Streamflow Observations in Support of Forecast Informed Reservoir Operations Objectives
Abstract
Observations are a key component of Forecast Informed Reservoir Operations, which requires enhanced monitoring to meet the fundamental FIRO objective to better inform decisions to retain or release water by integrating flexibility in reservoir operation policies and rules. Each reservoir considering implementing FIRO has different operating constraints and management priorities, and it is critical that the observational networks be assessed and built upon with these in mind. Observation networks in FIRO watersheds also benefit from the foundational network that has been in place for decades, and in many cases, additional observational capacity has been put in place through other resource management or hazard response programs. In some cases, FIRO implementation requires observational gaps to be filled in order to better inform management practices. CW3E has worked with stakeholders and FIRO managers to identify observational gaps in each watershed considering implementing FIRO. Gaps in streamflow data are an area of focus that CW3E has filled through the installation of stream gages in FIRO watersheds. Observations from these stream gages have been used in hydrologic model improvement and decision support efforts and to improve understanding of physical processes. This presentation will provide a brief overview of streamflow observations added through FIRO for each location implementing FIRO or assessing FIRO viability (Russian, Santa Ana, Yuba, and Feather) thus far, a discussion of research questions answered and lessons learned, and implications for FIRO transferability.
- Publication:
-
AGU Fall Meeting Abstracts
- Pub Date:
- December 2022
- Bibcode:
- 2022AGUFM.H32D..03M