High-resolution stream discharge data, June 2006 to September 2018, at the three Bisley Experimental Watersheds, Luquillo Experimental Forest, Puerto Rico

Metadata:
Identification_Information:
Citation:
Citation_Information:
Originator: Denner, Jon C.
Originator: Estrada Ruiz, Carlos R.
Originator: Heartsill Scalley, Tamara
Originator: Salgado, Miriam
Originator: Torrens Santos, Carlos M.
Originator: Shanley, James B.
Originator: González, Grizelle
Publication_Date: 2022
Title:
High-resolution stream discharge data, June 2006 to September 2018, at the three Bisley Experimental Watersheds, Luquillo Experimental Forest, Puerto Rico
Geospatial_Data_Presentation_Form: tabular digital data
Publication_Information:
Publication_Place: Fort Collins, CO
Publisher: Forest Service Research Data Archive
Online_Linkage: https://doi.org/10.2737/RDS-2022-0074
Description:
Abstract:
The USDA Forest Service (USFS) operates three small streamgages to support biogeochemical and forestry research in the Bisley Experimental Watersheds, part of the Luquillo Experimental Forest in northeastern Puerto Rico. The streamgages (Bisley Q1, Bisley Q2, and Bisley Q3) had been set up and briefly operated by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) in 1987. In 2019 the Forest Service contracted with USGS to check and quality control the data collected since 2006 and convert stage to discharge using existing and modified rating curves, based on in-depth analysis of field notes and comparison of flows at the three streamgages to one another and to nearby USGS streamgages. This data release contains the corrected and quality controlled high-resolution gage height (stage) and discharge data for June 8, 2006, through September 30, 2018, as well as separate files with daily average discharge for that period. This data publication also includes a document containing the detailed procedures used to correct the data and confirm/construct gage height to discharge rating curves.
Purpose:
These flow data are collected to support biogeochemical and forestry research, as well as various hydrologic analyses.
Supplemental_Information:
For additional information about the Bisley Experimental Watersheds, see Leon et al. (2021), Heartsill Scalley et al. (2012), Scatena (1989, 1990), Schaeffer et al. (2000), and Schellekens et al. (2004).

These data were published on 10/06/2022. Minor metadata updates were made on 05/15/2024.
Time_Period_of_Content:
Time_Period_Information:
Range_of_Dates/Times:
Beginning_Date: 20060608
Ending_Date: 20180930
Currentness_Reference:
Ground condition
Status:
Progress: Complete
Maintenance_and_Update_Frequency: None planned
Spatial_Domain:
Description_of_Geographic_Extent:
The three adjacent Bisley Experimental Watersheds are in Luquillo Experimental Forest in northeast Puerto Rico (18°20’ N, 65°50’ W) (Scatena 1989). Bisley Q1-Q3 streamgages are nested within the larger gaged Mameyes River, which contains Puerto Rico’s only National Wild and Scenic River system (Rothlisberger et al. 2017).


Scatena, Frederick N. 1989. An introduction to the physiography and history of the Bisley Experimental Watersheds in the Luquillo Mountains of Puerto Rico. Gen. Tech. Rep. SO-72. New Orleans, LA: U.S. Dept of Agriculture, Forest Service, Southern Forest Experiment Station. 22 p. https://doi.org/10.2737/SO-GTR-72

Rothlisberger, John D.; Heartsill Scalley, Tamara; Thurow, Russell F. 2017. The role of wild and scenic rivers in the conservation of aquatic biodiversity. International Journal of Wilderness. 23(2): 49-63, 72. https://www.fs.usda.gov/research/treesearch/56037
Bounding_Coordinates:
West_Bounding_Coordinate: -65.80
East_Bounding_Coordinate: -65.70
North_Bounding_Coordinate: 18.35
South_Bounding_Coordinate: 18.30
Bounding_Altitudes:
Altitude_Minimum: 260
Altitude_Maximum: 460
Altitude_Distance_Units: meters
Keywords:
Theme:
Theme_Keyword_Thesaurus: None
Theme_Keyword: stage
Theme_Keyword: discharge
Theme_Keyword: rating
Theme_Keyword: culvert
Theme_Keyword: V-notch
Theme_Keyword: watershed
Theme_Keyword: datalogger
Theme_Keyword: flow tracker
Theme_Keyword: barometric pressure
Theme:
Theme_Keyword_Thesaurus: ISO 19115 Topic Category
Theme_Keyword: environment
Theme_Keyword: inlandWaters
Theme:
Theme_Keyword_Thesaurus: National Research & Development Taxonomy
Theme_Keyword: Ecology, Ecosystems, & Environment
Theme_Keyword: Hydrology, watersheds, sedimentation
Theme_Keyword: Inventory, Monitoring, & Analysis
Theme_Keyword: Monitoring
Place:
Place_Keyword_Thesaurus: None
Place_Keyword: Luquillo Experimental Forest
Place_Keyword: Puerto Rico
Place_Keyword: Bisley Experimental Watersheds
Place_Keyword: Rio Mameyes
Place_Keyword: El Yunque National Forest
Access_Constraints: None
Use_Constraints:
These data were collected using funding from the U.S. Government and can be used without additional permissions or fees. If you use these data in a publication, presentation, or other research product please use the following citation:

Denner, Jon C.; Estrada Ruiz, Carlos R.; Heartsill Scalley, Tamara; Salgado, Miriam; Torrens Santos, Carlos M.; Shanley, James B.; González, Grizelle. 2022. High-resolution stream discharge data, June 2006 to September 2018, at the three Bisley Experimental Watersheds, Luquillo Experimental Forest, Puerto Rico. Fort Collins, CO: Forest Service Research Data Archive. https://doi.org/10.2737/RDS-2022-0074
Point_of_Contact:
Contact_Information:
Contact_Person_Primary:
Contact_Person: James B. Shanley
Contact_Organization: U.S. Geological Survey
Contact_Position: Research hydrologist
Contact_Address:
Address_Type: mailing and physical
Address: 87 State St.
City: Montpelier
State_or_Province: VT
Postal_Code: 05602
Country: USA
Contact_Voice_Telephone: 802-505-5278
Contact_Electronic_Mail_Address: jshanley@usgs.gov
Contact Instructions: This contact information was current as of original publication date. For current information see Contact Us page on: https://doi.org/10.2737/RDS.
Data_Set_Credit:
Funding for these data came from the USDA Forest Service, International Institute of Tropical Forestry.

We acknowledge Fred Scatena for his inspiration to establish the Bisley streamgages and his role in making them operational and attracting research to the site. We thank Miguel Leon (Univ. of New Hampshire) for Figure 1 (in \Supplements\Bisley_gages_WY2006-2018_metadata.pdf) and Olga Ramos (USDA Forest Service International Institute of Tropical Forestry) for Figure 2 (in \Supplements\Bisley_gages_WY2006-2018_metadata.pdf). Scott Olson provided a valuable review of the data release as well as helpful consultation on the hydraulics of culverts. We thank Samuel Moya, María Milagros Rivera Costa, Humberto Robles, and all the technicians, collaborators, students and volunteers who have participated and or assisted in field data collection at the Bisley Experimental Watersheds. The USDA Forest Service International Institute of Tropical Forestry works in collaboration with the University of Puerto Rico.


Author Information:

Jon C. Denner
U.S. Geological Survey
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8737-2194

Carlos R. Estrada Ruiz
USDA Forest Service, International Institute of Tropical Forestry

Tamara Heartsill Scalley
USDA Forest Service, International Institute of Tropical Forestry
https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0550-4147

Miriam Salgado
USDA Forest Service, International Institute of Tropical Forestry

Carlos M. Torrens Santos
USDA Forest Service, International Institute of Tropical Forestry

James B. Shanley
U.S. Geological Survey
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4234-3437

Grizelle González
USDA Forest Service, International Institute of Tropical Forestry
https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3007-5540
Cross_Reference:
Citation_Information:
Originator: Heartsill Scalley, Tamara
Originator: Scatena, Fredrick N.
Originator: Moya, S.
Originator: Lugo, Ariel E.
Publication_Date: 2012
Title:
Long-term dynamics of organic matter and elements exported as coarse particulates from two Caribbean montane watersheds
Geospatial_Data_Presentation_Form: journal article
Series_Information:
Series_Name: Journal of Tropical Ecology
Issue_Identification: 28: 127-139
Online_Linkage: https://doi.org/10.1017/s0266467411000733
Online_Linkage: https://www.fs.usda.gov/research/treesearch/41610
Cross_Reference:
Citation_Information:
Originator: Leon, Miguel C.
Originator: Heartsill Scalley, Tamara
Originator: Santiago, Iván
Originator: McDowell, William H.
Publication_Date: 2021
Title:
Hydrological mapping in the Luquillo Experimental Forest: New local datum improves watershed ecological knowledge
Geospatial_Data_Presentation_Form: journal article
Series_Information:
Series_Name: Hydrology
Issue_Identification: 8(1): 54
Online_Linkage: https://doi.org/10.3390/hydrology8010054
Online_Linkage: https://www.fs.usda.gov/research/treesearch/62691
Cross_Reference:
Citation_Information:
Originator: Scatena, Frederick N.
Publication_Date: 1989
Title:
An introduction to the physiography and history of the Bisley Experimental Watersheds in the Luquillo Mountains of Puerto Rico
Geospatial_Data_Presentation_Form: document
Series_Information:
Series_Name: General Technical Report
Issue_Identification: SO-72
Publication_Information:
Publication_Place: New Orleans, LA
Publisher: U.S. Dept of Agriculture, Forest Service, Southern Forest Experiment Station
Other_Citation_Details:
22 pages
Online_Linkage: https://doi.org/10.2737/SO-GTR-72
Cross_Reference:
Citation_Information:
Originator: Scatena, Fredrick N.
Publication_Date: 1990
Title:
Culvert flow in small drainages in montane tropical forests: observations from the Luquillo Experimental Forest of Puerto Rico
Geospatial_Data_Presentation_Form: journal article
Series_Information:
Series_Name: Tropical Hydrology and Caribbean Water Resources
Issue_Identification: 237-246
Online_Linkage: https://www.fs.usda.gov/research/treesearch/30255
Cross_Reference:
Citation_Information:
Originator: Schaefer, Douglas. A.
Originator: McDowell, William H.
Originator: Scatena, Frederick N.
Originator: Asbury,Clyde E.
Publication_Date: 2000
Title:
Effects of hurricane disturbance on stream water concentrations and fluxes in eight tropical forest watersheds of the Luquillo Experimental Forest, Puerto Rico
Geospatial_Data_Presentation_Form: journal article
Series_Information:
Series_Name: Journal of Tropical Ecology
Issue_Identification: 16: 189-207
Online_Linkage: https://doi.org/10.1017/s0266467400001358
Online_Linkage: https://www.fs.usda.gov/research/treesearch/30121
Cross_Reference:
Citation_Information:
Originator: Schellekens, J.
Originator: Scatena, Fredrick N.
Originator: Bruijnzee, L. A.
Originator: van Dijk, A. I. J. M.
Originator: Groen, M. M. A.
Originator: van Hogezand, R. J. P.
Publication_Date: 2004
Title:
Stormflow generation in a small rainforest catchment in the Luquillo Experimental Forest, Puerto Rico
Geospatial_Data_Presentation_Form: journal article
Series_Information:
Series_Name: Hydrological Processes
Issue_Identification: 18(3): 505-530
Online_Linkage: https://doi.org/10.1002/hyp.1335
Online_Linkage: https://www.fs.usda.gov/research/treesearch/30207
Analytical_Tool:
Analytical_Tool_Description:
Aquarius (Aquatic Informatics, Vancouver, Canada): analytics software for the natural environment
Tool_Access_Information:
Online_Linkage: https://aquaticinformatics.com/products/aquarius-environmental-water-data-management/
Tool_Access_Instructions:
See website
Back to Top
Data_Quality_Information:
Attribute_Accuracy:
Attribute_Accuracy_Report:
Indirect methods were used to estimate discharges at the Bisley streamgaging stations. The statements below describe the accuracy of estimated flow through circular culverts.

Under most field conditions, the computation of discharges through culverts should provide reliable results. In medium-head flows, very good results (+/- < 10%) may be expected up to headwater-diameter ratios (HW/D) of 1.25. Headwater-diameter ratio means gage-pool water-surface depth above the point of zero flow (PZF) relative to the culvert diameter (culvert barrel size). For example, a water depth of 5 feet above the PZF at a 4-foot culvert creates a HW/D ratio of 1.25. Good results (+/- 10%) may also be expected for high-head discharge and the HW/D ratio is greater than 1.75 (Bodhaine 1968).

The curve-fitted HY-8 equations are accurate to (+/- 10%) within the HW/D ratios of 0.5 to 3.0. A supplemental weir equation was used for HW/D ratios of 0.0 to 0.5 (see Inlet Control Equations in \Supplements\Bisley_gages_WY2006-2018_metadata.pdf).

The above statements refer to culvert performance at medium and high discharges. The culvert rating is less accurate and less sensitive during low flow because the culvert functions as a wide parabolic weir. Moreover, sediment deposits and debris can modify the stage-discharge relation, particularly at low stages. Discharge at the Bisley sites is predominately in the low range from a flow duration perspective.

The installation of thin-plate V-notch weirs at Bisley 1 (2012) and 2 (2015) improved the discharge accuracy during low flows. Flows from 0.02 to 2.0 cubic feet per second (cfs) measured by sharp-crested V-notch weirs are accurate to within 3 percent if the weir is not submerged (Buchanan and Somers 1969). Discharges below 0.02 cfs may be less accurate because the nappe clings to the weir crest.

As mentioned previously, the culvert entrance geometry was changed when the thin-plate weirs were mounted on the culvert headwalls at Bisley 1 and 2. The inlet-control modification required changes to the rating curves. The discharge conditions during the transition between control types (partial-control weir vs. combination-control culvert) is poorly defined. Direct discharge measurements are needed to recalibrate the rating in the transition zone and during high discharge events.


Bodhaine, George L. 1968. Measurement of peak discharges at culverts by indirect methods: U.S. Geological Survey Techniques of Water-Resources Investigations 03-A3. Book 3, Chapter A3, 60 p. https://doi.org/10.3133/twri03A3

Buchanan, Thomas J.; Somers, William P. 1969. Discharge measurements at gaging stations: U.S. Geological Survey Techniques of Water-Resources Investigations 03-A8. Book 3, Chapter A8, 65 p. https://doi.org/10.3133/twri03A8
Logical_Consistency_Report:
Stream discharge data were quality assured by constraining internal consistency among the three adjacent small streams, as well as the larger tributary that they flow into (Río Mameyes), and careful checking of USFS technician field notes from the weekly visits.

After the mean discharge has been computed for each day of the water year for which there is a gage-height record, a hydrograph of daily mean discharge is plotted on a logarithmic discharge scale. The hydrograph is used for comparison with similar hydrographs of daily discharge for the adjacent stations as a test for consistency of the computed record. Hydrographic comparison usually reveals any serious errors in the basic data computations and interpretations.
Completeness_Report:
The hydrograph comparison technique described in the logical consistency report also provides a means of estimating discharge for days of no gage-height. For long periods of missing record (more than a few days), additional data comparisons are used; runoff in inches, runoff in cubic feet per second per square mile and precipitation totals. (See \Data\Stage_Discharge\Estimated_gage-height_and_discharge_records.csv for a list of dates where data were estimated.)
Lineage:
Methodology:
Methodology_Type: Field
Methodology_Description:
The following is excerpted from \Supplements\Bisley_gages_WY2006-2018_metadata.pdf. For the complete methodology including tables, maps, and images, please see this document.


OBJECTIVES AND SCOPE

USGS evaluated gage height (water-level) data at Bisley 1, 2, and 3 streamgages. Based on site inspections, USGS developed rating curves to generate the stream discharge record, with associated metadata, for the period June 2006 through September 2018.


APPROACH

The long-term stream gage-height (water level) was measured by submersible pressure transducers. The record was edited by checking electronic data against weekly site visit readings. Corrections for sensor drift were applied, erroneous values (spikes) were removed, adjustments (shifts) to baseline rating curves were made using the shifted-control method (temporary ratings), and missing records were estimated. The recorded gage-height data were subject to errors caused by pressure transducer drift, vent-tube fouling (necessitating continuous adjustment for barometric pressure fluctuations), step shift (caused by manual upward repositioning of transducer in response to sediment deposition), and suspect or missing gage-height data (instrument failure).

Discharge rating curves (developed from culvert equations) to convert gage-height to discharge were constructed from theoretical considerations based on the stream channel geometry (control structures). Intercomparison of the three adjacent streamgages helped evaluate the gage-height record – e.g., a storm should cause a similar magnitude response at all three sites, and to evaluate whether the hurricanes have damaged infrastructure. USGS examined field notes from lead FS hydrologic technicians Carlos Estrada and Miriam Salgado, and then applied gage-height corrections and gage-height -discharge rating shifts as needed. In addition to using the three streamgages to compare to each other, the nearby USGS streamgage at Río Mameyes near Sabana, Puerto Rico (station number 50065500; https://waterdata.usgs.gov/pr/nwis/uv?site_no=50065500) and Rio Sabana at Sabana, Puerto Rico (station number 50067000; https://waterdata.usgs.gov/pr/nwis/uv?site_no=50067000) were used as benchmarks. USGS supplied edited and corrected gage-height data. Missing gage-height and discharge data were estimated with reconstructed 5- or 15-minute values using hydrographic comparison with the nearby streamgages.

USGS advised on best practices for continued operation of these streamgages into the future. USGS advised on proper gage-height monitoring practices and equipment to establish a robust gage-height-discharge relation for each site.


GAGE DATUM AND LEVELS SURVEY

A permanent gage datum must be maintained at streamgaging stations so that only one datum is used for the entire gage-height record. To maintain the permanent datum, three reference marks (independent of the gage structure), are established when the station is initially constructed. The elevations of the reference marks are checked periodically by surveying the points to maintain a fixed datum plane. The reference-mark array enables recovery of the gage datum if, for example, the staff gage or one of the marks is destroyed.

USGS assessed the Bisley sites and performed a level (elevation)survey on February 15, 2020. No reference marks were found. Therefore, the existing outside reference gage (staff plate) was used as the survey starting elevation for each level survey. Streamgages with constructed controls often use the point of zero flow (PZF) as the zero elevation of the datum-plane. However, an arbitrary datum was assigned at each Bisley streamgage control (culvert inverts).

The culverts are constructed of 4-foot (1.22-meter) long sections of concrete tile, with the ends designed to fit together without mortar, creating a jointed but otherwise smooth and uniform inside surface. As of early 2020, the culvert at Bisley 2 was deteriorating. The last downstream tile was pushed out and was standing on its end a few feet downstream of its original location. The existing last tile (originally second to last) had been pushed slightly away from its upstream neighbor and its upstream end had tipped up. As a result, discharge was conveyed beneath the tile and had undermined it. The road fill embankment was flush with this last remaining tile and rose nearly vertically up to the road surface, with a slight overhang at the edge of the road. Thus, whatever fill had been over the original last tile had eroded away, and the overhang posed an unseen safety risk to anyone walking to the edge of the road.


BISLEY GAGING-STATION ARTIFICIAL CONTROLS

Artificial controls are structures built in a stream channel to stabilize the gage-height-discharge relation and thereby simplify the procedure of obtaining accurate records of discharge. The gage-height/discharge relation at each Bisley streamgage was affected by the inlet geometry at the culvert entrance (artificial control). Baseline ratings (Ratings 1.0) were prepared using the culvert equations for each streamgage. The baseline ratings were later modified when the V-notch weirs were installed at Bisley 1 and 2, and when sediment deposition in the gaging pool altered the control at Bisley 3.

At Bisley 3, a cobble-boulder riffle developed over the entire period of this study, a few feet upstream from the culverts. The riffle (rise in the streambed) developed because of deposition of cobbles and boulders during numerous high-discharge events. The riffle control only affects the low end of the rating curve because it is submerged by moderate flows. At low gage heights the riffle was the control, therefore the theoretical curve was not used below the elevation at which the riffle was submerged, and the controlling structure transitioned to the culvert inlet. The need for a shift in the low-end rating curve was apparent because the extreme base-flow gage height was significantly elevated above the inlet PZF elevation. The following discussion describes the techniques used to define the shifts for the low-discharge portion of ratings at Bisley 3:

1. Low-end rating curve shifts were observed often after major peak-discharge events. The extreme low discharge gage heights observed after the event were significantly above the elevation of the culvert PZF.

2. Comparison of the Bisley 3 hydrograph with the other nearby streamgages for periods after high discharge events revealed an elevated gage-height trace at Bisley 3, following event recessions.

3. Comparison of the hydrographs showed that the high (apparent) post-event discharge during base flow at Bisley 3 was clearly in error.

4. The base-flow discharges after most large storm events were determined to be too high at Bisley 3, in comparison to the nearby reference streamgages. Periods of low discharge were modified by shifting the rating curve (see Tables 3 and 4 in \Supplements\Bisley_gages_WY2006-2018_metadata.pdf). In the example below, the low end of rating 5.0 was modified (negative shift adjustment) and a new rating curve (6.0) was prepared after the peak on January 14, 2010.

The shift magnitudes and subsequent rating curve adjustments were determined by comparison of normalized base flows (using drainage area ratios) among the nearby sites.


GAGE-HEIGHT MEASUREMENTS AND INSTRUMENTATION

The gage-height was measured using Campbell Scientific submersible pressure transducers (vented) and recorded by dataloggers. The recorded sampling interval was inconsistent during the period of record of this data release. The frequency of data collection varied (predominately 5-minute, but infrequently 15-minute or 60-minutes) from streamgage to streamgage and from year to year.

The crest-stage gage (CSG) is a nonrecording instrument used to verify instantaneous peak stage. CSGs were installed at each streamgage but were not operational during the 2006-2018 timeframe.


DISCHARGE RATING CURVES
(The rating curve equations can be found in the appendix of \Supplements\Bisley_gages_WY2006-2018_metadata.pdf.)

Continuous records of discharge are computed by converting discrete measurements of gage height to discharge using a relation between gage-height and measurements of discharge. Discharge rating curves for streams with natural controls are developed from periodic manual discharge measurements (via current meter) and gage height.

Measurements of gage height at the Bisley streamgaging stations are made in gage pools upstream from the concrete culverts (artificial controls). The culvert inlets, as originally constructed at each streamgage, are the control structures for the entire range of gage height, including submergence of the culvert. The principal hydraulic factors affecting inlet control include gage-height pool water-surface elevation, cross-sectional area, shape, inlet-edge type, and slope. Factors not influencing inlet control include barrel roughness, leaks, culvert length, and tailwater elevation. The tailwater is the depth at the outlet invert. The depth of the tailwater at the Bisley outlets is insufficient to cause backwater conditions because the outfalls are free falling, and the downstream channel slopes are steep.

Inlet control occurs when the culvert barrel can convey more discharge than the inlet will accept, because the culvert entrance is contracted. The control section of a culvert operating under inlet control is located just inside the entrance and functions as the major discharge control. Therefore, the downstream characteristics represent only a minor influence on discharge (FHWA 2005). Discharge ratings for culverts are based on indirect methods; that is, equations developed from laboratory investigations and information from field studies of the discharge through culverts at sites where the discharge was known. The estimated discharges at culverts are often checked, when possible, by current-meter measurements. The gage-height/discharge relations at the Bisley streamgages are based solely on indirect methods because direct current-meter measurements were not done.

The Bisley rating curves were developed to compute discharges for the period of this investigation (June 2006 to September 2018). Discharge equations, based on culvert model-prototypes, were used to estimate discharge (Bodhaine 1968). The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) HY-8 culvert hydraulic analysis equations were used to generate the rating curve points. The rating curve points (gage height and associated discharge) were entered in the Aquarius software system (Aquarius 2022). The rating curves were constructed by entering the rating gage height and corresponding discharge (determined by the HY-8 equations) at intervals of about every 0.05 feet (15 millimeters (mm)). Discharge between the entered points was logarithmically interpolated for every 0.01 feet (3 mm) of gage height. Rating tables were prepared for each Bisley streamgage (see \Supplements\Rating_Curves\Bisley[#]_rating_[##].txt files).

Bisley 1 - The culvert rating was used directly until a V-notch weir was installed on August 2, 2012. A field measurement in 2020 determined that the weir angle was 96°, not the conventional 90°. The standard 90° V-notch equation (see Weir Equation in \Supplements\Bisley_gages_WY2006-2018_metadata.pdf) was adjusted accordingly. The weir was added to improve low discharge accuracy, but its inclusion required a change to the culvert rating. The new compound control consisted of a partial low-discharge control (V-notch), transitioning to a modified culvert control (reduced cross-sectional area due to presence of the V-notch). As a result of the inlet control modifications, low-discharge accuracy was improved but medium and high-discharge accuracy likely declined because the culvert geometry was modified. The PZF of the V-notch is 0.86 feet.

Bisley 2 - The culvert rating curve was used until the V-notch weir was installed on September 21, 2015. The weir rating curve was based on the standard 90° V-notch equation (see Weir Equation in \Supplements\Bisley_gages_WY2006-2018_metadata.pdf). The weir was installed to improve low-discharge accuracy, but its inclusion required a change to the culvert rating. The new compound control consisted of a partial low-discharge control (V-notch), transitioning to a modified culvert control (reduced cross-sectional area). As a result of the inlet control modifications, low-discharge accuracy was improved but medium and high-discharge accuracy likely declined because the culvert geometry was modified. The PZF of the V-notch is 0.30 feet.

Bisley 3- The multiple-culvert rating was used for medium and high discharges. The cobble-boulder riffle (section control) rating was used during periods of low discharge. The riffle control was relatively unstable, resulting in frequent changes to the gage height-discharge relation following high discharge events. Twelve separate ratings were in effect at Bisley 3 for the study period (see \Supplements\Rating_Curves\Bisley3_rating[#].txt files). Low-end rating curve shifts were used to correct periods of low discharge. A problem with the riffle control at Bisley 3 is insensitivity (>5%). A control is considered sensitive if a change of no more than 2% of the total discharge is represented by a change of one unit (0.01 feet, 3 millimeters) of recorded gage height.


PEAK GAGE-HEIGHT AND DISCHARGE

The function of the Bisley culverts is to convey surface water through the roadway embankments. At medium and high gage heights, culvert dimensions are insufficient to convey the streamflow and a backwater condition occurs, resulting in an increase in water-surface elevation at the entrance to the culvert. Upstream ponding behind the culvert acts like a detention reservoir and attenuates the hydrograph peak. However, the volume of storage to create significant reduction in peak discharge is quite large. The storage volume at the Bisley sites is relatively small owing to the steep and narrow stream channels. Therefore, the storm runoff peak reduction is modest.

A major concern during large storms is the potential for embankment overtopping. The hydraulic capacity of the culverts (and allowable freeboard) was adequate for all storm peaks during the 2006-2018 period. However, the risk of future overtopping events is increased at the Bisley streamgages 1 and 2 because of reduced discharge capacity following the installation of the V-notch weirs. The reduction of cross-sectional area at Bisley 1 and 2 culvert inlets caused an increase of gage height for a given discharge.
Methodology_Citation:
Citation_Information:
Originator: U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration
Publication_Date: 200505
Title:
Hydraulic design of highway culverts
Edition: 2nd Edition
Geospatial_Data_Presentation_Form: document
Series_Information:
Series_Name: Hydraulic Design Series Number 5
Issue_Identification: FHWA-NHI-01-020
Publication_Information:
Publication_Place: McLean, VA
Publisher: U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration
Online_Linkage: https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/engineering/hydraulics/library_arc.cfm?pub_number=7&id=13
Methodology_Citation:
Citation_Information:
Originator: Bodhaine, George L.
Publication_Date: 1968
Title:
Measurement of peak discharges at culverts by indirect methods
Geospatial_Data_Presentation_Form: report
Series_Information:
Series_Name: Techniques of Water-Resources Investigations
Issue_Identification: 03-A3
Publication_Information:
Publication_Place: Denver, CO
Publisher: U.S. Department of the Interior, U.S. Geological Survey
Online_Linkage: https://doi.org/10.3133/twri03A3
Process_Step:
Process_Description:
The following is excerpted from \Supplements\Bisley_gages_WY2006-2018_metadata.pdf. For the complete methodology including tables, maps, and images, please see this document.


COMPUTATION OF DISCHARGE RECORDS

Stream discharge records for each Bisley streamgage station were computed annually. Annual discharge is based on the water year, which spans from October 1 to September 30 of the designated year (e.g., water year 2006 spans from October 1, 2005 through September 30, 2006). The following steps are needed to analyze the recorded gage-height data and to compute the discharge record.

1. A review of field notes and applying gage-height datum or drift corrections when needed.
2. An analysis of the discharge rating and determination of the rating (or shift) applicable during each period of the year.
3. The preparation of a rating table which is a tabular expression of the information graphically presented by the rating curve.

Gage-height offsets and drift corrections, based on field inspections, were adjusted using Aquarius software (Aquarius 2022). Offsets (steps) were corrected directly, and drift corrections were prorated between visits. Corrected unit values (gage heights and discharge at recorded timestamps) are tabulated.

Discharge ratings are based on theoretical equations. The ratings were developed from points (stage/discharge) generated by the HY-8 equations and processed by Aquarius software. Discharges are determined by applying the appropriate rating tables to the tabulated gage heights. The rating curves were constructed by entering the rating gage height and corresponding discharge (determined by the HY-8 equations) at intervals of about every 0.05 feet (15 millimeters). Discharge between the entered points was interpolated for every 0.01 feet (3 millimeters) of gage height. Rating tables were prepared for each Bisley gaging station.

Daily mean discharge tables for each water year were generated by Aquarius software. Included on each table, in addition to the daily values, are maximum/minimum values for the year and the annual mean discharge.

After the mean discharge has been computed for each day of the water year for which there is a gage-height record, a hydrograph of daily mean discharge is plotted on a logarithmic discharge scale. The hydrograph is used for comparison with similar hydrographs of daily discharge for the adjacent stations as a test for consistency of the computed record. Hydrographic comparison usually reveals any serious errors in the basic data computations and interpretations.


ESTIMATION OF DAILY DISCHARGE FOR PERIODS OF NO GAGE-HEIGHT RECORD

The hydrograph comparison technique described above also provides a means of estimating discharge for days of no gage-height. For long periods of missing record (more than a few days), additional data comparisons are used; runoff in inches, runoff in cubic feet per second per square mile, and precipitation totals.
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Below you will find a list and detailed description of the files included in this data publication.

VARIABLE DESCRIPTION FILE (1)

1. \Data\_variable_descriptions.csv: Comma-separated values (CSV) file containing a list and description of variables found in all data files. (A description of these variables is also provided in the metadata below.)

Row 1
Column 1 = "Filename" heading
Column 2 = "Variable" heading
Column 3 = "Units" heading
Column 4 = "Precision" heading
Column 5 = "Description" heading

Row 2+
Column 1 = Filename: name of data file
Column 2 = Variable: name of variable
Column 3 = Units: units (if applicable)
Column 4 = Precision: precision (if applicable)
Column 5 = Description: description of variable


DATA FILES (11)

1. \Data\Daily_Avg_Discharge\Bisley_WY2006-2018_Annual_Inst_MinMaxAvg.csv: CSV file containing instantaneous minimum and maximum stream discharge as well as the average daily stream discharge (in cubic feet per second) for Bisley 1, 2, and 3 for each water year, 2006-2018.

Row 1
Column 1 = "Streamgage" heading
Column 2 = "Water Year" heading
Column 3 = "Max" heading
Column 4 = "Min" heading
Column 5 = "Mean" heading

Rows 2+
Column 1 = Streamgage: Name of streamgage (Bisley1, Bisley2, or Bisley 3)
Column 2 = Water Year: Water year, which spans from October 1 to September 30 of the designated year
Column 3 = Max: Maximum average daily stream discharge for the water year (cubic feet per second [cfs])
Column 4 = Min: Minimum average daily stream discharge for the water year (cfs)
Column 5 = Mean: Mean average daily stream discharge for the water year (cfs)


2-4. \Data\Daily_Avg_Discharge\Bisley[#]_WY2006-2018_Daily_Avg_Discharge_cfs.csv: CSV files (3) containing average daily stream discharge (in cubic feet per second) for Bisley 1, 2, or 3. (Where Bisley[#] = streamgage).

Row 1
Column 1 = "Water Year" heading
Column 2 = "Day of Month" heading
Column 3 = "Oct" heading
Column 4 = "Nov" heading
Column 5 = "Jan" heading
Column 6 = "Feb" heading
Column 7 = "Mar" heading
Column 8 = "Apr" heading
Column 9 = "May" heading
Column 10 = "Jun" heading
Column 11 = "Jul" heading
Column 12 = "Aug" heading
Column 13 = " Sep" heading

Row 2+
Column 1 = Water Year: Water year, which spans from October 1 to September 30 of the designated year
Column 2 = Day of Month: Day of the month (1-31)
Column 3 = Oct: Average October daily stream discharge in cfs
Column 4 = Nov: Average November daily stream discharge in cfs
Column 5 = Jan: Average December daily stream discharge in cfs
Column 6 = Feb: Average February daily stream discharge in cfs
Column 7 = Mar: Average March daily stream discharge in cfs
Column 8 = Apr: Average April daily stream discharge in cfs
Column 9 = May: Average May daily stream discharge in cfs
Column 10 = Jun: Average June daily stream discharge in cfs
Column 11 = Jul: Average July daily stream discharge in cfs
Column 12 = Aug: Average August daily stream discharge in cfs
Column 13 = Sep: Average September daily stream discharge in cfs


5-10. \Data\Stage_Discharge\Bisley[#]_WY[####-####]_Stage_Discharge_High-Res.csv: CSV files (6) containing stream stage (gage height, in feet) and discharge (in cubic feet per second) at recorded time step (usually 5 minutes) for Bisley 1, 2, or 3. (Where Bisley[#] = streamgage and WY[####-####] = water years included in the file.)

Row 1
Column 1 = "Timestamp (UTC-04:00)" heading
Column 2 = "Gage height" heading
Column 3 = "Discharge" heading

Row 2+
Column 1 = Timestamp (UTC-04:00): Date and time (MM/DD/YYYY HH:MM), where time is local time in Puerto Rico (Atlantic Standard Time = GMT-0400). Puerto Rico remains on standard time year round.
Column 2 = Gage height: Stream stage (gage height) in feet
Column 3 = Discharge: Stream discharge in cfs


11. \Data\Stage_Discharge\Estimated_gage-height_and_discharge_records.csv: CSV file listing periods of estimated gage-height and discharge record for Bisley 1, 2, and 3 from 2006-2018.

Row 1
Column 1 = "Streamgage" heading
Column 2 = "Calendar Year" heading
Column 3 = "Dates Estimated" heading

Row 2+
Column 1 = Streamgage: Name of streamgage (Bisley1, Bisley2, or Bisley3)
Column 2 = Calendar Year: Calendar year for estimated dates
Column 3 = Dates Estimated: Date range (month and days) when gage-height and discharge records are estimated


SUPPLEMENTAL FILES (23)

1. \Supplements\Bisley_gages_WY2006-2018_metadata.pdf: Portable document format (PDF) file containing a metadata document with study information, maps, and the procedures used to correct the data and confirm/construct stage to discharge rating curves.

2. \Supplements\Heartsill_Scalley_etal_2012.pdf: PDF file containing Heartsill Scalley et al. (2012) "Long-term dynamics of organic matter and elements exported as coarse particulates from two Caribbean montane watersheds". (Heartsill Scalley, T.; Scatena, F. N.; Moya, S.; Lugo, A. E. 2012. Long-term dynamics of organic matter and elements exported as coarse particulates from two Caribbean montane watersheds. Journal of Tropical Ecology. 28: 127-139. https://doi.org/10.1017/s0266467411000733 and https://www.fs.usda.gov/research/treesearch/41610)

3. \Supplements\Leon_etal_2021.pdf: PDF file containing Leon et al. (2021) "Hydrological mapping in the Luquillo Experimental Forest: New local datum improves watershed ecological knowledge". (Leon, M. C.; Heartsill-Scalley, T.; Santiago, I.; McDowell, W. H. 2021. Hydrological mapping in the Luquillo Experimental Forest: New local datum improves watershed ecological knowledge. Hydrology. 8(1): 54. https://doi.org/10.3390/hydrology8010054 and https://www.fs.usda.gov/research/treesearch/62691)

4. \Supplements\Scatena_1989.pdf: PDF file containing Scatena (1989) "An introduction to the physiography and history of the Bisley Experimental Watersheds in the Luquillo Mountains of Puerto Rico". (Scatena, Frederick N. 1989. An introduction to the physiography and history of the Bisley Experimental Watersheds in the Luquillo Mountains of Puerto Rico. Gen. Tech. Rep. SO-72. New Orleans, LA: U.S. Dept of Agriculture, Forest Service, Southern Forest Experiment Station. 22 p. https://doi.org/10.2737/SO-GTR-72)

5. \Supplements\Scatena_1990.pdf: PDF file containing Scatena (1990) "Culvert flow in small drainages in montane tropical forests: observations from the Luquillo Experimental Forest of Puerto Rico". (Scatena, Fredrick N. 1990. Culvert flow in small drainages in montane tropical forests: observations from the Luquillo Experimental Forest of Puerto Rico. Tropical Hydrology and Caribbean Water Resources. 237-246. https://www.fs.usda.gov/research/treesearch/30255)

6. \Supplements\Schaefer_etal_2000.pdf: PDF file containing Schaefer et al. (2000) "Effects of hurricane disturbance on stream water concentrations and fluxes in eight tropical forest watersheds of the Luquillo Experimental Forest, Puerto Rico". (Schaefer, Douglas A.; McDowell, William H.; Scatena, Fredrick N.; Asbury, Clyde E. 2000. Effects of hurricane disturbance on stream water concentrations and fluxes in eight tropical forest watersheds of the Luquillo Experimental Forest, Puerto Rico. Journal of Tropical Ecology 16:189-207. https://doi.org/10.1017/s0266467400001358 and https://www.fs.usda.gov/research/treesearch/30121)

7. \Supplements\Schellekens_etal_2004.pdf: PDF file containing Schellekens et al. (2004) "Stormflow generation in a small rainforest catchment in the Luquillo Experimental Forest, Puerto Rico". (Schellekens, J.; Scatena, F. N.; Bruijnzee, L. A.; van Dijk, A. I. J. M.; Groen, M. M. A.; van Hogezand, R. J. P. 2004. Stormflow generation in a small rainforest catchment in the Luquillo Experimental Forest, Puerto Rico. Hydrol. Process. 18: 505–530. https://www.fs.usda.gov/treesearch/pubs/30207)

8-23. \Supplements\Rating_Curves\Bisley[#]_rating_[##].txt: ASCII text files (16) containing tables used to convert gage height (measured to the hundredths) to discharge (in cubic feet per second) for Bisley 1, 2, or 3 and multiple ratings. (Where Bisley[#] = streamgage and rating_[#] = rating table number.) Rows 1-9 contain header information such as station name and number, date processed, expanded rating table number, variable names, etc. and data starts on row 10. The last few rows contain additional information such as rating number, start date and time, etc.

Row 2
Name of streamgage

Row 3
Title for data table in file

Row 5
Expanding rating table information

Row 7
Data table section headings: "Gage height (ft)", "Discharge (ft^3/s)", and "Diff In Q Per"

Row 8
Data table subsection headings: ".00", ".01", ".02", ".03", ".04", ".05", ".06", ".07", ".08", ".09", ".1 Units"

Rows 10+
Column 1 = Gage height (ft) to the nearest tenth (0.1)
Column 2 = Discharge in cubic feet per second (cfs) for: gage height (ft) + 0.00
Column 3 = Discharge in cfs for: gage height (ft) + 0.01
Column 4 = Discharge in cfs for: gage height (ft) + 0.02
Column 5 = Discharge in cfs for: gage height (ft) + 0.03
Column 6 = Discharge in cfs for: gage height (ft) + 0.04
Column 7 = Discharge in cfs for: gage height (ft) + 0.05
Column 8 = Discharge in cfs for: gage height (ft) + 0.06
Column 9 = Discharge in cfs for: gage height (ft) + 0.07
Column 10 = Discharge in cfs for: gage height (ft) + 0.08
Column 11 = Discharge in cfs for: gage height (ft) + 0.09
Column 12 = Discharge in cfs for: gage height (ft) + 0.10

NOTE: the last few rows in each file contain additional information such as rating number, start date and time, etc.
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Metadata documents have been reviewed for accuracy and completeness. Unless otherwise stated, all data and related materials are considered to satisfy the quality standards relative to the purpose for which the data were collected. However, neither the author, the Archive, nor any part of the federal government can assure the reliability or suitability of these data for a particular purpose. The act of distribution shall not constitute any such warranty, and no responsibility is assumed for a user's application of these data or related materials.

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