After examining the model output, the forecaster prepares the written forecast by running a computer program that automatically prepares the forecast. This office is then responsible for issuing statements regarding that particular section of river to the public via the media. Data Collection River Stages River stages are our most important type of data. Gage Houses Gage houses are the most common sources of river stage data. A gage house consists of a well dug along the riverbank with an instrument house above it.
Water enters the well through one or more inlet pipes.
The water in the well will be at the same level as the river, so the recording equipment above it actually records the water level in the well. This data can be either saved at the gage site and queried by telephone, or can be transmitted via satellite or radio. This type of gage is usually mounted to the side of a bridge. It consists of a spool of wire, with a weight attached to the end of the wire. The river level is measured by lowering the weight until it touches the river surface.