Stream gaging in Alaska: filling the state’s data gap through interagency cooperation

Abstract

Accurate streamflow data are essential for water resource management, infrastructure design, ecological protection, and public safety. In Alaska, a significant data gap exists due to limited coverage of the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) stream gaging network. This gap limits decision-makers' ability to effectively monitor hydrologic conditions and respond to environmental and infrastructure challenges. To address this issue, my study focuses on improving and expanding the AKFlow database, which integrates stream gage data from USGS and non-USGS sources. My efforts centered on standardizing key data attributes across nine contributing agencies, implementing efficient data update workflows using ArcGIS Survey123 and Microsoft Excel, and enhancing user access through web-based mapping services and an interactive ArcGIS Dashboard. These approaches aim to balance data consistency, ease of maintenance, and usability for both technical and non-technical users. The addition of standardized attributes—such as measurement type, sensor type, data frequency, telemetry availability, and datum reference—improves the ability to compare and evaluate datasets across agencies. Streamlined data submission processes reduce administrative burden and support regular updates, while the Dashboard enables users to visualize gage distribution, spatially filter data, and identify gaps in coverage across Alaska. These improvements significantly enhance the accessibility, consistency, and practical value of stream gage data across the state. The AKFlow database provides a more comprehensive and user-friendly resource for understanding hydrologic conditions, supporting informed decision-making, and guiding future investments in stream gaging infrastructure.