between gage heights 4.0 feet and 

5.7 feet.

MAY 21 TO NOVEMBER 20, 1908.

[Indirect method for shifting channels used.] 

Daily discharge, in second-feet, of Clear Creek at Forkscreek, Colo., for 1908.

Day.

1..... ...............................

2....................................

3....................................

4....................................

7... ............................... ..

8....................................

9....................................

10....................................

11....................................

12....................................

13....................................

14...... ..... .......................

15.......................... ..........

16....................................

17....................................

18..................... ..... .......

19....................................

20....................................

21....................................

22....................................

23....................................

24....................................

25....................................

26....................................

27...... ...

28............................ ... ..

29...... .............................

30. ...................................

31....................................

May.

250

240

246

210

214

June.

268

328

370

460

410

400

365

335

332

(>00

460

510

550

535

440

395

412

350

232

July.

350

290

285

285

285

285

265

265

200

260

260

242

260

242

236

236

182

176

115

100

110

170

Aug.

280

270

230

195

195

195

212

188

188

204

188

172

172

172

284

245

245

284

340

405

235

198

198

102

102

162

Sept.

130

130

130

130

130

130

130

125

125

125

125

125

125

125

155

138

125

125

125

125

92

114

126

114

92

92

Oct.

92

92

92

92

92

92

92

84

84

84

84

67

67

67

67

76

76;:74

74

66

66

66

74

74

74

Nov.

74

74

74

74

74

74

74

60

74

66

66

70

70

70

65

65

65

65

60

60

60

60

60

60

Dec.

58

58

58

64

65

50

53

58

50

48

48

49

54

55

6.5

52

42

49

65

67

67

66

77

79

58

41

48

NOTE. These discharges were obtained by the indirect method for shifting channels, May 21 to November 14; were estimated November 15 to 30; and are from records kept by the Denver Reservoir and Irrigation Company, at a station 2 miles above Golden for December.
PLATTE RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 275

Monthly discharge of Clear Creek at Forkscreek, Colo.,for 1907 and 1908. 

[Drainage area, 345 square miles.J

Month.

1907.

July............................

J908.

July............................

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

SI 

199 

74(i 

1.220 

1,520 

439 

199 

159 

77

Minimum.

29 

70 

119 

44(i 

462 

199 

72 

77 

32

58 

199 

330 

600 

350 

405 

155 

92

The year

20 

23 

52 

232 

100 

140 

92 

GO

Mean.

50.7 

124 

303 

903 

700 

277 

134 

99.3 

54.9

Per

square 

mile.

0. 164 

. 359 

1.05

2. 02 

2.20 

.803

.388 

.288 

.159

50

55.2 

39.5 

85.0 

191 

412 

215 

218 

122 

78.4 

07.7 

5S.O

133

.145 

.100 

.114 

.240 

.554 

1.19 

.023 

.032 

.354 

.227 

.196 

.108

.384

Run-off.

Depth in 

inches on 

drainage 

area.

0.15 

.40 

1.21 

2.92 

2.54 

.93 

.43 

.33 

.09

_ _____

Total in 

acre-feet.

2,810 

7,380 

22,300 

53,700 

40,700 

17,000 

7,970 

6,110 

1,740

100,000

. 17 3, 070 

. 17 3, 180 

.13 2,430 

.27 5,060 

.04 11,700 

1.33 24,500 

.72 13,200 

. 73 13, 400 

.40 7,260 

.26 4,820 

.22 4,030 

.19 3,570

5.23 90,200

Accuracy.

B. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

B.

D. 

D. 

B. 

A. 

A. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

I). 

D.

NOTE. Discharge estimated January 1 to February 27,1908, and November 15 to December 31,1908. 

BOULDER CREEK AT ORODELL, COLO.

This station, which was established March 18, 1907, is located just 

above the mouth of Fourmile Creek, about 4 miles above Boulder, 

Colo. The records are valuable chiefiV in connection with power 

development. Boulder Creek has an immense amount of fall, and 

the distance from the Continental Divide at its headwaters to the 

plains at Boulder is only 20 miles.

No diversions are made above the station. The first canal has its 

intake a short distance below.

The creek is frozen four or five months of the year and discharges 

for such periods have been obtained by interpolation between discharge measurements and weir records.

The records at this station since May 20, 1907, have been kept and 

furnished by the Central Colorado Power Company,
276 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Discharge measurements of Boulder Creek at Orodell, Colo., in 1907 and 1908.

Date.

1907.

April 12o......

April 22........

Do.........

Mav U. ........

JulyS..........

July 13.........

October 14 a

1908.

Do>.......

March 21.......

April 22. .......

June 29........

Do.........

December 7 c

Do.........

December 29ft

Hydrographer.

C. L. Chatfield. .....................................

.....do..............................................

.....do...............................:..............

.....do..............................................

do. .......... . . .......

R I Meeker

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.do ......... . . ...

Meeker and Chatfield. . .............................

C. L. Chatfield................................ ... .

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

C. L. Chatfield.... . .................................

.....do..............................................

.. ..do.................. ......... ..... ....

.....do........................... ..................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do........................................ .....

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do.............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do........................................... ..

Width.

Feet. 

31

37

37

30

37

38

37

31

31

31

20

19

18

10

9

29

29

O9

45

45

47

37.5

30

27.5

13

Area of 

section.

S-i.ft. 

31

44

52

70

45

52

49

34

28

30

24.4

29

23.7

17.0

13.5

19 1

8.3

9 6

7.0

5.9

4.6

21.3

70

(17

56

22

14.3

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

1.90

2.15

2.04

2.40

2.80

3.20

3.82

2.33

2.31

2.13

2.25

1.93

1.92

1.8!;

1.78

1.81

1.68

2.03

2.02

1.80

1.50

1.70

1.57

1.49

1 49

2.75

2.75

2.72

2.68

2.52

2.22

1.64

1.82

». 47

Discharge.

Scc.-ft. 

37

58

89

6199

6605

6503

93

100

78

76

3(4

36

26

22

27

19.4

14.6

14.7

10.0

0.4

d&. 1

«5.1

11.8

/10.0

9 8

186

6185

180

<7l94

134

76

16.5

11.3

13.4

6 15. 2S

8.2

« Made by wading.

6 Measurement made at Ninth street bridge, Boulder, and the algebraic sum of all inflow and diversions 

between it and the Orodell station added, 

clce conditions.

d Discharge over weir at power house gave 3.28 second-feet. 

« Discharge over weir at power house gave 3.03 second-feet. 

/ Discharge over weir at power house gave 5.8 second-feet. 

ffKesults rough. Poor measuring section, 

ft Measurement made at temporary station at power house. 

» Gage at power house.

Daily gage height, in feet, of Boulder Creek at Orodell, Colo., for 1907 and 1908. 

[Mrs. W. Laffea, observer.]

Day.

1907. 

1...................

2...................

3...................

4...................

6...................

8...................

9...................

10...................

Mar. Apr.

1. 85

1.85

1.95

2.05

1.98

1.95

1.88

1.90

2.00

May.

2.38

2.42

2.40

2. 45

2.45

2.45

2.55

2.65

June.

3. 00

3.12

3.22

3.18

3. 35

3.48

3.48

3.50

3 40

3.22

July.

3.' 95

3.92

3.88

3. 85

3. 80

o on

3.80

3.78

Q 70

3.65

Aug.

2.98

2.95

2.92

3.00

2. 85

2.80

2.82

2 80

2.78

Sept.

0 42

2.38

2.34

2.30

2. 33

2.20

2.22

2.13

Oct.

2.06

2.10

1.92

1.87

1. 88

1 91

2.05

1.98

1 90

1.87

Nov.

1.74

1.73

1.70

1.71

1.69

1.69

1.66

Dec.

1.55

1.48
PLATTE RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 277

Daily gage height, in feet, of Boulder Creek at Orodell, Colo.,for 1907 and 1908 Cont'd.

Day.

1907.

13...................

15...................

17...................

18...................

19

20

21...................

22........ ..........

23...................

24...................

25........ ..........

20...................

27

28. ....

29...................

30...................

1908. 

1......... .........

2

5...................

6. ..................

9

10...................

11................... 

12...................

13. ..................

14...................

15...................

16. ..................

17...................

18...................

20...................

21 ...................

99

25...................

20...................

27

28........ 

29..................

30...................

31...................

Alar.

1.75

1.98

1 95

2.00

2.00

2.00

2.00

2.05 

2.02

1.85

1.88

1.88

1.49

1.54

1.50 

1.47

1.57

1.IS3

1.02

1.69

1.48

l.Sfi

1.52

1.54

1.52

1.54

1.49

Apr.

'> 95

2. 18

2.15

2. 30

2.32

2. 32

2.28

2. 15

2.20

2.20

2 28

2. 35

2. 32

2.32 

2.42

2.48

2. 52

2.50

1.44

1.40

1.48

1.54

. 1.59

1.05

1.05

1. 70

1.88 

1.97

2. 09

2. 10

2. 2(j

2 29

2. 2(1

9 99

9 9S

2. 39

2. 12

2.02

1.96

1.95

1 88

1.90

May.

2.90

2.98

2. 88

2.82

9 9)

3.00

3. 20

3. 35

3. 35

3. 35

3. 30

3.05 

2.92

2.92

2.90

3. 02

2.03

2.23

2.37

2.27

2.20

2.09

2.23

2.48

2.31

2.23

9 99

2. 15

2.18

2. 36

2.49

2. 09

2.54

2.64

2. 00

2.48

2.37

June.

3.35

3.42

3. 65

3.72

3.70

3. 58

3. 60

3. 58

3.05

3. 08

3. GO

3.05

3.70

3.88

2. 68

2.71

9 77

2.82

2.75

2. 76

2. 91

3.05 

3.14

3.14

3.23

3. 20

3 9Q

9 91

2.89

3. 00

3.04

2.92

July.

3 60

3. 02

3. 52

3. 35

3. 12

3. 15

3. 20

3. 30

3.22

3.18

3. 15

3. 12

3. 55

3. 48

3. 35

3.08

3.00

2.73

2.75

2.71

2.74

2.07

2. GO

2. 09

2.60

2. 60

2. 64 

2. 73

2 88

2 82

2.75

2.74

2 68

2.64

2.58

2.53

2. 49

2 50

2. 49

2.51

2. 52

2.73

Aug.

2.75

2.75

2.60

2. 58

2 65

2. 65

2. 60

2. 65

2.52

2.45

2.35

2.35

2.38

2. 55 

2.60

2.55

2.50

2.50

2.45

2.69

2.65

2.68

2.58

2.53

2.54

2.55

2.54

2.49

2.43

2.55

2.58

2.48

2.48

2.43

2.39

2.49

2.56

2.51

2.40

2.37

2.23

2 99

2.19

Sept.

9 09

2 08

2. 10

2.05

2.07

2.25

2 9 1

2.09

1.81

1.80

1.88

1.80

2.03

2.18

2.21

2.09

2.01

2.14

2.19

2.90

2.21

2. 12 

2! 12

2.20

2.22

2 18

2.04

2 00

1 Q7

1.91

1 91

1 95

1. 90

Oct.

1.87

1. 83

1.81

i on

1. 78

1.87

1.82

1.78

1.78

1.81

1.87

1.91

1.88

1. 86

1 79

1.76

1.73

1 69

1.67

1.07 

1.60

1.62

1.61

1.60

1.01

1.71

1.77

1 7U

1.70

1.73 

1.72

1 69

Nov.

1.71

1.60

1.57

1.55

1.69

1.64

1.62

1 63

1.64

1.66

1.61

1.61

1.60

1.94 

1.97

1 93

1. 90

1.91

1.80

1.67

1.66

1 69

1.68

1 05

1.68

1 69

1.71

1 (iSi

Dec.

1.58

1.64

1.69

1.51

1.44

1.48

1.51

1.53 

1.53

1.48

1.47

1.44

1.48

1 49

NOTE. -Gage readings after September 1, 1907, were taken from a Friez automatic gage. 

Probable ice conditions January 1 to March 17, 1907, November 1, 1907 to March 8. 1908, and December, 

1908.

Rating table for Boulder Creek at Orodell, Colo.,for 1907 to 1908.

 Gage 

height.

Feet. 

1.50 

l.U) 

1.70 

1.80 

1.90 

2.00

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

10

13

18

26

35

45

Gage

height.

Feel.

2.10

2.20

2.30

2.40

2. 50

2. 60

Dis- 1

charge.

Sec.-ft.

57

70

85

103

123

145

Gage

height.

Feet.

2.70

2.80

2. 90

3.00

3. 10

3. 20

Discharge.

Scc.-ft.

Gage

height.

Feet.

171 ! 3. 30

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

377

200 3. 40 420

230 3. 50

263 3. ( 0

299 3. 70

337

405

510

555

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on daily 

gage heights and discharges furnished by the Central Colorado Power Company and is well defined.
278 SURFACE WATEE SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Daily discharge, in second-feet, of Boulder Creek at Orodell. Colo., February 4 to March 8.

and Decem ber 18-31, 1908.

Day.

2........................

3........................

g

12. .......................

14........................

15. .......................

Feb.

5.4

5.3

5.6

5.2

5.4

C 0

5.2

Mar.

5.5

7.0

7.0

9 0

Dec. Day.

Ifi. ......... ... .....

17................ .....

18.......................

19.......... ... . ...

20.......... ...... .....

') >

24.......................

26.......................

27................ ......

28

30

31 .......................

Feb.

5.2

5.2

4.9

5 1

0.0

0.9

Mar. Dec.

9 8

8.6

8.8

9 7

8.6

8.6

8.6

s fi

8.6

8.0

NOTE. These discharges were obtained from weir measurements. Records were also kept January 1 to 

February 4, but as the weir leaked, they have been discarded.

Monthly discharge of Boulder Creel; at Orodell, Colo., for 1907 and 1908. 

[Drainage area, 108 square miles.]

1908.

101

167

373

224

167

73

36

42

17.4

8.2

49

165

121

09O/'

13

13

8.6

............

10.4

103

9S9

159

119

54. f

19. f

20.2

9.8

67.0

ond-feet.

Mean.

39.9

70.4

234

4ti7

400

164

62.4

32.0

15.9

7 S3

.5. o

10.4

46. 5

103

252

159

119

54.6

19.0

20.2

9.87

07. 0

Run-off.

ppr Depth in 

square inches on 

mile. dramage

0. 369

.652

2.17

0.19

. 73

2.50

4. 32 4. 82

4. 26

1. 52

.578

.296

.147

4.91

Total in 

acre-feet.

1,110

4,190

14,400

27.800

28,300

1.7,3 ,' 10,100

.64 3,710

.33

.16

1,970

946

481

93 1 000

.051

.090

.431

.954

2.33

1.47

1.10

.506

.181

.187

.091

.620

.05

.06

.11

.48

1.10

2.60

1.70

316

640

2,770

6,330

Accuracy.

B.

A.

A.

A.

A.

A.

A.

A.

C.

C.

C.

0.

B.

A.

A.

15,000 I A.

9,780 A.

1.27 7,320 . A.

.56 3.250

.21 1,210

.21

.10

8.45

1,200

607

48,700

A.

A.

B.

C.

NOTE. Discharge estimated December 7, 1907, to February 4, 1908.

BOULDER CREEK NEAR BOULDER, COLO.

This station, which is located H miles above the town of Boulder, 

in T. 1 N., R. 71 W., was established May 13, 1895, to determine the 

quantity of water available for irrigation and power development.
PLATTE EIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 279

Records were also kept on this stream near Boulder from 1888 to 

1892. From 1895 to 1901 the station was maintained in cooperation 

with the state engineer of Colorado. From 1902 to 1906 the records 

are published only in the reports of the state engineer of Colorado.

The station is at the mouth of Boulder Canyon, about 14- miles 

below Fourmile Creek and some 20 miles above the confluence with 

the St. Vrain.

Two small irrigation ditches take water above the station, but 

their combined flow amounts to only a few second-feet. The municipal supply of Boulder is also taken out above the station.

This valley is quite broad and is practically all under irrigation, 

the entire normal flow of the stream being used for that purpose.

The upper portions of this creek and its tributaries flow through 

mountainous areas which are extensively timbered, although they 

have been deforested to a very considerable extent. The drainage 

area above the Boulder station is 129 square miles, and at the junction with the St. Vrain, 434 square miles.

The Eastern Colorado Power Company is now constructing a plant 

on Boulder Creek which will have a capacity of probably 20,000 

horsepower. By making use of storage facilities it would be possible 

to develop at least 50,000 horsepower on this stream during six 

months of the year. The upper waters are now being used for placer 

mining and by small power plants which aggregate less than 1,000 

horsepower. Sites for additional power filings no doubt exist.

As good measurements can not be made during high water at the 

bridge where the gage is located, an auxiliary gage was located at 

the Ninth Street Bridge in Boulder, and high-water measurements 

have since been made at this point. Between the two gages the 

Farmers' canal and the Anderson ditch are diverted and Sand Creek 

and Gregory Creek come in, so allowance is made for these in using 

the measurements made at the Ninth Street Bridge to obtain the 

discharge at the upper gage.

Boulder Creek, like other mountain streams in this part of Colorado, is frozen over wholly or partly for three or four months in the 

winter time. The natural flow is not at present greatly modified by 

reservoirs, but will be when some of the reservoirs now under construction are completed.

The gage was washed out during the flood on August 1, 1908, and 

was replaced on August 14 by another gage in practically the same 

location, but the datum of which was about 0.5 foot lower than that 

of the old gage. No other changes in the gage datum are on record 

since the station was established.

As the stream is very swift and the bed is composed of bowlders it 

is impossible to procure very accurate results during high water. At 

moderate and low stages very good measurements can be obtained.
280 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Discharge measurements of Boulder Creek at Ninth Street Bridge, Boulder, Colo., in 1907

and 1908.

Date.

1907. 

May 20. ........

June 27........

July 29. ........

August 30. .....

1908.

April 23 a ......

May 14.........

Tune IS a

June 29.. .....

July 31.........

Hydrographer.

W. B. Freeman. . ..................................

C. L. Chatfleld .....................................

.....do.... .. .... . ...... .. ..................

.....do..............................................

C. L. Chatfleld. . ...................................

.....do................... ..........................

.....do..............................................

C. L. Chatfleld .....................................

Width.

Feet. 

56

59

55

38

30

32

38

38

37

52.5

55

46. 5

Area of 

section.

Sg. ft.

97

101

85

40

20. G

36

41

32

75

79

58

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

2.60

2.65

2.70

2.50

1.80

1.18

1 30

1.66

1.72

1.50

2.17

2.28

2.02

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

452

497

500

495

97

1G.5

CO

72

40

214

270

154

146

a Made by wading.

Discharge measurements of Boulder Creek at state engineer's gage near Boulder, Colo.,

in 1907 and 1908.

Date.

1907.

July 29. ........

190S.

Do.........

April 23........

May 12 a.......

June 18. .......

June 29... .....

Do.........

Hydrographer.

C. L. Chatfleld ....................................................

.....do.............................................................

.....do.............................................................

C. L. Chatfleld ....................................................

.....do................... ..........................................

J. B. Stewart. . ....................................................

.....do.............................................................

C. L. Chatfleld ....................................................

Stewart and Chatfleld .............................................

.....do.............................................................

J. B. Stewart. . ....................................................

.....do.............................................................

C. L. Chatfleld ....................................................

Gage 

height.

Feet.

2.40

2.40

1.28

.23

.98

.98

1.05

.90

1.80

1.80

1.90

1.52

1.55

1.80

1.23

.78

.90

.90

61. 10

.90

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

V>7

128

34

14.5

83

70.4

82.4

65

284

229

303

182

196

184

123

43

19

16.1

17.5

17.3

14

a Measured by wading at the gage. Other measurements have been computed from the measured discharge at the Ninth Street Bridge by adding the discharge of the two canals and deducting the inflow from 

Sand and Gregory creeks.

6 Gage height affected by ice.

NOTE. Measurements in 1907 were obtained by adding the total diversions between Ninth Street Bridge 

and this station to the measurements made at Ninth Street Bridge and subtracting the flow of Sand Creek. 

Measurements beginning August 14, 1908, are referred to a new gage at a different datum.
PLATTE RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN.

Daily gage height, in feet, of Boulder Creek at state engineer's gage near Boulder, Colo.,

for 1907 and 1908. 

[Alva Sparks, observer.]

Day.

1907. 

1

5. ..........................

6. ..........................

8...........................

10...........................

11. ..........................

12...........................

13. ..........................

14...........................

15 ...........................

16...........................

17...........................

18...........................

19

20...........................

21...........................

22...........................

23. ..........................

24...........................

25 ...........................

26. ..........................

27...........................

28...........................

29

30...........................

1908.

8. ..........................

10... .......................

11...........................

12. ..........................

13...........................

11. ..........................

15. ..........................

10. ..........................

17...........................

IS ...........................

19. ..........................

20 ...........................

21 ................... .........

22. .........................

23...........................

24 ............................

25 ...........................

26...........................

27...........................

28...........................

29 ...........................

30..........................

31...........................

Apr.

0. 05

.15

.15

.1

. 1

9

.>

.>

0

.)-,

.45

.05

.85

.9

.85

.85

.95

.8

1.05

1.05

.8

.65

.55

May.

1.50

1. 35

1.35

1. 35

1.38

1.28

1.35

1.52

1.75

1.80

1.98

1.98

1.92

1.90

1.92

2.02

2.10

2.28

2.42

2.42

2.40

2.40

2.40

2.32

2.02

1.85

1.88

1.85

1.90

1. 85

.0

.8

1. 05

.8

.85

.8

1.1

1. 25

1.0

1.0

.9

.85

.85

1.1

1.2

1.2

1.3

1.5

1.35

1.3

1.2

1.45

1.45

1.3

1.3

1. 15

1.2

1.3

1.3

June.

2.02

2. 15

2.32

2.20

2.35

2.42

2.40

2.45

2 32

2 32

2.38

2 42

2.55

2.52

2.52

2.58

2. 68

2.58

2.50

2. 42

2.50

2. 52

2. 60

2.68

2.G2

2.65

2.65

2.58

2.70

1.45

1.5

1.55

1.8

1.0

1.6

1.0

1.55

1.75

1.85

2.0

2.0

1.9

2.0

2.0

2. 05

1.9

1.7

1.6

1.7

1.75

1.05

1.7

1.8

1.7

1.9

1.7

1.0

1.0

July.

2.75

2. 85

2.88

2.82

2.82

2. SO

2.72

2. 55

2.52

2.42

2.32

2.35

2. 55

2. 50

2.35

2.10

1.95

2.05

2.02

2.02

2.00

2. 18

2. IS

2.38

2.58

2.45

2.45

2. 32

2.18

1.5

1.55

1.5

1.5

1.55

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.5

1.7

1.6

1.5

1.5

1.4

1.4

1.25

1 9

1.2

1.2

1.2

1 9

1.25

1.25

1.2

1.2

1.6

1. 55

Aug.

1.98

1.95

2.02

1.88

1.82

1.68

1.02

1.70

1.62

1.52

1.55

1.55

1.40

1.58

1.58

1.40

1.40

1.42

1.42

1. 38

1.28

1.08

1 08

1.08

1.12

1.18

1.22

1.28

1.32

1.20

1.8

1.8

1 9

2.0

2.0

1.9

2.0

1.9

1.8

1.8

1.7

1.65

1.55

1.5

1.4

1.4

Sept.

1.05

1.18

1.08

.98

1.02

1.02

.98

.90

.82

.70

.72

.72

.80

.75

.70

.78

70

.72

.75

.65

.68

.58

.55

68

.72

60

.52

1.4

1.35

1.3

1.2

1.15

1.2

1.2

1. 15

1.2

1.2

1.3

1.3

1.4

1.35

1.3

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.15

1.2

1.2

1.15

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.2

1.1

Oct.

0.58

.58

.48

.38

.48

.42

.42

.45

.45

.38

.45

.45

.40

.48

.48

.48

.42

.38

.42

.45

.48

.50

.48

.38

.42

.42

.45

.42

.48

1.05

1.0

q

q

q

.8

.8

.8

.8

.8

.8

.75

1.0

.8

9

.9

.95

q

q

Nov.

0.52

.38

.32

.32

.35

.30

.25

22

.32

.32

.45

49

.52

.52

.42

.48

.55

.55

.00

.58

.58

.55

.42

.52

.48

.58

.62

.50

q

.8

.85

.85

.9

.8

.8

.8

.9

.95

1.0

.9

.9

.9

.8

.8

.75

1.4

Dec.

0.55

.62

.65

.62

.60

.50

.50

.48

45

.42

.38

.42

.45

.45

.32

.38

.35

.42

.32

.30

.25

.45

.02

.65

.62

.52

.52

.50

.48

.45

.42

NOTE. The gage was more or less affected by ice conditions in the latter part of November and during 

December, 1907; also, after November 25, 1908. Gage \vas washed out during period August 1-15, 1908. 

Gage heights beginning August 10,1908, refer to a new gage installed at a different datum. The new gage 

heights are not comparable with the old.
282 SURFACE \VATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Rating tables for Boulder Creek at state engineer's gage near Boulder, Colo. 

MAY 1, 1907, TO JULY 31, 1908.

Gage

height.

Feet.

0 00

10

20

30

40

50

00

70

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

5

8

12

IS

25

32

39

48

Gage

height.

, Feet.

1 0. 80

.90

1.00

1.10

1.20

1.30

1.40

! 1.50

i

Discharge.

Scc.-ft.

,^

70

S3

97

114

133

154

178

Gage

height.

Feet.

!.(()

1.70

1.80

1.90

2.00

2.10

2.20

2. 30

Discharge .

Sec.-ft.

206

238

273

312

353

398

44(i

497

Gage

height.

Feet.

2.40

2.50

2. GO

2.70

2.80

2.90

3.00

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

550

(.00

664

725

788

853

920

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on 

seventeen discharge measurements made during 1907 and 1908, and is fairly well defined below gage 

height, 2.Of eel.

AUGUST 16 TO DECEMBER 31, 1908.

0.70

.80

.90

1.00

13

15

18

24

1.10

1.20

1.30

1.40

32

40

50

61

1.50

1.60

1.70

1.80

74

89

105

123

1.90

2.00

145

170

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on five 

discharge measurements made during the above period, and is not well defined.

Monthly discharge of Boulder Creek at state engineer's gage near Boulder, Colo., for 1907

and 1908.

Month.

1907.

July.................................................

1908.

May.................................................

July. ................................................

September. ........................ .......

December ...... ............. . . ... ....

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

561 

725 

840 

362 

111 

38 

33

90 

178 

374 

238

61 

28 

24

Minimum.

129 

362 

332 

94 

33 

24 

13

6 

39

114

61

14 

14

 i 

Mean.

322 

589 

565 

186 

59.0 

28.5 

23.8

40.2 

103 

256 

101 

120 

43.3 

17.8 

17.0 

13.4

.................... ..........

Run-off 

(total in 

acre-feet).

19, 800 

35, (XX) 

34,700 

11,400 

3,510 

1,750 

803

107,000

2,390 

6,330 

15,200 

9,900 

3,810 

2,580 

1,090 

1,010 

824

43,100

Accuracy.

A. 

B. 

B. 

A. 

A. 

B. 

C.

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

B. 

B. 

C. 

D.

NOTE. Daily discharge estimated from November 20 to December 31, 1908.

KANSAS RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 

DESCRIPTION.

The drainage basin of Kansas River lies between the basins of 

the Platte and the Arkansas, entirely within the region of the Great 

Plains. The Kansas as such is a comparatively short stream, being 

formed by the union of Smoky Hill and Republican rivers in Geary
U. S. GEOLOGICAL SURVEY WATER-SUPPLY PAPER 246 PLATE XIII

A. DIVERSION DAM, BELLE FOURCHE PROJECT, SOUTH DAKOTA.

 B. DIVERSION DAM AND HEAD-GATES, BELLE FOURCHE PROJECT, SOUTH DAKOTA.
' KANSAS RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 283

County, Kans., whence it flows eastward, entering the Missouri at 

Kansas City, Mo.

The Smoky Hill rises near the boundary between Kansas and 

Colorado, pursues a winding but on the whole easterly course through 

Kansas, and near Junction unites with the Republican. Its length 

is 335 miles, and the extreme width of its basin is about 100 miles. 

The river runs close to the northern border of the Arkansas basin, 

and its chief tributaries are from the north. Solomon and Saline 

rivers are the most important, the former draining the northern part 

of Kansas and the latter the territory between the Solomon and the 

Smoky Hill.

Republican River rises in the arid plains of eastern Colorado, flows 

northeastward into southwestern Nebraska, then eastward through 

the southern tier of counties to Superior, where it turns to the southeast, enters Kansas, and finally joins the Smoky Hill. The length 

of the basin east and west is approximately 360 miles, its greatest 

width is 120 miles, and the total area drained is 25,840 square miles. 

The river is wide and rather shallow, with a rapid descent, and the 

bed is largely shifting quicksand of the most unstable character. In 

its upper course the Republican receives many tributaries, chiefly 

from the south. Nearly all of these flow through a region where the 

rainfall is less than 22 inches, but as this part of the basin is covered 

with buffalo grass, which sheds rain like a roof, the per cent of rainfall reaching the streams is great. Near the mouth the drainage 

area is very narrow and the tributaries are small and unimportant, 

but here the rainfall is 28 to 30 inches a year. Many small springs 

are found along the main stream and its branches, and the ground 

water generally lies at medium depth. The soil of the middle part 

of the basin is porous, sandy loam, and about 55 per cent of the land 

is under cultivation; along the lower course the soil is black loam and 

clay, and about 75 per cent of the land is cultivated. The rainfall 

in the lower basin is considered sufficient for all growing crops. The 

Republican is subject to sudden rises and falls, and occasionally 

overflows its banks.

The most important feeder of the Kansas below the junction of 

the Smoky Hill and Republican rivers is the Blue, which rises in 

southeastern Nebraska, flows to the southeast and south into Kansas, and joins Kansas River at Manhattan. The principal tributary 

of the Blue is the Little Blue, which rises in southern Nebraska, flows 

southeastward, and unites w7 ith the main stream near Blue Rapids.

The basin of the Kansas comprises the richest portion of the State 

of Kansas, consists of bottoms and rolling uplands, well timbered 

with oak, cottonwood, ash, elm, hickory, etc. The section is under 

a high state of cultivation and produces a great variety of crops. 

The river flows through a rich alluvial bottom land. The banks are
284 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

sandy and easily cave in. In places the bed contains rock and bowlders, but in general it is composed of sand and at many points of 

quicksand. The channel as a rule hugs one bank or the other and 

is somewhat shifting. Islands are formed here and there by the 

deposit of sediment during high water, drift lodges upon them, and 

a thick growth of brush, mainly cottonwood, soon springs up. At 

Topeka the river is 900 feet wide between banks. At ordinary low 

water the channel occupies 150 to 200 feet of this width and has a 

depth of 8 to 9 feet; at mean high water the average depth is probably 

10 feet for the entire distance between banks.

The following gaging stations have been maintained in the Kansas 

basin:

North Fork of Republican River near Benkelman, Nebr., 1895.

Republican River at Benkelman, Nebr., 1903-1906.

Republican River at Bostwick, Nebr., 1904-1908.

Republican River near Superior, Nebr., 1896-1903.

Republican. River at Junction, Kans., 1895-1905.

Kansas River near St. George, Kans., 1904.

Kansas River near Topeka, Kans., 1904.

Kansas River near Lecompton, Kans., 1899-1901, 1903-1906.

Kansas River near Lawrence, Kans., 1895-1899.

South Fork of Republican River at Benkelman, Nebr., 1895, 1903-1906.

Frenchman River near Wauneta, Nebr., 1895.

Frenchman River near Palisade, Nebr., 1895-96.

Smoky Hill River at Ellsworth, Kans., 1895-1902, 1904-5.

Smoky Hill River at Solomon, Kans., 1902-1904.

Saline River near Salina, Kans., 1895-1903.

Solomon River near Niles, Kans., 1895-1903.

Blue River at Manhattan, Kans., 1895-1905.

Little Blue River near Fairbury, Nebr., 1908.

REPUBLICAN RIVER AT BOSTWICK, NEBR.

This station, which is located at a highway bridge \ mile southwest 

of Bostwick, Nebr., in sec. 23, T. 1 N., R. 8 W., was established June 

6; 1904, to replace the station at Superior, Nebr., which had been 

maintained from 1896 to 1903. Records at this point show the 

amount of water carried by the river at the Nebraska-Kansas state 

line, and are of value in connection with irrigation above and flood 

control below.

No records have been obtained during the winter period. No 

storage is used on the stream to reduce floods or to reenforce the lowwater flow, so that the variation in discharge is great. Owing to the 

unstable condition of the stream bed the records are more or less 

unsatisfactory.

The gage has remained the same since the establishment of the 

station.
KANSAS RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 285

Discharge measurements of Republican River at Bostwick, Nebr., in 1907 and 1908.

Dale.

1907. 

April 2.........

June 12.........

1908.

April 25........

May 12. ........

Hydrographer.

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

.... .do.. ............................................

F. S. Dobson .......................................

G. W. Bates. .......................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

G . W. Bates. .......................................

.....do..............................................

.....do........ ....... ...............................

Width.

Feet. 

259

406

296

210

146

130

354

234

368

315

414

336

401

200

418

222

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft. 

380

550

185

80

69

72

321

148

383

662

998

345

531

124

1,460

324

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

1.46

2.05

1.05

.75

.65

.90

1.45

1.05

1.80

2.72

3.62

2.15

2.34

4.79

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

570

991

243

106

106

139

544

230

749

1,480

2,390

894

1,020

174

4,320

597

Daily gage height, infect, of Republican River at Bostwick, Nebr., for 1907 and 1908.

[J. \V. Keife, observer.]

Day.

1907.

<)

7...................

S.... ....... ........

9

10...................

11...................

12.. .... ...........

14...................

17...................

18. ..... ...........

19

20. .................

21

22. .................

23...................

24...................

25...................

26...................

27...................

28. ... ............

29...................

30. .. ... ....

31...................

1908. 

1... ................

3...................

6...................

7. ... ..........

8...................

9

10...................

Mar.

1.75

1.6

1.55

1.5

1.4

Apr.

1.45

1.45

1.45

1.45

1.45

1.45

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.35

. 1.35

1.35

1.3

1.35

1.35

1.3

1.35

1.35

1.3

1.35

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.35

1.25

1.25

1.35

1.3

1.25

1.2

 1.2

May.

1.35

1.35

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.45

1.4

1.45

1.45

1.4

1.4

1.4

1 1

1.3

1.3

1 45

1.35

1.2

1.15

1.15

1.15

1.1

2. 65

2.55

2.1

1.85

1.8

.95

.95

1.0

1.0

1.0

1.05

1.05

1.05

June.

1.65

1.5

1.5

1.4

1.4

1.35

2.15

3.1

2.1

9 2

2.45

2.1

2.0

1.4

1.45

1.4

1.35

2.1

1.4

1.45

1.7

1.4

1.4

1.4

1.65

1.0

3 2

1.8

1.5

2.7

2.05

2.55

1.8

2.15

July.

1.5

1.4

1.45

1.25

1.15

1.1

1.05

1.0

.95

1.15

.95

1.3

2.35

1. 65

2.25

1.35

1.25

.95

1.75

1.6

1.6

1.45

1.4

1.25

1.2

1.1

.95

1.75

1.4

3.05

2.0

1.55

1.4

Aug.

.9

.85

.85

.85

.8

1.0

.85

.75

.7

.7

.7

.65

.65

.95

1.0

.9

.8

.7

.75

.7

.7

1.4

1 3

1.25

1.0

1.1

1.15

1.2

1.4

Sept.

0.0

.6

.9

9

.95

9

.65

.65

.65

.6

.55

.5

.5

.35

.3

.3

.4

1.75

1.55

1.25

1.15

1.15

1.15

Oct.

1 2

1.2

.9

.65

.5

.55

.7

.7

.65

.65

.7

.7

.75

.7

.7

.8

.85

.8

.8

.8

.85

.85

.75

.7

.7

.7

.8

.7

.7

1.25

Nov.

0 915

.9

.9

.95

.95

.95

95

.95

.9

9

.95

.95

.95

.95

.9

9

.95

.95

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.85

1.7

1.7

1.6

1.6

1.5

1.5

Dec.

1.25

1.25

1.3

1.25

1.25

1.25

1.2

1.25

1.3

1.2

1.55

1.65

2.7

2.7

2.7
286 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Daily gage height, in feet, of Republican River at Bostwick, Nebr., for 1907 and 1908-

Continued.

Day.

1908. 

11...................

12...................

13...................

14...................

15...................

16...................

17...................

18...................

19.......... ........ 

20. ..................

21...................

22...................

:X...... .............

24...................

25...................

26...................

27...................

28...................

29...................

30

31...................

Mar.

1.45

1.45

1.45

1.4

1.4

1.35

1.35

1.35 

1.35

1.35

1.35

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

1.3

Apr.

1.2

1.2

1.15

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.15

1.15

------

1.1

1.1

1.1

1.05

1.0

1.0

1.0

.95

.95

May.

1.15

1.65

1.25

2.55

1.8

1.3

1,2

1.2

1.3 

1.4

1.25

1.15

1.1

i.i

1.1

1.1

1.85

1.35

1.2

June.

2.5

3.6

3.5

2.05

3.6

3.9

4.3

4.65

3-8

2.9

3.4

3.5

2.45

2.2

1.85

1.65

1.6

July.

1.85

2.05

2.85

2 35

2.15

2.15

1.45

1.95

2.5 

2.5

2.35

2.05

3.6

2.95

1.85

1.6

2.5

9 n

1.7

1.5

Aug.

2.2

2.45

1.45

1.05

.95

1.85

1.95

1.3

3.5 

4.9

2.3

4.4

3.6

2.9

2.5

2.15

2.2

2.3

2.4

2.0

Sept.

1.1

1.0

1.0

.95

.9

.9

.9

 .85

.85

.7

.7

.7

.65

.65

.65

.75

.75

Oct.

1.1

1.0

.9

.9

.9

.85

.85

.85 

.9

.9

.9

4.8

3.55

9 l\

2 3

2.1

2.05

1.9

1.85

Nov.«

1.5

1.45

1.45

1.45

1.45

1. 55

1.55

1.55 

1.5

1.45

1.55

1.6

1.55

1.5

1.5

1.55

1.55

Dec.

2.7

2.85

2.7

2.55

2.4

1.85

1.75

3.1 

4.05

4.9

4.8

4.8

4.8

4.8

A 7C

3 95

3.9

3.85

3.8

NOTE. Ice conditions about December 15, 1907. 1o February 29, 1908, and probably after December 

6, 1908.

Rating tables for Republican River at Bostwick, Nebr.

APRIL 2 TO MAY 26, 1907.

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

1.10

1.20

Discharge.

Scc.-ft. 

335

395

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

1.30

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

460

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

1.40

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

530

Gage 

height.

1 Feet. 

\ 1.50

Discharge.

Scc.-ft. 

600

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on one 

discharge measurement made during this period and the form of the preceding curve, and is fairly well 

defined.

MAY 27, 1907, TO MAY 15, 190S, AND SEPTEMBER 14 TO DECEMBER 31, 1908.

0.30

.40

.50

.60

.70

.80

.90

1.00

1.10

1.20

1.30

40

50( ,0

75

100

130

165

205

255

310

375

1.40

1.50

1.60

1.70

1.80

1.90

2.00

2.10

2.20

2.30

2.40

445

520

(,00

680

760

850

940

1, 030

1,130

1,230

1,330

2.50

2.60

2.70

2.80

2.90

3.00

3.10

3.20

3.30

1,430

1,540

1,650

1,760

1,880

2,000

2,120

3.60

3.70

3.80

3.90

4.00

4.20

4.40

2, 240 4. 60

2, 360

3. 40 2, 480

3. 50 2, 600

4.80

5.00

2,730

2, 860

2,990

3,120

3,250

3,510

3,790

4,070

4,350

4,630

NOTE. The above (able is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on eight 

discharge measurements made during the first period and three made during the last, and is fairly well 

defined between gage heights 0.5 foot and 2.5 feet.

MAY 16 TO JUNE 2, 1908, AND SEPTEMBER 1 TO SEPTEMBER 13, 1908.

[Daily discharges obtained by the indirect method for shifting channels.]

JUNE 3 TO AUGUST 31, 1908.

0.90

1.00

1.10

1.20

1.30

1.40

1.50

l.fiO

1.70

1.80

1.90

65

95

130

170

220

280

345

415

490

570

650

2.00

2.10

2.20

2.30

2.40

2.50

2.60

2.70

2.80

2.90

 3.00

730

810

895

990

1,095

1,200

1,305

1,410

1,520

1,630

1,740

3.10

3.20

3.30

3.40

3.50

; 3.60

3.70

1,850

1,960

2,080

2,200

2,320

2,440

2,560

3. 80 i 2, 680

3.90

4.00

4.20

2, 810

2,940

3,200

4.40

' 4. (iO

| 4.80

5.00

I 5.20

5.40

5.60

5.80

6. 00

6.20

6.40

3, 460

3, 720

3,990

4,270

4,550

4,830

5,110

5,410

5, 710

6,010

6, 310

NOTE. The above table is not applicable for ice or obstructed-channel conditions. It is based on four 

discharge measurements made during this period and the form of the preceding curve, and is well defined 

between gage heights 2,0 feet and 3.7 feet.
KANSAS RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 287

Daily discharge, in second-feet, of Republican Hirer at Bostuick, JVe&r., May 16 to June 

2 and September 1 to September 13, 1908.

Day.

1. . ........

o

4............

7............

8............

May. June. Sept.

485

420

350

260

00^

OAC

oon

Day.

11. --.. .....

12............

14............

15............

16............

18............

May.

350

June. Sept.

210

165

165

Day.

21............

22............

24............

25............

26............

29

31. ...........

May.

320

240

215

215

215

21o

680

June. Sept.

NOTE. These discharges were obtained by the indirect method for shifting channels.

Monthly discharge oj Republican River at Bostwick, Nebr.,for 1907 and 1908. 

[Drainage area, 23,300 square miles.]

Month.

1907. 

April................................................

July. ................................................

August

1908.

April................................................

May. ................................................

Julv. ................................................

D ecem bcr

Discha 

Maximum.

565 

1,600 

2, 120 

1,280 

205 

185 

310 

375 

375

720 

410 

1,480 

6, 160 

2,440 

4, 130 

560 

4,350 

805

 go in secom 

Minimum.

460 

335 

375 

185 

75 

40 

68 

165 

310

375 

185 

185 

200 

280 

80 

88 

100 

482

-feet. 

Mean.

518 

590 

699 

435 

123 

77.5 

122 

240 

345

460 

287 

337 

1,620 

812 

878 

203 

609 

546 

680

Run-off 

(total in 

acre-feet).

30,800 

36, 300 

41,600 

26, 700 

7,560 

4,610 

7,500 

14, 300 

9,580

179,000

28, 300 

17,100 

20, 700 

96. 400 

49, 900 

54,000 

12,100 

37,400 

32, 500 

41,800

390,000

Accuracy.

C. 

C. 

B. 

B. 

D. 

D. 

D. 

D. 

C.

C. 

C. 

C. 

B. 

B. 

B. 

D. 

B. 

B. 

D.

NOTE. Discharge estimated August 19-21 and November 24, 1907, and for days in 1908 for which gage 

heights are missing.

LITTLE BLUE RIVER NEAR FAIRBURY, XEBR.

This station, which is located at the highway bridge 1 \ miles south 

of Fairbury and about 12 miles above the Nebraska-Kansas state line, 

was established May 23, 1908, to obtain data for use in studies of 

run-off and flood control and in power development.

Sandy Creek, the principal tributary, enters about 10 miles above. 

Muddy Creek, a small stream, is the only tributary between the 

station and the Kansas line.

Th,e dam of the Fairbury Roller Mill is about 2 miles above the 

station, and may possibly cause some daily fluctuation in stage.
288 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Gage heights are apparently little affected by ice.

Records have been fairly satisfactory, though the channel shifts at 

high stages. The maximum discharges are somewhat uncertain as 

the river overflows its banks at about 11 feet gage height. The 

amount of overflow has been estimated.

Discharge measurements of Little Blue River near Fairbury, Nebr., in 1908.

Dale.

1908.

Do.........

July 3. .........

July 10. ........

October 2......

Hydrographer.

G. W. Bates. .......................................

.....do..............................................

.....do..............................................

G. W. Bates............... ..... ........... ...

.....do..................... ...... ...... ..... ..

.....do..............................................

Width.

Feet.

320

197

240

135

120

70

Area of 

section.

Sq.ft.

1 990

863

1,100

1)8

105

100

99

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

2.33

12.52

9 87

6.28

7.34

3.20

2.90

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

one

3,420

1,230

1,940

218

189

175

194

a Estimated overflow was 1,700 second-feet.

Daily gage height, in feet, of Little Blue River near Fairbury, Nebr., for 1908. 

[Fred F. Borland, observer.]

Day.

1. ........... ........................

2....................................

~!.... ............. ...................

8....................................

9.................................... 

10....... ....... ....................

11........ ..... ... . ....

12....................................

13....................................

14................. ..................

15...................................

10........ ..... ..... .... .....

17....................................

18....................................

19............... ....................

20....................................

21 .

25....................................

27....................................

28.................................... 

29....................................

30....................................

31 ....................................

May.

2.3

2.3

2.5

2.3

8.05 

11.1

0.05

4 9

June.

4.25

9.95

11.9

12.3

13 9

13.9

"li'o"

8.3

9.4

11.4

10.2

9.8

7.8

11.5

12.0

10.2

8.G

9 5

7.1

11.4 

0.9

5.4

July.

4.8

6.4

6.6

8.1

0.1

7.45 

5.9

5.1

4.75

9.25

11.7

11.15

7.05

5.4

4.7

4.55

4.3

8.5

4.9

8.9

9.2

G.8

5.9

5.55

4.8

4.4

4.5

Aug.

4.35

4.1

3.9

4.9

3.45

3.3

3.5

3.45 

3.4

3.5

3.5

3.9

4.7

4.2

3.8

4.4

3.75

4.95

11.8

12.9

10.6

9.8

5.9

5.3

5.5

5.15 

4.75

4.5

4.25

Sept.

4.2

4.0

3.8

3.7

3.45

3.4

3.5

3.35 

3.35

3.25

3.2

3.2

3.2

3.2

3.25

3.1

3.1

3.05

3.05

3.0

2.95

2.9

2.9

2.85

3.0

2.9 

2.9

2.9

Oct.

2.9

2.85

2.85

2.9

2.9

2.95

3.0

3.0

2.8

9 Q

2.85

2.85

2.85

2.85

2.85

2.85

2.85

2.9

2.9

2.9

2.9

9 QC

 ? 9

2.9

2 9

2.9

2.9 

2.9

2.9

2.9

Nov.

2.9 2.9-

2.9

2.9

2.9

2.9

2.85

2.85

2.85

2.8

2.8

2.8

2.8

2.8

2.85

2.9

2.9

2.9

2.9

2.9

2.9

2 9

9 9

2.9

2 9

2.9

2.9 

3.0

3.0

Dec.

2.8

2.75

0 AC

^ n

2.9

2.9 

2.95

3.0

3.6

3.8

2.9

2.9

2.9

2.9

2.9

2.9

2.9

2.9

9 8^

2.85

2.8

2.85

2.85 

2.45

2.65

2.75

NOTE. The observer made no statement concerning possible ice conditions.
KANSAS RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 289

Rating tables for Little Blue River near Fairbury, Nebr.

MAY 29 TO JUNE 10, 1908, AND JUNE 28 TO DECEMBER 31, 1908.

Gage 

height.

Feet.

2.40

2.50

2.(>0

2.70

2.80

2.90

3.00

3.10

3.20

3.30

3.40

3.50

3.W)

3.70

3.80

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

130

140

150

160

170

ISO

190

200

210

225

240

255

270

290

310

Gage 

height.

Feet.

3.90

4.00

4.10

4.20

4.30

4.40

4.50

4. CO

4.70

4.80

4.90

5.00

5.10

5.20

5.30

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

330

350

375

400

425

450

480

510

540

575

610

650

690

730

770

Gage 

height.

Feet.

5.40

5.50

5.60

5.70

5.80

5.90

6.00

6.20

6.40

6.60

6.80

7.00

7.20

7.40

7. CO

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

810

850

890

940

990

1,040

1,090

1,190

1,310

1,430

1,560

1,700

1,840

1,980

2,140

Gage 

height.

Feet.

7.80

8.00

8.20

8.40

8.60

8.80

9.00

10.00

11.00

12.00

13.00

14.00

Discharge.

Sec.-ft.

2,300

2,480

2,660

2,840

3,030

3,230

3,430

4,690

6,520

8,800

11,340

13, 980

MAY 23-28 AND JUNE 11-27, 1908. 

[Daily discharges obtained by the indirect method for shifting channels.]

Daily discharge, in second-feet, of Little Blue River near Fairbury, Nebr., for 1908.

Day.

1. .............

2..............

6..............

8..............

9..............

10..............

May. June.

.........

Day.

11..............

12..............

13..............

14..............

15..............

16..............

17..............

1 Q

1Q

20..............

May. June.

2,600

3,600

6,700

4,400

3,800

1,850

1,600

8,300

3,750

Day.

21 ..............

22..............

23 ..............

24..............

25..............

26..............

27..............

28..............

29..............

30..............

31..............

May.

205

205

235

205

3,100

June.

2,200

1,100

1,100

3,000

2,000

1,600

1,150

NOTE. These discharges wera obtained by the indirect method for shifting channels.

Monthly discharge of Little Blue River near Fairbury, Nebr., for 1908.

Month.

Mav 23-31 ...........................................

Julv. ................................................

November. ..........................................

Discharge in second-feet.

Maximum.

6,730 

13,700 

8,080 

11,100 

400 

190 

190 

310

Minimum.

205 

412 

425 

225 

175 

170 

170 

135

Mean.

1,400 

5,140 

1,770 

1,370 

225 

179 

178 

184

Run-off 

(total in 

acre- feet).

25,000 

306,000 

109,000 

84,200 

13,400 

11,000 

10,600 

11,300

570, 000

Accuracy.

D. 

D. 

A. 

A. 

A. 

B. 

B. 

B.

31260 IRR 246 10 19
290 SURFACE WATEE SUPPLY, 1907-8.

GASCONADE RIVER DRAINAGE BASIN. 

DESCRIPTION.

The drainage basin of the Gasconade lies in the south-central part 

of Missouri. The river is formed by Piney, Lock, and Osage forks 

and Roubidoux Creek, which rise in sou them Missouri and flow northward to unite in Laclede and Pulaski counties. From the junction 

of* the forks to the point where the Gasconade enters the Missouri 

the distance by general course is about 60 miles, but including the 

windings it is probably more than 100 miles. The total area of the 

basin is about 3,500 square miles.

The headwater region comprises an area of regular outline, about 

65 miles long by 45 miles wide, forming part of an elevated tableland belonging to the Ozark range of hills, and along the streams 

the surface is very rough and broken. The lower part of the basin, 

below Arlington, is long and narrow, its average width for a distance 

of about 55 miles being less than 15 miles. Below Vienna the valley 

averages about half a mile in width and is bordered by bluffs 100 to 

200 feet high. Throughout the lower section the river flows in a succession of shoals and pools. On the shoals the stream bed is usually 

gravel, but the pools contain considerable deposits of sand and mud. 

Depth to rock beneath the stream bed is estimated at 10 to 30 feet. 

The rocks along the stream are chiefly limestone and sandstone.

The sources of the river are from 1,400 to 1,600 feet above sea 

level. At Arlington the elevation is about 650 feet and at the mouth 

of the river it is about 490 feet above the sea.

Above the junction of the forks the drainage basin is partly forested, but below that point it may be considered a deforested region. 

The mean annual rainfall is about 40 inches. The winters are mild. 

Facilities for storage have not been investigated.

The basin contains a great number of springs, some of those in the 

upper part being very large, and these springs help to maintain the 

low-season flow of the river. The streams offer fair opportunities for 

power development. As the main river is very crooked, it may be 

possible in some localities to shorten it by cutting across the narrow 

necks and to utilize the fall thus developed. Some of the tributaries 

may offer sites with good heads, as the slope of the tributaries is 

much greater than that of the main stream.

The Gasconade is subject to sudden floods, reaching approximately 

25 feet above low water.

The following gaging stations have been maintained in this basin:

Gasconade River at Arlington, Mo., 1903 to 1906.

Piney Fork of Gasconade near Houston, Mo., 1908.

Piney Fork of Gasconade (also called Big Piney Creek) near Hooker, Mo., 1903.

Little Piney Creek near Arlington, Mo., 1903.
MISCELLANEOUS MEASUREMENTS. 291

PINEY FORK OF GASCONADE RIVER NEAR HOUSTON, MO.

This station, which is located about 3^ miles northwest of Houston, Mo., was established October 7, 1908, to obtain data for use in 

connection with water-power development.

Brushy Creek enters about 200 feet above the station. The lowwater flow is modified by a power plant a short distance above the 

station. Measurements are made by means of a boat and cable or 

by wading in low water.

The datum of the chain gage, which is located 50 feet below the 

measuring section, has remained unchanged.

The following discharge measurement was made by wading October 7, 1908:

Width, 25.5 feet; area, 19 square feet; gage height, 4.87 feet; discharge, 19 secondfeet.

Daily gage height, in feet, of Piney Fork of Gasconade River near Houston, Mo., for 1908.

[W. A. Stewart, observer.]

Day.

1.. ..........

2............

3...-.--.....

4. ...........

5............

6............

7............

8............

9.. ..........

10............

Oct.

4.89

4.93

4.88

4.85

4.82

Nov.

5.00

4.99

5.01

5.04

5.08

"s.'oi"

5.04

5.02

Dec.

5.64

5.59

5.35

5.32

5.30

"5." 25"

5.24

5.20

5.18

Day.

11............

12............

13..... .......

14............

15............

16............

17............

18............

19............

20

Oct.

5.02

4.91

4.90

4.84

4.93

4.94

4.92

4.91

5.40

5.02

Nov.

5.02

5.02

5.01 "5. '66'

4.92

4.98

4.99

5.13

5.00

Dec.

5.08

5.06

.......

5.04

5.02

5.05

5.18

Day.

21.. ..........

22. ...........

23.....---....

24............

25............

26............

27............

28. ...........

29. ...........

30............

31............

Oct.

5.18

5.24

5.03

5.04

4.82

5.00

4.86

5.15

5.05

5.04

Nov.

5.12

5.08

5.08

5.08

5.08

5.09

5.14

5.30

5.44

5.62

Dec.

"5." 07

5.06

5.06

5.05

"S." 08

"S." 03

5.06

5.06

NOTE. Probably no ice conditions in December.

MISCELLANEOUS MEASUREMENTS.

The miscellaneous measurements made in the Missouri River basin 

in 1907 and 1908 are presented in the following pages. They have 

been listed under drainage basins in the same order as the regular 

stations.

Miscellaneous measurements in Missouri River basin. 

UPPER MISSOURI BASIN.

Date.

1908.

Stream.

Willow Creek.........

Tributary to 

River.

River.

Locality.

Augusta, Mont.

Gage 

height.

Feet.

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

10

6.5

7 9
292 SURFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Miscellaneous measurements in Missouri River basin Continued.

YELLOWSTONE RIVER BASIN.

Date.

1908.

October 29.....

Stream.

.....do..'...........

.....do.............

! Tributary to 

... .....do................

... .....do................

...'.....do... .............

Locality.

Powder River, Wyo.,

on C. N. W. R. R. 

.....do................

Gage 

height.

Feet.

Discharge.

Sec.-ft. 

152

l,2fiO

ol

a. 5

BIGHORN RIVER BASIN.

1908. 

November 3....

December 15...

Do.........

December 22. ..

October 19.....

November 7.... 

Do.........

1907. 

August 26...... 

October 20.....

1908. 

June 13........

July 26. ........

1907. 

October 21 .....

1908.

June 14......... 

October 30.....

June 14 ........ 

October 30.....

Do.........

Do.........

April 20........

Big Wind River......

.....do................

Dinwoodie Creek. .... 

Drv Creek. ...........

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

rigation Co. canal.

.....do................

rigation Co. canal. 

Popo Agie River. ....

.....do................

Popo Agie River .....

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

Baldwin Creek ....... 

.....do................

Squaw Creek. . ....... 

.....do................

North Fork of Popo

Agie River.

.....do................

River. 

North Fork of Shoshone River.

Bighorn River. ....... 

.....do................

Big Wind River......

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

Big Wind River......

Little Wind River. . . . 

.....do................

Little Wind River .... 

.....do................

Little Wind River....

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

Little Wind River ....

Little WT ind River....

Popo Agie River...... 

.....do................

.....do................ 

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

Speed Stagner's ranch, 

Wyo.

Crowheart, Wyo. .....

Creek ditch, near 

Crowheart, Wyo.

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

Washakie, Wyo.

.....do................

Above sinks 10 miles 

above Lander, Wyo.

above Lander, Wyo. 

Hudson, Wyo. ........

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

Lander, Wyo .........

.....do................ 

.....do................

Milford, Wyo.........

Lander, Wyo ........

.....do................

Wyo.

2.73 

.80

1.20

3.10

2.00

1.50

1.37

.95

2.40

-13. 20 

-13. 70

-11.45

-13.30

-13. 54

d-4. 85

d-4.85

579 

370

a 35 

fi24. 2

23.4

«12

13.5

10

a 12

119

40

a30

a8

9.6

a 10

45 

60

389 

142

2,090

451

401

151

204

82 

08

05 

a3

a 50

164

169

395

1,620

of tension rods from right abutment, downstream side of bridge.

d Distance down from reference mark, which is nail driven into stringer on downstream side of bridge,' 

feet from left abutment. This bridge is 3i miles north of Lander.
MISCELLANEOUS MEASTJBEMENTS. 293

Miscellaneous measurements in Missouri River basin Continued. 

HEART RIVER BASIN.

Date.

1907. 

July 21......... 

July 25. ........

1908.

Stream.

Heart River....... ... 

.....do................

Heart River.. ........ 

.....do................

Tributary to 

Missouri River.. ...... 

.....do................

Missouri River........ 

.....do................

.....do ................

Locality.

.....do................

"BigBend"sec.29,T. 

136 N., R. 84 W.. N. 

Dak.

Little Heart, sec. 15, T. 

137 N., R.81 W., N. 

Dak.

Gage 

height.

Feet.

Discharge.

Sec. ft. 

205 

534

17.1

25.9 

.16

CANNON BALL RIVER BASIN.

1908.

Ball River. 

.. . do..... ........... .....do................

.....do................

Mott, N. Dak.........

venson, N. Dak.

0.3

6.55

.40

WHITE RIVER.

1908. 

July 19.........

JuIyS..........

Do.........

Do.........

July 25. ........ 

July 17.........

June 20........

July3..........

JulyS. .........

.....do................

... ..do ...............

Creek.

Creek.

.....do................ 

.....do...............

.....do................

.....do................

White River. .........

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

White River..........

.....do................

.....do................ 

.....do................

White River..........

.....do................

Sec. 35, T. 34 N., R. 48

W., Nebraska. 

Sec. 7, T. 34 N., R. 47

W., Nebraska. 

Sec. 12, T. 32N..R.51

W.. Nebraska. 

.....do................

Sec. 32, T. 32 N., R. 49

W., Nebraska. 

Sec. 28, T. 32N..R.50

W., Nebraska. 

.....do....... .........

.....do................

Sec. 12, T. 32N.,R. 49

W., Nebraska. 

Sec. 11, T. 32N.,R. 48

W., Nebraska. 

Sec. 23, T. 33N..R. 48 

W., Nebraska. 

Sec. 21, T. 34 N., R. 48

W., Nebraska. 

Sec. 29, T. 33N..R. 47

W., Nebraska. 

Sec. 4, T. 33 N., R. 40

W., Nebraska.

W., Nebraska.

14.0

99 1

15.0

47.8

2.70

1.46

1 92

.42

3.79

19

5.97

0.77

2.17

1. 65

1.45

NIOBRARA RIVER BASIN.

1908. 

May 16.........

Do.........

May 17. ........

Red Bird Creek....... .....do.................

.....do.................

.....do.................

sec. 1, T. 32 N., R. 

11 W., Nebr.

sec. 11, T. 32 N.,R. 

10 W., Nebr. 

Verdigris Nebr

6

4

5(

1 13Qi
294 SUKFACE WATEK SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Miscellaneous measurements in Missouri River basin Continued.

MINOR MISSOURI RIVER DRAINAGE, IN NEBRASKA.

Date.

1908.

Do.........

Stream.

.....do................

.....do.................

.....do................

Tributary to 

.....do.................

.....do.................

.....do.................

.....do.................

.....do.................

Locality.

.....do.................

Gage 

height.

Feet.

Discharge.

Sec. ft. 

201

10

6.5

6.3

97

38

NORTH PLATTE.

1908.

Do.........

Do.........

Do.........

Do.........

1907.

North Platte..........

Box Elder Creek......

.....do.................

Platte River..........

.....do.................

.....do.................

.....do.................

.....do.................

.....do.................

1,070

a g

a3

»5

a 15

PLATTE RIVER BASIN.

1908.

Do.........

1907.

Do.........

horn River. 

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do.................

.....do.................

Salt Creek.............

.....do.................

10N..R.OE.,Nebr.

T. 10 N., R. 6 E., 

Nebr.

.....do.................

40

85

72

64

72

SOUTH PLATTE.

1908.

Do.........

July 21.........

1907. 

April 4.........

1908.

Do.........

October 27.....

December 29 ...

South Platte River...

.....do................

.....do................

South Platte River...

.....do................

.....do................

North Fork of South

Platte River. 

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....'do.................

Platte River..........

.....do.................

.....do.................

Platte River..........

.....do.................

.....do.................

South Platte River. . . .

.....do.................

.....do.................

.....do.............. ..

.....do.................

.....do.................

North Fork of South

Platte River. 

.....do.................

.....do................

.....do.................

.....do.................

.....do.................

.....do.................

North Platte, Nebr....

.....do.................

.....do.................

neva Creek at Grant, 

Colo. 

.....do.................

.....do.................

.....do.................

.....do.................

South Platte, Colo....

.....do.................

.....do.................

0.70

.90

08

90

155

0

o200

38

 K

13

15.6

40

52

42

66

26.5

3.7

a 2

o Estimated.
MISCELLANEOUS MEASUKEMENTS. 295

Miscellaneous measurements in Missouri River basin Continued. 

SOUTH PLATTE Continued.

Date.

1908.

June 7..... .....

1907.

March 10. ......

March 28.......

1908. 

June 17.........

1907.

March 16.......

April 11........

April 23........

May 10. ........

October 11 .....

December 5. ...

1908. 

Februarv20....

March 16.......

May 21.........

June 17.........

August-15.. ....

October 30.....

1907. 

April 23........

1908. 

December 4... .

December 12 ...

Do.........

December 28 ...

1907. 

March 5........

Do.........

1908. 

Septembers....

Do.........

Do.........

September 2....

September 4.... 

Do.........

1907. 

March 13.......

March 19. ......

April 12........

April 22.......

Stream.

.....do................

Threemile Creek .....

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

Cherry Creek. ........

North Fork of Clear

Creek. 

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

Creek. 

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

South Fork of Clear

Creek.

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

St. Vrain Creek......

South Fork of Middle

Boulder Creek. 

.....do................

North Fork of Middle

Boulder. 

Selfridge and Mann 

power plant intake. 

North Boulder Creek.

Fourmile Creek ......

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

Tributary to 

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

South Platte River. . . .

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

Clear Creek ...........

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

South Platte .........

St. Vrain Creek.......

.....do................

.....do................

Middle Boulder. ......

Boulder Creek......... 

.....do................

Boulder Creek....... .

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

Locality.

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

per Creek.

reservoir site.

Sec. 35, T. 1 N., R. 72 

W., Colo. 

Boulder Co. ranch ....

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

Gage 

height.

Feet.

cl.42

Discharge.

Sec. ft.

a3

a 1

«3

64,000

9 6

a4

4.7

16

23

46

4.7

17

on

5.4

2.8

Q9

64

Q-7

65

a 30

a 5

6.8

15.1

1.1

20.4

«3

8.3

13

o Estimated.

6 Kutters formula estimate.

c Measurements taken at Denver Reservoir Irrigation Company's gage, and all but second one on December 12 were taken by the company's hydrographers. 

d Float measurement.
296 STJBFACE WATER SUPPLY, 1907-8.

Miscellaneous measurements in Missouri River basin Continued.

SOUTH PLATTE Continued.

Date.

1908.

1907.

March 13.......

March 18.......

April 12........

1908.

Do.........

Do.........

Stream.

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

Black Hills Ditch. ....

.....do................

Tributary to 

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

St. Vrain Creek.......

.....do................

Locality.

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

Hills Ditch, Colo. 

Tolland, Colo. ........

fornia Gulch, near 

Ward, Colo. 

Goldhill, Colo.........

Fort Russell, Wyo....

Gage 

height.

Feet. 

i on

-

Discharge.

Sec. ft. 

14.5

07

62.8

4.2

o!2

o!5

KANSAS RIVER BASIN.

1908.

February 29....

April 25........

May 19. ........

July 25.........

October 23 .....

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do. ...............

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do.. ..............

.....do................

.....do. ...............

.....do. ...............

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

.....do................

2.15

2.25

15.10

7.20

3.61

2.42

2.52

2.38

300

288

292

705

305

383

12, 200

3,700

990

307

470

378

370

a Estimated. 6 Float measurement.
INDEX.

A.

Page. 

Accuracy, degree of.......................... 27-28

Acknowledgments to those aiding........... 29

Acre-foot, definition of....................... 13

Agency ditch nearHarlem, Mont.:

description.......................... 133

discharge............................ 133

gage heights......................... 134

American Fork near 

Harlowton, Mont.:

description.......................... 100

discharge............................ 100

discharge, monthly.................. 102

gage heights.......................... 101

rating tables......................... 102

Antoin-Lapieve ditch near 

Augusta, Mont.:

discharge............................ 291

Appropriations, amount of................... 7

Arapahoe, Wyo.,

Little Wind River above:

description.......................... 186

discharge............................ 186

discharge, monthly.................. 188

gage heights......................... 187

rating tables......................... 188

Little Wind River below:

description.......................... 189

discharge............................ 189

discharge, monthly.................. 191

gage heights......................... 190

rating tables ........................ 191

Popo Agie River at:

discharge............................ 292

Ash Creek:

discharge............................ 293

Ashfield, Mont.,

Beaver Creek near:

description........................ 123-124

discharge............................ 124

Ashland, Nebr., 

Wahoo Creek at:

discharge............................ 294

Augusta, Mont.,

Antoin-Lapieve ditch near:

discharge............................ 291

Ford Creek near:

description.......................... 66

discharge............................ 66

discharge, monthly.................. 68-69

gage heights......................... 67

rating tables......................... 68

Smith Creek near:

description.......................... 69

discharge............................ 69

discharge, monthly.................. 72

Augusta, Mont. Continued.

Smith Creek near Continued. Page, 

discharge curves, chart.............. 23

gage heights......................... 70

rating tables......................... 71

Sun River (North Fork) near:

description.......................... 53

discharge............................ 54

discharge, monthly.................. 56

gage heights......................... 54-55

rating tables......................... 55

Sun River (South Fork) at:

description.......................... 60

discharge............................ 60

discharge, monthly.................. 62-63

gage heights......................... 61

rating tables......................... 62

Willow Creek near:

description.......................... 63

discharge............................ 63

discharge, monthly.................. 65-66

gage heights......................... 64

rating tables......................... 65

Authority for investigations, recital of....... 7

B.

Badger Creek nearFamily, Mont.:

description.......................... 82

discharge............................ 82

discharge, monthly.................. 84

gage heights......................... 82-83

rating tables......................... 83-84

Baldwin Creek at 

Lander, Wyo.:

discharge............................ 292

Barratts, Mont.,

Beaverhead River at:

description.......................... 34-35

discharge............................ 35

discharge, monthly.................. 37

gage heights......................... 35-36

rating tables......................... 36

Bates, G. W., work of........................ 30

Bazile Creek at 

Creighton, Nebr.:

discharge............................ 294

Niobrara, Nebr.:

discharge............................ 294

Bear Creek at 

Morrison, Colo.:

discharge............................ 295

Beatrice, Nebr., 

Blue River at 

discharge............................ 296

Beaver Creek (of Milk River) near 

Ashfield, Mont.:

description........................ 123-124

discharge............................ 124

297
298 INDEX.

Beaver Creek overflow (of Milk River) near 

Bowdoin, Mont.: Page. 

description.......................... 124

gage heights......................... 124

Beaver Creek (of White River):

discharge............................ 293

Beaverhead River at 

Barratts, Mont.:

description.......................... 34-35

discharge............................ 35

discharge, monthly.................. 37

gage heights......................... 35-36

rating tables......................... 36

Dillon, Mont.:

description.......................... 37

discharge............................ 37

gage heights......................... 38

Belle Fourche project, views at.............. 282

Belleville, Mont., 

Teton River near:

description.......................... 89-90

discharge............................ 90

discharge, monthly.................. 91

gage heights......................... 90

rating table.......................... 90

Willow Creek at:

discharge............................ 291

Big Bend, N. Dak., 

Heart River at:

discharge............................ 293

Big Bordeaux Creek:

discharge............................ 293

Bighorn River near 

Hardin, Mont.:

description......................... 182-183

discharge............................ 183

discharge, monthly.................. 185

gage heights....................... 183-184

rating tables....................... 184-185

Bighorn River basin:

description........................ 178-180

miscellaneous measurements........ 292

stream flow........................ 180-201

Big Muddy Creek at 

Big Muddy, Wyo.:

discharge............................ 294

Big Muddy River basin:

stream flow.......................... 141

Big Muddy River near 

Culbertson, Mont.:

description.......................... 141

discharge............................ 141

gage heights......................... 141

Big Timber Creek (North Fork) nearBig Timber, Mont.:

description.......................... 151

discharge............................ 151

discharge, monthly.................. 153

gage heights....................... 151-152

rating tables....................... 152-153

Big Timber Creek (South Fork) nearBig Timber, Mont.:

description.......................... 153

discharge............................ 154

discharge, monthly.................. 155

gage heights....................... 154-155

rating tables......................... 155

Big Wind River at or near 

Riverton, Wyo.: Page, 

description.......................... 180

discharge............................ 181

discharge, monthly.................. 182

gage heights......................... 181

rating tables......................... 182

Stagner's ranch, Wyo.:

discharge............................ 292

Birch Creek near 

Dupuyer, Mont.:

description.......................... 85

discharge............................ 85

discharge, monthly.................. 87

gage heights.......................... 85-86

rating tables......................... 86

Black Hills ditch at 

Tolland, Colo.:

discharge............................ 296

Black Hills ditch mouth, Colo.,

Jenny Creek near:

discharge............................ 296

Blue River at 

Beatrice, Nebr.:

discharge............................ 296

Crete, Nebr.:

discharge............................ 296

Wilber, Nebr.:

discharge............................ 296

Bostwick, Nebr.,

Republican River at:

description.......................... 284

discharge............................ 285

discharge, daily..................... 287

discharge, monthly.................. 287

gage heights....................... 255-286

rating tables......................... 286

Boulder, Colo.,

Fourmile Creek at:

discharge............................ 295

Boulder Co. ranch,

North Boulder Creek at:

discharge............................ 295

Boulder Creek at or near 

Boulder, Colo.:

description........................ 278-279

discharge.......................... 280,295

discharge, monthly.................. 282

gage heights......................... 281

rating tables......................... 282

Contact, Mont.:

discharge............................ 292

McLeod, Mont.:

discharge............................ 292

Orodell, Colo.:

description.......................... 275

discharge............................ 276

discharge, daily..................... 278

discharge, monthly.................. 278

gage heights....................... 276-277

rating table.......................... 277

Boulder River (East Fork; near 

McLeod, Mont.:

description.......................... 156

discharge............................ 156

discharge, monthly.................. 158

gage heights....................... 156-157

rating tables......................... 157
INDEX. 299

Boulder River (West Fork) at OT near 

Brufleys, Mont.: Page, 

description.......................... 158

discharge............................ 159

discharge, monthly.................. 162

gage heights....................... 159-161

rating table.......................... 162

McLeod, Mont.:

description.......................... 163

discharge............................ 163

discharge, monthly.................. 165

gage heights....................... 163-164

rating tables....................... 164-165

Bowdoin, Mont.,

Beaver Creek overflow near:

description.......................... 124

gage heights......................... 124

Box Elder Creek at 

Careyhurst, Wyo.:

discharge............................ 294

Bridgeport, Nebr.,

North Platte River at:

discharge............................ 294

Broncho, N. Dak., 

Knife River at:

description.......................... 210

discharge............................ 210

discharge, daily..................... 212

discharge, monthly.................. 213

gage heights ........................ 211

rating tables......................... 212

Browning, Mont.,

Milk River (South Fork) near:

description.......................... 106

discharge............................ 106

discharge, monthly.................. 108

gage heights......................... 107

rating tables......................... 108

Brufleys, Mont.,

Boulder River (West Fork) near:

description.......................... 158

discharge............................ 159

discharge, monthly.................. 162

gage heights....................... 159-161

rating table.......................... 162

Bull Lake Creek at 

J. K. ranch, Wyo.:

discharge............................ 292

C.

Cache la Poudre River, reservoir site on,

view of.......................... 250

Cannon Ball River at 

Stevenson, N. Dak.:

description........................ 217-218

discharge............................ 218

discharge, monthly.................. 220

gage heights....................... 218-219

rating table.......................... 219

Cannon Ball River basin:

description.......................... 217

gaging station....................... 217

miscellaneous measurements......... 293

stream flow........................ 217-220

Cannon Ball River (North Fork) at 

Mott, N. Dak.:

discharge............................ 293

Cannon Ball River (North Fork) at Con.

New England, N. Dak.: Page. 

discharge............................ 293

Careyhurst, Wyo.:

Box Elder Creek at 

discharge............................ 294

Cascade, Mont.:

Missouri River at 

description.......................... 38

discharge............................ 38

discharge, monthly.................. 41

gage heights......................... 39

rating tables......................... 40

Casper Creek at 

Casper, Wyo.:

discharge............................ 294

Cassels, Colo.,

South Platte River (North Fork) at:

description.......................... 268

discharge.......................... 268,294

discharge, monthly.................. 269

gage heights......................... 268

rating table.......................... 269

Chadron Creek:

discharge............................ 293

Chandler, E. F., work of..................... 29

Chataeld, C. L., work of..................... 29

Cherry Creek at 

Denver, Colo.:

discharge............................ 295

Chinook, Mont., 

Cook canal near:

description...................:...... 129

discharge............................ 130

discharge, monthly.................. 131

gage heights......................... 130

Fort Belknap canal near:

description.......................... 134

discharge............................ 135

discharge, monthly.................. 136

gage heights......................... 135

description.......................... 131

discharge............................ 131

discharge, monthly ................. 132

gage heights......................... 131

Milk River (North Fork) near:

description.......................... 120

discharge.......................... 120-121

discharge, daily...................... 123

discharge, monthly.................. 123

gage heights....................... 121-122

rating table.......................... 122

Milk River (West Fork) at:

description........................ 117-118

discharge............................ 118

discharge, daily...................... 119

discharge, monthly.................. 120

gage heights......................... 119

Paradise Valley Canal near:

description.......................... 128

discharge............................ 128

discharge, monthly.................. 129

gage heights......................... 129

W inter-Anderson canal near:

description.......................... 136

discharge............................ 136

discharge, monthly.................. 137

gage heights......................... 136
300 INDEX.

Chugwater Creek at 

Chugwater, Wyo.: Page, 

discharge............................ 294

Diamond, Wyo.:

discharge............................ 294

Clancy, Mont. 

Lump Gulch Creek near:

description.......................... 45

discharge............................ 45

gage heights......................... 46

Prickly Pear Creek at:

description.......................... 43

discharge............................ 43

gage heights......................... 44

Clark Fork at 

Fromberg, Mont.:

description.......................... 172 j

discharge............................ 173

discharge, monthly.................. 175

gage heights....................... 173-174

rating tables......................... 174

Clear Creek at or near 

Forkscreek, Colo.:

description........................ 271-272

discharge............................ 272

discharge, daily. .................... 274

discharge, monthly.................. 275

gage heights......................... 273

rating tables......................... 274

Golden, Colo.:

discharge.......................... 272,295

Clear Creek (North Fork) at 

Forkscreek, Colo.:

discharge............................ 295

Clear Creek (South Fork) at 

Forkscreek, Colo.:

discharge............................ 295

demons, Mont.,

Dearborn River near:

description.......................... 48

discharge............................ 49

gage heights......................... 49

Falls Creek near:

description.......................... 49-50

discharge............................ 50

gage heights......................... 50

springs at:

discharge............................ 291

Cody, Wyo.,

Shoshone River at:

description.......................... 194

discharge............................ 194

discharge, monthly.................. 197

gage heights......................... 195

rating tables......................... 196

Colorado, cooperation of..................... 29

Columbus, Nebr.,

Loup River at:

description.......................... 245

discharge............................ 246

gage heights....................... 246-247

Platte River at:

description.......................... 242

discharge............................ 242

discharge, monthly.................. 245

gage heights......................... 243

rating tables......................... 244

Contact, Mont.,

Boulder Creek at: Page, 

discharge............................ 292

Continental divide, view of.................. 250

Cook canal near 

Chinook, Mont.:

description.......................... 129

discharge............................ 130

discharge, monthly.................. 131

gage heights......................... 130

Cooperation, credit for....................... 29

Corbett dam, Wyo., 

Shoshone River at:

description.......................... 197

discharge, monthly.................. 198

gage heights......................... 198

rating table.......................... 198

view................................. 196

Creighton, Nebr., 

Bazile Creek at:

discharge....................... .... 294

Crete, Nebr.,

Blue River at:

discharge............................ 296

Crow Creek at 

Fort Russell, Wyo.:

discharge............................ 296

Crowheart, Wyo.,

Dinwoodie Creek at:

discharge............................ 292

Dry Creek at and near:

discharge............................ 292

Culbertson, Mont.,

Big Muddy River near:

description.......................... 141

discharge............................ 141

gage heights......................... 141

Current meter, description of................ 19-20

use of................................ 18,20-21

views of................................. 20

Current-meter stations, views of............. 18,20

Curves, discharge, figures showing........... 23,24

Cutbank Creek at 

Cutbank, Mont.:

description.......................... 73

discharge............................ 74

discharge, daily..................... 76

discharge, monthly.................. 76

gage heights......................... 74-75

rating tables........................ 75

D.

Dead Horse Creek:

discharge............................ 293

Dearborn River basin:

description.......................... 48

gaging stations...................... 48

stream flow......................... 48-50

Dearborn River near 

demons, Mont.:

description.......................... 48

discharge............................ 49

gage heights......................... 49

Deer Creek at 

Glenrock, Wyo.:

discharge............................ 294

Definitions, statements of................... 13
INDEX. 301

Denver, Colo.,

Cherry Creek at: Page, 

discharge............................ 295

Diamond, Wyo.,

Chugwater Creek at:

discharge............................ 294

Dillon, Mont.,

Beaverhead River at:

description.......................... 37

discharge............................ 37

gage heights......................... 38

Dimvoodie Creek at 

Crowheart, Wyo.:

discharge............................ 292

Discharge, computation of................... 21-27

curves for, figure showing................ 23,24

Discharge measurements, nature of.......... 15,16

Dobson, Adna, work of...................... 30

Dobson, A. A., work of...................... 30

Dogtooth Creek nearStevenson, N. Dak.:

discharge............................ 293

Douglas, Wyo.,

La Prele Creek at:

discharge-........................... 294

Drainage, stream flow and......--.......-..- 9-10

Drainage basins, list of...................... 10

Dry Creek at and nearCm wheart, Wyo.:

discharge............................ 292

Duck Lake Creek at 

Geneva Park, Colo.:

discharge............................ 294

Dupuyer, Mont., 

Birch Creek near:

description.......................... 85

discharge............................ 85

discharge, monthly.................. 87

gage heights......................... 85-86

rating tables......................... 86

Dupuyer Creek at:

description.......................... 87

discharge............................ 87

discharge, monthly.................. 89

gage heights......................... 88

rating tables......................... 88

E. 

Eagle Creek:

discharge............................ 293

East Helena, Mont.,

Prickly Pear Creek near:

description.......................... 44

discharge............................ 44

gage heights......................... 45

Elkhorn reservoir site, view of............... 250

Elkhorn River (North Fork) at 

Norfolk, Nebr.:

discharge............................ 294

Pierce, Nebr.:

discharge............................ 294

Equivalents, list of.......................... 14-15

F. 

Fairbury, Nebr.,

Little Blue River near:

description........................ 287-288

discharge............................ 288

discharge, daily..................... 289

Fairbury. Nebr. Continued.

Little Blue River near Continued. Page, 

discharge, monthly.................. 289

gage heights......................... 288

rating tables........................ 289

Falls Creek near 

demons, Mont.:

description.......................... 49-50

discharge............................ 50

gage heights......................... 50

Family, Mont.,

Badger Creek near:

description.......................... 82

discharge............................ 82

discharge, monthly.................. 84

gage heights......................... 82-83

rating tables......................... 83-84

Two Medicine River at:

description.......................... 79

discharge............................ 79

discharge, monthly.................. 81

gage heights......................... 79-80

rating tables......................... 80-81

Fetterman, Wyo., 

La Prele Creek at:

discharge............................ 294

Field' practice, methods of................... 16-21

Firehole River, cascade on, view of.......... 30

Float method, description of................ 19

Flood prevention, stream flow and.......... 10

Follansbee, Robert, work in charge......... 29,30

Ford Creek nearAugusta, Mont.:

description.......................... 66

discharge............................ 66

discharge, monthly.................. 68-69

gage heights......................... 67

rating table......................... 68

Forest service, cooperation of................ 29

Forkscreek, Colo., 

Clear Creek at:

description........................ 271-272

discharge............................ 272

discharge, daily..................... 274

discharge, monthly.................. 275

gage heights......................... 273

rating tables......................... 274

Clear Creek (North Fork) at:

discharge............................ 295

Clear Creek (South Fork) at:

discharge............................ 295

Fort Belknap canal nearChinook, Mont.,

description.......................... 134

discharge............................ 135

discharge, monthly.................. 136

gage heights......................... 135

Fort Morgan, Colo.,

South Platte River at:

discharge............................ 294

Fort Russell, Colo., 

Crow Creek at:

discharge............................ 296

Fort Washakie, Wyo., 

Little Wind River at:

description.......................... 185

discharge............................ 186

gage heights......................... 186
302 INDEX.

Fort Washakie, Wyo. Continued.

Sage Creek near: Page, 

discharge............................ 292

Fourmile Creek at 

Boulder, Colo.:

discharge............................ 295

Sunshine, Colo.:

discharge ........................... 295

Frazer, Mont.,

Little Porcupine Creek near:

description.......................... 138

discharge............................ 138

gage heights......................... 138

Freeman, W. B., work in charge of.......... 29,30

Fremont, Nebr., 

Platte River at:

discharge............................ 294

Fromberg, Mont., 

Clark Fork at:

description.......................... 172

discharge............................ 173

discharge, monthly.................. 175

gage heights....................... 173-174

rating tables......................... 174

G. 

Gage heights, nature of...................... 15

Gaging stations, classification of............. 22-27

description of............................ 18

Gasconade River basin:

description.......................... 290

gaging stations...................... 290

stream flow......................... 291

Gasconade River (Piney Fork) nearHouston, Mo.:

description.......................... 291

discharge............................ 291

gage heights......................... 291

Geneva Creek at or near 

Geneva Park, Colo.:

discharge............................ 294

Grant, Colo.:

description........................ 269-270

discharge.......................... 270,294

discharge, monthly.................. 271

gage heights......................... 270

rating table......................... 270

Geneva Park, Colo., 

Duck Lake Creek at:

discharge............................ 294

Geneva Creek at:

discharge............................ 294

Glendive, Mont.,

Yellowstone River at:

description........................ 148-149

discharge, monthly.................. 150

gage heights....................... 149-150

rating table......................... 150

Glenrock, Wyo., 

Deer Creek at:

discharge............................ - 294

Golden, Colo.,

Clear Creek at or near:

discharge.......................... 272,295

Goldhill, Colo.,

Left Hand Creek near:

discharge............................ 296

Grand River at 

Haley, N. Dak.: Page, 

description.......................... 220

discharge............................ 220

gage heights......................... 221

Grand River basin:

stream flow ....................... 220-221

Grant, Colo.,

Geneva Creek near:

description........................ 269-270

discharge.......................... 270,294

discharge, monthly.................. 271

gage heights......................... 270

rating table......................... 270

Scott-Gomer Creek at:

discharge............................ 295

South Platte River (North Fork) at:

discharge............................ 294

Threemile Creek at:

discharge............................ 295

Guernsey, Wyo.,

North Platte River at:

description........................ 230-231

discharge............................ 231

discharge, daily..................... 234

discharge, monthly.................. 234

gage heights......................... 232

rating table......................... 233

H.

Haley, N. Dak., 

Grand River at:

description.......................... 220

discharge............................ 220

gage heights......................... 220

Hardin, Mont.,

Bighorn River near:

description........................ 182-183

discharge............................ 183

discharge, monthly.................. 185

gage heights....................... 183-184

rating tables....................... 184-185

Harlem, Mont.,

Agency ditch near:

description.......................... 133

discharge............................ 133

gage heights......................... 134

Harlem canal near 

Zurich, Mont.:

description.......................... 132

discharge............................ 132

discharge, monthly.................. 133

gage heights......................... 132

Harlowton, Mont.,

American Fork near:

description.......................... 100

discharge............................ 100

discharge, monthly.................. 102

gage heights......................... 101

rating tables......................... 102

Lebo Creek near:

description.......................... 103

discharge............................ 103

gage heights....................... 103-104

Musselshell River at:

description.......................... 94-95

discharge ........................... 95
INDEX. 303

Harlowton, Mont. Continued.

Musselshell River at Continued. Page, 

discharge, daily..................... 96

discharge, monthly.................. 96

gage heights......................... 95

rating tables......................... 95

Havre, Mont.,

Milk River at:

description........................ 108-109

discharge.......................... 109-110

discharge, daily................... 111-112

discharge, monthly.................. 112

gage heights....... ............... 110-111

Heart River basin:

description.......................... 211

gaging station....................... 211

miscellaneous measurements........ 293

stream flow....................... 211-216

Heart River at or near 

Big Bend, N. Dak.:

discharge............................ 293

Mandan, N. Dak.:

discharge............................ 293

Richardton, N. Dak.:

description.......................... 214

discharge............................ 214

discharge, monthly.................. 216

gage heights......................... 215

rating table......................... 216

Helena, Mont.,

Sevenmile Creek near:

description.......................... 47

discharge............................ 48

gage heights......................... 48

Tenmile Creek near:

description.......................... 46

discharge............................ 40

discharge, monthly.................. 47

gage heights......................... 47

rating table......................... 47

Henshaw, F. F., work of.................... 30

Hessie, Colo.,

Middle Boulder Creek (North Fork) at:

discharge............................ 295

Hinsdale, Mont.,

Milk River at:

description.......................... 116

discharge............................ 116

discharge, monthly.................. 117

gage heights......................... 117

rating table......................... 117

Rock Creek canal near:

description.......................... 137

discharge............................ 137

gage heights......................... 137

Rock Creek near:

description.......................... 125

discharge............................ 125

discharge, monthly.................. 126

gage heights......................... 125

rating table......................... 126

Houston, Mo.,

Gasconade River (Piney Fork) near:

description.......................... 291

discharge............................ 291

gage heights......................... 291

Huch, A. F., work of........................ 29

Hudson, Wyo.,

Little Popo Agie River at or near: Page, 

description........................ 191-192

discharge.......................... 192,292

discharge, monthly.................. 194

gage heights....................... 192-193.

rating tables......................... 193

Popo Agie River at:

discharge............................ 292

Huntley, Mont.,

Pryor Creek at:

description.......................... 175

discharge............................ 176

discharge, monthly.................. 177

flood, view.......................... 144

gage heights....................... 176-177

rating table......................... 177

Yellowstone River at:

description.......................... 144

discharge............................ 144

discharge, monthly.................. 146

gage heights......................... 145

rating table.......................... 146

Huntley project, views on................... 144

I.

Ice, measurements under.................... 21,27'

Indian Creek:

discharge............................ 293.

Indian Creek (East Fork):

discharge....................... .... 293

Indian Creek (West Fork):

discharge............................ 293

Interstate canal, views on................. 224,226

Investigations, authority for................. 7

purposes of.............................. 9-10

scope of................................. 8-9

Irrigation, stream flow and.................. 9

J. 

Jasper Creek mouth,

Middle Boulder Creek (South Fork) near:

discharge............................ 295.

Jasper Creek reservoir,

Middle Boulder Creek (South Fork) near:

discharge............................ 295

Jenny Creek near 

Black Hills ditch, Colo.:

discharge............................ 296

J. K. ranch, Wyo.,

Bull Lake Creek at:

discharge............................ 292

Meadow Creek at:

discharge............................ 292

Willow Creek at:

discharge............................ 292

Julesburg, Colo.,

South Platte River near:

description........................ 265-266

discharge............................ 266

.discharge, monthly.................. 267

gage heights....................... 266-267

rating tables......................... 267

Junction, Mont.,

Yellowstone River at:

description........................ 146-147'

discharge................. ........... 147'
304 INDEX.

Junction, Mont. Continued.

Yellowstone River at Continued. Page, 

discharge, monthly.................. 148

gage heights......................... 147

rating table.......................... 148

K.

Kansas River basin:

description........................ 282-284

gaging stations...................... 284

miscellaneous measurements......... 296

stream flow ....................... 284-289

Keplers Cascade, view of.................... 30

Kersey, Colo.:

South Platte River neardescription ........................ 259-200

discharge.. ....................... 260,262

discharge, daily...................... 264

discharge, monthly.................. 265

gage heights....................... 201,263

rating table........................ 262,264

Knife River at 

Broncho, N. Dak.,

description.......................... 210

discharge............................ 210

discharge, daily...................... 212

discharge, monthly.................. 213

gage heights......................... 211

rating tables......................... 212

Knife River basin:

description.......................... 209

gaging station....................... 209

stream flow........................ 209-213

L. 

Lander, Wyo.:

Baldwin Creek at 

discharge............................ 292

Popo Agie River near:

discharge............................ 292

Popo Agie River (North Fork) at:

discharge............................ 292

Squaw Creek at:

discharge............................ 292

La Prele Creek at 

Douglas, AVyo.:

discharge............................ 294

Fetterman, Wyo.:

discharge............................ 294

Lebo Creek near 

Harlowton, Mont.:

description.......................... 103

discharge............................ 103

gage heights....................... 103-104

Left Hand Creek at or near 

Goldhill, Colo.:

discharge............................ 296

Ward, Colo.:

discharge............................ 298

Lima, Mont.,

Red Rock River at:

description.......................... 33

discharge............................ 33

discharge, monthly.................. 34

gage heights......................... 34

rating table.......................... 34

Little Blue River near 

Fairbury, Nebr.: Page, 

description........................ 287-288

discharge............................ 288

discharge, daily..................... 289

discharge, monthly.................. 289

gage heights......................... 288

rating tables......................... 289

Little Bordeaux Creek:

discharge ........................... 293

Little Heart River at 

Little Heart, N. Dak.:

discharge............................ 293

Little Missouri River at 

Medora, N. Dak.:

description.......................... 206

discharge............................ 206

discharge, monthly.................. 209

gage heights......................... 207

rating tables;........................ 208

Little Missouri River basin:

description........................ 205-206

gaging stations...................... 206

stream flow....................... 206-209

Little Muddy River basin:

description............................ 201-202

stream flow....................... 202-205

Little Muddy River near 

Williston, N. Dak.:

description.......................... 202

discharge............................ 203

discharge, monthly................ 204-205

gage heights....................... 203-204

rating table......................... 204

Little Popo Agie River at or near 

Hudson, Wyo.:

description........................ 191-192

discharge.......................... 192,292

discharge, monthly.................. 194

gage heights....................... 192-193

rating tables......................... 193

Little Porcupine basin:

stream flow......................... 138

Little Porcupine Creek near 

Frazer, Mont.:

description.......................... 138

discharge............................ 138

gage heights......................... 138

Little Wind River at or near 

(above) Arapahoe, Wyo.:

description.......................... 186

discharge............................ 186

discharge, monthly.................. 188

gage heights......................... 187

rating tables......................... 188

(below) Arapahoe, Wyo.:

description.......................... 189

discharge............................ 189

discharge, monthly.................. 191

gage heights......................... 190

rating tables......................... 191

Fort Washakie, AVyo.:

description.......................... 185

discharge............................ 186

gage heights......................... 186

Longmont, Colo.,

St. Vrains Creek at:

discharge............................ 295
INDEX. 305

Page.

Los Angeles, Cal., rating station at, view of... 18 

Loup River at 

Columbus, Nebr.:

description.......................... 245

discharge............................ 246

gage heights....................... 240-247

Lump Gulch Creek near 

Clancy, Mont.:

description.......................... 45

discharge............................ 45

gage heights......................... 46

Lynch, Nebr. 

Ponca Creek at:

discharge............................ 294

M.

McLeod, Mont. 

Boulder Creek at:

discharge............................ 292

Boulder River (East Fork) near:

description.......................... 156

discharge............................ 156

discharge, monthly.................. 158

gage heights....................... 156-157

rating table......................... 157

Boulder River (West Fork) at:

description.......................... 163

discharge............................ 163

discharge, monthly.................. 165

gage heights....................... 163-164

rating tables....................... 164-165

Malta, Mont 

Milk River at:

description.......................... 113

discharge............................ 113

discharge, daily..................... 115

discharge, monthly.................. 116

gage heights......................... 114

rating table......................... 115

Mandan, N. Dak. 

Heart River at:

discharge............................ 293

Marias River basin:

description.......................... 72-73

gaging station....................... 73

stream flow.......................... 73-91

Marias River near 

Shelby, Mont.:

description.......................... 76-77

discharge............................ 77

discharge, daily..................... 78

discharge, monthly.................. 78

discharge curves, chart.............. 24

gage heights......................... 77

rating tables......................... 78

Marquette, Wyo. 

Shoshone Kiver (North Fork) at:

discharge............................ 292

Shoshone River (South Fork) at:

description.......................... 199

discharge............................ 199

discharge, daily..................... 201

discharge, monthly.................. 201

gage heights....................... 199-206

rating tables......................... 200

31260 IRE 246 10 20

Page. 

Marshall, Colo.,

South Boulder Creek at:

discharge............................ 296

Martinsdale, Mont.,

Musselshell River (North Fork) near:

description.......................... 92

discharge............................ 92

discharge, monthly.................. 94

gage heights......................... 93

rating table......................... 94

Musselshell River (South Fork) near:

description.......................... 98

discharge............................ 98

discharge, monthly.................. 100

gage heights......................... 98-99

rating tables........................ 99

Mathers, J. G., work of...................... 30

Matheson canal near 

Chinook, Mont.:

description.......................... 131

discharge............................ 131

discharge, monthly.................. 132

gage heights......................... 131

Meadow Creek at 

J. K. ranch, Wyo.:

discharge ........................... 292

Medora, N. Dak.,

Little Missouri River at:

description.......................... 206

discharge............................ 206

discharge, monthly.................. 209

gage heights......................... 207

rating tables......................... 208

Meeker, R. I., work of....................... 29

Melville, Mont.,

Sweetgrass Creek above:

description........................ 165-166

discharge............................ 166

discharge, daily..................... 168

discharge, monthly.................. 169

gage heights....................... 166-167

rating tables....................... 167-168

Sweetgrass Creek below:

description.......................... 169

discharge............................ Ib9

discharge, daily..................... 171

discharge, monthly.................. 172

gage heights......................... 170

rating tables........................ 171

Middle Boulder Creek (North Fork) at 

Hessie, Colo.:

discharge............................ 295

Middle Boulder Creek (South Fork) near 

Jasper Creek mouth:

discharge............................ 295

Jasper Creek reservoir:

discharge............................ 295

Milford, Wyo.,

Popo Agie River (North Fork) at:

discharge............................ 292

Milk River at 

Havre, Mont.:

description........................ 108-109

discharge.......................... 109-110

discharge, daily................... 111-112

discharge, monthly.................. 112

leights....................... 110-111
306 INDEX.

Milk River at Continued. Page. 

Hinsdale, Mont.:

description.......................... 1 lt>

discharge............................ 110

discharge, monthly.................. 117

gage heights......................... 117

rating table......................... 117

Malta, Mont.:

description.......................... 113

discharge............................ 113

discharge, daily..................... 115

discharge, monthly.................. 116

gage heights......................... 114

rating table.......................... 115

Milk River basin:

canals............................. 127-137

description.................... 104-105,127

gaging stations.................... lOli, 128

stream flow....................... 10C-127

Milk River (North Fork) nearChinook, Mont.:

description.................... ..... 120

discharge.......................... 120-121

discharge, daily..................... 123

discharge, monthly. ................... 123

gage heights....................... 121-122

rating table.......................... 122

Milk River (South Fork) near 

Browning, Mont.:

description.......................... 106

discharge............................ 100

discharge, monthly.................. 108

gage heights......................... 107

rating tables......................... 108

Milk River (West Fork) at 

Chinook, Mont.:

descnp tion........................ 117-118

discharge............................ 118

discharge, daily..................... 119

discharge, monthly.................. 120

gage heights......................... 119

Miner's inch, definition of................... 14

Miscellaneous measurements:

Bighorn River basin.................

Cannon Ball River basin............

Heart River basin...................

Kansas River basin.................

minor Missouri River drainage in 

Nebraska.........................

Niobrara River basin ...............

North Platte River basin............

Platte River basin...................

South Platte River basin.......... 294-29(1

Upper Missouri River basin......... 291

White River basin.................. 293

Yellowstone River basin............. 292

Missouri River at or near 

Cascade, Mont.:

description.......................

discharge.........................

discharge, monthly...............

gage heights......................

rating tables. ....................

Williston, N. Dak.:

description.......................

discharge.........................

discharge, monthly...............

gage heights......................

rating table......................

Missouri River basin (proper): Page, 

description.......................... 31-32

gaging stations...................... 32

miscellaneous measurements....... 291,294

stream flow......................... 33-42

Missouri River drainage:

description.......................... 30-31

miscellaneous measurements....... 291-296

stream flow........................ 31-296

Mitchell, Nebr.,

North Platte River near:

description........................ 234-235

discharge............................ 235

discharge, daily..................... 237

discharge, monthly.................. 237

gage heights....................... 235-23G

rating tables......................... 236

Mollies Fork, interstate canal waste at, viewer............................... 226

Montana, cooperation of..................... 29

Morrison, Colo., 

Bear Creek at:.

discharge............................ 295

Mott, N. Dak.,

Cannon Ball River (North Fork) at:

discharge........................... 293

Musselshell River at or near 

Harlowton, Mont.:

description.......................... 94-95

discharge............................ 95

discharge, daily..................... 96

discharge, monthly.................. 96

gage heights......................... 95

rating tables......................... 96

Shawmut, Mont.:

description.......................... 97

discharge............................ 97

gage heights......................... 97

Musselshell River basin:

description.......................... 91-92

gaging stations...................... 92

stream flow......................... 92-104

Musselshell River (North Fork) near 

Martinsdale, Mont.:

description.......................... 92

discharge............................ 92

discharge, monthly.................. 94

gage heights......................... 93

rating table.......................... 94

Musselshell River (South Fork) near 

Martinsdale, Mont.:

description.......................... 98

discharge............................ 98

discharge, monthly.................. 100

gage heights......................... 98-99

rating tables......................... 99

Nashua, Mont.,

Porcupine Creek at:

description........................ 126-127

discharge............................ 127

gage heights......................... 127

Navigation, stream flow and................. 9

Nebraska, cooperation of.................... 29

Nehawka, Nebr.,

Weeping Water Creek at:

discharge............................ 294
INDEX. 307

New England, N. Dak.,

Cannon Ball River (North Fork) at: Page, 

discharge............................ 293

Niobrara, Nebr., 

Ba/.ile Creek at:

discharge............................ 294

Verdigris Creek at:

discharge............................ 293

Niobrara River basin:

description........................ 221-222

gaging stations...................... 222

miscellaneous measurements......... 293

stream flow........................ 222-223

 Niobrara River nearSpencer, Nebr.:

description.......................... 222

discharge............................ 222

gage heights......................... 223

Norfolk, Nebr.,

Elkhorn River (North Fork) at:

discharge............................ 294

North Boulder Creek at 

Boulder Co. ranch:

discharge............................ - 295

North Platte, Nebr.,

South Platte River at:

discharge............................ 294

North Platte project, views at............. 224,226

North Platte River at or nearBridgeport, Nebr.-

discharge....................... .... 294

Guernsey, Wyo.:

description........................ 230-231

discharge............................ 231

discharge, daily..................... 234

discharge, monthly.................. 234

gage heights................. ....... 232

rating tables........................ 233

Mitchell, Nebr.:

description...................... . 234-235

discharge............................ 235

discharge, daily..................... 237

discharge, monthly.................. 237

gage heights......... ............. 235-230

rating tables........................ 236

North Platte, Nebr.:

description........................ 237-238

discharge............................ 238

discharge, daily................... 239-240

discharge, monthly.................. 240

gage heights....................... 238-239

Pathfinder, Wyo.:

dam, view.......................... 224

description.......................... 227

discharge............................ 227

discharge, monthly.................. 230

gage heights....................... 228-229

rating table......................... 229

North Platte River basin:

description........................ 223-226

gaging stations.................... 226-227

miscellaneous measurements........ 294

stream flow....................... 227-240

O.

Orodell, Colo.,

Boulder Creek at: Page, 

description.......................... 275

discharge............................ 276

discharge, daily..................... 278

discharge, monthly.................. 278

gage heights....................... 276-277

rating table......................... 277

Padgett, II. D., work of..................... 30

Paradise Valley, canal near 

Chinook, Mont.:

description.......................... 128

discharge............................ 128

discharge, monthly.................. 129

gage heights......................... 129

Pathfinder, Wyo.,

North Platte River at:

dam, view........................... 224

description.......................... 227

discharge............................ 227

discharge, monthly.................. 230

gage heights....................... 228-229

rating table......................... 229

Perigo ditch at 

Rollinsville, Colo.:

discharge............................ 296

Pierce, Nebr.,

Flkhorn River (North Fork) at:

discharge............................ 294

Pierson, J. B., work of...................... 29

Piney Fork. See Gasconade River (Piney

Fork). ' 

Platte River at 

Columbus, Nebr.:

description.......................... 242

discharge............................ 242

discharge, monthly.................. 245

gage heights......................... 243

rating tables......................... 244

Fremont, Nebr.:

d ischarge............................ 294

Platte River basin:

description.......................... 223

miscellaneous measurements......... 294

stream flow........................ 223-282

Platte River basin (proper):

description.......................... 241

gaging stations.................... 241-242

stream flow........................ 242-247

Plum Creek at 

Sedalia, Colo.:

discharge............................ 295

Toluca, Colo.:

discharge............................ 295

Ponca Creek at 

Lynch, Nebr.:

discharge............................ 294

Spencer, Nebr.:

discharge............................ 294

Poplar Creek basin:

stream flow......................... 140

Poplar Creek near 

Poplar, Mont.:

description.......................... 140

discharge............................ 140

gage heights......................... 140
308 INDEX.

Page.

Popo Agie River at or near 

Arapahoe, Wyo.:

discharge............................ 292

Hudson, Wyo.:

discharge............................ 292

Lander, Wyo.:

discharge............................ 292

Popo Agie River (North Fork) at 

Lander. Wyo.:

discharge............................ 292

Milford, Wyo.:

discharge............................ 292

Porcupine Creek at 

Nashua, Mont.:

description........................ 126-127

discharge............................ 127

gage heights......................... 127

Powder River at j

Powder River, Wyo.: j

discharge............................ 292 j

Price meters, view of........................ 20 : Prickly Pear Creek at or near j 

Clancy. Mont.: ! 

description.......................... 43

discharge............................ 43

gage heights......................... 44

East Helena, Mont.:

description.......................... 44

discharge............................ 44

gage heights......................... 45

Prickly Pear Creek basin:

description.......................... 43

gaging stations...................... 43

stream flow......................... 43-4S

Pryor Creek at 

Huntley. Mont.:

description.......................... 175

discharge............................ 176

discharge, monthly.................. 177

flood, view.......................... 144

gage heights....................... 176-177

rating table......................... 177

Publications, lists of......................... 10-13

R.

Rating curves, construction and use of....... 22

Rating tables, construction of............... 22

nature of............................ 10

Reclamation Service, cooperation of......... 29

Red Bird Creek:

discharge............................ 293

Red Rock River at 

Lima, Mont.:

description.......................... 33

discharge............................ 33

discharge, monthly....... .......... 34

gage heights......................... 34

rating table.......................... 34

Republican River at 

Bostwick, Nebr.:

description.......................... 284

discharge............................ 285

discharge, daily..................... 287

discharge, monthly.................. 287

gage heights....................... 285-286

rating tables......................... 286

Revision, need for........................... 28

Rice, R. C., work of......................... 30

Richards, Raymond, work of................ 29

Richardton, N. Dak.: 

Heart River near:

description.......................... 214

discharge-........................... 214

discharge, monthly.................. 216

gage heights......................... 215

rating table.......................... 216

Riverton, Wyo.:

Big Wind River near:

description.......................... 180

discharge............................ 181

discharge, monthly.................. 182

gage heights......................... 181

rating tables......................... 182

Wyoming Central canal at:

discharge............................ 292

Rock Creek canal near 

Hinsdale. Mont.:

description.......................... 137

discharge............................ 137

gage heights......................... 137

Rock Creek near 

Hinsdale, Mont.:

description.......................... 125

discharge... ........................ 125

discharge, monthly.................. 126

gage heights......................... 125

rating table......................... 12G

Rollinsville. Colo.: 

Perigo ditch at 

discharge ........................... 296

Run-off, computation of..................... 21-27

definition ol............................. 13

S.

Sage Creek nearFort Washakie, Wyo.:

discharge............................ 292

St. Vrain Creek at 

Longmont, Colo.:

discharge............................ 295

Scott-Gomer Creek at 

Grant. Colo.:

discharge............................ 295

Second-foot, definition of.................... 14

Section, changes in, estimation for........... 22-20

Sedalia, Colo.,

Plum Creek at:

discharge............................ 295

Selfridge & Mann power plant intake:

discharge............................ 295

Sevenmile Creek nearHelena, Mont.:

description.......................... 47

discharge............................ 48

gage heights......................... 48

Shawmut, Mont.,

Musselshell River near:

description.......................... 97

discharge............................ 97

gage heights......................... 97

Shelby, Mont.,

Marias River near:

description.......................... 76-77

discharge............................ 77

discharge, daily...................... 78
INDEX. 309

Shelby, Mont. Continued.

Marias River near Continued. Page, 

discharge, monthly.................. 78

discharge curves, chart.............. 24

gage heights......................... 77

rating table.......................... 78

Shoshone project, views at................ 180,196

Shoshone River at 

Cody, Wyo.:

description.......................... 194

discharge............................ 194

discharge, monthly.................. 197

gage heights......................... 195

rating tables......................... 196

Corbett dam, Wyo.:

description.......................... 197

discharge, monthly.................. 198

gage heights......................... 198

rating table......................... 198

view................................ 196

Shoshone River (North Fork) at 

Marquette, Wyo.:

discharge............................ 292

Shoshone River (South Fork) at 

Marquette, Wyo.:

description.......................... 199

discharge............................ 199

discharge, daily..................... 201

discharge, monthly.................. 201

gage heights....................... 199-200

rating tables....................... 200-201

Slope method, description of................. 16

Smith Creek nearAugusta, Mont.:

description.......................... 69

discharge............................ 69

discharge, monthly.................. 72

discharge curves, chart............... 23

gage heights......................... 70

rating tables......................... 71

Smith River at 

Truly, Mont.:

description.......................... 50

discharge............................ 51

discharge, monthly.................. 52

gage heights......................... 51

rating table.......................... 51

Smith River basin:

stream flow.......................... 50-52

South Boulder Creek at 

Marshall, Colo.:

discharge............................ 296

Tolland, Colo.:

discharge............................ 290

South Platte, Colo.,

South Platte River (North Fork) at:

discharge............................ 294

South Platte River at or nearFort Morgan, Colo.:

discharge............................ 294

Julesburg, Colo.:

description........................ 265-266

discharge............................ 266

discharge, monthly.................. 267

gage heights....................... 266-267

rating tables......................... 267

South Platte River at or near Continued.

Kelsey, Colo.: Page, 

description......................... 259-260

discharge.......................... 260,262

discharge, daily...................... 264

discharge, monthly.................. 265

gage heights....................... 261,263

rating tables....................... 262,264

North Platte, Nebr.:

discharge............................ 294

South Platte, Colo.:

description........................ 255-256

discharge-........................... 256

discharge, daily...................... 258

discharge, monthly.................. 259

gage heights......................... 257

rating tables......................... 258

Union, Colo.:

discharge............................ 294

South Platte River basin:

description........................ 247-250

gaging stations.. .................... 251

miscellaneous measurements....... 294-296

stream flow........................ 251-282

South Platte River (North Fork) at 

Cassels, Colo.:

description.......................... 268

discharge.......................... 268,294

discharge, monthly.................. 269

gage heights......................... 268

rating table.......................... 269

Grant, Colo :

discharge............................ 294

South Platte, Colo.:

discharge............................ 294

South Platte River (South Fork) at 

South Platte, Colo.:

description........................ 251-252

discharge............................ 252

discharge, daily...................... 254

discharge, monthly.................. 255

gage heights....................... 252-253

rating tables....................... 253-254

Spencer, Nebr ,

Niobrara River near:

description.......................... 222

discharge............................ 222

gage heights......................... 223

Ponca Creek at:

discharge............................ 294

Squaw Creek at 

Lander, Wyo.:

discharge............................ 292

Stagner's ranch, Wyo.,

Big Wind River at:

discharge............................ 292

Stevens, G. C., work of...................... 30

Stevenson, N. Dak.,

Cannon Ball River at:

description........................ 217-218

discharge............................ 218

discharge, monthly.................. 220

gage heights....................... 218-219

rating table......-..-.-.-... ........ 219

Dogtooth Creek near:

discharge............................ 293

Stewart, J. B., work of...................... 29
310 INDEX.

Page.

Stewart, J. E., work of...................... 29,30

Stream measurements, accuracy of.......... 27-28

data of, use of........................... 28-29

methods of.............................. 10-21

Sun River at 

Sun River, Mont.:

description.......................... 56

discharge............................ 56

discharge, daily..................... 59

discharge, monthly.................. 59-60

gage heights......................... 57

rating tables........................ 58

Sun River basin:

description.."........................ 52-53

gaging stations...................... 53

stream flow......................... 53-72

Sun River canyon, view in ................. 52

Sun River (North Fork) near 

Augusta, Mont.:

description.......................... 53

discharge............................ 54

discharge, monthly.................. 56

gage heights......................... 54-55

rating tables........................ 55

Sun River (South Fork) at 

Augusta, Mont.:

description.......................... 60

discharge............................ 60

discharge, monthly.................. 62-63

gage heights......................... 61

rating tables........................ 62

Sunshine, Colo.,

Boulder Creek at:

discharge........................... 295

Swamps, drainage of, stream flow and....... 9-10

Sweetgrass Creek near 

(above) Melville, Mont.:

description........................ 165-166

discharge............................ 166

discharge, daily..................... 168

discharge, monthly.................. 169

gage heights....................... 166-167

rating tables...................... 167-168

(below) Melville, Mont.:

description.......................... 169

discharge............................ 169

discharge, daily..................... 171

discharge, monthly.................. 172

gage heights......................... 170

rating tables........................ 171

T. 

Tables, explanation of....................... 15-16

Tenmile Creek near 

Helena, Mont.:

description.......................... 46

discharge............................ 46

discharge, monthly.................. 47

gage heights......................... 47

rating table ........................ 47

Terms, definitions of........................ 14-15

Teton River near 

Belleview, Mont.:

description.......................... 89-90

discharge............................ 90

Page.

Teton River near Continued. 

Belleview, Mont. Continued.

discharge, monthly.................. 91

gage heights......................... 90

rating table ........................ 90

Threemile Creek at 

Grant, Colo.:

discharge............................ 295

Tolland, Colo.,

Black Hills ditch at:

discharge............................ 296

Continental divide near:

view................................. 250

South Boulder Creek at:

discharge............................ 296

Toluca, Colo.,

Plum Creek at:

discharge............................ 295

Trout Creek at 

Wind River, Wyo.:

discharge............................ 292

Truly, Mont.,

Smith River at:

description.......................... 50

discharge............................ 51

discharge, monthly.................. . 52

gage heights......................... 51

rating table.......................... 51

Two Medicine River at 

Family, Mont.:

description.......................... 79

discharge............................ 79

discharge, monthly.................. 81

gage heights......................... 79-80

rating tables......................... 80-81

U.

Union, Colo.,

South Plattc River at:

discharge............................ 294

V.

Velocity method, description of.............. 17-21

Verdigris Creek at 

Niobrara, Nebr.:

discharge............................ 293

Verdigris, Nebr.:

discharge............................ 293

W.

Wahoo Creek at 

Ashland, Nebr.:

discharge............................ 294

Walters, M. I., work of...................... 30

Ward, Colo.,

Left Hand Creek near:

discharge............................ 296

AVater power, stream flow and. ............. 9

Water supply, stream flow and.............. 9

Weather Bureau, cooperation of............. 29

Weeping Water Creek at 

Xehawka, Nebr.:

discharge............................ 294

Weir method, description of................. 16-17

White River:

discharge............................ 293
INDEX. 311

White River basin: Page, 

miscellaneous measurements......... 293

Wilber, Kebr., 

Blue River at:

discharge............................ 299

Williston, N. Dak.,

Little Muddy River near:

description.......................... 202

discharge............................ 203

discharge, monthly................ 204-205

gage heights....................... 203-204

rating table......................... 204

Missouri River near:

description.......................... 41

discharge............................ 41

discharge, monthly.................. 42

gage heights......................... 42

rating table......................... 42

Willow Creek at or nearAugusta, Mont.:

description.......................... 63

discharge............................ 63

discharge, monthly.................. 65-66

gage heights......................... 64

rating tables......................... 65

Belleville, Mont.:

discharge............................ 291

Willow Creek at 

J. K. ranch, Wyo.:

discharge............................ 292

Wind River, Wyo., 

Trout Creek at:

discharge............................ 292

Winter-Anderson canal near 

Chinook, Mont.:

description.......................... 136

discharge............................ 136

discharge, monthly.................. 137

gage heights......................... 136

Wolf Creek at 

Wolf Point, Mont.:

description.......................... 139

discharge............................ 139

gage heights......................... 139

Wolf Creek basin:

stream flow......................... 139

Wolf Point, Mont, Page. 

Wolf Creek at:

description.......................... 139

discharge............................ 139

gage heights......................... 139

Wood, B. D., work of....................... 30

Work, division of........................... 29-30

Wyoming central canal at 

Riverton, Wyo.:

discharge............................ 292

Yellowstone (Lower) project, canal of, views

of............................... 148

Yellowstone River, lower falls of, view of.... 142

Yellowstone River at 

Glendive, Mont.:

description........................ 148-149

discharge, monthly.................. 150

gage heights....................... 149-150

rating table......................... 150

Huntley, Mont.:

description.......................... 144

discharge............................ 144

discharge, monthly.................. 146

gage heights......................... 145

rating table......................... 140

Junction, Mont.:

description........................ 146-147

discharge............................ 147

discharge, monthly.................. 148

gage heights......................... 147

rating table......................... 148

Yellowstone River basin:

description........................ 141-143

gaging stations.................... 143-144

miscellaneous measurements......... 292

stream flow....................... 144-201

Z. 

Zurich, Mont.,

Harlem Canal near:

description.......................... 132

discharge........................^... 132

discharge, monthly.................. 133

gage heights......................... 132

o