Using USGS Stream-Flow Data to Develop Quantitative Skills in

Introductory-Level Geology Classes

Ben LaabsDepartment of Geological Sciences

SUNY Geneseo

*Activity developed at Gustavus Adolphus College and SUNY Geneseo*

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

Materials

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

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.)

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