Using USGS Stream-Flow Data to Develop Quantitative Skills in Introductory-Level Geology Classes

1
Using USGS Stream-Flow Data to Develop
Quantitative Skills in Introductory-Level Geology
Classes

• Ben Laabs
• Department of Geological Sciences
• SUNY Geneseo
• Activity developed at Gustavus Adolphus College
  and SUNY Geneseo

2
Goals

• Determine the height (ft asl) of the 100-year
  flood on a river in your town, establish a
  flood-hazard zone on a topographic map
• Recognize the relationship of flood discharge and
  stage
• Quantitative-skill development
• Data collection, manipulation and analysis
• Calculating flood recurrence interval
• Assessment of error in estimating 100-year
  flood
• Develop a fundamental understanding of MS Excel

3
Materials

• Streamflow data - http//water.usgs.gov
• Topographic maps
• Graph paper or access to MS Excel

4
(No Transcript)
5
Advantages

• Designed for two-hour lab, but could be made
  longer or assigned as a homework assignment
• Study of a real, familiar setting
• Could be applied to any non-dammed river with
  two or more USGS gaging stations
• Group activity, engages students
• Could be used in any introductory-level class
  (Physical Geology, Environmental, Natural
  Disasters, etc.)

6
Challenges

• Resources computers, web access are great but
  not essential
• Teaching assistants are a bonus
• Lengthy pre-lab lecture
• Issues with MS Excel
• Versions of software, Mac vs. PC
• Teaching equation writing, graphing and drawing