Provisional Data Disclaimer

Data from realtime streamflow gages are relayed to the Regional office through the Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite (GOES) data-collection system. Data are transmitted from each station at intervals of either 3 or 4 hours and are loaded onto the Region's computer system.

Realtime streamflow data available on the Region Home Pages are PROVISIONAL data that have not been reviewed or edited. These data may be subject to significant change and are not citable until reviewed and approved by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation. Realtime streamflow data may be changed after review because the stage-discharge relationship may have been affected by:

  • backwater from ice or debris such as log jams
  • algae and aquatic growth in the stream
  • sediment movement
  • malfunction of recording equipment

Data are reviewed periodically to ensure accuracy. All data is considered PROVISIONAL until it is published by either the Bureau Of Reclamation in the reservoir annual operating plans or by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) for all USGS stream gauge stations.

Data users are cautioned to consider carefully the provisional nature of the information before using it for decisions that concern personal or public safety or the conduct of business that involves substantial monetary or operational consequences.

Information concerning the accuracy and appropriate uses of these data or concerning other hydrologic data may be obtained by contacting Lauren Allin at 406-247-7758 or lallin@usbr.gov.

For further information contact: GPWebmaster
Last Updated: 6/24/20