United

ChapterStates
1
Department of Part 630 Hydrology Part
Introduction 630 Hydrology
National Engineering Handbook
Agriculture
National Engineering Handbook
Natural
Resources
Conservation
Service

Chapter 1 Introduction

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Ground water
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(210-vi, NEH, September 1997) 1–1

Chapter 1 Introduction Part 630 Hydrology
National Engineering Handbook

Issued September 1997

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimina-

tion in its programs on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion,
age, disability, political beliefs, and marital or familial status. (Not all pro-
hibited bases apply to all programs.) Persons with disabilities who require
alternative means for communication of program information (Braille, large
print, audiotape, etc.) should contact USDA’s TARGET Center at (202) 720-
2600 (voice and TDD).

To file a complaint, write the Secretary of Agriculture, U.S. Department of

Agriculture, Washington, DC 20250, or call 1-800-245-6340 (voice) or (202)
720-1127 (TDD). USDA is an equal employment opportunity employer.

1–2 (210-vi, NEH, September 1997)

Chapter 1
Acknowledgments
Introduction Part 630 Hydrology
National Engineering Handbook

Chapter 1 was originally prepared by Victor Mockus (retired) and was

reprinted with minor revisions in 1969. This version was prepared by the
Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) under the guidance of
Donald E. Woodward, national hydraulic engineer, Washington, DC.

(210-vi, NEH, September 1997) 1–i

1–3
Chapter 1 Introduction Part 630 Hydrology
National Engineering Handbook

1–ii
1–4 (210-vi, NEH, September 1997)
Chapter 1 Introduction Part 630 Hydrology
Chapter 1 Introduction National Engineering Handbook

Contents: 630.0100 Introduction 1–1

(a) Scope .............................................................................................................. 1–1

630.0101 Duties and responsibilities of NRCS hydrologists 1–1

630.0102 Other technical guides 1–2

(210-vi, NEH, September 1997) 1–iii

1–5
Chapter 1 Introduction
Chapter 1 Introduction
630.0100 Introduction
The NRCS National Engineering Handbook (NEH) is
intended primarily for Natural Resources Conserva-
tion Service (NRCS) engineers and technicians. It
presents material needed to carry out NRCS responsi-
bilities in natural resources conservation and flood
prevention. Part 630, Hydrology, contains methods and
examples for:
• Studying the hydrology of watersheds
• Solving special hydrologic problems that arise in
planning watershed protection and flood preven-
tion projects
• Preparing working tools needed to plan or design
structures for water use, control, and disposal
• Training personnel newly assigned to activities
that include hydrologic studies
(a) Scope
NEH part 630 contains some new techniques devel-
oped by NRCS personnel to meet specific needs of the
agency. Well-known techniques from other sources are
included where necessary to illustrate special applica-
tions to watershed-project planning, evaluation, and
design. Hydrologic theory is held to the minimum
necessary to show the development of methods not
readily available elsewhere. References to hydrologic
literature are given if they provide additional theory,
data, discussion, or details of a method.
Each major kind of hydrologic problem is described,
and, where possible, alternative solutions are given
and their relative merits are briefly considered. De-
scriptive material is kept to a minimum. All equations
and examples are numbered for ease of reference.
This part of the handbook is arranged so that each
principal subject is covered in a separate chapter, and
cross-references to other chapters are made as
needed. Each chapter in part 630 is a reference to
specific topics, methods, and examples; the glossary
(chapter 22) is a reference to specific terms.
(210-vi, NEH, September 1997)
Part 630 Hydrology
National Engineering Handbook
630.0101 Duties and
responsibilities of NRCS
hydrologists
Memorandums from the NRCS Conservation Engineer-
ing Division director define the duties and responsibili-
ties of NRCS hydrologists. One of the more important
responsibilities is that of choosing the most suitable
hydrologic method to use for a given problem.
NRCS projects requiring some application of hydrol-
ogy may range in construction cost from a few hun-
dred dollars to several million dollars. A hydrologic
method suitable at one end of this range generally is
unsuitable at the other. Two projects of about the
same cost may require widely different methods be-
cause of differences in available data, location of
benefits, or topography. The chosen method in each
case must be adequate to arrive at sound conclusions
in terms of conditions, objectives, and functions of the
project. The advice of the national hydrologist should
be sought if there is doubt about the suitability of a
method. For studies in which the choice of method is
limited by available survey time or funds, the results
must be regarded as tentative pending an investigation
of sufficient scope.
Because watershed planning is a team effort, the
hydrologist must be familiar with the work and needs
of the economist, geologist, design engineer, and
others who will use the results of a hydrologic study.
To familiarize others with the hydrology work and
needs, the hydrologist must be able to describe the
theories and working details of the methods used, the
data required, what calculations are made and how
they are made, and to give the approximate number of
staff days needed to complete a job.
1–1
Chapter 1 Introduction Part 630 Hydrology
National Engineering Handbook

630.0102 Other technical

guides

NRCS hydrologists should have and be familiar with

other national guides and handbooks used in NRCS.
Publications of special interest are:
• Watershed Protection Handbook
• Economic Guide for Watershed Protection and
Flood Prevention
• NRCS National Engineering Handbook:
— Part 634 (Section 5) Hydraulic Engineering
— Part 623 (Section 15) Irrigation
— Part 624 (Section 16) Drainage
• Technical releases
• Handbooks issued by NRCS state offices

They should also be familiar with the handbooks,

manuals, and other inservice publications of the other
agencies in a cooperative study. NRCS methods and
those of a cooperating agency may be needed to meet,
as nearly as possible, the requirements of both agen-
cies. However, NRCS methods must be used for NRCS
projects unless approval to use other methods is
obtained from the director of the NRCS Conservation
Engineering Division.

NRCS hydrologists are expected to keep up-to-date on

new developments in hydrology by reading technical
papers in transactions, proceedings, or journals of
such organizations as the American Society of Agricul-
tural Engineers, American Society of Civil Engineers,
Society of American Foresters, American Geophysical
Union, Soil and Water Conservation Society of
America, American Institute of Hydrology, and Soil
Science Society of America. The solution of hydrologic
problems requires a knowledge of several interrelated
sciences, and hydrologists must accept every opportu-
nity to increase their knowledge of the geology, soils,
plant life, climatic variations, and agricultural prac-
tices of their assigned areas.

1–2 (210-vi, NEH, September 1997)

United States
Chapter 2
Department of Part 630 Hydrology Part
Procedures 630
National Engineering Handbook
Agriculture

Natural
National Engineering Handbook
Resources
Conservation
Service

Chapter 2 Procedures

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Cloud formation

Precipitation

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Surfa E
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Infiltration

Soil
Percolation

Rock Ocean
Ground water
Deep percolation

(210-vi-NEH, April 1999) 3–1

Chapter 2 Procedures Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Issued April 1999

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimina-

tion in all its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national
origin, gender, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation,
and marital or family status. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all pro-
grams.) Persons with disabilities who require alternate means for communi-
cation of program information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should
contact the USDA’s TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TDD).

To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil

Rights, Room 326W, Whitten Building, 14th and Independence Avenue, SW,
Washington, DC 20250-9410, or call (202) 720-5964 (voice or TDD). USDA is
an equal opportunity employer.

3–2 (210-vi-NEH, April 1999)

Chapter 2 Procedures Part 630
Acknowledgments National Engineering Handbook

Chapter 2, Procedures, was originally prepared by Victor Mockus (retired)

in 1964. It was reprinted with minor revisions in 1972. This version was
prepared by the Natural Resources Conservation Service under the guid-
ance of Donald E. Woodward, national hydraulic engineer, Washington,
DC.

(210-vi-NEH, April 1999) 3–3

2–i
Chapter 2 Procedures Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

3–4
2–ii (210-vi-NEH, April 1999)
Chapter 2 Procedures Part 630
Chapter 2 Procedures National Engineering Handbook

Contents: 630.0200 Introduction 2–1

630.0201 Work outline plan and schedule relationship 2–1

(a) Data collection .............................................................................................. 2–1
(b) Computations ................................................................................................ 2–1
(c) Analyses ......................................................................................................... 2–1

630.0202 Hydrologic evaluation process 2–2

(a) Work sequence .............................................................................................. 2–2
(b) Analysis methods .......................................................................................... 2–4

630.0203 Design hydrology 2–6

Figures Figure 2–1 General process hydrology of watershed project 2–3

evaluation with streamflow and rainfall data available

Figure 2–2 General process hydrology of watershed project 2–5

evaluation with streamflow or rainfall data not available

Figure 2–3 Design hydrology for storage and spillways 2–7

in floodwater retarding structures

(210-vi-NEH, April 1999) 2–iii

3–5
7–i
Chapter 2 Procedures Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

3–6
7–ii (210-vi-NEH, April 1999)
Chapter 2 Procedures
Chapter 2 Procedures
630.0200 Introduction
Hydrology for the evaluation of watershed projects is a
major concern in part 630 of the National Engineering
Handbook. The evaluation is a detailed investigation of
present (no project) and future (with project) condi-
tions of a watershed to determine whether given
objectives will be met. It is the basis on which recom-
mendations for or against the project are founded. A
summary of the evaluation is included in a work plan,
which is the official document for carrying out, main-
taining, and operating the project. The hydrology is
not difficult, but it is complex. The procedures de-
scribed in this chapter serve both as a guide to hydrol-
ogy studies and as a unifying introduction to succeed-
ing chapters of part 630.
A project evaluation begins with a preliminary investi-
gation (PI), which is a brief study of a potential project
to estimate whether a detailed investigation is justified
(see chapter 3). If it is, information from the PI is used
in writing a work outline that gives the desired scope,
intensity, and schedule of the planning study; its
estimated cost; the personnel needed; and the comple-
tion date for a work plan.
An important part of the planning study is the hydro-
logic evaluation, in which data collection, computa-
tion, and analysis are equally important divisions of
work. Availability governs the collection of data. Size
or cost of project influences the choice of computa-
tional and analytical methods (see chapter 1). National
Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) policy deter-
mines the number and kind of analyses. Nevertheless,
the basic evaluation procedure does not vary. It is
flexible because some tasks can be done simulta-
neously or in a preferred sequence and nearly all tasks
can be done by a preferred method, but the general
plan is invariable. The work outline schedule follows
the plan in principle. The plan, schedule, and chapters
in part 630 are related as shown in the following sec-
tions.
(210-vi-NEH, April 1999)
Part 630
National Engineering Handbook
630.0201 Work outline
plan and schedule relation-
ship
(a) Data collection
Base maps, project area maps (chapter 3), rainfall data
(chapter 4), and runoff data (chapter 10) are collected
early in the study. Field surveys provide stream cross
sections and profiles (chapter 6) and dam site maps.
Interviews with local NRCS personnel provide data on
hydrologic soil-cover complexes (chapters 7, 8, and 9)
and runoff curve numbers (chapter 10).
(b) Computations
Storm runoffs (chapter 10), snowmelt runoffs (chapter
11), special effects of land use and treatment (chapter
12), and the relations of stream stages to inundation
(chapter 13) and discharge (chapter 14) are computed
early in this phase of the study. Travel times and lags
(chapter 15) are computed for use in hydrograph
construction (chapter 16) and flood routing (chapter
17). Runoff or peak discharge frequencies (chapter
18), transmission losses (chapter 19), and watershed
yield (chapter 20) are computed only if they are re-
quired in the study.
(c) Analyses
Four conditions of a watershed are studied in accor-
dance with NRCS policy. In order of study they are:
1. Present—Condition of the watershed at the time
of the survey; and the base to which the pro-
posed project is added.
2. Future with no project—Expected future condi-
tion of the watershed with no project action
taken.
3. With future land use and treatment measures—
Proposed land use and treatment measures are
added to the first condition. The measures are
described in the National Watershed Manual.
4. With future land use and treatment measures and
structures—Watershed protection and flood
prevention structures are added to the third
condition. The structures are described in the
National Watershed Manual.
2–1
Chapter 2 Procedures Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

This order makes the analysis fall into a natural se-

quence in which measures that are first to affect 630.0202 Hydrologic
runoff are first to be evaluated. Flood routings for the
present condition give the discharges from which evaluation process
present flood damages are computed in the economic
evaluation. The routings are modified (chapter 12) to
In both the computational and analytical phases, use
give discharges for determining the effects of land use
of hydrologic and hydraulic computer models can
and treatment. New routings or further modifications
substanially reduce the work time. Such models can
(chapter 17) are made for the third condition to give
estimate runoff hydrographs; route hydrographs
discharges for determining the effects of structures.
through reservoirs, lakes, channels, and flood plains;
Generally, it is the third condition that is studied at
combine hydrographs as necessary; and determine
great length because an optimum number and location
stage/discharge/acres flooded relationships. Two
of structures are desired. Final design of individual
frequently used NRCS computer models include Tech-
structures is made late in the investigation or after the
nical Release 20 (Project Formulation - Hydrology,
work plan is approved. The hydrology and NRCS
1983) and Part 630, chapter 31, Computer Program for
hydrologic criteria for design are given in chapter 21,
TR60, and section IV of the Field Office Technical Water Surface Profiles (1994). The Corps of Engineers
Guide (FOTG). also have several hydrologic and hydraulic models that
can be useful in project analyses.

(a) Work sequence

The sequence of work in the hydrologic evaluation is
shown in figure 2–1. The forms of maps, graphs, and
tables are simplified representations of the various
standard forms used in the different States. The pre-
liminary investigation, which precedes the evaluation,
is described in chapter 3. The design hydrology comes
later, and details are given in chapter 21.

After evaluation for the present conditions (the first

condition) is completed, the early steps of the evalua-
tion process do not always need to be repeated for the
remaining conditions. Evaluations for future condi-
tions should include one that considers the future with
no project measures and that accounts for expected
future land use changes without any project. Depend-
ing on the nature of these expected changes, the
hydrologic soil-cover complexes and corresponding
runoff curve numbers would be altered, affecting the
runoff hydrographs. The condition with the future land
use and treatment measures would start the evaluation
process at the hydrologic soil-cover complexes step.
At this step the soil-cover complexes would be modi-
fied to reflect different land use/treatment conditions,
which would ultimately again be reflected in the flow
hydrographs. Finally, the condition with future land
use and treatment measures plus structural measures
would start the evaluation process at the unit hydro-
graph step by modifying the unit hydrograph to reflect
the structures being in place.

2–2 (210-vi-NEH, April 1999)

Chapter 2 Procedures Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Figure 2–1 General process hydrology of watershed project evaluation with streamflow and rainfall data available

Subwatershed map
Base map Flood damage map Cross section location map
Hydrologic soil group map
Stream reach location map
Rea
ch 1 4
D
3
R ea c h 6 B
eac
h 2 5 C
R
(chapter 3)
(chapter 7)
(chapter 6)

Reach 3 Subwatershed 3
Reach 2 Subwatershed 2
Reach 1 Subwatershed 1
Water-surface profiles Hydraulic Field surveys Watershed inventory
(chapter 14) computations cross section-profiles (chapter 8)
Land use and Present Future
Alternate

treatment (acres) (acres)

Stage

Cultivated 50 50
Straight row 50 –
Discharge Terraced – 50

Cross section 3 Reach 3 Storm of 6/1/40

Cross section 2 Reach 2 Storm of 7/3/36 Hydrologic soil-cover
Cross section 1 Reach 1 Storm of 6/12/35 complexes
(chapter 14) (chapter 3) 3"
2.5" (chapter 9)
3.5" 2" Subwatershed Present Future
over 6'
4'-6' 1 86 83
2'-4' Total 2 81 77
0-2' 3 83 82
Stage

Stage

4" 4 79 74
Historical storms
Discharge Area flooded (chapter 4)

Reach 3
Reach 2
Stream flow data
Reach 1
for checking results Runoff above reach
(chapter 5) (chapter 10)
Storm event Present Future
6/12/35 3.2" 3.0"
7/3/36 0.8" 0.5"
With structures 8/1/40 1.6" 1.5"
Present 6/10/59 3.2" 3.0"
Flood routing (chapter 17) Alternate
Reach 1 3
2
Reach 3
Rate

Reach 2
Reach 1
Runoff frequency (chapter 10)
Time
Runoff depth

Unit hydrograph Subwatershed 3 Reach 3

Unit hydrograph Subwatershed 2 Reach 2
Reach 1 1.25 2 5 10 25 50 100
Unit hydrograph Subwatershed 1 Frequency-years
(chapter 16)
Present With structures Future-w/LU&T plus structures Reach 3
Peak discharge

Future-w/LU&T plus structures Reach 2

t

s
en

cture
Rate

es

stru Future-w/LU&T plus structures Reach 1

Pr

With
Future-with land use & treatment Reach 3
Time Runoff (depth) Future-with land use & treatment Reach 2
Future-with land use & treatment Reach 1
No project conditions Reach 3
No project conditions Reach 2
Subwatershed time
of concentration No project conditions Reach 1 Economic
(chapter 15) Present Reach 3 evaluation
Subwatershed Time of concentration (Tc) Present Reach 2
Present W/structure* Present Reach 1
(hr) (hr)
1 0.5 0.5 Physical effects of watershed
2 1.7 0.6 programs summarized
3 3.2 1.7 Storm Peak Area flooded
*For area not above structures series discharge 0'-1' 1'-2' 2'-3' etc
100 yr
50 yr
33 1/2 yr
25 yr

(210-vi-NEH, April 1999) 2–3

Chapter 2 Procedures Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Of the basic data needed in the evaluation, only the
historical rainfall and streamflow data are likely to be
unavailable; the rest are obtainable from field surveys.
Lacking rainfall and runoff data, the procedure goes as
shown in figure 2–2. The rainfall-frequency data shown
in the figure are from U.S. Weather Bureau, National
Weather Service, and NOAA publications (see part
630, chapter 4). Direct checks on runoff cannot be
made, but indirect checks can be made if nearby
watersheds are gaged (see table 5–2).
Some steps in the procedures of figures 2–1 and 2–2
are taken in an entirely different way in the methods
for regional analysis.
(b) Analysis methods
(1) Regional analysis method
This method estimates the magnitudes and frequencies
of peak discharges or runoff volumes for ungaged
watersheds by using relationships from nearby gaged
watersheds. Some of the hydraulic work, construction
of hydrographs, and flood routing are reduced or
eliminated from the evaluation, but not from the
design hydrology. The method in its simplest form is
as follows:
Step 1 Select nearby gaged watersheds that are
climatically and physically similar to the ungaged
watershed. These watersheds compose the region that
gives the method its name.
Step 2 Construct frequency lines (chapter 18) for
peak discharges or runoff volumes of the gaged water-
sheds.
Step 3 Plot peak discharges or runoff volumes for
selected frequencies (only the 2- and 100-year frequen-
cies if the frequency lines are straight) of each gaged
watershed against its drainage area size. Use log-log
paper for the plotting, and make straight-line relation-
ships for each frequency. A simple regression between
log (drainage area) and log (discharge or runoff vol-
ume) aids in estimating this best fit straight line
through the data.
Step 4 Construct the frequency line for the ungaged
watershed (or any of its subdivisions). To do this,
enter the plot with drainage area, find the magnitudes
at each line of relationship, plot the magnitudes at
their proper places on probability paper, and draw the
frequency line through the points.
Step 5 Apply the frequency lines of step 4 in the
procedure for present conditions. Discharges or vol-
umes for with-project conditions are obtained by use
of auxiliary relationships described in chapters 12 and
17
In practice the method is more complex, but generally
only in step 3. In this step variables in addition to
drainage area are related to the peaks or volumes. The
variables include one or more of the following, alone
or in combination, directly or by means of index
numbers:
• type of climate
• mean annual precipitation or rainfall or snowfall
• mean seasonal precipitation or rainfall or snow-
fall
• maximum or minimum average monthly rainfall
• storm pattern
• storm direction
• x-year frequency, y-hour duration rainfall
• mean number of days with rainfall greater than x
inches
• mean annual number of thunderstorm days
• mean annual or seasonal or monthly temperature
• maximum or minimum average monthly tem-
perature
• orographic effects
• aspect
• stream density
• stream pattern
• length of watershed
• length to center of gravity of watershed
• length of main channel
• average watershed width
• altitude
• watershed rise
• main channel slope
• land slope
• depth or top width of main channel near outlet
for x-year frequency discharge
• time of concentration
• lag
• time to peak
• percentage of area in lakes or ponds
• extent or depth of shallow soils
• extent of major cover

2–4 (210-vi-NEH, April 1999)

Chapter 2 Procedures Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Figure 2–2 General process hydrology of watershed project evaluation with streamflow or rainfall data not available

Subwatershed map
Base map Flood damage map Cross section location map
Hydrologic soil group map
Stream reach location map
Rea
ch 1 4
D
3
R ea c h 6 B
eac
h 2 5 C
R
(chapter 3)
(chapter 7)
(chapter 6)

Reach 3 Subwatershed 3
Reach 2 Subwatershed 2
Reach 1 Subwatershed 1
Water-surface profiles Hydraulic Field surveys Watershed inventory
(chapter 14) computations cross section-profiles (chapter 8)
Land use and Present Future
treatment (acres) (acres)
Stage

Cultivated 50 50
Straight row 50 –
Discharge Terraced – 50
Distance

Cross section 3 Reach 3

Cross section 2 Reach 2 Hydrologic soil-cover
Cross section 1 Reach 1 complexes
Rainfall from U.S. Weather Bureau TP-40 (chapter 9)
(chapter 14) (chapter 3)
over 6' Subwatershed Present Future
4'-6' 1 86 83
2'-4' Total 2 81 77
0-2' 3 83 82
Stage

Stage

4 79 74

Discharge Area flooded

Reach 3
Reach 2
Reach 1
Runoff above reach
(chapter 10)
Storm event Present Future
2 yr 1.2" 1.1
5 yr 1.9 1.7
With structures
10 yr 2.3 2
Present
Flood routing (chapter 17)
Reach 1 3
2
Reach 3
Rate

Reach 2
Reach 1
Runoff frequency (chapter 10)
Time
Runoff depth

Unit hydrograph Subwatershed 3 Reach 3

Unit hydrograph Subwatershed 2 Reach 2
Reach 1 1.25 2 5 10 25 50 100
Unit hydrograph Subwatershed 1 Frequency-years
(chapter 16)
Present With structures Future-w/LU&T plus structures Reach 3
Peak discharge

Future-w/LU&T plus structures Reach 2

es
t
en

ctur
Rate

Future-w/LU&T plus structures Reach 1

es

stru
Pr

With Future-with land use & treatment Reach 3

Time Runoff (depth) Future-with land use & treatment Reach 2
Future-with land use & treatment Reach 1
No project conditions Reach 3
No project conditions Reach 2
Subwatershed time
of concentration No project conditions Reach 1 Economic
(chapter 15) Present Reach 3 evaluation
Subwatershed Time of concentration (Tc) Present Reach 2
Present W/structure* Present Reach 1
(hr) (hr)
1 0.5 0.5 Physical effects of watershed
2 1.7 0.6 programs summarized
3 3.2 1.7 Storm Peak Area flooded
*For area not above structures series discharge 0'-1' 1'-2' 2'-3' etc
100 yr
50 yr
33 1/2 yr
25 yr

(210-vi-NEH, April 1999) 2–5

Chapter 2 Procedures Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

• hydrologic soil-cover complex

• geologic region 630.0203 Design
• infiltration rate
• mean base flow hydrology
• mean annual runoff
The storage and spillway capacities of floodwater
• watershed shape
retarding structures are determined as shown by the
flowchart in figure 2–3. Chapter 21 gives details of the
Combinations of these variables are used as single
various steps and provides the NRCS criteria of the
variables in the analysis, one such combination being
design hydrology. That chapter also contains design
the product of watershed length and length to center
hydrology in outline form for channel improvement,
of gravity divided by the square root of the main chan-
levees, and minor project or onfarm structures.
nel slope. Index numbers (chapter 18) are used for
variables, such as geologic region, not ordinarily
defined by numerical values.

Multiple regression methods (chapter 18) must be

used if more than one variable appears in the relation-
ship. The only adequate measure of the accuracy of
the relationship (therefore of the regional analysis) is
the standard error of estimate in arithmetic units.
Computation of the error is illustrated in chapter 18.

(2) USGS regional regression equations

Another source for determining relative effects of
watershed characteristics on discharge is United
States Geological Survey (USGS) regional regression
equations. The USGS has performed multiple regres-
sion analyses on gaged watersheds for each state.
They correlated such watershed characteristics as
drainage area, climatic region, watershed slope, water-
shed storage, and others to peak discharge. The re-
gression equations can be useful for transferring data
from gaged watersheds to the watershed of interest.

2–6 (210-vi-NEH, April 1999)

Chapter 2 Procedures Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Figure 2–3 Design hydrology for storage and spillways in floodwater retarding structures
Class (c)
Class (b)
Min. 24 hr. precip. for Class (a)
freeboard hydrograph
Structure 3-Class (b) Class (c)
Structure 3
Structure 2-Class (b) Class (b)
Structure 2
Structure 1-Class (c) Min. 24 hr. precip. for Class (a)
Structure 1 Time of concentration (TC) auxiliary spillway hydrograph
(chapter 15) Precipitation
Drainage area map
Rainfall-inches (chapter 21)
Structure TC (hr) Auxiliary Freeboard ES-1020
spillway hydrograph 1021
1 9.2 hydrograph 1022
2 4.6 1023
24 hr. point 10 24
3 3.5 Adjust. t/area 9.5 22.6
Adjust. t/duration 10.5 25.1

Structure 3 Structure 3
Rainfall from U.S. Weather Bureau TP-40 &
Structure 2 Structure 2 Hydrologic soil cover NOAA Atlas #2
Structure 1 Structure 1
complex numbers
Hydrologic soil (chapter 9)
groups (chapter 7) Watershed inventory
(chapter 8) Above structure Present Future
C Land use and Present Future
treatment (acres) (acres) 1 75 70
Hydrologic soil group D: 2 65 65
D Positive (fair) 64 102 3 80 80
Cultivated (St. R.) 36 18
Hydrologic soil group C:
Cultivitated (ST. R.) 46 46

Structure 3
Structure 3
Structure 2 Runoff above structure
(chapter 10) Structure 2
Design hydrographs Structure 1 Auxiliary
(chapter 21) Str. no. Class. spillway Freeboard
hydrograph
Floodwater storage Structure 1
Freeboard hydrograph hydrograph
(inches) (inches)
Rainfall Runoff
1 (c) 6.7 20.7
Accumulated vol.
Discharge

Auxiliary spillway
hydrograph 2 (b) 5.3 9.8 Storage
3 (b) 4.7 9.5

Principal spillway release

Time
Time

Sediment storage
Structure 3 Structure 3 Field surveys (SCS-TR 12)
Structure 2 Structure 2 reservoir
Structure 1 Storage capacity Structure 1 sites 1, 2, 3, . . . Water supply
Principal spillway (NEH-5)
Structure 3 storage
Structure 2 (SCS-TR 19)
Stage

Stage

Structure 1
Storage requirement
(chapter 21 & SCS-TR 19)
Discharge Storage Acre fast
Sediment 530
Water supply 2,300
Floodwater 3,100

Structure 3 Structure 3 Structure 3

Structure 2 Structure 2 Structure 2
Auxiliary spillway Structure 1 Reservoir routing Structure 1 Auxiliary spillway Structure 1
selection (chapter 17 & SCS TR 2)
Trial spillway 3 Trial spillwlay 3
2 Auxiliary spillway
inflow hydrograph
Critical velocity

1 2
Discharge

Outflow trial
Stage

spillway Design vel.

2 3 1

Discharge Time Width

Structure 3 Structure 3
Structure 2 Structure 2
Auxiliary spillway Structure 1 Reservoir routing Structure 1

Freeboard hydrograph
ay
spillw Outflow Structural design
cted
Discharge

Sele
Stage

Discharge Time

(210-vi-NEH, April 1999) 2–7

Chapter 2 Procedures Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

2–8 (210-vi-NEH, April 1999)

 Part 630 Hydrology
United States Department of Agriculture National Engineering Handbook
Natural Resources Conservation Service

Chapter 3 Preliminary Investigations

Rain clouds
Cloud formation

Precipitation

n
iratio
Evaporation
n

ean
tio

Transp
oil
ta

from oc
ge

s
ve

from
m

n
fro

tio

ms
n

ira
tio

a
sp

tre
ra
po

an

ms
va

Tr

Surfa E
fro

ce ru
noff

Infiltration

Soil
Percolation

Rock Ocean
Ground water
Deep percolation

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 39, November 2010)

Chapter 3 Preliminary Investigations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Issued November 2010

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all

its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, age,
disability, and where applicable, sex, marital status, familial status, parental
status, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, political beliefs,
reprisal, or because all or a part of an individual’s income is derived from
any public assistance program. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all pro-
grams.) Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for commu-
nication of program information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should
contact USDA’s TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TDD). To file a
complaint of discrimination, write to USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights,
1400 Independence Avenue, SW., Washington, DC 20250–9410, or call (800)
795-3272 (voice) or (202) 720-6382 (TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity
provider and employer.

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 39, November 2010)

Acknowledgments

Chapter 3, Preliminary Investigations, was originally prepared by R.G.

Andrews (retired), U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Soil Conserva-
tion Service (SCS), now Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), in
1964 and was reprinted with minor revisions in 1969. In 1999, chapter 3 was
updated under the guidance of Donald E. Woodward (retired), NRCS.

This version was reviewed by Dan Moore, hydraulic engineer, NRCS, Port-
land, Oregon; Karl Visser, hydraulic engineer, NRCS, Fort Worth, Texas;
and Claudia C. Hoeft, national hydraulic engineer, NRCS, Washington,
DC. The Technical Publications Work Group, NRCS, Fort Worth, Texas,
edited and formatted the final document.

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 39, November 2010) 3–i

Chapter 3 Preliminary Investigations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

3–ii (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 39, November 2010)

Chapter 3 Preliminary Investigations

Contents 630.0300 Introduction 3–1

630.0301 Making the preliminary investigation 3–1

(a) Examination of available reports and data................................................... 3–1
(b) Reconnaissance................................................................................................ 3–1
(c) Evaluation......................................................................................................... 3–2

600.0302 Summary 3–5

630.0303 Report 3–7

Figures Figure 3–1 Estimating the minimum amount of area necessary to 3–2
control by floodwater retarding structures

Figure 3–2 Estimating average annual cost of a system of floodwater 3–3

retarding structures

Figure 3–3 Estimating total cost of a system of floodwater retarding 3–3

structures

Figure 3–4 Estimating amount of flood plain area in a watershed 3–3

Figure 3–5 Estimating average annual direct damage 3–3

Figure 3–6 Estimating percent average annual flood damages 3–4

Figure 3–7 Estimating reduction in average annual flood damages 3–4

Example Example 3–1 Preliminary investigation process 3–5

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 39, November 2010) 3–iii

Chapter 3 Preliminary Investigations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

3–iv (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 39, November 2010)

Chapter 3 Preliminary Investigations
630.0300 Introduction
A preliminary investigation (PI) is a brief study of a
potential project to estimate whether a detailed inves-
tigation is justified. For a watershed protection and
flood prevention project, the PI is mainly concerned
with flood problems and their solutions. A planning
team makes a PI by examining available reports and
data for a watershed, making a field reconnaissance,
briefly evaluating their findings, and writing a concise
report. U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natu-
ral Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) policy
assigns the responsibility for selecting the degree of
intensity of a PI to the State Conservationist. Once this
degree is selected, the planning team modifies its pro-
cedures accordingly and makes the study. The hydrau-
lic engineer can make a valuable contribution to the
study by supplying appropriate reports and data, using
suitable techniques on the problems, and developing
new techniques as the need arises.
(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 39, November 2010)
630.0301 Making the
preliminary investigation
During a PI, the hydraulic engineer may be required to
work in fields other than hydrology. Because of this,
chapter 3 covers the general concepts of a PI without
undue emphasis on the hydrologic analysis.
(a) Examination of available reports and
data
Any earlier reports made for the area in which the wa-
tershed is located should be examined. Such reports
may include material useful in evaluating a potential
project or in preparing the PI report. U.S. Department
of Interior’s Bureau of Reclamation, U.S. Army Corps
of Engineers, USDA Agricultural Research Service,
USDA Forest Service, and State engineer reports may
give applicable information or data. U.S. National
Weather Service, U.S. Geological Survey (USGS),
NRCS National Water and Climate Center, and State
university publications may provide appropriate data
on rainfall and runoff. NRCS soil survey reports pro-
vide soils and generalized cover information. The local
NRCS conservationist can readily evaluate a wide
range of information regarding a specific watershed in
the area.
(b) Reconnaissance
A field reconnaissance gives the watershed staff an
opportunity to become familiar with the physical char-
acteristics of the watershed. This familiarity is neces-
sary to avoid making gross mistakes in evaluating the
available information or in writing the report. Before
conducting reconnaissance, the staff obtains aerial
photographs and other available maps of the water-
shed. Sources of detailed maps include those prepared
by the NRCS National Cartography and Geospatial
Center, NRCS soil survey maps, and USGS topographic
or other similar maps.
In addition to their use as direction finders, the pho-
tographs or maps are used in the field for recording
possible sites of project measures, designating areas of
major floodwater or sediment damages, and indicating
areas requiring intensive study in a detailed investiga-
tion.
Chapter 3
During the reconnaissance, the hydraulic engineer
obtains estimates of Manning’s n (NEH 630.14), natu-
ral storage areas (lakes, large wetlands), and hydro-
logic soil cover complexes (NEH 630.07, 630.08, and
630.09) if such estimates are needed in the evaluation
or report.
(c) Evaluation
The PI report is concerned with a potential project
and its economic justification. Magnitudes of rains or
floods and similar data are introductory material of
minor interest, but the quantities of measures, dam-
ages, benefits, and costs are of major interest. The
required quantities can generally be estimated by use
of relations developed from workplans or other stud-
ies already completed for the physiographic region in
which the watershed lies.
Some typical relations are shown in figures 3–1
through 3–7. Relations of this kind are used because
the PI evaluation must be made in a relatively short
time. Figures 3–1 through 3–7 are not for general appli-
cation to all watersheds because they were developed
for particular areas and are valid only for those areas.
Figure 3–1 Estimating the minimum amount of area
necessary to control by floodwater retarding
structures
300
200
Minimum area controlled in mi2
100
50
40
30
20
10
5
10 20 30 40 50
Watershed area in mi2
3–2
Preliminary Investigations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook
The figures illustrate principles that can be applied in
developing relations for other areas. All such relations
are empirical, which means that the lines of relation
should not be extended very far beyond the range of
data used in their construction. An example of the use
of some of the relations is given later in this chapter.
Figure 3–1 shows a relation developed from data in
workplans for projects containing floodwater retard-
ing structures, but few channel improvements. The
line of relation shows the minimum amount of water-
shed area that must be controlled by the structures for
a project to be economically justified. For other areas,
the line of relation may be curved or have a different
slope.
Figure 3–2 shows the average annual cost of a sys-
tem of floodwater retarding structures in relation to
watershed area and percent of control for projects
having few channel improvements. In this and other
figures that show costs, the costs are valid only for the
economic period for which they were originally appli-
cable. An adjustment must be made for later periods.
Figure 3–3 shows the cost relation for total cost of in-
dividual structures. The cost is related to the drainage
area above a structure and to the land resource area in
which it lies.
Figure 3–4 shows the amount of flood plain area in a
watershed in relation to the product of total watershed
area and average annual rainfall. Such a relation is
most effective for regions where the annual rainfall
does not vary abruptly over the region.
Figure 3–5 shows the average annual direct damage
for present conditions in relation to flood plain area
size and percent of cultivation. This figure was de-
veloped by means of a multiple regression analysis
(NEH 630.18). Similar relations for other areas may be
developed either by such an analysis or by a graphical
method in which the data are plotted on log paper and
a family of curves or straight lines is fitted by eye.
Parameters other than percent cultivated may also
be suitable. In relations using damages in dollars, the
damage estimates are valid only for the economic
period in which they were originally applicable. An
adjustment must be made for later periods.
100 200 300 400
(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 39, November 2010)
 Chapter 3 Preliminary Investigations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Figure 3–2 Estimating average annual cost of a system Figure 3–4 Estimating amount of flood plain area in a
of floodwater retarding structures watershed

200 100

50
100 80

Flood plain area in hundreds of acres

40
70
30

es 60
Average annual cost of watershed floodwater

r 20
50 tu
retarding storage in thousands of dollars

c 50
r s tru
40 lo e
t ro bov 40
on a 10
30
n t c area
e 30
rc ed
Pe rsh
20 e
at
tw 20 5
cen 4
per
3
10
10 2

5 1
4 1 2 3 4 5 10 20 30 40 50
Drainage area × average annual rainfall
3 (mi2 × in depth)

1 Figure 3–5 Estimating average annual direct damage

20 30 40 50 100 200 300 400
Watershed area in mi2
300
Average annual direct damage in thousands of dollars

Percent cultivated
200
70%
60%
Figure 3–3 Estimating total cost of a system of floodwa- 100 50%
ter retarding structures 40%
30%
30
structure in thousands of dollars

50
area above floodwater retarding

20%
40
Total cost per mi2 drainage

10%
25 30
Land resource area
20 20

15 1
2 10
3
10 4

5 5
4
0 3
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Drainage area above floodwater retarding 2
structure in mi2 .2 .3 .4 .5 1 2 3 4 5 10 20
Flood plain area in thousands of acres

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 39, November 2010) 3–3

Chapter 3 Preliminary Investigations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Figure 3–6 shows another damage relation for pres- Figure 3–6 Estimating percent average annual flood
ent conditions. This relation applies within a region damages
for which flood frequency lines of the watersheds will 10
have about the same slope when plotted on lognormal
probability paper. For other regions, the line of rela-
tion may have a different curvature. Figure 3–6 is used 5

(ratio)
4
with a historical flood for which the frequency and
3
total damage are known. For example, if a watershed
in this region has had a flood with a 10-year frequency, 2

Average annual damage present

damage for single flood evemt
then the curve gives a multiplier of 0.41. If the total
damage for that flood was $80,000, then the estimated 1
average annual damage for the watershed is $32,800
(0.41 × $80,000).
0.5
0.4
Figure 3–7 shows the average annual damage reduc- 0.3
tion resulting from use of a system of floodwater
retarding structures in relation to the percent of the 0.2
watershed controlled by the system. Lines of relation
for different land resource areas in a particular region 0.1
are given. The reason for the variations by area is not
specified in the original source of the figure, but it may
.05
be a result of one or more influences such as topogra- 1 2 3 4 5 10 20 30 40 50 100
phy, soils, rainfall, or type of economy. Flood frequency in years

Figure 3–7 Estimating reduction in average annual flood

damages

300
Percent reduction in average annual damage

1
80
Land 2
resource
area 3
4
60

40

20

0
0 20 40 60 80
Percent of watershed area above
floodwater retarding structures

3–4 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 39, November 2010)

Chapter 3 Preliminary Investigations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

and underestimate benefits. If this is done, these types

600.0302 Summary
The chief requirement for relations is that they be con-
servatively developed. The lines of relation should be
drawn in such a way that the estimates are conserva-
tive; that is, the lines should tend to overestimate costs
of relations will be valuable working tools not only
for PIs, but also for river basin studies. Example 3–1
illustrates the relations used to determine the benefit-
to-cost ratio of a potential system of floodwater retard-
ing structures.

Example 3–1 Preliminary investigation process

Assume: Figures 3–1, 3–2, 3–4, 3–5, and 3–7 apply to the land resource area in which the problem
watershed lies.

Determine: The benefit-to-cost ratio of a potential system of floodwater retarding structures so that a
statement can be made in the preliminary report whether further investigation of the project
is worthwhile. The required data are as follows:
• The watershed is in land-resource area 4.
• The drainage area is 150 square miles.
• The average annual rainfall 24 inches.
• The flood plain is 60 percent cultivated.

Solution: (All numerical estimates will be carried with as many digits as can be read from the figures,
and the rounding will be in the last step.)

Step 1 Estimate the minimum area that must be controlled to have an economically justi-
fied project. Enter figure 3–1 with the drainage area of 150 square miles and read an
area controlled of 80 square miles. In practice, the reconnaissance may show that
more control can be obtained; if so, use the higher degree of control in the remain-
ing steps.

Step 2 Compute the percent controlled:

 80 
100   = 53%
 50 

Step 3 Estimate the average annual cost of the system. Enter figure 3–2 with the drainage
area of 150 square miles and for 53 percent control; read by interpolation an average
annual cost of $36,000.

Step 4 Estimate the amount of flood plain area. First, compute the product of drainage area
and average annual rainfall:
150 ( 24 ) = 3, 600

Next, enter figure 3–4 with this product and read a flood plain area of 5,200 acres.

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 39, November 2010) 3–5

Chapter 3 Preliminary Investigations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Example 3–1 Preliminary investigation process—Continued

Step 5 Estimate the average annual direct damages. Enter figure 3–5 with the flood plain
area of 5,200 acres. At the line for 60 percent cultivated, read damages of $75,000.

Step 6 Estimate the reduction in average annual direct damages. Enter figure 3–7 with the
percent controlled from step 2. At the line for land resource area 4, read a reduction
of 73 percent.

Step 7 Compute the estimated benefits. Use the average annual direct damages in step 5 and
the percent reduction in step 6:
 73 
 100  ($75, 000 ) = $54, 750

Step 8 Compute the estimated benefit-to-cost ratio. Use the benefit in step 7 and the cost in
step 3. The ratio is:

 $54, 750 
 36, 000  = 1.52

Round to 1.5, which is the required estimate for this example.

Conclusion: In this example, the benefit-to-cost ratio is favorable, and a recommendation can be made
in the PI report that further investigation is justified. If the ratio happens to turn out slightly
unfavorable, it may still be desirable to recommend further investigation. The shortcut proce-
dure is conservative, and a detailed investigation may show that the project is economically
feasible. If the ratio is very unfavorable, however, it is not likely that a detailed investigation
can improve it. An alternative project measure needs to be considered instead.

3–6 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 39, November 2010)

Chapter 3 Preliminary Investigations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

630.0303 Report
The general format of a PI report will not be given
here because each State establishes its own pattern.
Generally, the hydrology in the report is merely de-
scriptive. However, if hydrographs of present and
future (with project) flows must be in the report, the
hydrologist can find shortcut methods of estimating
runoff amounts in chapter 10 and of constructing hy-
drographs in NEH 630.16 and 630.17.

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 39, November 2010) 3–7

United
ChapterStates
4
Department of Part 630 Hydrology Part
Storm Rainfall Depth 630
Hydrologic Engineering
Agriculture

Natural
National Engineering Handbook
Resources
Conservation
Service

Chapter 4 Storm Rainfall Depth

Rain clouds
Cloud formation

Precipitation

n
iratio
Evaporation
n

ean
tio

Transp
soil
ta

from oc
ge
ve

fr o m
m

n
fr o

ti o

s
am
n

ir a
ti o

tr e
sp
ra
po

an

ms
va

Tr

Surfa E
fr o

ce ru
noff

Infiltration

Soil
Percolation

Rock Ocean
Ground water
Deep percolation

(210-NEH, 3/93) 4–1

Chapter 4 Storm Rainfall Depth Part 630
Hydrologic Engineering

Issued March 1993

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimina-

tion in its programs on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion,
age, disability, political beliefs, and marital or familial status. (Not all pro-
hibited bases apply to all programs.) Persons with disabilities who require
alternative means for communication of program information (Braille, large
print, audiotape, etc.) should contact USDA’s TARGET Center at (202) 720-
2600 (voice and TDD).

To file a complaint, write the Secretary of Agriculture, U.S. Department of

Agriculture, Washington, DC 20250, or call 1-800-245-6340 (voice) or (202)
720-1127 (TDD). USDA is an equal employment opportunity employer.

4–2 (210-NEH, 3/93)

Chapter 4 Storm Rainfall Depth Part 630
Chapter 4 Storm Rainfall Depth Hydrologic Engineering

Contents: 630.0400 Introduction 4–1

630.0401 Sources of data 4–1

(a) Published data ............................................................................................... 4–1
(b) Unpublished data .......................................................................................... 4–2
(c) Data quality .................................................................................................... 4–2

630.0402 Data analysis 4–3

(a) Published rainfall-data analyses ................................................................. 4–3
(b) Use of published analyses ............................................................................ 4–4

630.0403 Watershed rainfall 4–4

(a) Methods of estimating average depths ....................................................... 4–4
(b) Accuracy ........................................................................................................ 4–6
(c) Orographic influences .................................................................................. 4–8

630.0404 References 4–9

630.0405 Appendix 4–11

Tables Table 4–1 Watershed rainfall depth by the Thiessen method 4–5

Table 4–2 Computations for percentages of points outside of error lines4–7

(210-NEH, 3/93) 7–i

4–i
4–3
Chapter 4 Storm Rainfall Depth
Chapter 4 Storm Rainfall Depth
630.0400 Introduction
Chapter 4 gives a brief account of the sources, variabil-
ity, and preparation of storm rainfall data used for
estimating storm runoff (chapter 10) and for designing
floodwater-retarding structures (chapter 21). The
chapter also applies to monthly and annual rainfall.
Probable maximum precipitation is discussed in
chapter 21, and Technical Release No. 60, Earth Dams
and Reservoirs (USDA 1985). A discussion of rainfall
generators, rainfall distributions, and computer mod-
els is outside the scope of this chapter.
(210-NEH, 3/93)
Part 630
Hydrologic Engineering
630.0401 Sources of data
The storm rainfall data used in this handbook are the
amounts measured at rain gauges and published by the
National Weather Service (NWS), and statistical analy-
ses carried out by the NWS. The choice of data is due
to their availability on a national basis.
A comprehensive account and bibliography of rain
gauge designs, installations, and measurement re-
search is given by Kurtyka (1953). Gauges used in the
NWS network are described by the National Oceanic
and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) (USDC
1989) and Brakensiek, et al. (1979).
(a) Published data
Daily amounts of rainfall measured at gauges in the
official networks operated by the NWS are processed
and published by the National Climatic Data Center
(Asheville, NC) in monthly issues of “Climatological
Data” for each state.
The times of daily measurement vary, as indicated in
the publications. More detailed observations of storm
totals and durations are available from the Hourly
Precipitation Data, also published by the National
Climatic Data Center for each state. Other Federal and
State agencies, and universities, publish rainfall data at
irregular intervals, often in a special storm report or a
research paper.
The SCS Climate Data Access Facility (CDAF), ob-
tains, evaluates, manages and disseminates the cli-
matic data to support agency programs and activities
nationwide. The data are provided through agency-
wide climatic data management and analysis service
through the Climatic Data Access Network (CDAN).
CDAN consists of Climatic Data Liaisons (CDL) estab-
lished in each state, National Technical Centers, and in
National Headquarters.
Climatic data, such as precipitation, evaporation, and
temperature, are available for the continental United
States and the Pacific and Caribbean Islands. Annual,
monthly, and daily data are available in a variety of
formats.
4–1
Chapter 4 Storm Rainfall Depth Part 630
Hydrologic Engineering

Hourly, and 15-minute time series, along with other
climatic variables, are supported off-line by CDAF.
Requests for these special data types should be made
to CDAF through the appropriate CDL at the state
office or NTC.
Climatic data are also available from state climatolo-
gists, who coordinate the observations made by
weather observers throughout the States before they
are sent to the National Climatic Data Center.
(b) Unpublished data
Various Federal and State agencies sometimes make
field surveys after an unusually large storm to collect
"bucket-survey" data, which are measurements of
rainfall caught in narrow-bore tubes, buckets, watering
troughs, bottles, and similar containers. Ordinarily,
these data are used to give more detail to rainfall maps
based on standard-gauge data. The bucket gauge data
should be carefully evaluated. Data from bucket sur-
veys are generally not published, but are available in
the offices of the gathering agency.
Narrow-bore tubes used by many farmers and ranch-
ers have given results almost equal to those from
standard gauges. Tube gauges must be properly ex-
posed and serviced to obtain such results. Many farm-
ers and ranchers keep a daily or storm record of
catches.
alter only the average value, leaving the frequency
distribution unaltered.
Random errors occur from time to time because of a
variety of unrelated causes. In general, they partly or
wholly cancel out, so that correction is seldom
needed.
Mistakes are widely discrepant readings that cannot
be reconciled with readings from other locations. They
are often caused by misreading the scale, misprints in
writing, or data entry errors. Mistakes generally are
easy to recognize and can often be corrected. If the
mistake cannot be resolved, it must be rejected before
observations can be treated statistically or in model
execution.
Presently, no sanctioned procedure is available for
eliminating errors from an archived data set. In gen-
eral, known errors are corrected by the user and may
not be incorporated in the official data set.
Reasons for missing data can be traced to a number of
factors, including observer vacation, broken equip-
ment, or lost records. Standard meteorologic text-
books describe how to handle missing data. CDAF is
developing procedures for treating missing data,
mistakes, and errors in the data. CDAF data sets can
be used in model execution or treated statistically.

Newspaper offices, banks, and municipal offices,

including water-treatment plants, collect measure-
ments at their own gauges and keep daily records.

(c) Data quality

Every observation is subject to certain errors, which
may be classified as systematic errors, random errors,
or mistakes.

Systematic errors may be because of defects in the

instruments, in its exposure, or in the observational
procedure. A gradual change in the surroundings of a
station may be a source of systematic error. System-
atic errors are best handled by correction before the
data are used in statistical analysis. Systematic errors
that are constant throughout the range of observations

4–2 (210-NEH, 3/93)

Chapter 4 Storm Rainfall Depth
(2) Documents covering durations from 2 to
630.0402 Data analysis
The Special Studies Branch and the Hydrometeoro-
logical Branch of the NWS have a number of reports
that summarize many years of weather observations
over the country. The NWS personnel use refined
statistical and error analyses to make these publica-
tions as reliable as possible.
(a) Published rainfall-data
analyses
In many kinds of hydrologic work, it is unnecessary to
use actual rainfall data because published analyses of
data provide the required information in more usable
form. The following published rainfall-data analyses
were made by the NWS in cooperation with SCS:
(1) Documents covering durations to 1 day
and storm return periods up to 100 years
• "Rainfall Frequency Atlas of the United States,"
United States Weather Bureau, Technical Paper
No. 40; 115p, 1961. This reference is to be used
for States east of the Rockies, except for dura-
tions of 60 minutes or less.
• "Five to 60-Minute Precipitation Frequency for
the Eastern and Central United States," NOAA
Technical Memorandum NWS HYDRO-35, 36p,
1977.
• "Generalized Estimates of Probable Maximum
Precipitation and Rainfall-Frequency Data for
Puerto Rico and Virgin Islands," United States
Weather Bureau, Technical Paper No. 42, 94p,
1961.
• "Rainfall-Frequency Atlas of the Hawaiian
Islands," United States Weather Bureau, Tech-
nical Paper No. 43, 60p, 1962.
• "Probable Maximum Precipitation and Rainfall-
Frequency Data for Alaska," United States
Weath-er Bureau, Technical Paper No. 47, 69p,
1963.
• National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administra-
tion Atlas 2. Precipitation Atlas of the Western
United States, 1973:
Vol. l, Montana Vol. VII, Nevada
Vol. II, Wyoming Vol. VIII, Arizona
Vol. III, Colorado Vol. IX, Washington
Vol. IV, New Mexico Vol. X, Oregon
Vol. V, Idaho Vol. XI, California
Vol. VI, Utah
(210-NEH, 3/93)
Part 630
Hydrologic Engineering
10 days and storm return periods to 100
years
• Two- to Ten-Day Precipitation for Return
Periods of 2 to 100 years in the Contiguous
United States, United States Weather Bureau,
Technical Paper No. 49, 29p, 1964. Includes the
48 contiguous states. (Use SCS West National
Technical Center Technical Note-Hydrology-
PO-6, Revised 1973, for States covered by
NOAA Atlas 2).
• Two- to Ten-Day Rainfall for Return Periods of
2 to 100 years in the Hawaiian Islands, United
States Weather Bureau, Technical Paper No.
51, 34p, 1965.
• Two- to Ten-Day Rainfall for Return Periods of
2 to 100 years in Alaska, United States Weather
Bureau, Technical Paper No. 52, 30p, 1965.
• Two- to Ten-Day Rainfall for Return Periods of
2 to 100 years in Puerto Rico and the Virgin
Islands, United States Weather Bureau, Techni-
cal Paper no. 53, 35p, 1965. Documents from
NWS and NOAA covering probable maximum
precipitation data.
• Probable Maximum Precipitation in California,
Interim Report, United States Weather Bureau
Hydrometeorological Report No. 36, 202p, 196l.
• Probable Maximum Precipitation in the Hawai-
ian Islands, United States Weather Bureau
Hydrometeorological Report No. 39, 98p, 1963.
• Probable Maximum Precipitation, Northwest
States, United States Weather Bureau Hydrom-
eteorological Report No. 43, 228p, 1966.
• Probable Maximum Precipitation Estimates,
Colorado River and Great Basin Drainages,
NOAA Hydrometeorological Report No. 49,
161p, 1977.
• Probable Maximum Precipitation Estimates,
United States East of the 105th Meridian,
NOAA Hydrometeorology Report No. 51, 87p,
1978.
• Application of Probable Maximum Precipita-
tion Estimates - United States East of the 105th
Meridian, NOAA Hydrometeorology Report No.
52, 168p, 1982.
• Probable Maximum Precipitation and Snow-
melt Criteria for Southeast Alaska, NOAA
Hydrometeorological Report No. 54, 115p,
1983.
4–3
Chapter 4 Storm Rainfall Depth
• Probable Maximum Precipitation Estimates -
United States Between the Continental Divide
and the 103rd Meridian, NOAA Hydrometeoro-
logical Report No. 55, 245p, 1984.
These publications, except for the NOAA Atlas 2, are
available from the National Technical Information
Service in Springfield, Virginia. The NOAA Atlas 2
Precipitation Atlases are available from the NWS in
Silver Spring, Maryland.
(b) Use of published analyses
Methods of using the rainfall information in the NWS
technical papers are given in the papers themselves,
and additional examples will be in chapter 21. Figures
4–4 and 4–6 (see appendix) do not apply to rainfall
information from these papers. A discussion of the
errors involved in use of the depth-duration-frequency
maps of those papers are on pages 4 and 5 of NWS
Technical Paper 40, where the following statement is
made:
Evaluation.—In general, the standard error of
estimate ranges from a minimum of about 10%
wherea point value can be used directly as taken
from a flat region of one of the 2-year maps, to
50% where a 100-year value of short-duration
rainfall must be estimated for an appreciable
area in a more rugged region.
4–4 (210-NEH, 3/93)
Part 630
Hydrologic Engineering
630.0403 Watershed rain-
fall
In watershed work, it is often necessary to know the
average depth of storm rainfall over an area. The
average depth can be determined in various ways,
depending on the kind of data being used. If the rain-
fall amount is taken from one of the NWS technical
papers, it is for a specific point and the point-area
relationship given in the paper is used to estimate the
average depth over the area. Examples in the papers
illustrate the procedure. It is difficult to obtain an
average depth from data of several rain gauges be-
cause the results are influenced by the number and
locations of gauges and the storm variability. Methods
of using such data are given in this section.
(a) Methods of estimating average
depths
(1) Use of one gauge
How well the rainfall measured at a single gauge
represents the average depth over an area depends on
• distance from the gauge to the center of the
area,
• size of the area,
• kind of rainfall amounts being used, and
• orographics (topography) of the locality.
The effects of the first three influences are illustrated
in figure 4–1 (see appendix). The fourth is described
later in this section under the heading (c) Orographic
influences.
The effect of distance is shown in figures 4–1a and
4–1b. In 4–1a, a single gauge is located near the center
of a 0.75-square-mile watershed. Storm rainfall catches
at the gauge are seen to be quite close to those of the
watershed averages, which were determined using a
dense network of gauges. However, in 4–1b, where the
gauge is located 4 miles from the watershed boundary,
the storm rainfall catches at the gauge often differ
significantly (in the statistical sense) from the water-
shed averages. A similar effect is found when the area
of application is increased, as shown in figure 4–1c,
where the gauge is near the boundary of a 5.4-square-
mile watershed.
Chapter 4 Storm Rainfall Depth
The correspondence between gauge catches and area
averages is close where the rainfall amounts being
used are sums of catches, such as monthly or annual
rainfalls, because the errors for single storms tend to
offset each other. The gauge and watershed used for
figure 4–1c are also used in figure 4–1d where annual
rainfalls are plotted. The differences between gauge
and watershed amounts are relatively smaller than
those for the storm comparison of figure 4–1c.
Thecorrespondence between gauge and area amounts
are also close if the storm rainfalls are used with the
methods shown in chapter 18 to construct frequency
lines for gauge and area. The correspondence occur-
ring then is for amounts having the same frequency.
The examples were developed from data taken from a
nonmountainous region, where orographic influences
are not significant; otherwise, the results might be very
different. The examples show that the use of a single
gauge leads to errors in areal estimates and to the
question of how much error is permissible. Accuracy
of rainfall estimates is discussed in section
630.0403(b).
(2) Isohyetal method
The spacing of gauges in an areal network is seldom
sufficiently uniform to permit use of the numerical
average of the gauge catches as the area average.
Isohyetal maps are often used, with networks of any
configuration, to get area averages or for studies of
rainfall distributions. An isohyet is a line connecting
points of equal rainfall depth. The map is made by
drawing the lines in the same manner that contour
lines are drawn on topographic maps, using the gauge
locations as data points.
Figure 4–2 in the appendix illustrates construction and
application of the isohyetal method to a research
watershed in Nebraska. The watershed average depth
can be obtained as follows:
If the isohyetal pattern is fairly even across the water-
shed as in figure 4–2c, a point at the center of the area
gives the average depth. The estimate made using
point A in figure 4–2c is 1.59 inches.
If the isohyetal pattern is not even, divide the water-
shed into parts for which the pattern is sufficiently
uniform, make an estimate for each part, and get the
watershed average by weighting or averaging the
amounts for the parts.
(210-NEH, 3/93)
Part 630
Hydrologic Engineering
A denser network may give a more complicated iso-
hyetal map (fig. 4–2d) where the total network on this
research watershed is used to depict the storm. There
is an important change in depth on parts of the water-
shed, but the watershed average is 1.61 inches, which
is not a significant improvement in accuracy over the
estimate in figure 4–2c. A particular network may
therefore be excessively close for one kind of estimate
at the same time that it is too open for another kind.
The relative error of an area average obtained through
use of a network can be estimated as shown in section
630.0403(b).
(3) Thiessen method
Another method of using a rain gauge network for
estimating watershed average depths that is especially
suitable for electronic computation is the Thiessen
method (fig. 4–3 in appendix). In this method, the
watershed area is divided into subareas using rain
gauges as hubs of polygons. The subareas are used to
determine ratios that are multiplied by the subarea
rainfall and summed to get the watershed average
depth. The ratios are the percentages of area in the
basin represented by each rain gauge. Construction of
the polygonic diagram is illustrated in figures 4–3a and
4–3b.
The Thiessen weights are the ratio of the gauge’s
polygon area divided by the area of the entire water-
shed, as indicated in figure 4–3c. Watershed average
depths are computed as shown in table 4–1, in which
the storm of figure 4–2a is used. If a gauge is added or
removed from the network, a new diagram must be
drawn and new weights computed. Figure 4–3d shows
the Thiessen method for a denser rain gauge network.
Table 4–1 Watershed rainfall depth by the Thiessen
method
Rain gauge Measured Thiessen Weighted
rainfall rainfall weight
(inches) (inches)
A 1.40 0.407 0.570
B 1.54 0.156 0.240
C 1.94 0.437 0.848
Sum - 1.658*
* Watershed weighted rainfall depth is 1.658 inches, which is
rounded off to 1.66 inches.
4–5
Chapter 4 Storm Rainfall Depth
The Thiessen method is not used to estimate rainfall
depths of mountainous watersheds since elevation is
also a strong factor influencing the areal distribution
(see section 630.0403(c), Orographic influences).
(4) Other methods
Other methods for estimating areal average rainfall
from a system of point rain gauge measurements
include the reciprocal-distance-squared method (Wei
and McGuiness 1973; Singh and Chowdhury 1986) and
use of geostatistics (krieging) (McCuen and Snyder
1986; Bras and Rodriguez-Iturbe 1985).
(b) Accuracy
Accuracy of the resulting rainfall estimate depends
mainly on the distance between a gauge and the point
of application of the estimate, regardless of the
method used. In mountainous areas, the vertical
distance may be more important than the horizontal,
but for flat or rolling country, only the horizontal
distance matters. For a network, both distance and
arrangement of gauges affect the accuracy. Unless
special studies at a gauge site have been made, the
measurement errors are generally ignored.
Figure 4–4 (see appendix) can be used to estimate the
range of error likely to occur nine times out of ten if
the catch at a single gauge is used as a depth for a
location some distance away. It was developed from
information given by Huff and Neill (1957) for small
areas in Illinois. Equation 5 of this reference was
modified to give results on a 10 percent level of signifi-
cance. Horizontal distance is used, so the diagram
does not apply in mountainous areas or high desert
country. The following examples show how the dia-
gram can be used.
Example 4–1—The storm rainfall depth at a gauge is
3.5 inches. What rainfall depth is likely to have oc-
curred, with a probability of 0.9 (9 chances out of 10),
at a point 5 miles away from the gauge?
1. Enter figure 4–4 with the distance of 5 miles,
and at the intersection of the 3.5-inch line (by
interpolation), read a "plus error" of 2.1 inches.
4–6 (210-NEH, 3/93)
Part 630
Hydrologic Engineering
2. Compute a minus error as half of the plus error:
2. 1 = 1. 0 5
2
Round off to 1.1 inches.
3. Compute the range of rainfall likely to have
occurred nine chances out of ten. The limits
are 3.5 + 2.1 = 5.6 inches, and 3.5 - 1.1 = 2.4
inches. Therefore, where the gauge has a catch
of 3.5 inches, there is a probability of 0.9 (9
chances out of 10) that the rainfall depth at a
point 5 miles away from the gauge is between
5.6 and 2.4 inches.
In step 2 of example 4–1, the minus error is taken as
half the plus error. This is an approximation, but
example 4–2 and the discussion following show this
approximation generally applies.
In example 4–2, the graphs of figure 4–5 (see appen-
dix) show the variation to be expected when data at
one gauge are used to estimate the rainfall depth at a
distant point.
Example 4–2—Rain gauges B28R and G42R, on the
Agricultural Research Service watershed in Webster
County, Nebraska, are 4.3 miles apart. Given any storm
rainfall of 0 to 4 inches depth at G42R, compute the
range of error to be expected if the rainfall at B28R is
to be estimated from that at G42R. Use figure 4–4.
Compare the computed range with the plotting of
actual data for the two gauges.
1. Plot a line of equal values, which is the middle
line on figure 4–5a.
2. Select three values on the G42R depth scale.
These values will be used with figure 4–4. For
this example, the selected values are 1, 2, and 4
inches.
3. Enter figure 4–4 with the distance of 4.3 miles,
and at the intersections of the 1-, 2-, and 4-inch
rainfall lines read plus errors of 1.15, 1.50, and
2.15 inches, respectively. (The reading for the
1-inch rainfall line requires an extrapolation.)
4. Compute the minus errors. These are 0.58, 0.75,
and 1.08 inches.
Chapter 4 Storm Rainfall Depth Part 630
Hydrologic Engineering

5. Plot the plus-error and minus-error lines as
shown on figure 4–5a. The plotted points
shown are for actual measurements at the
gauges. Only three points of the gauged (less
than 10 percent) data fall outside the error
range, so the expected error for this pair of
gauges is somewhat less than that predicted by
figure 4–4.
One advantage in using figure 4–4 is that where a
rainfall estimate is to be made for some distant point,
the error lines can be drawn in advance to give an idea
of the value of the estimate. Note that the percentage
of error decreases as the rainfall amount increases.
Error lines have also been drawn on figure 4–5b, c,
and d, using the method of example 4–2, as a further
check on figure 4–4. In each of the plottings, a differ-
ent number of points falls outside the error lines, but
on the average only 10 percent should be outside. This
is confirmed by the computation shown in table 4–2.
Figure 4–6 in the appendix serves the same purpose
for an area that figure 4–4 serves for a point. It was
developed from work by McGuinness (1963) for a
range of rainfall amounts and geographic locations in
the Middle West. The user must exercise some judg-
ment before applying the information in this figure in
other locations.
In using figure 4–6, the number of gauges on the water-
shed must first be determined. The number is seldom
clearly evident, as the typical examples of figure 4–7 in
the appendix show.
difficult. With the case shown in figure 4–7d, where
the network QRST is completely outside the water-
shed (but still usable for construction of an isohyetal
map) any decision on the number of gauges "in" the
watershed would be arbitrary.
Therefore, figure 4–6 should be used without spending
much time on deciding how many gauges are appli-
cable. The examples that follow will illustrate what
can be done even with the extreme cases of figure 4–7.
Note that figure 4–6 gives an average error that is of
the same magnitude plus and minus, in this respect
differing from figure 4–4.
Example 4–3—Assuming that the watershed of figure
4–7a has a drainage area of 200 square miles and an
average annual rainfall of 35 inches, find the average
error of estimate when the watershed average depth is
4.5 inches.
Figure 4–6 is used first with a network of two, then of
three, gauges and the results are compared. The 2-
gauge network gives an error of about 13 percent, and
a 3-gauge network gives an error of about 8 percent. In
either case, the error is relatively small.
Example 4–4—The standard percentage error (see
chapter 18) can be estimated, if it is needed, by taking
1.5 times the average error. For example 4–3, the
computations were:
2-gauge network, standard error = 1.5 (13) = 19.5%
3-gauge network, standard error = 1.5 (8) = 12.0%

In figure 4–7a, the gauge network ABC would be used

for an isohyetal map or in computing Thiessen
weights. The watershed average rainfall depth esti-
mated from an isohyetal map based on the use of ABC Table 4–2 Computations for percentages of points
outside of error lines
would be more accurate than if based on BC. There-
fore, it would not be correct to say there are only two
Figure 4–5: (a) (b) (c) (d) Total
gauges "within" the watershed when figure 4–6 is used.

In figure 4.7b, however, all six gauges of the network Number of points 91 35 7 20 153
DEFGHI are physically within the watershed, but Number outside 3 10 0 3 16
gauges DEFG are much too close together (by com- lines
parison with the remaining gauges) to be considered Percentage outside 3.3 28.6 0 15.0 10.46
as individual gauges. lines
In figure 4.7c where gauges JKLMNP have varying
distances between adjacent gauges, determining how
many gauges are "in" the watershedis even more

(210-NEH, 3/93) 4–7

Chapter 4 Storm Rainfall Depth Part 630
Hydrologic Engineering

Example 4–5—The size of the watershed itself can
have no bearing on the watershed average rainfall
depth when the network is that of figure 4–7d. In such
cases the area of the polygon formed by the network
QRST is used in figure 4–6. If the watershed average
annual rainfall is 35 inches and the network polygon
area is 375 square miles, then figure 4–6 gives an
estimate of about 8 percent error for a 5-inch rain. This
is for the area of the polygon and, presumably, for any
watershed within it. It is reasonable to expect that the
smaller the watershed, the larger the error will be, but
this cannot be determined on the basis of present
information.
Figure 4–6 must be used with some imagination. As
examples 4–3 through 4–5 show, it gives only rough
approximations. And, for cases such as the networks
in figures 4–7b and 4–7c, neither the number of gauges
to be used nor the area of applicability is easy to
define. Despite these limitations, figure 4–6 functions
well in keeping the hydrologist aware of the range of
error possible in calculations.
Figure 4–8 in the appendix shows an example of the
influences of altitude and topographic barriers on
rainfall. The rainfall amounts indicated by the points in
figure 4–8a were recorded during the storm of Febru-
ary 27 to March 4, 1938, in southern California, in the
vicinity of the Santa Ana, San Bernardino, and San
Gabriel mountains, which lie roughly parallel to the
California coast. The series of moisture-laden air
masses associated with the storms swept in from the
Pacific Ocean to encounter the mountain ranges at
almost right angles to their path. The mountains acted
as obstructions, thrusting the warm, moist air upward
into colder air, and the resultant rapid condensation
produced excessively heavy rainfall, particularly on
the coastal side of the ranges. The desert side of the
ranges (fig. 4–8b) had significantly less rainfall. Much
of the moisture had already been pulled out of the air
mass by the time it reached the desert side of the
ranges. As the air mass warmed moving down the
desert side of the mountain slopes, it no longer had a
ready moisture source and thus became drier.

(c) Orographic influences

In hilly or mountainous country, rainfall catches are
influenced by physiographic variables, both local and
distant. Some of these are:
• Elevation or altitude
• Local slope
• Orientation of the slope
• Distance from the moisture source
• Topographic barriers to incoming moisture
• Degree of exposure, which is defined as "the
sum of those sectors of a circle of 20-mile
radius centered at the station, containing no
barrier 1,000 feet or more above station eleva-
tion, expressed in degrees of arc of circle
(azimuth)" (Hiatt 1953)

In the ordinary watershed study, it is seldom possible

to determine the influences of all these variables.
When a special study is needed for a project, the SCS
hydrologist or hydraulic engineer can apply to the
director, Engineering Division, National Headquarters,
Washington, DC, who can make arrangements for a
cooperative study by the NWS.

4–8 (210-NEH, 3/93)

Chapter 4 Storm Rainfall Depth Part 630
Hydrologic Engineering

United States Department of Agriculture, Soil Conser-

630.0404 References vation Service. 1985. Earth dams and reservoirs.
TR-60.

Brakensiek, D.L., H.B. Osborn, W.J. Rawls, coordina-
tors. 1979. Field manual for research in
agricultural hydrology. USDA, Agric. Handb. 224,
550 pp.
Bras, R.L., I. Rodriguez-Iturbe. 1985. Random functions
and hydrology. Addison Wesley, Reading, MA,
559 pp.
United States Department of Commerce, National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Na-
tional Weather Service. 1989. Cooperative station
observations. Natl. Weather Serv. Observing
Handb. No. 2.

Chow, Ven Te, editor-in-chief. 1964. Handbook of

applied hydrology: A compendium of water
resource technology. McGraw-Hill, 1,418 pp.

Hiatt, W.E. 1953. The analysis of precipitation data, in

Subsurface facilities of water management and
patterns of supply-type area studies. Edited by
U.S. House of Representatives, Interior and
Insular Affairs Committee, vol. IV, The physical
and economic foundation of natural resources
series, pp. 186-206.

Huff, F.A., and J.C. Neill. 1957. Rainfall relations on

small areas in Illinois. Bul. 44, IL State Water
Survey.

Kurtyka, J.C. 1953. Precipitation measurement study.

Report of investigation no. 20, IL State Water
Survey Division, Urbana, IL.

McCuen, R.H., and W.M. Snyder, 1986. Hydrologic

modeling, statistical methods and applications.
Prentice-Hall, Englewood Cliffs, NJ, 568 pp.

McGuinness, J.L. 1963. Accuracy of estimating water-

shed mean rainfall. Journal of Geophysical
Research, vol. 68, no. 16, pp. 4,763-4,767.

Singh, V.P., and P.K. Chowdhury. 1986. Comparing

methods of estimating mean areal rainfall. Water
Resourc. Bul., vol. 22, no. 2, pp. 275-282.

Wei, T.C., and J.L. McGuinness. 1978. Reciprocal

distance squared methods, A computer technique
for estimating area precipitation. ARS-NC-8, U.S.
Agric. Research Serv., North Central Region,
Coshocton, OH.

(210-NEH, 3/93) 4–9

Chapter 4 Storm Rainfall Depth Part 630
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Chapter 4 Storm Rainfall Depth Part 630
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630.0405 Appendix

(210-NEH, 3/93) 4–11

Chapter 4 Storm Rainfall Depth Part 630
Hydrologic Engineering

4–12 (210-NEH, 3/93)

Chapter 4 Storm Rainfall Depth Part 630
Hydrologic Engineering

Figure 4–1 Errors caused by use of catches at one gauge as estimates of watershed average rainfall (based on data from
ARS Experimental Agricultural Watersheds in Hastings, Nebraska)

4 4
Storm rainfall, watershed average,

Storm rainfall, watershed average,

3 3
in inches

in inches
2 2

1 1

0 0
0 1 2 3 4 0 1 2 3 4
Storm rainfall at one gauge in inches Storm rainfall at one gauge in inches

(a) Watershed area is 0.75 square miles and gauge (b) Watershed area is 0.75 square miles and gauge
is near the center. is 4 miles outside the water shed boundary.

4 4
Annual rainfall, watershed average,
Storm rainfall, watershed average,

3 30
in inches

in inches

2 20

1 10

0 0
0 1 2 3 4 0 10 20 30 40
Storm rainfall at one gauge in inches Storm rainfall at one gauge in inches

(c) Watershed area is 5.45 square miles and gauge (d) Watershed area is 5.45 square miles and gauge
is on the boundary. is on the boundary.

(210-NEH, 3/93) 4–13

Chapter 4 Storm Rainfall Depth Part 630
Hydrologic Engineering

Figure 4–2 Steps in construction of an isohyetal map (based on data from ARS
Experiemental Agircultural Watershed in Hastings, Nebraska)

(a) (b)
1 54 1 54
1 40
1 40

1 55
5
1 5
60)
(1.
70)
One mile (1.

80)
(1.
90)
1 94 (1.
4
1 9

Step 1 - Locate rain gauges on Step 2 - Interpolate among

watershed map and plot rain gauges.
rainfall amounts.

(c) (d)
1.5 1.6

1 54
1.4
3
1.

1 40
1.7

1.6
1 55 A
1.4

1.4

1.7
8
1.

1.6
9
1.

1.7
1.7
1.5

2.0
1.5

1.8

1 94
1.6

1.9
1.

Step 3 - Draw isohyetals. Same storm with

isohyetals based on
a denser network.

Circles used as decimal points also denote rain gauges. Figures c and d illustrate
the variations caused by the use of different networks of gauges.

4–14 (210-NEH, 3/93)

Chapter 4 Storm Rainfall Depth Part 630
Hydrologic Engineering

Figure 4–3 Steps in the determination of Thiessen weights

(a) (b)

1 mile

Step 1 - Draw lines connecting Step 2 - Draw perpendicular

rain gauge locations. bisectors.

(c) (d)

A
31 =0.1
199
81 =0
199
.4

6 5
07

87 =0.437
199

Step 3 - Compute Thiessen Thiessen polygons for

weights. a denser network.

Figures c and d illustrate the variations in polygons caused by use of

different networks of gauges.

(210-NEH, 3/93) 4–15

Chapter 4 Storm Rainfall Depth Part 630
Hydrologic Engineering

Figure 4–4 Estimating the upper (positive) increment of error in transposed rainfall amounts (modified from Huff
& Neill 1957)

30

20

Rainfall in inches
10 100
Upper limit at 10 percent significance level in inches

80
60
40
5
30
4
20
3

10
2
8
6
4
1 3
2

0.5 1
0.4

0.3 0.5

0.2

0.1
0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 1 2 3 4 5 10 20 30 40 50 100

Distance to point of estimate in miles

The 10 percent level of significance applies to the positive increment. The lower (negative) increment is taken as half the
upper. The graph does not apply to rainfalls in mountainous area.

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Chapter 4 Storm Rainfall Depth Part 630
Hydrologic Engineering

Figure 4–5 Applications of figure 4–4

7

6 6

Depth in inches at Dallas, Texas gage

5 5
Depth in inches at B28R gage

4 4

3 3

2 2

1 1

0 0
0 1 2 3 4 0 1 2 3 4 5 6
Depth in inches at G42R gauge Depth in inches at Fort Worth, Texas gauge
(a) Storm rainfall at gauges 4.3 miles (b) Storm rainfall at gauges about 30 miles apart
apart
60

50
Depth in inches at Dallas, Texas gage

40 40
Depth in inches at B28R gage

30 30

20 2

10 1

0 0
0 10 20 30 40 0 10 20 30 40 50 60
Depth in inches at G42R gauge Depth in inches at Fort Worth, Texas, gauge
(c) Annual precipitation at gauges (d) Annual precipitation at gauges about 30 miles apart
4.3 miles apart

The dashed lines show the range in rainfall to be expected 90 percent of the time at a distant location (ordinate) when the rainfall amount at a
gauge (abscissa) is transposed. The plotted points are actual measurements at the distant and gauge locations. (Figures a and c are based on
data from the ARS Experimental Agricultural Watershed at Hastings, Nebraska.)

(210-NEH, 3/93) 4–17

Chapter 4 Storm Rainfall Depth Part 630
Hydrologic Engineering

Figure 4–6 Network chart for estimating the error in watershed average rainfall amounts (modified from McGuinness 1963)

0.1

0.5
Av
er
ag
ea

0.7
nn

1.0
ua

10
0
l
pr
e

70
cip

Sto 3
ita

rm
rai 5
50
tio

nfa 7
n

ll (
(Pa

P) 10
)i

in
30

inc
n

he
in

s3
ch

0
20
es

10
Example 4–3

1 2 3 4 5 10 20 30 40 50
Average error in percent plus or minus

1,000

500
400
300
30

200
20

10

100
Drainage area (A) in square miles

50
2

40
30
=1

20
es N
aug
of g

10
ber
Num

5
4
3

0.5

4–18 (210-NEH, 3/93)

Chapter 4 Storm Rainfall Depth Part 630
Hydrologic Engineering

Figure 4–7 Typical rain gauge networks

(a) (b)

DE F
G
B

C
I

(c) (d)
J Q
K
R
L
M

T
P

(210-NEH, 3/93) 4–19

Chapter 4 Storm Rainfall Depth Part 630
Hydrologic Engineering

Figure 4–8 Orographic influences on rainfall (Source: USGS 1942)

9,000
(a)
Kelly's Kamp
8,000
Mt. Islip

7,000
Big Pines

Big Pines
Plunge Creek Divide
6,000
Big Pines Mt. Wilson
of e ts.Crystal Lake Crystal Lake
sid l M
Altitude in feet

5,000 t
r ria
e
s b
De Ga Little Cienaga
a n
S Browns Flat
Aldrich Ranch
4,000
Valyermo
Llano
ts.
lM f
ab de o

3,000
n G si
ria
Sa oast
C

Silverado Canyon
2,000

Silverado Canyon
1,000

0
0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 28 30 32 34 36 40
Precipitation, in inches, February 27 to March 4, 1938

(b) Mt. Islip

8,000

7,000
Big Pines
6,000
Mt. Wilson Crystal Lake
Altitude in feet

5,000
Little Aldrich
Cienaga Ranch
4,000
Pacific Ocean

Valyermo
3,000 Llano
San Gabriel
Silverado Canyon Mts.
2,000
Santa Ana
Mts.
1,000

0
Coast side Desert side

Points denote rain gauge catches.

4–20 (210-NEH, 3/93)

United
ChapterStates
5
Department of Part 630 Hydrology Part
Streamflow Data 630 Hydrology
National Engineering Handbook
Agriculture
National Engineering Handbook
Natural
Resources
Conservation
Service

Chapter 5 Streamflow Data

Rain clouds
Cloud formation

Precipitation

n
iratio
Evaporation
n

ean
tio

Transp
soil
ta

from oc
ge
ve

fr o m
m

n
fr o

ti o

s
am
n

ir a
ti o

tr e
sp
ra
po

an

ms
va

Tr

Surfa E
fr o

ce ru
noff

Infiltration

Soil
Percolation

Rock Ocean
Ground water
Deep percolation

(210-vi, NEH, September 1997) 5–1

Chapter 5 Hydrology
Streamflow Data Part 630 Hydrology
National Engineering Handbook

Issued September 1997

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimina-

tion in its programs on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion,
age, disability, political beliefs, and marital or familial status. (Not all pro-
hibited bases apply to all programs.) Persons with disabilities who require
alternative means for communication of program information (Braille, large
print, audiotape, etc.) should contact USDA’s TARGET Center at (202) 720-
2600 (voice and TDD).

To file a complaint, write the Secretary of Agriculture, U.S. Department of

Agriculture, Washington, DC 20250, or call 1-800-245-6340 (voice) or (202)
720-1127 (TDD). USDA is an equal employment opportunity employer.

5–2 (210-vi, NEH, September 1997)

Chapter 5 Streamflow Data Part 630 Hydrology
Acknowledgments National Engineering Handbook

Chapter 5, Streamflow Data, was originally prepared by Victor Mockus

(retired) and was reprinted with minor revisions in 1969. This version was
prepared by an Agricultural Research Service/Natural Resources Conserva-
tion Service (NRCS) workgroup under the guidance of Norman Miller
(retired), Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), Washington,
DC. The workgroup members include Donald E. Woodward, national
hydraulic engineer, NRCS, Washington, DC, and William J. Gburek, hy-
draulic engineer, Agricultural Research Service (ARS), University Park, PA,
co-chairmen; Allen T. Hjelmfelt, Jr., hydraulic engineer, ARS, Columbia,
MO; Robert O. Kluth, (retired); Arlis Plummer, hydraulic engineer,
NRCS, Lincoln, NE; Joe Van Mullen, hydraulic engineer, NRCS, Bozeman,
MT; and James Hailey, NRCS, Temple, TX.

Many others including Gary Conaway, hydraulic engineer, NRCS, Port-

land, OR; Paul Welle, conservation engineer, NRCS, Beltsville, MD; and
William Merkel, hydraulic engineer, NRCS, Beltsville, MD, provided com-
ments on the chapter. Helen Fox Moody, hydraulic engineer, NRCS,
Washington, DC, helped to prepare the final materials, and the Technical
Publishing Team, NRCS, Fort Worth, TX, prepared the document for publi-
cation.

(210-vi, NEH, September 1997) 5–i

5–3
Chapter 5 Streamflow Data Part 630 Hydrology
National Engineering Handbook

5–4
5–ii (210-vi, NEH, September 1997)
Chapter 5 Streamflow Data Part 630 Hydrology
Chapter 5 Streamflow Data National Engineering Handbook

Contents: 630.0500 Introduction 5–1

630.0501 Sources 5–1

630.0502 Installation and operation of streamflow stations 5–2

(a) Temporary streamflow station installations ............................................. 5–2

630.0503 Streamflow data uses 5–3

(a) Mean daily discharges .................................................................................. 5–3
(b) Transposition of streamflow records ......................................................... 5–8
(c) Volume-duration-probability analysis ...................................................... 5–10
(d) Flow duration curves ................................................................................. 5–10
(e) Determination of runoff curve numbers .................................................. 5–10

630.0504 References 5–15

Tables Table 5–1 Mean daily discharges, annual flood period 5–7

Table 5–2 Factors affecting the correlation of data: A guide to the 5–8
transposition of streamflow

Table 5–3 Curve numbers for events with annual peak discharge 5–11
for Watershed 2 near Treynor, Iowa

(210-vi, NEH, September 1997) 5–iii

7–i
5–5
Chapter 5 Streamflow Data Part 630 Hydrology
National Engineering Handbook

Figures Figure 5–1 Crest staff gage 5–3

Figure 5–2 Sample of USGS surface water-supply paper showing 5–4

recorded mean daily discharges

Figure 5–3 Sample of USGS surface water-supply paper 5–5

summarizing discharge records

Figure 5–4 Two methods of plotting daily flow records 5–6

Figure 5–5 Solution of runoff equation 5–9

Figure 5–6 Rainfall versus direct runoff plotted from an 5–12

experimental ARS watershed in Treynor, Iowa

Examples Example 5–1 Total runoff for annual flood 5–6

Example 5–2 Simple method to determine the direct runoff in inches 5–7
for the annual flood of example 5–1

Example 5–3 Determining runoff of gaged and ungaged watersheds 5–8

that are alike in all respects

Example 5–4 Classical graphical approach to establish runoff curve 5–10

numbers

Example 5–5 Statistical approach to establish runoff curve numbers 5–13

5–iv
5–6 (210-vi, NEH, September 1997)
Chapter 5 Streamflow Data
Chapter 5 Streamflow Data
630.0500 Introduction
Streamflow data collected by various agencies de-
scribe the flow characteristics of a stream at a given
point. Normally, data are collected by using a measur-
ing device commonly called a stream gage.
Streamflow data are used to indicate the present
hydrologic conditions of a watershed and to check
methods for estimating present and future conditions.
Specific uses presented in part 630 are for determining
hydrologic soil-cover complex numbers (chapter 9),
frequency analysis (chapter 18), determining water
yields (chapter 20), and designing floodwater retarding
structures (chapter 21). This chapter describes ways
to use this information to determine runoff from a
specific event, how to use this information with rain-
fall data to estimate the watershed runoff curve num-
ber, and how to use the data to determine volume-
duration-probability relationships.
(210-vi, NEH, September 1997)
Part 630 Hydrology
National Engineering Handbook
630.0501 Sources
Published streamflow data for the United States are
available from many sources. The main sources are:
U.S. Geological Survey (USGS, Department of
Interior)—Water Supply Papers (WSP) and other
publications issued regularly contain records collected
from continuously gaged streamflow stations and
other crest stage and low flow data. USGS is the major
source of streamflow data for the United States. Their
publications are listed in Publications of the Geologi-
cal Survey, which is issued in cumulative editions;
yearly and monthly supplements are also issued.
Complete files of WSP’s are in USGS district offices.
Some of the basic stream data are available on the
USGS home page.
Descriptions of streamflow methods of gaging and
other facts about USGS gaging practices are given in
Measurement and Computation of Streamflow, Vol-
ume 1: Measurement of Stage and Discharge, and
Volume 2: Computation of Discharge (USGS 1982).
U.S. Bureau of Reclamation (BOR, Department of
Interior)—This agency gages and publishes
streamflow data at irregular intervals in technical
journals and professional papers.
U.S. Forest Service (FS, Department of Agricul-
ture)—Streamflow data are published at irregular
intervals in technical bulletins and professional pa-
pers.
Agricultural Research Service (ARS, Department
of Agriculture)—ARS routinely publishes compila-
tions of small watershed data. The most recent is
Hydrologic Data for Experimental Agricultural Water-
sheds in the United States, 1978-79 (USDA, ARS 1989).
This series is in 22 volumes. ARS also maintains
REPHLEX, which is an online data base consisting of
breakpoint rainfall-runoff data from ARS experimental
watersheds. For information on this resource, contact
the Water Data Center, ARS Hydrology Lab, Beltsville,
Maryland. ARS practices are described in Field Manual
Handbook 224 (USDA, ARS 1979).
5–1
Chapter 5 Streamflow Data
Corps of Engineers (COE, Department of De-
fense)—COE obtains gage data and publishes
streamflow data at irregular intervals in technical
journals and professional papers. Most of the data
appears in USGS publications.
Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS,
Department of Agriculture)—NRCS gages and
publishes streamflow data at irregular intervals in
technical journals and professional papers. NRCS and
the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric
Administration's National Weather Service (NWS)
jointly analyze snow and precipitation data in the
Snow Survey Program. The data are used to forecast
seasonal runoff in the western United States, which
depends on snowmelt for about 75 percent of its water
supply. The NRCS National Weather and Climate
Center (NWCC) in Portland, Oregon, archives snow
course, precipitation, streamflow, reservoir, and
temperature data for states. The data, which includes
many USGS gage sites, is accessible electronically.
5–2 (210-vi, NEH, September 1997)
Part 630 Hydrology
National Engineering Handbook
630.0502 Installation and
operation of streamflow
stations
NRCS cooperates with the USGS in the installation
and operation of streamflow stations needed by NRCS.
This cooperation is on a formal administrative basis,
and the Engineering Division can advise on the admin-
istrative procedure (National Engineering Manual,
Section 530.02).
(a) Temporary streamflow station
installations
Sometimes streamflow information is needed for a
brief period on a small stream, irrigation ditch, gully,
or reservoir, and the circumstances do not justify the
installation of a continuous recorder. If the flow to be
measured is small, measuring devices described in
NEH-15, Chapter 9, Measurement of Irrigation Water,
can be used. If only the maximum stage or peak rate of
flow is needed, a crest staff gage can be used at a
culvert or other existing structure. Figure 5–1 shows a
typical inexpensive staff gage. The pipe of the gage
contains a loose material (usually powdered cork) that
floats and leaves a high-water mark or maximum
stage. The stage is used with a rating curve (chapter
14) to estimate the peak rate of flow.
Chapter 5 Streamflow Data Part 630 Hydrology
National Engineering Handbook

Figure 5–1 Crest staff gage (USGS 1968, p.27)

630.0503 Streamflow data
uses
3/16-in vent
hole

Note: (a) Mean daily discharges

Set 8 penny nail or top of
measuring stick for flush
fit with cap Records of mean daily discharges are generally pub-
2-in pipe lished in the form shown in figure 5–2, a typical page
from a water supply paper (WSP). Each state pub-
lishes an annual summary of the daily flows for each
,,
,, ,50,
3/4 by 1 1/2-in
measuring stick
,, , ,, 30
USGS station that contains continuous flow and stage
,, , ,,
,,, ,,,,, ,,
data. Summaries of discharge records appear in vari-
,,, , Flow ous forms; a typical page from a WSP containing
,, ,, ,, ,
,,, ,,,,, ,,,50, 1/4-in intake
30 summaries is shown in figure 5–3. Summaries contain-
,, ,,, ,,

,,
ing daily flow records were published cumulatively by
, ,,A-A'
holes
,, Section , USGS for 5-year increments until 1970. Figure 5–3
,, , , shows a page from an older WSP containing the sum-
, , maries of all records for 1951 through 1960. Such older
,,
,, ,,,,
summaries covering longer periods do not have the
Perforated daily flow records.
,
regranulated cork ,,
tin cup for ,,
,
,, , ,,,,,,
,,,,, ,,,,,
,, ,,,,,,
,,
,, ,,,,
A , A'

(210-vi, NEH, September 1997) 5–3

Chapter 5 Streamflow Data Part 630 Hydrology
National Engineering Handbook

Figure 5–2 Sample of USGS surface water-supply paper showing recorded mean daily discharges (USGS 1974)

Wabash River Basin—03332.300 Little Indian, Creek Royal Center, Indiana

Location—Lat. 40° 52' 33" long. 86° 35" 26", in NE 1/4 NW 1/4 Sec. 13. T.28 11., R.2 11., White county on right bank at downstream side
of county road bridge, 2.8 miles (4.7 km) upstream from mouth, 3.2 miles (5.1 km) downstream from Fredericks ditch 4.8 miles
(7.7 km) northwest of Royal Center Post Office.
Drainage area—35.0 SQ MI (90.6 sq. km).
Period of Record—July 1959 to September 1973, converted to partial-record station.
Average Discharge—14 years 28.7 ft3/s (0.813 m3/s), 11.14 in/yr. (283 mm/yr).
Remarks—Current year: Max. discharge, 349 ft3/s (9.84 m3/s) Dec. 31, gage height, 6.61 ft (2.015 m) minimum daily, 4.8 ft3/s (0.14 m3/s)
Sept. 24. Period of record: Max. discharge about 500 ft3/s (14.2 m3/s) Mar. 5, 1963 (gage ht unknown): min. daily 0.5 ft3/s
(0 014 m3/s) Dec. 17-22, 1963 Maximum stage known, 11.2 ft (3.41 m) in Spring 1957, from information by local residents.
Remarks—Records good.
Discharge, in cubic feet per second, water year October 1972 to September 1973
DAY OCT NOV DEC .IAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP

1 84 100 42 292 46 23 139 39 38 39 161 8.8

2 62 92 39 210 99 26 103 36 32 29 97 8.8
3 50 96 37 153 96 29 86 33 28 25 61 8.5
4 44 68 35 209 71 32 74 30 48 25 38 8.2
5 49 56 34 146 63 70 62 27 200 22 24 8.2
6 45 48 74 99 55 89 55 26 134 20 19 8.2
7 40 48 57 79 49 67 49 26 84 17 14 8.5
8 36 72 45 63 44 53 33 27 58 16 11 8.2
9 32 61 40 49 40 47 42 26 45 16 10 7.6
10 29 53 36 40 36 52 42 24 36 15 9.1 7.9
11 54 59 45 35 32 155 37 22 32 14 8.2 7.6
12 88 4 47 30 31 155 47 22 30 13 7.9 7.6
13 62 63 141 28 29 100 67 21 28 12 7.6 7.6
14 50 188 104 29 30 136 30 21 26 12 36 8.2
15 42 162 72 29 32 161 43 20 27 12 47 9.1
16 40 116 62 29 30 107 49 20 45 12 22 7.9
17 36 94 48 39 30 169 81 19 183 11 16 6.7
18 32 76 40 50 28 168 63 18 135 11 13 6.4
19 30 66 37 78 27 149 66 20 79 11 12 6.1
20 30 70 50 57 30 116 se 20 54 13 12 5.8
21 30 70 57 46 32 90 105 18 41 14 9.6 5.3
22 56 62 62 83 30 75 210 18 34 13 8.8 5.0
23 136 54 57 115 28 64 211 19 30 12 8.5 5.0
24 112 49 57 71 26 54 134 18 27 14 16 4.8
25 80 48 66 58 25 84 95 21 24 14 14 8.8
26 64 54 59 57 25 145 71 19 24 26 12 6.1
27 53 57 51 61 24 94 56 19 34 21 10 5.0
28 52 52 47 69 23 73 45 27 143 15 9.7 5.5
29 46 46 63 63 –– 65 39 38 92 12 9.4 16
30 42 44 235 49 –– 67 39 64 56 48 9.4 12
31 40 –– 343 42 –– 71 –– 52 –– 103 9.4
Total 1,642 2,099 2,182 2,458 1,119 2,788 2,272 810 1,847 637 742.4 231.7
Mean 53.0 70.3 70.4 79.3 40.0 89.9 75.7 26.1 61.6 20.5 23.9 7.72
Max 136 188 343 292 99 169 211 64 200 103 161 18
Min 29 34 34 28 23 23 37 18 24 11 7.6 4.8
CFSM 1.51 2.00 2.01 2.27 1.1. 2.57 2.10 .75 1.76 .59 .68 .22
In 1.75 2.23 2.32 2.61 1.19 2.96 2.41 .86 1.96 .68 .79 .25
Cal YR 1972 Total 14,224.6 Mean 38.9 Max 343 Min 2.3 CFSM 1.11 In 15.12
WTR YR 1973 Total 18,828.61 Mean 51.9 Max 343 Min 4.8 CFSM 1.47 In 20.01
Peak Discharge (Base, 250 ft3/s) — Dec 31 (1 000) 349 ft3/s (6.61 ft)

5–4 (210-vi, NEH, September 1997)

Chapter 5 Streamflow Data Part 630 Hydrology
National Engineering Handbook

Figure 5–3 Sample of USGS surface water-supply paper summarizing discharge records (USGS 1964)

Nueces River Basin—2080 Atascosa River at Witsett, TX

Location—Lat. 28°37’20" long. 98°17"05", on right bank 1,400 feet upstream from bridge on Farm Road 99, 0.9 mile west of Whitsett, Live
Oak County, and 4 miles downstream from LaParita Creek.
Drainage area—1,171 mi2.
Records available—September 1924 to May 1926, May 1932 to September 1960.
Gage—Water-stage recorder and artficial control. Datum of gage is 159.04 feet above mean sea level, datum of 1929. Prior to May 8, 1926,
chain gage at bridge 1,600 feet downstream at datu 1.38 feet higher.
Average discharge—29 years (1924-25, 1932-60), 135 ft3/s (97,740 acre-foot per year).
Extremes—1924-26, 1932-60: Maximum discharge, 39,300 ft3/s July 7, 1942 (gage height, 38.3 feet from floodmark), from rating curve
extended above 12,000 ft3/s on basis of slope-area measurement at gage height 38.0 feet; no flow at times. Maximum stage since at
least 1881, about 41 feet in September 1919.
Remarks—Considerable losses of floodflows into various permeable formations occur upstream from station. June 1951 to May 1958 a
considerable part of low flow resulted from flow of several artesian wells near Campbellton, which were drilled by the Lower
Nueces River Water Supply District and turned into river to supplement the supply for city of Corpus Christi. Small diversions
above station.
Monthly and yearly mean discharge, in cubic feet per second
Water year Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep The year

1951 0.47 0.58 2.70 4.88 6.39 10.0 6.98 188 239 1.60 6.49 445 75.5
1952 20.0 20.7 13.9 17.5 48.5 14.9 65.4 39.2 6.76 114 6.74 246 50.7
1953 7.58 16.4 24.6 22.5 17.2 17.4 59.4 542 30.3 32.1 50.4 591 118
1954 76.3 13.9 10.0 9.97 15.6 15.2 62.3 43.8 39.8 7.59 0 3.29 24.8
1955 21.6 27.2 9.27 19.2 128 16.2 12.2 130 60.6 19.2 39.4 19.5 41.3
1956 378 5.21 11.7 11.6 11.3 10.6 31.9 62.8 21.6 14.5 68.0 177 35.5
1957 204 6.86 58.7 14.6 18.6 108 1,208 1,365 321 13.7 8.91 703 336
1958 10 241 23.4 940 1,499 64.7 30.7 208 23.8 4,734 3.09 118 267
1959 386 2,863 87.8 28.8 37.2 19.7 17.1 83.5 24.0 8.55 2.77 7.29 82.8
1960 200 31.2 1,109 16.7 17.2 31.5 22.1 10.1 201 142 135 14.2 69.7

Monthly and yearly discharge, in acre-feet

1951 29 35 166 300 355 615 416 11,550 14,210 98 399 26,460 54,630
1952 1,230 1,230 852 1,080 2,790 915 3,890 2,140 402 7,000 415 14,610 36,820
1953 466 974 1,510 1,381 956 4,071 3,540 33,350 1,800 1,970 3,100 35,170 85,290
1954 4,690 828 617 613 865 936 3,710 2,700 2,370 467 0 196 17,990
1955 1,330 1,620 570 1,180 4,080 996 725 8,000 3,610 1,180 2,420 1,160 29,870
1956 48 310 721 716 649 652 1,900 3,860 1,290 889 4,180 10,530 25,740
1957 12,560 408 3,610 900 1,040 6,610 71,870 83,900 19,080 845 548 41,830 243,200
1958 6,170 14,330 1,440 57,800 83,230 3,980 1,830 12,770 1,410 2,920 190 7,010 193,100
1959 23,750 17,040 5,400 1,770 2,060 1,210 1,020 5,130 1,430 526 171 434 59,940
1960 12,300 1,860 732 1,030 990 1,940 1,620 619 11,970 5,710 8,330 844 50,640

Yearly discharge, in cubic feet per second

Year WSP - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -Water year ending September 30 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -Calendar year- - - -
Momentary maximum Minimum Mean Acre-feet Mean Acre-feet
Discharge Date day
1950 –– –– –– –– –– –– 40.1 29,040
1951 1212 6,060 Sep 14, 1951 0.2 75.5 54,630 79.7 57,720
1952 1242 4,000 Sep 10, 1952 .6 50.7 36,820 50.2 36,460
1953 1282 6,550 Sep 5, 1953 2.6 118 85,290 122 88.470
1954 1342 1,050 Apr 9, 1954 0 24.8 17,990 21.2 15,380
1955 1392 1,570 Feb 7 1955 .7 41.3 29,870 37.9 27,430
1956 1442 2,960 Sep 3, 1956 0 35.5 25,740 56.8 41,240
1957 1512 8,410 May 29, 1957 1.6 336 243,200 343 248,600
1958 1562 17,500 Feb 23, 1958 1.3 267 193,100 300 217,300
1959 1632 3,830 Oct 31, 1958 1.0 82.8 59,940 39.6 28,640
1960 1712 3,210 Jun 27, 1960 .7 69.7 50,640 –– ––

(210-vi, NEH, September 1997) 5–5

Chapter 5 Streamflow Data Part 630 Hydrology
National Engineering Handbook

When using daily flow records, plot the discharge Example 5–1 Total runoff for annual flood
against time using one of the two ways shown in figure
5–4. In figure 5–4a, the mean daily flows are plotted as Use data in figure 5–2 to determine total runoff
point values at midday using a logarithmic scale for (including baseflow) for the annual flood.
discharge and an arithmetic scale for time. In figure
5–4b, both scales are arithmetic. A plotting like figure Determine:
5–4a is used in studying low flows or recession curves, Annual flood and largest peak rate in the year.
and one like figure 5–4b can be used in studying high
flows, for showing discharges in their true propor- Solution:
tions, or for determining runoff amounts by measure- In figure 5–2 under Extremes, maximum dis-
ment of areas. If a watershed has a rainfall to runoff charge is 349 ft3/s (9.88 cms) on December 31.
response of about 20 hours or more, mean daily Find the low point of mean daily discharge
amounts are suitable for plotting flood hydrographs occurring before the rise of the annual flood.
because there is little chance that more than one peak This point occurs on December 28 (table 5–1).
occurs in any one day. Watersheds that have shorter
response times have flows that vary more widely Find the date on the receding side of the flood
during a day, so a hydrograph of mean daily records when the flow is about equal to the low point of
may conceal important fluctuations. A continuous December 28. This occurs on January 9. The
record of flow should be used instead. flows between January 9 and January 14 are
considered part of the normal river flow, not
An important use of mean daily flows is in computing part of the flood flow.
storm runoff amounts including baseflow (example
5–1) or excluding it (example 5–2). Add the mean daily discharges for the flood
period from December 29 through January 9
(the starred discharges in table 5–1). The sum,
which is the total runoff, is 1,941 ft3/s–day.

Figure 5–4 Two methods of plotting daily flow records

(a) Discharge scale is logarithmic (b) Discharge scale is arithmetic

10,000 5,000

Peak
Peak 4,000
Peak 4360 ft3/s
2330 ft3/s Peak
2330 ft3/s
Discharge in ft3/s

Discharge in ft3/s

3,000

1,000
Peak Peak
2,000

1,000

100 0
10 20 1 10 20 30 1 10 20 1 10 20 30
February March February March

5–6 (210-vi, NEH, September 1997)

Chapter 5 Streamflow Data Part 630 Hydrology
National Engineering Handbook

Runoff in cubic feet per second per day (ft3/s/d) can be If only the direct runoff (chapter 10) is needed, the
converted to other units using appropriate conversion baseflow can be removed by any one of several meth-
factors (a table of factors follows chapter 22). For ods. A simple method assuming continuing constant
instance, to convert the result in example 5–1 to baseflow may be accurate enough for many situations.
inches, use the conversion factor 0.03719, the sum of This method is used in example 5–2.
step 4, and the watershed drainage area in square
miles (from fig. 5–2):
( )
0.03719 1941 ft 3 / s − days
= 2.0625 in
35 mi 2
Round to 2.1 inches.

If the flow on the receding side does not come down Example 5–2 Simple method to determine the direct
far enough, the usual practice is to determine a stan- runoff in inches for the annual flood of
dard recession curve using well-defined recessions of example 5–1
several floods, fit this standard curve to the appropri-
ate part of the plotted record, and estimate the mean Determine:
daily flows as far down as necessary. Total runoff in cubic feet per second–day
(ft3/s–day) (excluding baseflow) from
example 5–1 data.

Solution:
Table 5–1 Mean daily discharges, annual flood period Step 1—Determine the average baseflow for
(excerpt from fig. 5–2) the flood period. This is an average of the
flows on December 28 and January 9:
Date Mean daily
discharge (ft3/s)
Remarks
(47 + 49) = 48.0 ft /s
3

2
Dec. 26 59 Flow from previous rise
Step 2—Compute the volume of baseflow.
27 51 Flow from previous rise
Table 5–1 shows the flood period (starred
28 47 Low point of flow
discharges) to be 12 days; the volume of
29 *63 Rise of annual flow begins
baseflow is:
30 *235 Rise of annual flood continues
31 *343 Date of peak rate ( )
12 48 = 576 ft 3 /s - day

Jan. 1 *292 Flood receding Step 3—Subtract total baseflow from total
2 *210 Flood receding runoff to get total direct runoff:
3 *153 Flood receding 1941 − 576 = 1365 ft 3 /s - day
4 *209 Flood receding
5 *146 Flood receding
Step 4—Convert to inches. Use the conver-
6 *99 Flood receding
sion factor 0.03719 (from conversion table
7 *79 Flood receding
following chapter 22), the total direct runoff
8 *63 Flood receding
in cubic feet per second per day from step 3,
9 *49 Flood receding
and the watershed drainage area in square
10 40 End of flood period
miles (from the source of data, table 5–2):
11 35 Normal streamflow
12 30 Normal streamflow ( )
0.03719 1365 ft 3 / s − day
= 1.4504 in
13 28 Normal streamflow 35 mi 2
14 29 New rise begins
Round to 1.45 inches.
* Data used in example 5–1

(210-vi, NEH, September 1997) 5–7

Chapter 5 Streamflow Data Part 630 Hydrology
National Engineering Handbook

(b) Transposition of streamflow Example 5–3 Determining runoff of gaged and ungaged
watersheds that are alike in all respects
records
Transposition of streamflow records is the use of
Given:
records from a gaged watershed to represent the
A gaged watershed with CN = 74 had a direct
records of an ungaged watershed in the same climatic
runoff of 1.6 inches.
and physiographic region. Table 5–2 lists some of the
data generally transposed and the factors affecting the
Determine:
correlations between data for the gaged and ungaged
The comparable runoff for a nearby ungaged
watersheds. The A means that a considerable amount
watershed with CN = 83.
of analysis may be required before a transposition is
justified. Bulletin 17B, Guidelines for Determining
Solution:
Flood Flow Frequency, contains information and
Enter figure 5–5 at runoff of 1.60 inches. Go
references on such topics as comparing similar water-
across to CN 74 and then upward to CN 83.
sheds and how to handle flooding caused by different
At the runoff scale read a runoff of 2.29
type of events.
inches.
Data may be transposed with or without changes in
magnitude depending on the kind and the parameters
influencing them. Runoff volumes from individual
storms, for instance, may be transposed without
change in magnitude if the gaged and ungaged water-
sheds are alike in all respects. If the hydrologic soil-
cover complexes (CN) differ though, it is necessary to
use figure 5–5 as shown in example 5–3.

Transposition of flood dates and number of floods per

year is described in chapter 18, and transposition of
total and average annual runoff is described in chapter
20.

Table 5–2 Factors affecting the correlation of data: A guide to the transposition of streamflow

Data - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Factors * - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Large distance Large difference Runoff from Large difference Difference in
between in sizes of small-area in sizes of hydrologic
watersheds watershed thunderstorm drainage area soil cover
response lag complexes

Flood dates A A A A A
Number of floods per year A A A A A
Individual flood, peak rate A A A A
Individual flood, volume A A A
Total annual runoff A A A
Average annual runoff A A
* A indicates adverse effect on the correlations. If no A the adverse effect is minor.

5–8 (210-vi, NEH, September 1997)

 Figure 5–5 Solution of runoff equation
Chapter 5

(P-0.2 S)2 P=0 to 12 inches

Hydrology: Solution of Runoff Equation Q=
P+0.8 S Q=0 to 8 inches
9
Rainfall (P) (P-Ia)2
Q= With P≥ Ia; S≥Ia+F;
Runoff (Q) P-Ia+S and F+P-Ia-Q
8

Rate
Curves on this sheet are for the

,
,
case Ia=0.2 S, so that
F (P-0.2 S)2
Q=
7 P+0.8 S
Initial Time

,,,,
abstraction Ia
Infiltration 0
curve 10
95
5 00
10 +S 90
= 10 85
r
be 80
m
Streamflow Data

nu 75
4 ve
r
Cu 70
65
60
3

Direct runoff (Q) in inches

55

(210-vi, NEH, September 1997)

50
45
2
40

35

1 30

25

20
Part 630 Hydrology

0
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
Rainfall (P) in inches
REFERENCE Standard Dwg. No.
U.S. Department of Agricultural
Mockus, Victor; Estimating direct runoff amount from storm rainfall:
National Engineering Handbook

Soil Conservation Service ES- 1001

1 2
Sheet_____of_____
Central Technical Unit, October 1955
Engineering Division – Hydrology Branch 6-29-56
Date______________
Revised 10-1-64

5–9
Chapter 5 Streamflow Data
(c) Volume-duration-probability
analysis
Daily flow records are also used for volume-duration
probability [VDP] analysis (USDA 1966 and HEC 1975).
A probability distribution analysis of the annual series
of maximum runoff volume for 1, 3, 7, 15, 30, 60, and
90 days is made (chapter 18). These values are then
used for reservoir storage and spillway design (chap-
ter 21). Low flow VDP analysis is made on minimum
volumes over selected durations. These values are
useful in water quality evaluations, e.g., for determin-
ing the probability that the concentration of a sub-
stance will be exceeded. They are also used to de-
scribe minimum flow for fisheries (USFWS 1976).
(d) Flow duration curves
Daily flow records are also used to construct flow
duration curves. These curves show the percentage of
time during which specified flow rates are exceeded
(HEC 1975). The flow duration curve is one method
used to determine total sediment load from periodic
samples (USDA 1983). It can also be used for deter-
mining loading of other impurities, such as total salts,
and can be related to fishery values (USFWS 1976).
Flow duration curves are sometimes plotted on prob-
ability paper. It should be noted that the value plotted
is the percentage of time exceeded, and this should
not be confused with probability of occurrence.
5–10 (210-vi, NEH, September 1997)
Part 630 Hydrology
National Engineering Handbook
(e) Determination of runoff curve
numbers
Use of storm rainfall and associated streamflow data
for annual floods is the best means of establishing
runoff curve numbers, CN. Such curve numbers are
superior to those established by other means, such as
through the methods described in chapter 9. Two
examples are given. The first describes the classical
graphical approach, and the second describes a statis-
tical approach.
Example 5–4 Classical graphical approach to establish
runoff curve numbers
Given:
Rainfall and runoff data of table 5–3.
Determine:
Curve number (CN) using the classic
graphical method.
Solution:
Step 1—Make an electrostatic copy of figure
5–5.
Step 2—Plot the runoff against the rainfall
on the graph as shown in figure 5–6.
Step 3—Determine the curve of figure 5–5
that divides the plotted points into two equal
groups. That is the median curve number. It
may be necessary to interpolate between
curves, as was done in figure 5–6. The curve
number for this watershed is 88.
Figure 5–6 also shows bounding curves for
the data. The curves were determined using
the relationship given in table 5–3. Note that
these curves generally mark the extremes of
the data except for a few outliers.
Chapter 5 Streamflow Data Part 630 Hydrology
National Engineering Handbook

Table 5–3 Curve numbers for events with annual peak discharge for Watershed 2 near Treynor, Iowa

Watershed data: 82.8 acres of corn, using conventional tillage on contour, on Ida and Monona soils

Year Month Day Rain Runoff Peak S Log(s) CN Rounded

amount amount discharge CN
(inch) (inch) (ft3/s) (inch)

1964 Jun 22 1.18 0.58 216.8 0.7826 -0.1065 92.7 93

1965 Jun 29 1.30 0.64 157.0 0.8601 -0.0665 92.1 92
1966 Jun 26 1.04 0.40 153.0 0.9538 -0.0205 91.3 91
1967 Jun 20 5.71 3.76 406.0 2.1386 0.3301 82.4 82
1968 Jun 13 0.97 0.28 94.0 1.1855 0.0739 89.4 89
1969 Aug 20 2.23 0.17 36.9 5.7593 0.7604 63.5 63
1970 Aug 2 1.92 0.70 282.4 1.8691 0.2716 84.3 84
1971 May 18 1.10 0.73 214.0 0.4038 -0.3938 96.1 96
1972 May 5 0.62 0.29 121.0 0.4426 -0.3540 95.8 96
1973 Sep 26 1.25 0.28 43.7 1.8674 0.2712 84.3 84
1974 Aug 17 1.12 0.10 23.5 2.7270 0.4357 78.6 79
1975 Aug 29 1.66 0.30 54.2 2.8590 0.4562 77.8 78
1976 Jul 17 0.57 0.02 4.2 1.8396 0.2647 84.5 84
1977 May 8 1.06 0.43 145.4 0.9129 -0.0396 91.6 92
1978 May 19 1.12 0.20 84.1 1.9431 0.2885 83.7 84
1979 Mar 18 0.93 0.54 17.2 0.4617 -0.3356 95.6 96
1980 Jun 15 0.83 0.34 207.0 0.7064 -0.1501 93.4 93
1981 Aug 1 1.63 0.33 104.0 2.6110 0.4168 79.3 79
1982 Jun 14 1.35 0.50 151.0 1.2917 0.1112 88.6 89
1983 Jun 13 1.78 0.41 104.0 2.6060 0.4160 79.3 79
1984 Jun 12 0.76 0.45 104.0 0.3627 -0.4405 96.5 97
1985 May 14 1.26 0.22 35.6 2.2159 0.3456 81.9 82
1986 Apr 27 1.94 0.75 191.0 1.7687 0.2477 85.0 85
1987 May 26 0.86 0.38 55.0 0.6643 -0.1776 93.8 94
1988 Jul 15 1.96 0.03 2.8 7.3724 0.8676 57.6 58

(210-vi, NEH, September 1997) 5–11

Chapter 5 Streamflow Data Part 630 Hydrology
National Engineering Handbook

Figure 5–6 Rainfall versus direct runoff plotted from an experimental ARS watershed in Treynor, Iowa

5 CN=95 88 73
Direct runoff (Q), inches

2 Watershed 2
Treynor, Iowa

0
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Rainfall (P), inches

5–12 (210-vi, NEH, September 1997)

Chapter 5 Streamflow Data Part 630 Hydrology
National Engineering Handbook

Example 5–5 Statistical approach to establish runoff curve numbers

Given: Rainfall and runoff data of table 5–3.

Determine: CN by statistical methods.

Solution:
In this approach, the scatter in the data apparent in figure 5–6 is assumed to be described by a lognormal
distribution about the median. This approach has been explored by Hjelmfelt, et al. (1982), Hjelmfelt
(1991), and Hauser and Jones (1991).

The curve number determined in example 5–4 was the curve number that divided the points into two
equal groups. That is, it is the median curve number. This median value can also be determined using the
following computations:

Step 1—Compute the potential maximum retention (S) for each of the annual storms of table 5–3 using:
 1

(
S = 5 P + 2Q − ∆Q 2 + 5PQ 2 
 
)
This equation is an algebraic rearrangement of the runoff equation of chapter 10.

Step 2—The logarithm of each S is taken. Base 10 was used for table 5–3; however, natural logarithms
can also be used.

Step 3—The mean and standard deviation of the logarithms of S are determined. The mean of the
transformed values, that is mean of log (S), is equivalent to the median of the raw values (Yuan 1933).
(
∑ log S )
(
log S = mean log S = ) N

[ ( )]
2
∑ log S − mean log S
(
Std. Dev. log S = ) N −1

For the data of table 5–3, the values computed are:

mean log(S) = 0.1389
standard deviation log(S) = 0.3452

Step 4—The mean of the logarithms of a lognormally distributed variable is the median of the original
variable. Thus, the antilogarithm of the result of the standard deviation equation gives a statistical
estimation of the median S. If base 10 logarithms are used:
median S = 10log
= 100.1389
= 1.3769

(210-vi, NEH, September 1997) 5–13

Chapter 5 Streamflow Data Part 630 Hydrology
National Engineering Handbook

Example 5–5 Statistical approach to establish runoff curve numbers—Continued

Step 5—The curve number is then given by:

1000
CN =
10 + S
1000
=
1 + 1.3769
= 87.9

Step 6—Curve numbers for 10% and 90% extremes of the distribution are given by
log (S10) = mean (logS) + 1.282 std. dev. (log S)
log (S90) = mean (logS) – 1.282 std. dev. (log S)

in which 1.282 and –1.282 are the appropriate percentiles of the normal distribution. For the data of table
5–3, the results are 73 and 95.

Note: These results are in good agreement with the extremes that were determined using the graphical
method. Additional conformation that the 10 percent and 90 percent extremes agree with figure 5–5 is
given by Hjelmfelt, et al. (1982) and Hjelmfelt (1991).

5–14 (210-vi, NEH, September 1997)

Chapter 5 Streamflow Data
630.0504 References
Hauser, V.L., O.R. Jones. 1991. Runoff curve numbers
for the southern high plains. Trans. Amer. Soc.
Agricul. Engrs., vol. 3, no. 1. pp 142-148.
Hjelmfelt, A.T. 1991. An investigation of the curve
number procedure. J. Hydraulic Eng., Amer. Soc.
Civil Engrs., vol. 117, no. 6, pp 725-737.
Hjelmfelt, A.T., L.A. Kramer, and R.E. Burwell. 1982.
Curve numbers as random variables, Rainfall-
runoff relationship. V.P. Singh, ed., Resources
Publications, Littleton, CO, pp. 365-370.
United States Army Corps of Engineers. 1975. Hydro-
logic engineering methods for water resource
development, volume 3. Hydrologic Frequency
Analysis, HEC, Davis, CA.
United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural
Research Service. 1979. Field manual for re-
search in agricultural hydrology. Agricultural
Handbook No. 224.
United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural
Research Service. 1989. Hydrologic data for
experimental agricultural watersheds in the
United States, 1978-79. Misc. Pub. 1469.
United States Department of Agriculture, Forest Ser-
vice. Stream-gaging stations for research on
small watersheds. K.G. Reinhart and R.S. Pierce,
Agric. Handb. 268.
United States Department of Agriculture, Soil Conser-
vation Service. 1966. Hydrology study—A multi-
purpose program for selected cumulative prob-
ability, distribution analysis. W.H. Sammons,
Natural Resources Conservation Service, SCS-
TP-148, Washington, DC.
United States Department of Agriculture, Soil Conser-
vation Service. 1980. National engineering
manual, part 630—Hydrology. Natural Resources
Conservation Services, Washington, DC.
(210-vi, NEH, September 1997)
Part 630 Hydrology
National Engineering Handbook
United States Department of Agriculture, Soil Conser-
vation Service. 1983. Transmission of sediment
by water. National Engineering Handbook,
Section 3, Sedimentation, Chapter 4, Natural
Resources Conservation Service, Washington,
DC.
United States Fish and Wildlife Service. 1976. Method-
ologies for the determination of stream resource
flow requirements: an assessment. C.B. Stalker
and J.L. Arnette (ed.), Office of Biological Ser-
vices, Utah State University, Logan, Utah.
United States Geological Survey. 1964. Compilation of
records of surface waters of the United States,
October 1950 to September 1960, 11 Part 8.
Water Supply Paper 1732, Western Gulf of
Mexico Basin.
United States Geological Survey. 1968. Techniques of
water-resources investigations of the U.S. Geo-
logical Survey, chapter A7, stage measurement at
gaging stations. In Book 3, Application of Hy-
draulics, T.J. Buchanan and W.P. Somers, U.S.
Gov. Print. Of., Washington, DC.
United States Geological Survey. 1979. Flow duration
curves. USGS Water Supply Paper 1542-A, J.K.
Searcy, Washington, DC.
United States Geological Survey. 1981. WATSTORE
users guide. USGS Open File Report 79-1336,
Washington, DC.
United States Geological Survey. 1982. Guidelines for
determining flood flow frequecy. Office of Water
Data Coordination. Bulletin 17B.
United States Geological Survey. 1982. Measurement
and computation of streamflow, vol. 1: Measure-
ment of stage and discharge, and vol. 2: Compu-
tation of discharge. S.E. Rantz and others, USGS
Water Supply Paper 2175.
United States Geological Survey. 1994. Water re-
sources data for Indiana, 1973. USGS Surface
Water-Supply Papers, prepared in cooperation
with the state of Indiana and other agencies.
5–15
United States
Chapter 6
Department of Part 630 Hydrology Part 630 Hydrology
Stream Reaches and Hydrologic Units
National Engineering Handbook
Agriculture

Natural
National Engineering Handbook
Resources
Conservation
Service

Chapter 6 Stream Reaches and

Hydrologic Units

Rain clouds
Cloud formation

Precipitation

n
iratio
Evaporation
n

ean
tio

Transp
soil
ta

from oc
ge
ve

fr o m
m

n
fr o

ti o

s
am
n

ir a
ti o

tr e
sp
ra
po

an

ms
va

Tr

Surfa E
fr o

ce ru
noff

Infiltration

Soil
Percolation

Rock Ocean
Ground water
Deep percolation

(210-vi-NEH, November 1998) 6–1

Chapter 6 Stream Reaches and Hydrologic Units Part 630 Hydrology
National Engineering Handbook

Issued November 1998

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimina-

tion in all its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national
origin, gender, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation,
and marital or family status. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all pro-
grams.) Persons with disabilities who require alternate means for communi-
cation of program information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should
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To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil

Rights, Room 326W, Whitten Building, 14th and Independence Avenue, SW,
Washington, DC 20250-9410, or call (202) 720-5964 (voice or TDD). USDA is
an equal opportunity employer.

6–2 (210-vi-NEH, November 1998)

Chapter 6 Stream Reaches and Hydrologic Units Part 630 Hydrology
Acknowledgments National Engineering Handbook

Chapter 6 was originally prepared by Victor Mockus (retired) and was

reprinted with minor revisions in 1969. This version was prepared by the
Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) under guidance of Donald
E. Woodward, national hydraulic engineer, Washington, DC.

(210-vi-NEH, November 1998) 6–3

6–i
Chapter 6 Stream Reaches and Hydrologic Units Part 630 Hydrology
National Engineering Handbook

6–4
6–ii (210-vi-NEH, November 1998)
Chapter 6 Stream Reaches and Hydrologic Units Part 630 Hydrology
Chapter 6 Stream Reaches and National Engineering Handbook

Hydrologic Units

Contents: 630.0600 Introduction 6–1

630.0601 Reaches 6–1

(a) Location ......................................................................................................... 6–4
(b) Measurement ................................................................................................. 6–4
(c) Length ............................................................................................................. 6–4
(d) Profile ............................................................................................................. 6–4
(e) Hydraulic roughness ..................................................................................... 6–5
(f) Reach data for a computer program .......................................................... 6–5

630.0602 Alluvial fans 6–5

630.0603 Hydrologic units 6–6

630.0604 References 6–7

Table Table 6–1 Reach and cross-section data 6–2

Figure Figure 6–1 Hydrologic unit having detail for use as a 6–3
sample watershed

(210-vi-NEH, November 1998) 6–iii

6–5
7–i
Chapter 6 Stream Reaches and Hydrologic Units Part 630 Hydrology
National Engineering Handbook

6–6
7–ii (210-vi-NEH, November 1998)
Chapter 6
Chapter 6 Stream
Stream Reaches and Hydrologic Units
630.0600 Introduction
The stream system of a watershed is divided into
reaches, and the watershed into hydrologic units, for
the convenience of work during study. This chapter
gives some details on the selection of reaches for
hydrologic or economic studies, presents alternative
means for studies of alluvial fans, and briefly describes
a hydrologic unit and its use in a study.
(210-vi-NEH, November 1998)
Reaches andPart
630 Hydrology
Hydrologic
National Engineering HandbookUnits
630.0601 Reaches
A reach is a length of stream or valley used as a unit of
study. It contains a specified feature that is either
fairly uniform throughout, such as hydraulic character-
istics or flood damages, or that requires special atten-
tion in the study, such as a bridge. Reaches are shorter
for hydraulic studies than for economic ones, so it is
best to consider hydraulic needs first when selecting
reaches and then combine the hydraulic reaches into
longer ones for the economic study.
Reaches are physically defined at each end by cross
sections that usually extend across the valley and
include the channel section as well as a significant
portion of the flood plain. The section should include
enough of the flood plain to extend beyond whatever
flood limits the engineer expects to occur in the study.
A cross section is either straight and at a right angle to
the major path of flow in the valley, or it is a con-
nected series of segments that are at right angles to
flows in their vicinity. The head and foot of a reach are
the upstream and downstream ends respectively.
Right bank and left bank are designated looking down-
stream. For reference, reaches and cross sections are
numbered in any simple and consistent way, such as
the ones in figure 6–1 and table 6–1. However, if a
computer program is used, the numbering must follow
the system specified in the program.
The purpose of a reach determines which relation-
ships of the reach must be developed from field sur-
veys. For a hydrologic study the required relationships
include those of stage and discharge (NEH, part 630,
chapter 14), stage and end-area (NEH, part 630, chap-
ters 14 and 17), and, if manual flood routings will be
made, discharge and velocity (NEH, part 630, chapter
14). For an economic study the relationships are stage
and discharge (NEH, part 630, chapter 14), stage and
area-inundated (NEH, part 630, chapter 13), and stage
and damage (National Resource Economics Hand-
book, Part 611, Water Resources (Floodwater)).
6–1
Chapter 6 Stream Reaches and Hydrologic Units Part 630 Hydrology
National Engineering Handbook

Table 6–1 Reach and cross-section data

Reach Cross section Cross section Length of Travel Accumulated Runoff curve number 4/
number 1/ number stationing reach 2/ time 3/ drainage area present future
(feet) (hours) (square miles)

4 7,500 0.60 80 78
FR–1 2231+00 3.6 5/
HH 2192+00 4.0 6/
GG 2160+00 4.4 7/

6 15,600 1.50 80 78
FF 2138+00 7.5 5/
EE 2100+00 8.0
DD 2054+00 8.4
CC 2016+00 8.8
BB 2014+00 8.8
AA 2012+00 8.9 7/
1/ Reach number is same as subwatershed number.
2/ Channel length of reach.
3/ Travel time of a 2-year frequency flow through the reach.
4/ Runoff curve numbers for the total area above the foot of the reach. They were obtained by weighting (NEH, part 630, chapter 10).
5/ Drainage area at the head of the reach.
6/ The drainage area at this cross section was estimated.
7/ Use drainage area at the foot of the reach if the cross section is located at or near the lower boundary crossing of the stream.

6–2 (210-vi-NEH, November 1998)

Chapter 6 Stream Reaches and Hydrologic Units Part 630 Hydrology
National Engineering Handbook

Figure 6–1 Hydrologic unit having detail for use as a sample watershed

GS-1

5
2
-2
R

FR-1

FR-2
H
4 H
R-
T.13 N. T.12 N.
G T.12 N.
4
G

F R.50 W.
F
E Location of Hydrologic Unit

Legend
E
GS-1 Grade stabilization structures
6
R-6

D Floodwater retarding structures

FR-2
A A Cross section
D
R-6 Reach designation (number same as subwatershed)

C C
B B 1 Subwatershed designation
A A
Hydrologic unit boundary

Subwatershed boundary

Stream

Range line

(210-vi-NEH, November 1998) 6–3

Chapter 6 Stream Reaches and Hydrologic Units
(a) Location
The head or foot of a reach is at or near one of the
following places on a stream:
• Boundary of an agricultural area having flood
damages.
• Boundary where agricultural damages change
significantly.
• Boundary of an urban area or any other area of
high potential flood damage for which levees or
other local protective works may be proposed.
• Junction of a major tributary and the main
stream.
• Station where streamflow is gaged.
• Installation controlling streamflow, such as a
weir or a culvert in a high road fill.
• Installation restricting streamflow, such as a
bridge.
• Site proposed for a floodwater-retarding or other
structure.
• Section where shape or hydraulic characteristics
of the channel or valley change greatly.
• Section where channel control creates large
storage upstream.
• Major political boundaries.
• Point of diversion.
In selecting reaches the method of computing water-
surface profiles may specify a maximum permissible
length of reach. Some hydraulic models have a built-in
routine for transposing or interspersing auxiliary cross
sections to avoid stopping the program when an exces-
sive length of reach is encountered in the data. Even
these programs have limitations that must be ob-
served.
Locations for reaches are selected by the hydrologist
and others in the evaluation or planning team. Tenta-
tive locations are made during the preliminary investi-
gation of a watershed (NEH, part 630, chapter 3) and
shown on a base map or aerial photograph. Low-
altitude aerial reconnaissance may be necessary for
locating reaches in watersheds without access roads
or where timber, brush, or cultivated crops obstruct
vision at the ground level. If flood damage studies will
be made, flood plain areas with potentially high dam-
age are also located and shown. The map or photo-
graph is later used for identifying the reaches that
need most attention in the studies. Once the relative
importance of the reaches is known, the hydrologist
6–4 (210-vi-NEH, November 1998)
Part 630 Hydrology
National Engineering Handbook
selects the locations of cross sections and determines
the intensities of work to be done by the field survey
crew.
(b) Measurement
The measurements made during a field survey gener-
ally are those necessary to define the changes in
ground elevation in the line of a cross section and the
horizontal distances between sections. These include
definition of the flood plain and channel cross section
shape with distance and elevation measurements
along a line perpendicular to the channel flow paths.
Manning’s n must be estimated for hydraulic computa-
tions (NEH, part 630, chapter 14) for each reach. The
value of n must represent roughness conditions for the
full length of the reach. If a cross section is divided
into segments, the n for each segment applies to a
strip through the reach between adjacent cross sec-
tions.
(c) Length
The length of a reach is the distance between cross
sections at the head and foot, measured along the
sinuous path of flow in the channel or valley. The
channel is nearly always longer than the valley so that
two lengths may be applied in a study:
• The channel length when the flow is low (within
banks of the channel).
• The valley length when the flow is over the flood
plain.
This means that as a flood rises the reach becomes
shorter, a change that may be taken into account when
computing water-surface profiles (NEH, part 630,
chapter 14) and flood damages (NEH, part 630, chap-
ter 13). Reach lengths are generally determined using
an aerial photograph or a detailed topographic map
because the paths of flow are often complex and not
easy to determine in the field.
(d) Profile
Elevations of cross sections are related to a common
datum if profiles of the valley or channel are needed
for computation of water-surface profiles by the
standard step method.
Chapter 6 Stream Reaches and Hydrologic Units
(e) Hydraulic roughness
Estimates of hydraulic roughness (Manning’s n) are
made by the procedure given in NEH-5, Supplement B,
or an equivalent procedure. Publications such as
Barnes, Jr., H.H., Roughness characteristics of natural
channels, U.S. Geological Survey Water Supply Paper
1849, 1967; Arcement, G.J., and Schneider, V.R., Guide
for selecting Manning's roughness coefficients for
natural channels and flood plains, U.S. Geological
Survey Water Supply Paper 2339, 1989; and Fasken, G.,
Guide for selecting roughness coefficient "n" values for
channels, 1963, give more information on Manning’s n
and its variations in natural channels.
(f) Reach data for a computer
program
If water-surface profile or similar computations will be
made by an electronic computer, the computer pro-
gram description should be examined for limitations
on the input data, such as length of reach and number
of elements in a cross section. These limitations must
be kept in mind when working instructions are given
to the survey crew. Typical limitations are given in
NEH part 630, chapter 31.
(210-vi-NEH, November 1998)
Part 630 Hydrology
National Engineering Handbook
630.0602 Alluvial fans
Alluvial fans, also called debris slopes or debris fans,
are sediment deposits formed where the grade of a
mountain stream is abruptly reduced as the stream
enters an area of gentler slope, such as the valley of
another stream. Large fans may be inhabited or have
agricultural use. The paths of flood flows shift from
one side to another of a fan so that reaches are useless
and a special method for project evaluation must be
adopted. In this method the floodwater damages on
alluvial fans are related to actual or estimated runoff
volumes that are referenced to an upstream cross
section above the fan, such as a stream gage or other
control section. The evaluation of flood damages
follows this order:
1. Information about the monetary value of dam-
ages for each known flood on the fan is ob-
tained by interviews or from historical sources.
2. The volume of flood runoff for each flood is
determined from streamflow records or esti-
mated by use of rainfall and watershed data and
the methods shown in NEH, part 630, chapter
10.
3. The relation between flood runoffs and dam-
ages is developed (National Resource Econom-
ics Handbook, Part 611, Water Resources
(Floodwater)).
4. The frequencies of flood-runoff amounts are
estimated (NEH, part 630, chapter 18).
5. A damage-frequency curve is developed (Na-
tional Resource Economics Handbook, Part
611, Water Resources (Floodwater)).
6. The average annual damage is determined
(National Resource Economics Handbook, Part
611, Water Resources (Floodwater)).
7. The effects of a proposed upstream project on
the amounts of runoff are determined. The
amounts (and therefore the flood damages)
decrease when changes in land use and treat-
ment decrease the runoff curve number (NEH,
part 630, chapter 10) or when storage structures
or upstream channel storage increases reduce
flood flows (NEH, part 630, chapter 17).
8. The runoff-damage relation of step 3 is used
with the reduced runoffs of step 7 to estimate
damages still remaining.
9. A modified damage-frequency curve is devel-
oped and plotted on the graph used in step 5.
6–5
Chapter 6 Stream Reaches and Hydrologic Units
10. The difference between present and future
damage-frequency curves is obtained as shown
in National Resource Economics Handbook,
Part 611, Water Resources (Floodwater) to
estimate the project benefits.
6–6 (210-vi-NEH, November 1998)
Part 630 Hydrology
National Engineering Handbook
630.0603 Hydrologic units
When a large watershed or a river basin is studied, the
watershed or basin should be divided into subareas or
subwatersheds, called hydrologic units (HU), and the
study made in terms of these units.
An HU may also be used as a sample watershed; that
is, project costs and benefits within a selected HU are
evaluated in detail and afterward applied to other
similar HU’s for which no internal evaluation is made.
The data in the sample evaluation reach or HU can be
expressed as units per mile of reach or per square mile
of HU. Transfer of evaluation to another similar reach
or HU can then be accomplished by simply multiplying
the unit values by stream miles or square miles for the
HU of interest. The small watershed in figure 6–1 has
enough detail for a sample watershed.
Each HU is the drainage area of a minor tributary
flowing into the main stream or a major tributary.
Areas between minor tributaries are combined and
also used as HU’s. Cross sections and reaches are
needed only when an HU is a sample watershed.
Storms in the historical or frequency series (NEH, part
630, chapter 18) are developed on an HU basis, as are
runoff curve numbers and hydrographs. Hydrographs
for present, and with future land use and treatment
conditions, are developed for an entire HU with refer-
ence to its outlet (NEH, part 630, chapter 16).
If an HU contains structural measures that affect the
peak flow rate and/or timing of a hydrograph, the
changes are determined by methods of routing (NEH,
part 630, chapter 17) and the modified hydrograph,
like the others, is referenced to the HU outlet. The
watershed or basin flood routing is carried out on the
major tributaries and main stream, with the HU’s
supplying the starting and local inflow hydrographs.
Chapter 6 Stream Reaches and Hydrologic Units Part 630 Hydrology
National Engineering Handbook

630.0604 References

Arcement, G.J., and V.R. Schneider, 1989. Guide for

selecting Manning's roughness coefficients for
natural channels and flood plains. United States
Geological Survey. Water supply paper 2339.
Barnes, Jr., H.H. 1969. Roughness characteristics of
natural channels. United States Geological Sur-
vey. Water supply paper 1849.
Cowen, W.L. 1956. National Engineering Handbook 5
(Hydraulics), Supplement B. United States De-
partment of Agriculture, Soil Conservation
Service.
Fasken, G. 1963. Guide for selecting roughness
coefficient "n" values for channels. United States
Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation
Service.

(210-vi-NEH, November 1998) 6–7

United States
Department of Part 630 Hydrology
Agriculture

Natural
National Engineering Handbook
Resources
Conservation
Service

Chapter 7 Hydrologic Soil Groups

Rain clouds
Cloud formation

Precipitation

n
iratio
Evaporation
n

ean
tio

Transp
oil
ta

from oc
ge

s
ve

from
m

on
fro

ms
ati
n
tio

ir

a
tre
sp
ra
po

an

ms
va

Tr

Surfa E
fro

ce ru
noff

Infiltration

Soil
Percolation

Rock Ocean
Ground water
Deep percolation

(210–VI–NEH, January 2009)

Chapter 7 Hydrologic Soil Groups Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Issued January 2009

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all

its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, age,
disability, and where applicable, sex, marital status, familial status, parental
status, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, political beliefs, re-
prisal, or because all or a part of an individual’s income is derived from any
public assistance program. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs.)
Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communica-
tion of program information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should
contact USDA’s TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TDD). To file a
complaint of discrimination, write to USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights,
1400 Independence Avenue, SW., Washington, DC 20250–9410, or call (800)
795-3272 (voice) or (202) 720-6382 (TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity
provider and employer.

(210–VI–NEH, January 2009)

 Acknowledgments

Chapter 7 was originally prepared by Victor Mockus (retired) and re-

printed with minor revisions in 1972. This version was prepared by the
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service
(NRCS) under guidance of Jon Werner (retired), NRCS; with assistance
from Donald E. Woodward (retired), NRCS; Robert Nielsen (retired),
NRCS; Robert Dobos, soil scientist, NRCS; and Allen Hjelmfelt (re-
tired), Agricultural Research Service. It was finalized under the guidance
of Claudia C. Hoeft, national hydraulic engineer.

(210–VI–NEH, January 2009) 7–i

Chapter 7 Hydrologic Soil Groups Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

7–ii (210–VI–NEH, January 2009)

 Preface

This chapter of the National Engineering Handbook (NEH) Part 630,

Hydrology, represents a multi-year collaboration between soil scientists at
the National Soil Survey Center (NSSC) and engineers in the Conservation
Engineering Division (CED) at National Headquarters to develop an agreed
upon model for classifying hydrologic soil groups.

This chapter contains the official definitions of the various hydrologic soil
groups. The National Soil Survey Handbook (NSSH) references and refers
users to NEH630.07 as the official hydrologic soil group (HSG) reference.
Updating the hydrologic soil groups was originally planned and developed
based on this perspective.

Listing HSGs by soil map unit component and not by soil series is a new
concept for the engineers. Past engineering references contained lists of
HSGs by soil series. Soil series are continually being defined and re-
defined, and the list of soil series names changes so frequently as to make
the task of maintaining a single national list virtually impossible. There-
fore, no such lists will be maintained. All such references are obsolete and
their use should be discontinued.

Instructions for obtaining HSG information can be found in the introduc-

tion of this chapter.

(210–VI–NEH, January 2009) 7–iii

Chapter 7 Hydrologic Soil Groups Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

7–iv (210–VI–NEH, January 2009)

Chapter 7 Hydrologic Soil Groups

Contents: 630.0700 Introduction 7–1

630.0701 Hydrologic soil groups 7–1

630.0702 Disturbed soils 7–5

630.0703 References 7–5

Tables Table 7–1 Criteria for assignment of hydrologic soil group 7–4
(HSG)

(210–VI–NEH, January 2009) 7–v

Chapter 7 Hydrologic Soil Groups
630.0700 Introduction
This chapter defines four hydrologic soil groups, or
HSGs, that, along with land use, management prac-
tices, and hydrologic conditions, determine a soil's
associated runoff curve number (NEH630.09). Runoff
curve numbers are used to estimate direct runoff from
rainfall (NEH630.10).
A map unit is a collection of areas defined and named
the same in terms of their soil components or miscel-
laneous areas or both (NSSH 627.03). Soil scientists
assign map unit components to hydrologic soil groups.
Map unit components assigned to a specific hydrologic
soil group have similar physical and runoff charac-
teristics. Soils in the United States, its territories, and
Puerto Rico have been assigned to hydrologic soil
groups. The assigned groups can be found by consult-
ing the Natural Resources Conservation Service’s
(NRCS) Field Office Technical Guide; published soil
survey data bases; the NRCS Soil Data Mart Web site
(http://soildatamart.nrcs.usda.gov/); and/or the Web
Soil Survey Web site (http://websoilsurvey.nrcs.usda.
gov/).
The NRCS State soil scientist should be contacted if
a soil survey does not exist for a given area or where
the soils within a watershed have not been assigned to
hydrologic groups.
(210–VI–NEH, January 2009)
630.0701 Hydrologic soil
groups
Soils were originally assigned to hydrologic soil
groups based on measured rainfall, runoff, and infil-
trometer data (Musgrave 1955). Since the initial work
was done to establish these groupings, assignment
of soils to hydrologic soil groups has been based on
the judgment of soil scientists. Assignments are made
based on comparison of the characteristics of unclas-
sified soil profiles with profiles of soils already placed
into hydrologic soil groups. Most of the groupings are
based on the premise that soils found within a climatic
region that are similar in depth to a restrictive layer or
water table, transmission rate of water, texture, struc-
ture, and degree of swelling when saturated, will have
similar runoff responses. The classes are based on the
following factors:
• intake and transmission of water under the con-
ditions of maximum yearly wetness (thoroughly
wet)
• soil not frozen
• bare soil surface
• maximum swelling of expansive clays
The slope of the soil surface is not considered when
assigning hydrologic soil groups.
In its simplest form, hydrologic soil group is deter-
mined by the water transmitting soil layer with the
lowest saturated hydraulic conductivity and depth to
any layer that is more or less water impermeable (such
as a fragipan or duripan) or depth to a water table (if
present). The least transmissive layer can be any soil
horizon that transmits water at a slower rate relative
to those horizons above or below it. For example, a
layer having a saturated hydraulic conductivity of 9.0
micrometers per second (1.3 inches per hour) is the
least transmissive layer in a soil if the layers above and
below it have a saturated hydraulic conductivity of 23
micrometers per second (3.3 inches per hour).
Water impermeable soil layers are among those types
of layers recorded in the component restriction table
of the National Soil Information System (NASIS)
database. The saturated hydraulic conductivity of an
impermeable or nearly impermeable layer may range
7–1
Chapter 7 Hydrologic Soil Groups
from essentially 0 micrometers per second (0 inches
per hour) to 0.9 micrometers per second (0.1 inches
per hour). For simplicity, either case is considered im-
permeable for hydrologic soil group purposes. In some
cases, saturated hydraulic conductivity (a quantitative-
ly measured characteristic) data are not always readily
available or obtainable. In these situations, other soil
properties such as texture, compaction (bulk density),
strength of soil structure, clay mineralogy, and organic
matter are used to estimate water movement. Table
7–1 relates saturated hydraulic conductivity to hydro-
logic soil group.
The four hydrologic soil groups (HSGs) are
described as:
Group A—Soils in this group have low runoff poten-
tial when thoroughly wet. Water is transmitted freely
through the soil. Group A soils typically have less
than 10 percent clay and more than 90 percent sand
or gravel and have gravel or sand textures. Some soils
having loamy sand, sandy loam, loam or silt loam
textures may be placed in this group if they are well
aggregated, of low bulk density, or contain greater
than 35 percent rock fragments.
The limits on the diagnostic physical characteristics of
group A are as follows. The saturated hydraulic con-
ductivity of all soil layers exceeds 40.0 micrometers
per second (5.67 inches per hour). The depth to any
water impermeable layer is greater than 50 centime-
ters [20 inches]. The depth to the water table is greater
than 60 centimeters [24 inches]. Soils that are deeper
than 100 centimeters [40 inches] to a water imperme-
able layer and a water table are in group A if the satu-
rated hydraulic conductivity of all soil layers within
100 centimeters [40 inches] of the surface exceeds 10
micrometers per second (1.42 inches per hour).
Group B—Soils in this group have moderately low
runoff potential when thoroughly wet. Water transmis-
sion through the soil is unimpeded. Group B soils typi-
cally have between 10 percent and 20 percent clay and
50 percent to 90 percent sand and have loamy sand
or sandy loam textures. Some soils having loam, silt
loam, silt, or sandy clay loam textures may be placed
in this group if they are well aggregated, of low bulk
density, or contain greater than 35 percent rock frag-
ments.
The limits on the diagnostic physical characteristics
of group B are as follows. The saturated hydraulic
7–2 (210–VI–NEH, January 2009)
Part 630
National Engineering Handbook
conductivity in the least transmissive layer between
the surface and 50 centimeters [20 inches] ranges
from 10.0 micrometers per second (1.42 inches per
hour) to 40.0 micrometers per second (5.67 inches
per hour). The depth to any water impermeable layer
is greater than 50 centimeters [20 inches]. The depth
to the water table is greater than 60 centimeters [24
inches]. Soils that are deeper than 100 centimeters [40
inches] to a water impermeable layer and a water table
are in group B if the saturated hydraulic conductivity
of all soil layers within 100 centimeters [40 inches] of
the surface exceeds 4.0 micrometers per second (0.57
inches per hour) but is less than 10.0 micrometers per
second (1.42 inches per hour).
Group C—Soils in this group have moderately high
runoff potential when thoroughly wet. Water transmis-
sion through the soil is somewhat restricted. Group C
soils typically have between 20 percent and 40 percent
clay and less than 50 percent sand and have loam, silt
loam, sandy clay loam, clay loam, and silty clay loam
textures. Some soils having clay, silty clay, or sandy
clay textures may be placed in this group if they are
well aggregated, of low bulk density, or contain greater
than 35 percent rock fragments.
The limits on the diagnostic physical characteristics
of group C are as follows. The saturated hydraulic
conductivity in the least transmissive layer between
the surface and 50 centimeters [20 inches] is between
1.0 micrometers per second (0.14 inches per hour)
and 10.0 micrometers per second (1.42 inches per
hour). The depth to any water impermeable layer is
greater than 50 centimeters [20 inches]. The depth
to the water table is greater than 60 centimeters [24
inches]. Soils that are deeper than 100 centimeters [40
inches] to a restriction and a water table are in group
C if the saturated hydraulic conductivity of all soil lay-
ers within 100 centimeters [40 inches] of the surface
exceeds 0.40 micrometers per second (0.06 inches per
hour) but is less than 4.0 micrometers per second (0.57
inches per hour).
Group D—Soils in this group have high runoff poten-
tial when thoroughly wet. Water movement through
the soil is restricted or very restricted. Group D soils
typically have greater than 40 percent clay, less than 50
percent sand, and have clayey textures. In some areas,
they also have high shrink-swell potential. All soils
with a depth to a water impermeable layer less than 50
centimeters [20 inches] and all soils with a water table
Chapter 7 Hydrologic Soil Groups Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

within 60 centimeters [24 inches] of the surface are in movement generally determines the soil’s hydrologic
this group, although some may have a dual classifica- group. In anomalous situations, when adjustments to
tion, as described in the next section, if they can be hydrologic soil group become necessary, they shall be
adequately drained. made by the NRCS State soil scientist in consultation
with the State conservation engineer.
The limits on the physical diagnostic characteristics
of group D are as follows. For soils with a water im-
permeable layer at a depth between 50 centimeters
and 100 centimeters [20 and 40 inches], the saturated
hydraulic conductivity in the least transmissive soil
layer is less than or equal to 1.0 micrometers per sec-
ond (0.14 inches per hour). For soils that are deeper
than 100 centimeters [40 inches] to a restriction or
water table, the saturated hydraulic conductivity of all
soil layers within 100 centimeters [40 inches] of the
surface is less than or equal to 0.40 micrometers per
second (0.06 inches per hour).

Dual hydrologic soil groups—Certain wet soils are

placed in group D based solely on the presence of a
water table within 60 centimeters [24 inches] of the
surface even though the saturated hydraulic conduc-
tivity may be favorable for water transmission. If these
soils can be adequately drained, then they are assigned
to dual hydrologic soil groups (A/D, B/D, and C/D)
based on their saturated hydraulic conductivity and
the water table depth when drained. The first letter
applies to the drained condition and the second to the
undrained condition. For the purpose of hydrologic
soil group, adequately drained means that the seasonal
high water table is kept at least 60 centimeters [24
inches] below the surface in a soil where it would be
higher in a natural state.

Matrix of hydrologic soil group assignment

criteria—The decision matrix in table 7–1 can be used
to determine a soil’s hydrologic soil group. If saturated
hydraulic conductivity data are available and deemed
to be reliable, then these data, along with water table
depth information, should be used to place the soil
into the appropriate hydrologic soil group. If these
data are not available, the hydrologic soil group is
determined by observing the properties of the soil in
the field. Factors such as texture, compaction (bulk
density), strength of soil structure, clay mineralogy,
and organic matter are considered in estimating the
hydraulic conductivity of each layer in the soil profile.
The depth and hydraulic conductivity of any water im-
permeable layer and the depth to any high water table
are used to determine correct hydrologic soil group
for the soil. The property that is most limiting to water

(210–VI–NEH, January 2009) 7–3

Chapter 7 Hydrologic Soil Groups Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Table 7–1 Criteria for assignment of hydrologic soil group (HSG)

Depth to water Depth to high Ksat of least transmissive Ksat depth HSG 3/
impermeable layer 1/ water table 2/ layer in depth range range
<50 cm
— — — D
[<20 in]
>40.0 µm/s 0 to 60 cm
A/D
(>5.67 in/h) [0 to 24 in]
>10.0 to ≤40.0 µm/s 0 to 60 cm
B/D
<60 cm (>1.42 to ≤5.67 in/h) [0 to 24 in]
[<24 in] >1.0 to ≤10.0 µm/s 0 to 60 cm
C/D
(>0.14 to ≤1.42 in/h) [0 to 24 in]
≤1.0 µm/s 0 to 60 cm
D
50 to 100 cm (≤0.14 in/h) [0 to 24 in]
[20 to 40 in] >40.0 µm/s 0 to 50 cm
A
(>5.67 in/h) [0 to 20 in]
>10.0 to ≤40.0 µm/s 0 to 50 cm
B
≥60 cm (>1.42 to ≤5.67 in/h) [0 to 20 in]
[≥24 in] >1.0 to ≤10.0 µm/s 0 to 50 cm
C
(>0.14 to ≤1.42 in/h) [0 to 20 in]
≤1.0 µm/s 0 to 50 cm
D
(≤0.14 in/h) [0 to 20 in]
>10.0 µm/s 0 to 100 cm
A/D
(>1.42 in/h) [0 to 40 in]
>4.0 to ≤10.0 µm/s 0 to 100 cm
B/D
<60 cm (>0.57 to ≤1.42 in/h) [0 to 40 in]
[<24 in] >0.40 to ≤4.0 µm/s 0 to 100 cm
C/D
(>0.06 to ≤0.57 in/h) [0 to 40 in]
≤0.40 µm/s 0 to 100 cm
D
>100 cm (≤0.06 in/h) [0 to 40 in]
[>40 in] >40.0 µm/s 0 to 50 cm
A
(>5.67 in/h) [0 to 20 in]
>10.0 to ≤40.0 µm/s 0 to 50 cm
B
60 to 100 cm (>1.42 to ≤5.67 in/h) [0 to 20 in]
[24 to 40 in] >1.0 to ≤10.0 µm/s 0 to 50 cm
C
(>0.14 to ≤1.42 in/h) [0 to 20 in]
≤1.0 µm/s 0 to 50 cm
D
(≤0.14 in/h) [0 to 20 in]
>10.0 µm/s 0 to 100 cm
A
(>1.42 in/h) [0 to 40 in]
>4.0 to ≤ 10.0 µm/s 0 to 100 cm
B
>100 cm (>0.57 to ≤1.42 in/h) [0 to 40 in]
[>40 in] >0.40 to ≤4.0 µm/s 0 to 100 cm
C
(>0.06 to ≤0.57 in/h) [0 to 40 in]
≤0.40 µm/s 0 to 100 cm
D
(≤0.06 in/h) [0 to 40 in]
1/ An impermeable layer has a Ksat less than 0.01 µm/s [0.0014 in/h] or a component restriction of fragipan;
duripan; petrocalcic; orstein; petrogypsic; cemented horizon; densic material; placic; bedrock, paralithic;
bedrock, lithic; bedrock, densic; or permafrost.
2/ High water table during any month during the year.
3/ Dual HSG classes are applied only for wet soils (water table less than 60 cm [24 in]). If these soils can be
drained, a less restrictive HSG can be assigned, depending on the Ksat.

7–4 (210–VI–NEH, January 2009)

Chapter 7 Hydrologic Soil Groups
630.0702 Disturbed soils
As a result of construction and other disturbances,
the soil profile can be altered from its natural state
and the listed group assignments generally no longer
apply, nor can any supposition based on the natural
soil be made that will accurately describe the hydro-
logic properties of the disturbed soil. In these circum-
stances, an onsite investigation should be made to
determine the hydrologic soil group. A general set of
guidelines for estimating saturated hydraulic conduc-
tivity from field observable characteristics is presented
in the Soil Survey Manual (Soil Survey Staff 1993).
(210–VI–NEH, January 2009)
Part 630
National Engineering Handbook
630.0703 References
Musgrave, G.W. 1955. How much of the rain enters the
soil? In Water: U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Yearbook. Washington, DC. pp. 151–159.
Nielsen, R.D., and A.T. Hjelmfelt. 1998. Hydrologic soil
group assessment. Water Resources Engineering
98. In Abt, Young-Pezeshk, and Watson (eds.),
Proc. of Internat. Water Resources Eng. Conf.,
Am. Soc. Civil Engr: pp. 1297–1302.
Rawls, W.J., and D.L. Brakensiek. 1983. A procedure
to predict Green-Ampt infiltration parameters. In
Advances in infiltration. Proc. of the National Con-
ference on Advances in Infiltration. Chicago, IL.
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources
Conservation Service. 1993. Soil Survey Manual.
Agricultural Handbook No. 18, chapter 3. U.S.
Government Printing Office, Washington, DC.
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources
Conservation Service. 1993. National Engineering
Handbook, title 210–VI. Part 630, chapters 9 and
10. Washington, DC. Available online at http://di-
rectives.sc.egov.usda.gov/.
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources
Conservation Service. 2005. National Soil Sur-
vey Handbook, title 430–VI. Washington, DC.
Available online at http://soils.usda.gov/techni-
cal/handbook/.
7–5
United States
Department of Part 630 Hydrology
Agriculture

Natural
National Engineering Handbook
Resources
Conservation
Service

Chapter 8 Land Use and Treatment

Classes

Rain clouds
Cloud formation

Precipitation

n
iratio
Evaporation
n

ean
tio

Transp
soil
ta

from oc
ge
ve

fr o m
m

n
fr o

ti o

s
am
n

ir a
ti o

tr e
sp
ra
po

an

ms
va

Tr

Surfa E
fr o

ce ru
noff

Infiltration

Soil
Percolation

Rock Ocean
Ground water
Deep percolation

(210-VI-NEH, June 2002)

Chapter 8 Land Use and Treatment Classes Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Issued June 2002

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all

its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex,
religion, age, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or
family status. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs.) Persons with
disabilities who require alternative means for communication of program
information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should contact USDA’s
TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TDD).

To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil

Rights, Room 326W, Whitten Building, 14th and Independence Avenue, SW,
Washington, DC 20250-9410 or call (202) 720-5964 (voice and TDD). USDA
is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

(210-VI-NEH, June 2002)

Acknowledgments

Chapter 8 was originally prepared by Victor Mockus, retired hydraulic

engineer, USDA Soil Conservation Service, and was published in 1964. It
was reprinted with minor revisions in 1969. This version was prepared by
the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)/Agricultural Research
Service (ARS) Curve Number Work Group. Members of this group are:

Natural Resources Conservation Service

Donald E. Woodward, national hydraulic engineer, Washington, DC
R.D. Neilsen, soil scientist, Lincoln, Nebraska
R. Kluth (retired)
A. Plummer
J. Van Mullem (retired)
G. Conaway (retired)

Agricultural Research Service

B. Gburek
K. Cooley (retired)

University of Arizona
R.H. Hawkins

(210-VI-NEH, June 2002) 8–i

8–ii (210-VI-NEH, June 2002)
Chapter 8 Land Use and Treatment
Classes

Contents: 630.0800 General 8–1

630.0801 Classification of land use and treatment 8–1

630.0802 Classes 8–2

(a) Cultivated land .............................................................................................. 8–2
(b) Grassland ....................................................................................................... 8–3
(c) Woods and forest .......................................................................................... 8–4

630.0803 Determinations of classes 8–4

630.0804 References 8–5

Tables Table 8–1 Classification of native pasture or range 8–3

Table 8–2 Air-dry weight classification of native pasture or range 8–3

Table 8–3 Classification of woods 8–4

(210-VI-NEH, June 2002) 8–iii

Chapter 8 Land Use and Treatment Classes
630.0800 General
The land use and treatment classes ordinarily evalu-
ated in watershed studies are briefly described. These
classes are used in determining hydrologic soil-cover
complexes which are used in a method for estimating
runoff from rainfall. See National Engineering Hand-
book, section 630 (NEH 630), chapter 9 for more
information on hydrologic soil-cover complexes and
chapter 10 for methods for estimating runoff from
rainfall.
(210-VI-NEH, June 2002)
630.0801 Classification of
land use and treatment
In the Natural Resources Conservation Service
(NRCS) method of runoff estimation, the effects of the
surface conditions of a watershed are evaluated by
means of land use and treatment classes. Land use is
the watershed cover and includes every kind of vegeta-
tion, litter and mulch, fallow, and bare soil as well as
nonagricultural uses, such as water surface (lakes,
swamps) and impervious surfaces (roads, roofs). Land
treatment applies mainly to agricultural land uses and
includes mechanical practices, such as contouring or
terracing, and management practices, such as grazing
control or rotation of crops. The classes consist of use
and treatment combinations that actually occur on
watersheds.
Land use and treatment classes are readily obtained
either by observation or by measurement of plant and
litter density and extent on sample areas.
8–1
Chapter 8 Land Use and Treatment Classes
630.0802 Classes
The land uses and treatments described here are listed
in NEH 630, chapter 9, table 9–1. This table also shows
the runoff curve numbers (CN) for hydrologic soil-
cover complexes for which the hydrologic conditions
are listed.
(a) Cultivated land
Fallow listed in table 9–1 is the agricultural land use
and treatment with the highest potential for runoff
because the land is kept as bare as possible to con-
serve moisture for use by a succeeding crop. The loss
by runoff is offset by the gain because of reduced
transpiration. Other kinds of fallow, such as stubble
mulch, are not listed, but they can be evaluated by
comparing their field condition with those for classes
that are listed.
Row crop is any field crop (maize, sorghum, soy-
beans, sugarbeets, tomatoes, tulips) planted in rows
far enough apart that most of the soil surface is ex-
posed to rainfall impact throughout the growing sea-
son. At planting time the crop is equivalent to fallow
and may be so again after harvest. In most evaluations
the average condition when runoff occurs is assumed.
Row crops are planted either in straight rows or on the
contour, and they are in either a poor or a good rota-
tion. These land treatments are described later in this
chapter.
Small grain (wheat, oats, barley, flax) is planted in
rows close enough that the soil surface is not exposed
except during planting and shortly thereafter. Land
treatments are those used with row crops.
Close-seeded or broadcast legumes or rotation
meadows (alfalfa, sweetclover, timothy, and combina-
tions of these) are either planted in close rows or
broadcast. This cover may be allowed to remain for
more than a year so that year-round protection is given
to the soil.
Straight-row fields are those farmed in straight rows
either up and down the hill or across the slope. Where
land slopes are less than about 2 percent, farming
across the slope in straight rows is equivalent to
8–2 (210-VI-NEH, June 2002)
Part 630
National Engineering Handbook
contouring and should be so considered when using
table 9–1.
Rotations are planned sequences of crops, and their
purpose is to maintain soil fertility or reduce erosion
or provide an annual supply of a particular crop.
Hydrologically, rotations range from poor to good in
proportion to the amount of dense vegetation in the
rotation, and they are evaluated in terms of hydrologic
effects. Poor rotations are generally one-crop land
uses, such as continuous corn (maize) or continuous
wheat or combinations of row crops, small grains, and
fallow. Good rotations generally include alfalfa or
another close-seeded legume or grass to improve tilth
and increase infiltration. Their hydrologic effects may
carry over into succeeding years after the crop is
removed though normally the effects are minor after
the second year. The carryover effect is not consid-
ered in table 9–1.
Contoured fields are those farmed as nearly as
possible on the contour. The hydrologic effect of
contouring results from the surface storage provided
by the furrows because the storage prolongs the time
during which infiltration can take place. The magni-
tude of storage depends not only on the dimensions of
the furrows, but also on the land slope, crop, and
manner of planting and cultivation. Planting small
grains or legumes on the contour makes small furrows
that disappear because of climatic action during the
growing season. The contour furrows used with row
crops are either large when the crop is planted and
made smaller by cultivation or small after planting and
made larger by cultivation, depending on the type of
farming. Average conditions for the growing season
are used in table 9–1. The relative effects of contouring
for all croplands shown in the table are based on data
from experimental watersheds having slopes from 3 to
8 percent. Stripcropping is a land use and treatment
not specifically shown in table 9–1 because it is a
composite of uses and treatments. It is evaluated by
the method of example 10–4 in chapter 10. The ter-
raced entries in table 9–1 refer to systems that have
open-end level or graded terraces, grassed waterway
outlets, and contour furrows between the terraces.
The hydrologic effects are due to the replacement of a
low-infiltration land use by grassed waterways and to
the increased opportunity for infiltration in the fur-
rows and terraces. Closed-end level terraces, not
shown in table 9–1, are evaluated by the methods in
NEH 630, chapter 12.
Chapter 8 Land Use and Treatment Classes
Conservation tillage is an umbrella term used to
represent specific residue management practices, such
as no-till/strip-till, mulch-till, or ridge-till. These prac-
tices leave all or a portion of the previous crop’s
residue on the soil surface to:
• reduce soil erosion caused by the forces of wind
and water,
• reduce surface runoff,
• increase infiltration, and
• reduce evaporation.
No-till is defined as managing the amount, orientation,
and distribution of crop and other plant residue on the
soil surface year-round while growing crops in narrow
slots or tilled or residue-free strips in soil previously
untilled by full-width inversion implements.
Mulch-till is defined as managing the amount, orienta-
tion, and distribution of crop and other plant residue
on the soil surface year-round while growing crops
where the entire field surface is tilled prior to planting.
Ridge-till is defined as managing the amount, orienta-
tion, and distribution of crop and other plant residue
on the soil surface year-round while growing crops on
preformed ridges alternated with furrows protected by
crop residue (NRCS 1999).
Table 8–1 Classification of native pasture or range
Vegetative condition Hydrologic condition
Heavily grazed—No mulch or has Poor
plant cover on < 0.5 of area
Not heavily grazed—Plant cover on Fair
0.5 to 0.75 of the area
Lightly grazed—Plant cover on Good
> 0.75 of the area
(210-VI-NEH, June 2002)
Part 630
National Engineering Handbook
(b) Grassland
Grassland in watersheds can be evaluated by means of
the three hydrologic conditions of native pasture or
range shown in table 8–1, which are based on cover
effectiveness, not forage production. The percent of
area covered (or density) and the intensity of grazing
are visually estimated. In making the estimates, con-
sider that grazing on any but dry soils results in lower-
ing of infiltration rates because of compaction of the
soil by hooves, an effect that may carry over for a year
or more even without further grazing.
An alternative system of evaluation is shown in table
8–2. In this system, density and air-dry weights of
grasses and litter are used. The air-dry weights are
determined by sampling. The field work can be kept to
a minimum by sampling a small number of representa-
tive sites rather than a large number of random sites.
In the table the classes with plus signs are midway
between adjacent classes so that the CN for these
classes must be obtained by interpolation in table 9–1.
Contour furrows on native pasture or range are longer
lasting than those on cultivated land, their length of
life being dependent on the soil, intensity of grazing,
and on the density of cover. The dimensions and
spacings of furrows vary with climate and topography.
The CN in table 9–1 are based on data from contoured
grassland watersheds in the central and southern
Great Plains. Terraces are seldom used on grassland.
When they are, the construction methods expose bare
soils, and for 2 or 3 years the terraced grassland is
more like terraced cropland in its effect on surface
runoff.
Table 8–2 Air-dry weight classification of native pasture
or range
Cover density (%) Plant and litter air-dry weight (tons/ac) 1/
< 0.5 0.5 to 1.5 > 1.5
< 50 Poor Poor + Fair
50 to 75 Poor + Fair Fair +
> 75 Fair Fair + Good
1/ Classes with plus signs are midway between adjacent classes so
CN must be obtained by interpolation in table 9–1.
8–3
Chapter 8 Land Use and Treatment Classes
Meadow is a field on which grass is continuously
grown, protected from grazing, and generally mowed
for hay. Drained meadows (those having a low water
table) have little or no surface runoff except during
storms that have a high rainfall intensity. Undrained
meadows (those having a high water table) may be so
wet that they are the equivalent of water surfaces in
the runoff computations of chapter 10. If a wet
meadow is drained, its soil-group classification as well
as its land use and treatment class may change (see
chapter 7 regarding the change in soil classification
and/or dual hydrologic soil groups).
(c) Woods and forest
Woods are usually small isolated groves of trees being
raised for farm or ranch use. The woods can be evalu-
ated as shown in table 8–3, which is based on cover
effectiveness, not on timber production. The hydro-
logic condition is visually estimated. In areas where
national or commercial forest covers a large part of a
watershed, the NRCS hydrologist is guided by the
letter between the Forest Service and the Soil Conser-
vation Service dated November 8, 1954 (USDA 1954).
Table 8–3 Classification of woods
Vegetative condition Hydrologic condition
Heavily grazed or regularly burned. Poor
Litter, small trees, and brush are
destroyed.
Grazed, but not burned. Some litter, Fair
but woods are not protected.
Protected from grazing. Litter and Good
shrubs cover the soil.
8–4
Part 630
National Engineering Handbook
630.0803 Determinations
of classes
The land use and treatment classes on a watershed
can be determined at the same time the soils are
classified (NEH 630, ch. 7). As with soils, the classes
are determined for hydrologic unit (NEH 630, ch. 6).
Locations of the classes within the units are ignored. A
worksheet with classes shown in the order given in
table 9–1 is convenient for tabulating percentages or
acreages and is useful later in computing weighted CN.
Classifying the cover on a 400 square mile watershed
should take less than a day. The data may be available
as digital overlays in a Geographic Information System
(GIS) format.
For an analytical study of the effects of cover location
in a watershed on the shapes of outflow hydrographs,
see the chapter by Merrill Bernard in Headwaters
Control and Use (USDA 1937). Bernard's study shows
that the percentage of area in high runoff producing
crops has more influence on the hydrographs than
does the location of these crops within the watershed.
The effect of location is significant, however, when
corn and grass are concentrated in equal-sized areas.
(210-VI-NEH, June 2002)
Chapter 8 Land Use and Treatment Classes Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

630.0804 References

Bernard, Merrill. 1937. Headwaters control and use.

U.S. Dep. Agric., Washington, DC.

United States Department of Agriculture. 1954. Letter

between U.S. Forest Service and the Soil Conser-
vation Service, November 8, 1954, on classifying
hydrologic condition of woods and forests.

United States Department of Agriculture, Forest Ser-

vice. 1959. Forest and range hydrology hand-
book. Washington, DC.

United States Department of Agriculture, Natural

Resources Conservation Service. 1999. Introduc-
tion to crop residue management and conserva-
tion tillage. In CORE4 Conservation Practices,
part 1, chapter 1.

(210-VI-NEH, June 2002) 8–5

United States
Department of Part 630 Hydrology
Agriculture
Natural
National Engineering Handbook
Resources
Conservation
Service

Chapter 9 Hydrologic Soil-Cover

Complexes

Rain clouds
Cloud formation

Precipitation

n
iratio
Evaporation
n

ean
tio

Transp
s o il
ta

from oc
ge
ve

fr o m
m

n
fro

ti o

s
am
n

ir a
ti o

tr e
sp
ra
po

an

ms
va

Tr

Surfa E
ce ru
fr o

noff

Infiltration

Soil
Percolation

Rock Ocean
Ground water
Deep percolation

(210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

Chapter 9 Hydrologic Soil-Cover Complexes Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Issued July 2004

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all

its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex,
religion, age, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or
family status. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs.) Persons with
disabilities who require alternative means for communication of program
information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should contact USDA’s
TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TDD).

To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil

Rights, Room 326W, Whitten Building, 14th and Independence Avenue, SW,
Washington, DC 20250-9410 or call (202) 720-5964 (voice and TDD). USDA
is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

(210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

Acknowledgments

Chapter 9 was originally prepared by Victor Mockus, retired hydraulic

engineer, USDA Soil Conservation Service, and was published in 1964. It
was reprinted with minor revisions in 1969. This version was prepared by
the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)/Agricultural Research
Service (ARS) Curve Number Work Group and Helen Fox Moody, hy-
draulic engineer, NRCS, Beltsville, Maryland. Members of the NRCS/ARS
Curve Number Work Group are:

Natural Resources Conservation Service

Donald E. Woodward (retired)
Robert D. Nielsen, soil scientist, Lincoln, Nebraska
Robert Kluth (retired)
Arlis Plummer, hydraulic engineer, Lincoln, Nebraska
Joe Van Mullem (retired)
Gary Conaway (retired)

Agricultural Research Service

William J. Gburek, hydrologist, University Park, Pennsylvania
Keith Cooley (retired)
Allen T. Hjelmfelt, Jr. (retired)
Virginia A. Ferreira (retired)

University of Arizona
Richard H. Hawkins, Ph.D., professor, Tucson, Arizona

(210-VI-NEH, July 2004) 9–i

Chapter 9 Hydrologic Soil-Cover Complexes Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

9–ii (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

Chapter 9 Hydrologic Soil-Cover
Complexes

Contents: 630.0900 General 9–1

630.0901 Determinations of complexes and curve numbers 9–1

(a) Agricultural land ........................................................................................... 9–1
(b) National and commercial forest: forest-range ........................................... 9–4
(c) Urban and residential land .......................................................................... 9–8

630.0902 References 9–14

Tables Table 9–1 Runoff curve numbers for agricultural lands 9–2

Table 9–2 Runoff curve numbers for arid and semiarid rangelands 9–5

Table 9–3 Runoff curve numbers for hydrologic soil-cover 9–6

complexes in Puerto Rico

Table 9–4 Runoff curve numbers; tentative estimates for 9–7

sugarcane hydrologic soil-cover complexes in Hawaii

Table 9–5 Runoff curve numbers for urban areas 9–9

Figures Figure 9–1 Estimating runoff curve numbers of forest-range 9–4

complexes in Western United States: herbaceous and
oak-aspen complexes

Figure 9–2 Estimating runoff curve numbers of forest-range 9–4

complexes in Western United States: juniper-grass and
sage-grass complexes

Figure 9–3 Composite CN with connected impervious area 9–8

Figure 9–4 Composite CN with unconnected impervious areas 9–12

and total impervious area less than 30%

(210-VI-NEH, July 2004) 9–iii

Chapter 9 Hydrologic Soil-Cover Complexes Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Examples Example 9–1 Calculation of composite urban residential CN 9–10

with different percentage of impervious area than
that assumed in table 9–5

Example 9–2 Calculation of a composite urban residential CN 9–11

with different CN for the pervious area than that
assumed in table 9–5

Example 9–3 Determine the composite CN with unconnected 9–13

impervious areas and total impervious area less than 30%

9–iv (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

Chapter 9 Hydrologic Soil-Cover Complexes
630.0900 General
A combination of a hydrologic soil group (soil) and a
land use and treatment class (cover) is a hydrologic
soil-cover complex. This chapter gives tables and
graphs of runoff curve numbers (CNs) assigned to
such complexes. This CN indicates the runoff potential
of a complex during periods when the soil is not
frozen. A higher CN indicates a higher runoff potential
and specifies which runoff curve of appendix A or
figure 10–2 in National Engineering Handbook, part
630 (NEH 630), chapter 10, is to be used in estimat-
ing runoff for the complex. Applications and further
description of CNs are given in NEH 630, chapters 10
and 12.
(210-VI-NEH, July 2004)
630.0901 Determinations
of complexes and curve
numbers
(a) Agricultural land
Complexes and assigned CNs for combinations of soil
groups of NEH 630, chapter 7 and land use and treat-
ment classes of NEH 630, chapter 8 are given in table
9–1. Also given are some complexes that make appli-
cations of the table more direct. Impervious and water
surfaces, which are not listed, are always assigned a
CN of 98.
(1) Assignment of CNs to complexes
Table 9–1 was developed as follows:
• The data literature was searched for watersheds
in single complexes (one soil group and one
cover); watersheds were found for most of the
listed complexes.
• An average CN for each watershed was obtained
using rainfall-runoff data for storms producing
the annual floods. The watersheds were gener-
ally less than 1 square mile in size, the number of
watersheds for a complex varied, and the storms
were of 1 day or less duration.
• The CNs of watersheds in the same complex
were averaged and all CNs for a cover were
plotted. A curve for each cover was drawn with
greater weight given to CNs based on data from
more than one watershed, and each curve was
extended as far as necessary to provide CNs for
ungaged complexes. All but the last three lines of
CN entries in table 9–1 are taken from these
curves.
• For the complexes in the last three lines of table
9–1, the proportions of different covers were
estimated and the weighted CNs computed from
previously derived CNs.
Table 9–1 has not been significantly changed since its
construction in 1954 although CNs for crop residue
cover treatment has been added. Supplementary tables
for special regions have been developed and are
shown later in this chapter.
9–1
Chapter 9 Hydrologic Soil-Cover Complexes Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

(2) Use of table 9–1 in chapter 10. Because the principal use of CNs is for
Chapters 7 and 8 of NEH 630 describe how soils and estimating runoff from rainfall, the examples of
covers of watersheds or other land areas are classi- applications are given in chapter 10.
fied in the field. After the classification is completed,
CNs are read from table 9–1 and applied as described

Table 9–1 Runoff curve numbers for agricultural lands 1/

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Cover description - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - CN for hydrologic soil group - -

cover type treatment 2/ hydrologic condition 3/ A B C D

Fallow Bare Soil --- 77 86 91 94

Crop residue cover (CR) Poor 76 85 90 93
Good 74 83 88 90

Row crops Straight row (SR) Poor 72 81 88 91

Good 67 78 85 89
SR + CR Poor 71 80 87 90
Good 64 75 82 85
Contoured (C) Poor 70 79 84 88
Good 65 75 82 86
C + CR Poor 69 78 83 87
Good 64 74 81 85
Contoured & terraced (C & T) Poor 66 74 80 82
Good 62 71 78 81
C & T + CR Poor 65 73 79 81
Good 61 70 77 80

Small grain SR Poor 65 76 84 88

Good 63 75 83 87
SR + CR Poor 64 75 83 86
Good 60 72 80 84
C Poor 63 74 82 85
Good 61 73 81 84
C + CR Poor 62 73 81 84
Good 60 72 80 83
C&T Poor 61 72 79 82
Good 59 70 78 81
C & T + CR Poor 60 71 78 81
Good 58 69 77 80

Close-seeded or broadcast SR Poor 66 77 85 89

legumes or rotation Good 58 72 81 85
meadow C Poor 64 75 83 85
Good 55 69 78 83
C&T Poor 63 73 80 83
Good 51 67 76 80

See footnotes at end of table.

9–2 (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

Chapter 9 Hydrologic Soil-Cover Complexes Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Table 9–1 Runoff curve numbers for agricultural lands 1/ — Continued

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Cover description - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - CN for hydrologic soil group - -

cover type treatment 2/ hydrologic condition 3/ A B C D

Pasture, grassland, or range- Poor 68 79 86 89

continuous forage for Fair 49 69 79 84
grazing 4/ Good 39 61 74 80

Meadow-continuous grass, Good 30 58 71 78

protected from grazing and
generally mowed for hay

Brush-brush-forbs-grass Poor 48 67 77 83
mixture with brush the Fair 35 56 70 77
major element 5/ Good 30 6/ 48 65 73

Woods-grass combination Poor 57 73 82 86

(orchard or tree farm) 7/ Fair 43 65 76 82
Good 32 58 72 79

Woods 8/ Poor 45 66 77 83
Fair 36 60 73 79
Good 30 55 70 77

Farmstead--buildings, lanes, --- 59 74 82 86

driveways, and surrounding lots

Roads (including right-of-way):

Dirt --- 72 82 87 89
Gravel --- 76 85 89 91
1/ Average runoff condition, and Ia=0.2s.
2/ Crop residue cover applies only if residue is on at least 5 percent of the surface throughout the year.
3/ Hydrologic condition is based on combinations of factors that affect infiltration and runoff, including (a) density and canopy of vegetative
areas, (b) amount of year-round cover, (c) amount of grass or close-seeded legumes, (d) percent of residue cover on the land surface (good
>20%), and (e) degree of surface toughness.
Poor: Factors impair infiltration and tend to increase runoff.
Good: Factors encourage average and better then average infiltration and tend to decrease runoff.
For conservation tillage poor hydrologic condition, 5 to 20 percent of the surface is covered with residue (less than 750 pounds per acre for
row crops or 300 pounds per acre for small grain).
For conservation tillage good hydrologic condition, more than 20 percent of the surface is covered with residue (greater than 750 pounds
per acre for row crops or 300 pounds per acre for small grain).
4/ Poor: < 50% ground cover or heavily grazed with no mulch.
Fair: 50 to 75% ground cover and not heavily grazed.
Good: > 75% ground cover and lightly or only occasionally grazed.
5/ Poor: < 50% ground cover.
Fair: 50 to 75% ground cover.
Good: > 75% ground cover.
6/ If actual curve number is less than 30, use CN = 30 for runoff computation.
7/ CNs shown were computed for areas with 50 percent woods and 50 percent grass (pasture) cover. Other combinations of conditions may
be computed from the CNs for woods and pasture.
8/ Poor: Forest litter, small trees, and brush are destroyed by heavy grazing or regular burning.
Fair: Woods are grazed, but not burned, and some forest litter covers the soil.
Good: Woods are protected from grazing, and litter and brush adequately cover the soil.

(210-VI-NEH, July 2004) 9–3

Chapter 9 Hydrologic Soil-Cover Complexes Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

(b) National and commercial Figure 9–1 Estimating runoff curve numbers of forest-
range complexes in Western United States:
forest: forest-range herbaceous and oak-aspen complexes

(1) Forest-range in Western United States 100

In the forest-range regions of the Western United
Soil group
States, soil group, cover type, and cover density are D
the principal factors used in estimating CNs. Figures
80
9–1 and 9–2 show the relationships between these C
factors and CNs for soil-cover complexes used to
date. The figures are based on information in table B

Curve number
2–1, part 2, of the USDA Forest Service's Handbook 60
on Methods of Hydrologic Analysis (USDA 1959b).
The amount of litter is taken into account when C
estimating the density of cover. 40
B
Present hydrologic conditions are determined from AMC II
existing surveys or by reconnaissance, and future 20 Herbaceous
conditions from the estimate of cover and density Oak-Aspen
changes resulting from proper use and treatment.
Table 9–2 lists CNs for arid and semiarid rangelands.
0
It is used like table 9–1. 0 20 40 60 80 100
Ground cover density in percent

Figure 9–2 Estimating runoff curve numbers of forest-

range complexes in Western United States:
juniper-grass and sage-grass complexes

100

80
Soil
group

C
Curve number

60

C
B
40
B

AMC II
20 Juniper-grass
Sage-grass

0
0 20 40 60 80 100
Ground cover density in percent

9–4 (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

Chapter 9 Hydrologic Soil-Cover Complexes Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Table 9–2 Runoff curve numbers for arid and semiarid rangelands 1/

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Cover description - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Hydrologic soil group - - - - -

cover type hydrologic condition 2/ A 3/ B C D

Herbaceous—mixture of grass, weeds and low-growing Poor 80 87 93

brush, with brush the minor element Fair 71 81 89
Good 62 74 85

Oak-aspen—mountain brush mixture of oak brush, aspen, Poor 66 74 79

mountain mahogany, bitter brush, maple, and other brush Fair 48 57 63
Good 30 41 48

Pinyon-juniper—pinyon, juniper, or both; grass understory Poor 75 85 89

Fair 58 73 80
Good 41 61 71

Sage-grass—sage with an understory of grass Poor 67 80 85

Fair 51 63 70
Good 35 47 55

Desert shrub—major plants include saltbush, greasewood, Poor 63 77 85 88

creosotebush, blackbrush, bursage, paloverde, mesquite, Fair 55 72 81 86
and cactus Good 49 68 79 84
1/ Average runoff condition, and Ia = 0.2s. For range in humid regions, use table 9–1.
2/ Poor: <30% ground cover (litter, grass, and brush overstory).
Fair: 30 to 70% ground cover.
Good: >70% ground cover.
3/ Curve numbers for group A have been developed only for desert shrub.

(210-VI-NEH, July 2004) 9–5

Chapter 9 Hydrologic Soil-Cover Complexes Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

(2) Supplementary tables of CNs Table 9–4 gives CNs for sugarcane complexes in
Tables 9–3 and 9–4 are supplements to table 9–1 and Hawaii. The CNs are tentative estimates now under-
are used in the same way. Table 9–3 gives CNs for going study.
selected covers in Puerto Rico. The CNs were ob-
tained using a relation between storm and annual
data and the annual rainfall-runoff data for experi-
mental plots at Mayaguez, Puerto Rico.

Table 9–3 Runoff curve numbers for hydrologic soil-cover complexes in Puerto Rico 1/

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - Cover description - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - CN for hydrologic soil group - -

cover type and hydrologic condition A B C D

Fallow 77 86 91 93

Grass (bunchgrass or poor stand of sod) 51 70 80 84

Coffee (no ground cover, no terraces) 48 68 79 83

(with ground cover and terraces) 22 52 68 75

Minor crops (garden or truck crops) 45 66 77 83

Tropical kudzu 19 50 67 74

Sugarcane: (trash burned, straight-row) 43 65 77 82

(trash mulch, straight-row) 45 66 77 83
(in holes, on contour) 24 53 69 76
(in furrows, on contour) 32 58 72 79
1/ Average runoff condition, and Ia = 0.2S.

9–6 (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

Chapter 9 Hydrologic Soil-Cover Complexes Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Table 9–4 Runoff curve numbers; tentative estimates for sugarcane hydrologic soil-cover complexes in Hawaii 1/

Cover and treatment 2/ - - - - - - - Hydrologic soil group - - - - - - -

A B C D

Sugarcane:
Limited cover, straight row 67 78 85 89
Partial cover, straight row 49 69 79 84
Complete cover, straight row 39 61 74 80
Limited cover, contoured 65 75 82 86
Partial cover, contoured 25 59 75 83
Complete cover, contoured 6 35 70 79
1/ Average runoff condition and Ia = 0.2S.
2/ Degrees of cover:
Limited cover—Cane newly planted, or ratooned cane with a limited root system; canopy over less than half the field area.
Partial cover—Cane in the transition period between limited and complete cover; canopy over half to nearly the entire field area.
Complete cover—Cane from the stage of growth when full canopy is provided to the stage at harvest.
Straight-row planting is up and down hill or cross-slope on slopes greater than 2 percent.
Contoured planting is the usual contouring or cross-slope planting on slopes less than 2 percent.

(210-VI-NEH, July 2004) 9–7

Chapter 9 Hydrologic Soil-Cover Complexes Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

(c) Urban and residential land (1) Connected impervious areas

Several factors, such as the percentage of impervi-
ous area and the means of conveying runoff from
impervious areas to the drainage system, should be
considered in computing CNs for urban areas (Rawls
et al., 1981). For example, do the impervious areas
connect directly to the drainage system, or do they
outlet onto lawns or other pervious areas where
infiltration can occur?
The urban and residential CNs given in table 9–5
were developed for typical land use relationships
based on specific assumed percentages of impervi-
ous area. These CN values were developed on the
assumptions that
An impervious area is considered connected if runoff
from it flows directly into the drainage system. It is
also considered connected if runoff from it occurs as
shallow concentrated flow that runs over a pervious
area and then into a drainage system.
If all of the impervious area is directly connected to
the drainage system, but the impervious area per-
centages in table 9–5 or the pervious land use as-
sumptions are not applicable, use equation 9–1 or
figure 9–3 to compute a composite CN.
P 
 100 
(
CNc = CN p +  imp  98 − CN p ) [9–1]

• pervious urban areas are equivalent to pasture

in good hydrologic condition, where:
• impervious areas have a CN of 98 and are CNc = composite runoff curve number
directly connected to the drainage system, and CNp = pervious runoff curve number
• the cover types listed have assumed percent- Pimp = percent imperviousness.
ages of impervious area as shown in table 9–5.

Sheet flow is flow over plane surfaces that usually

occurs in the headwater of streams immediately
after the rainfall’s impact. Sheet flow has very shal-
low flow depths of 0.05 to 0.1 foot,
Figure 9–3 Composite CN with connected impervious area
with laminar flow characteristics of
parallel or nearly parallel flowlines
and a maximum flow length of 100 100
feet.
Pervious CN = 90

Shallow concentrated flow occurs 90 80

downstream from sheet flow and
Composite CN

70
upstream from flow in a defined 80
channel. In shallow concentrated 60
flow, the water flows in nonparallel 50
70
flow paths, and flow depths range
from 0.1 foot to as much as 0.5 foot. 40

60
In concentrated flow the water
follows definite channels that are a
50
discernable feature on the ground
surface. See NEH 630, Chapter 15,
Time of Concentration, for more 40
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100
information on these flow types.
Connected impervious area (percent)

9–8 (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

Chapter 9 Hydrologic Soil-Cover Complexes Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Table 9–5 Runoff curve numbers for urban areas 1/

Cover description Average percent - - CN for hydrologic soil group - -

cover type and hydrologic condition impervious area 2/ A B C D

Fully developed urban areas (vegetation established)

Open space (lawns, parks, golf courses, cemeteries, etc.) 3/

Poor condition (grass cover < 50%) 68 79 86 89
Fair condition (grass cover 50% to 75%) 49 69 79 84
Good condition (grass cover > 75%) 39 61 74 80

Impervious areas:
Paved parking lots, roofs, driveways, etc.
(excluding right-of-way) 98 98 98 98
Streets and roads:
Paved; curbs and storm sewers (excluding right-of-way) 98 98 98 98
Paved; open ditches (including right-of-way) 83 89 92 93
Gravel (including right-of-way) 76 85 89 91
Dirt (including right-of-way) 72 82 87 89

Western desert urban areas:

Natural desert landscaping (pervious areas only) 4/ 63 77 85 88
Artificial desert landscaping (impervious weed barrier,
desert shrub with 1- to 2-inch sand or gravel mulch
and basin borders) 96 96 96 96

Urban districts:
Commercial and business 85 89 92 94 95
Industrial 72 81 88 91 93

Residential districts by average lot size:

1/8 acre or less (town houses) 65 77 85 90 92
1/4 acre 38 61 75 83 87
1/3 acre 30 57 72 81 86
1/2 acre 25 54 70 80 85
1 acre 20 51 68 79 84
2 acres 12 46 65 77 82

Developing urban areas

Newly graded areas (pervious areas only, no vegetation) 77 86 91 94
1/ Average runoff condition, and Ia = 0.2S.
2/ The average percent impervious area shown was used to develop the composite CNs. Other assumptions are as follows: impervious areas are
directly connected to the drainage system, impervious areas have a CN of 98, and pervious areas are considered equivalent to open space in
good hydrologic condition.
3/ CNs shown are equivalent to those of pasture. Composite CNs may be computed for other combinations of open space type.
4/ Composite CNs for natural desert landscaping should be computed using figures 9–3 or 9–4 based on the impervious area percentage
(CN=98) and the pervious area CN. The pervious area CNs are assumed equivalent to desert shrub in poor hydrologic condition.

(210-VI-NEH, July 2004) 9–9

Chapter 9 Hydrologic Soil-Cover Complexes Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Example 9–1 Calculation of composite urban residential CN with different percentage of impervious area than that
assumed in table 9–5

Given: Table 9–5 gives a CN of 70 for a ½-acre lot in HSG B with an assumed impervious area of 25
percent. The pervious area CN is 61.

Problem: Find the CN to be used if the lot has 20 percent impervious area.

Solution: Method 1—Solve equation 9–1 with CNp, the pervious runoff curve number, equal to 61 and
Pimp, the percent imperviousness, equal to 20:

 20 
CNc = 61 + 
 100 
( 98 − 61)
CNc = 61 + (.20 )( 37 )
CNc = 61 + 7.4
CNc = 68.4
4 round to 68

The CN difference between 70 in table 9–5 and 68 reflects the difference in percent
impervious area.

Method 2—Enter figure 9–3 with the percentage of impervious area equal to 20 and move up
to a point a little above the curve representing a pervious curve number of 60 to find the point
for a pervious CN of 61. Read the Composite CN of 68 on the left axis.

The CN difference between 70 in table 9–5 and 68 reflects the difference in percent
impervious area.

9–10 (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

Chapter 9 Hydrologic Soil-Cover Complexes Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Example 9–2 Calculation of a composite urban residential CN with different CN for the pervious area than that assumed in
table 9–5

Given: Table 9–5 gives a CN of 70 for a ½-acre lot in HSG B with an assumed impervious area of 25
percent. The pervious area CN is 61.

Problem: Find the CN to be used if the lot’s pervious area has a CN of 69, indicating fair condition
instead of good condition.

Solution: Method 1—Solve equation 9–1 with CNp, the pervious runoff curve number, equal to 69 and
Pimp, the percent imperviousness, equal to 25:

 25 
CNc = 69 + 
 100 
( 98 − 69)
CNc = 69 + (.25 )( 29 )
CNc = 69 + 7.25
CNc = 76.25 round to 76

The CN difference between 70 in table 9–5 and 76 reflects the difference in the pervious area
CN.

Method 2—Enter figure 9–3 with the percentage of impervious area equal to 25 and move up
to a point a little below the curve representing a pervious curve number of 70 to find the point
for a pervious CN of 69. Read the Composite CN of 76 on the left axis.

The CN difference between 70 in table 9–5 and 76 reflects the difference in the pervious area
CN.

(210-VI-NEH, July 2004) 9–11

Chapter 9 Hydrologic Soil-Cover Complexes Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

(2) Unconnected impervious areas where:

If runoff from impervious areas occurs over a pervi-
ous area as sheet flow prior to entering the drainage
system, the impervious area is unconnected. To
determine CN when all or part of the impervious area
is not directly connected to the drainage system:
• use equation 9–2 or figure 9–4 if the total im-
pervious area is less than 30 percent of the
total area or
• use equation 9–1 or figure 9–3 if the total im-
pervious area is equal to or greater than 30
percent of the total area, because the absorp-
tive capacity of the remaining pervious areas
will not significantly affect runoff.
P 
(
CNc = CN p +  imp  98 − CN p (1 − .05R ) [9–2]
 100 
)
CNc = composite runoff curve number
CNp = pervious runoff curve number
Pimp = percent imperviousness
R = ratio of unconnected impervious area
to total impervious area
When impervious area is less than 30 percent, obtain
the composite CN by entering the right half of figure
9–4 with the percentage of total impervious area and
the ratio of total unconnected impervious area to
total impervious area. Then move left to the appro-
priate pervious CN and read down to find the com-
posite CN.

Figure 9–4 Composite CN with unconnected impervious areas and

total impervious area less than 30%
0.0
Per
viou

0.5
sC
N=
40

90 80 70 60 50 1.0

90 80 70 60 50 40 0 10 20 30
Composite CN Total impervious
area (percent)

9–12 (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

Chapter 9 Hydrologic Soil-Cover Complexes Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Example 9–3 Determine the composite CN with unconnected impervious areas and total impervious area less than 30%

Given: A ½-acre lot in HSG B has an assumed impervious area of 20 percent, 75 percent of which is
unconnected. The pervious area CN is 61.

Problem: Find the CN to be used for the lot.

Solution: Method 1—Solve equation 9–2 with CNp, the pervious runoff curve number, equal to 61; Pimp,
the percent impervious area, equal to 20; and R, the ratio of unconnected impervious area to
total impervious area, equal to 0.75:

 20 
CNc = 61 + 
 100 
(98 − 61) (1 − 0.5 (0.75 ))
CNc = 61 + (.20 )( 37 ) (1 − 0.3375 )
CNc = 61 + (.20 )( 37 )( 0.625 )
CNc = 61 + 4.62
CNc = 65.62 round to 66

Method 2—Enter the right half of figure 9–4 with the percentage of impervious area equal to
20 and move up to the 0.75 line for the ratio of unconnected impervious area to total impervi-
ous area. Then move to the left part of the figure, left to the appropriate pervious CN 61, and
read down to find the composite CN 66.

The CN considering all the impervious areas to be connected as in example 9–1 is 68. Ex-
ample 9–3 shows that if 75 percent of the impervious area is unconnected, the CN is reduced
to 66.

(210-VI-NEH, July 2004) 9–13

Chapter 9 Hydrologic Soil-Cover Complexes Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

630.0902 References

Rawls, W.J., A. Shalaby, and R.H. McCuen. 1981.

Evaluation of methods for determining urban
runoff curve numbers. Trans. Amer. Soc.
Agricul. Eng. 24(6):1562-1566.

United States Department of Agriculture, Forest

Service. 1959a. Forest and range hydrology
handbook. Washington, DC.

United States Department of Agriculture, Forest

Service. 1959b. Section 1 of Handbook on meth-
ods of hydrologic analysis, Section 1. Washing-
ton, DC.

United States Department of Agriculture, Soil Con-

servation Service. 1986. Technical Release 55,
Urban hydrology for small watersheds. http://
www.wcc.nrcs.usda.gov/hydro//hydro-tools-
models-tr55.html.

9–14 (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

United States
Department of Part 630 Hydrology
Agriculture
Natural
National Engineering Handbook
Resources
Conservation
Service

Chapter 10 Estimation of Direct Runoff

from Storm Rainfall

Rain clouds
Cloud formation

Precipitation

n
iratio
Evaporation
n

ean
tio

Transp
s o il
ta

from oc
ge
ve

fr o m
m

n
fro

ti o

s
am
n

ir a
ti o

tr e
sp
ra
po

an

ms
va

Tr

Surfa E
ce ru
fr o

noff

Infiltration

Soil
Percolation

Rock Ocean
Ground water
Deep percolation

(210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

Chapter 10 Estimation of Direct Runoff Part 630
from Storm Rainfall National Engineering Handbook

July 2004

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all

its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex,
religion, age, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or
family status. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs.) Persons with
disabilities who require alternative means for communication of program
information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should contact USDA’s
TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TDD).

To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil

Rights, Room 326W, Whitten Building, 14th and Independence Avenue, SW,
Washington, DC 20250-9410 or call (202) 720-5964 (voice and TDD). USDA
is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

(210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

Acknowledgments

Chapter 10 was originally prepared in 1964 by Victor Mockus (retired

hydraulic engineer) and revised in 1998 by Allen T. Hjelmfelt, Agricul-
tural Research Service, with assistance of the NRCS/ARS Curve Number
Work Group and Helen Fox Moody (NRCS). Members of this group are:

Natural Resources Conservation Service

Jon Werner, national hydraulic engineer, Washington, DC
Donald E. Woodward (retired)
Quan D. Quan, hydraulic engineer, Beltsville, Maryland
Robert D. Nielsen, soil scientist, Lincoln, Nebraska
Robert Kluth (retired)
Arlis Plummer, hydraulic engineer, Lincoln, Nebraska
Joseph Van Mullem (retired)
Gary Conaway (retired)

Agricultural Research Service

William J. Gburek, hydrologist, University Park, Pennsylvania
Keith Cooley (retired)
Allen T. Hjelmfelt, Jr. (retired)
Virginia A. Ferreira (retired)

University of Arizona
Richard H. Hawkins, Ph.D., professor, Tucson, Arizona

(210-VI-NEH, July 2004) 10–i

Chapter 10 Estimation of Direct Runoff Part 630
from Storm Rainfall National Engineering Handbook

10–ii (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

Chapter 10 Estimation of Direct Runoff
from Storm Rainfall

Contents: 630.1000 Introduction 10–1

630.1001 Rainfall-runoff relationship 10–2

(a) Development ............................................................................................... 10–2
(b) Use of S and CN ......................................................................................... 10–4
(c) Retention parameters ................................................................................. 10–5
(d) Curve number variability ........................................................................... 10–5

630.1002 Applications 10–9

(a) Single storms ............................................................................................... 10–9
(b) Alternate methods of estimation for multiple complexes .................... 10–11
(c) Runoff during a storm .............................................................................. 10–17
(d) Applications to watersheds ..................................................................... 10–17
(e) Indexes for multiple regression analyses ............................................... 10–18

630.1003 Accuracy 10–19

630.1004 References 10–21

Appendix Appendix 10A Rainfall-Runoff Tables for Selected Runoff 10A–1

Curve Numbers

Tables Table 10–1 Curve numbers (CN) and constants for the case 10–6
I = 0.2S
a

Table 10–2 Incremental runoffs for a storm of long duration, 10–18

watershed CN = 80

Figures Figure 10–1 Relationship between Ia and S 10–3

Figure 10–2 ES–1001 graphical solution of the equation 10–4

( P − 0.2S )
2

Q=
P + 0.8S

(210-VI-NEH, July 2004) 10–iii

Chapter 10 Estimation of Direct Runoff Part 630
from Storm Rainfall National Engineering Handbook

Figure 10–3 Influence of 5-day antecedent precipitation on S 10–7

in Watershed 2, Treynor, Iowa

Figure 10–4 Comparison of 10 and 90 percent extremes with 10–8

ARC I and ARC III values from table 10–1

Figure 10–5 Comparisons of computed with actual runoff on a 10–20

frequency basis

Examples Example 10–1 Routine application of estimation method for a 10–9

single storm

Example 10–2 Direct runoff 10–10

Example 10–3 Estimation of direct runoff for watershed using 10–11

runoff estimates for each complex

Example 10–4 Estimation of direct runoff for watershed using a 10–12

weighted CN

Example 10–5 Comparison of runoff estimation methods 10–13

Example 10–6 Using the runoff equation to determine variation 10–17

of runoff during a storm

10–iv (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

Chapter 10 Estimation of Direct Runoff
from Storm Rainfall
630.1000 Introduction
The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)
method of estimating direct runoff from storm rainfall
is described in this chapter. The rainfall-runoff rela-
tionship is developed, parameters in the relationship
are described, and applications of the method are
illustrated by examples.
The NRCS method of estimating direct runoff from
storm rainfall was the end product of a major field
investigation and the work of numerous early investi-
gators (Mockus 1949, Sherman 1942, Andrews 1954,
and Ogrosky 1956). A major catalyst for getting this
procedure to the field was the passage of the Water-
shed Protection and Flood Prevention Act (Public Law
83-566) in August 1954. As a result, studies associated
with small watershed planning requiring solutions of
hydrologic problems were expected to produce a
quantum jump in hydrologic computations within
NRCS (Rallison 1980, Rallison and Miller 1982). Most
NRCS work is with small, ungaged, agricultural water-
sheds, so the method was developed for rainfall and
watershed data that are available or easily obtainable.
The method is a direct descendent of the hydrologic
heritage developed in the United States in the first half
of the 20th century. In the early 1900's investigators
commonly plotted total runoff versus total rainfall to
describe river hydrology. Mead (1919) showed several
of these plots, which were reasonably useful on an
annual basis. However, for shorter periods, such as
seasons or months, the scatter became excessive.
More than just rainfall depth alone was involved in
determining the amount of runoff. Sherman (1942)
attempted to include additional information by plotting
runoff versus rainfall with separate curves for each
month and a tabular adjustment for antecedent rain-
fall. This was an attempt to deal with event situations;
however, the scatter of the data was still significant.
Kohler and Linsley (1951) expanded upon the ap-
proach of Sherman with the multiple correlation
diagram. This incorporated such items as antecedent
precipitation, week of the year, and storm duration
along with the basic rainfall and runoff values. Coaxial
correlation diagrams must be generated for each
basin, so this approach cannot be used in an ungaged
situation.
(210-VI-NEH, July 2004)
Mockus' goal was to develop a procedure for use on
small, ungaged agricultural watersheds. No evidence
indicates that he had the coaxial graphical correlation
diagrams in mind when he started the work that led to
curve numbers. It does seem appropriate, however, to
consider the procedures to be related with curve
number tables taking the place of some graphs used
for coaxial correlation work. Rallison (1980) and
Rallison and Miller (1982), in describing the origin and
evolution of the runoff equation, point to this heritage.
The principal application of the method is in estimat-
ing quantities of runoff in flood hydrographs or in
relation to flood peak rates (National Engineering
Handbook 630 (NEH-630), chapter 16). An understand-
ing of runoff types is necessary to apply the method
properly in different climatic regions. Four types are
distinguished: channel, surface, lateral subsurface
flow, and baseflow.
Channel runoff occurs when rain falls on a flowing
stream. It appears in the hydrograph at the start of the
storm and continues throughout the storm, varying
with the rainfall intensity. This type of runoff is gener-
ally a negligible quantity in flood hydrographs and is
ignored except in special studies.
Surface runoff or overland flow occurs when the
rainfall rate is greater than the infiltration rate. The
runoff equation was developed for this condition. The
runoff flows on the surface of the watershed and
through channels to the point of reference. This type
of runoff appears in the hydrograph after the initial
demands of interception, infiltration, and surface
storage have been satisfied. It varies during the storm
and ends during or soon after the storm. The volume
of surface runoff flowing down dry channels of water-
sheds in arid, semiarid, or subhumid climates may be
reduced by transmission losses (NEH, part 630, chap-
ter 19), which could be large enough to eliminate the
runoff.
Subsurface flow occurs when infiltrated rainfall
meets a subsurface horizon of lower hydraulic con-
ductivity, travels laterally above the interface, and
reappears as a seep or spring. This type runoff is
often called quick return flow because it contributes
to the hydrograph during or soon after the storm.
10–1
Chapter 10 Estimation of Direct Runoff
from Storm Rainfall
Baseflow occurs when there is a fairly steady flow
from natural storage. The flow comes from an aqui-
fer that is replenished by infiltrated rainfall or sur-
face runoff. Changes in this type of runoff seldom
appear soon enough after a storm to have an influ-
ence on the hydrograph for that storm, but an in-
crease in baseflow from a previous storm increases
the streamflow rate. Baseflow must be considered in
the design of the principal spillway of a floodwater-
retarding structure (NEH, part 630, chapter 21). The
runoff equation does not include baseflow.
All types of runoff do not regularly appear on all wa-
tersheds. Climate is one indicator of the probability of
the types of runoff that will occur in a given water-
shed. In arid regions the flow on smaller watersheds
is nearly always surface runoff. Subsurface flow is
more likely in humid regions. A long succession of
storms, however, may produce subsurface flow or
changes in baseflow even in arid climates, although
the probability of this occurring is less in arid than in
humid climates.
In flood hydrology baseflow is generally dealt with
separately, and all other types are combined into
direct runoff, which consists of channel runoff, sur-
face runoff, and subsurface flow in unknown propor-
tions. The curve number method estimates this
combined direct runoff.
10–2 (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)
Part 630
National Engineering Handbook
630.1001 Rainfall-runoff
relationship
The NRCS runoff equation was developed to estimate
total storm runoff from total storm rainfall. That is,
the relationship excludes time as a variable. Rainfall
intensity is ignored. An early version of the relation-
ship was described by Mockus (1949). The material
that follows evolved from that 1949 report.
(a) Development
The curve number runoff equation is:
Q=
( P − Ia )
2
P > Ia
( P − Ia ) + S [10–1]
Q=0 P ≤ Ia
where:
Q = depth of runoff, in inches
P = depth of rainfall, in inches
I a = initial abstraction, in inches
S = maximum potential retention, in inches
The derivation that follows is from Mockus. It should
be viewed as an effort to get a curve of the proper
shape. This derivation is not physically based, but it
does satisfy conservation of mass.
A curve drawn through a plot of total storm runoff
versus total storm rainfall for many storms on a water-
shed is concave upward and shows that no runoff
occurs for small storms. The trend as storm size in-
creases is for the curve to become asymptotic to a line
parallel to a line of equality. The goal of Mockus was
to determine an equation for a curve that describes
that pattern. First he considered the condition in
which no initial abstraction occurs; i.e., Ia = 0.
Mockus found that an appropriate curve resulted
from using the relationship among rainfall, runoff,
and retention (the rain not converted into runoff)
given by
F Q
= [10–2]
S P
Chapter 10 Estimation of Direct Runoff Part 630
from Storm Rainfall National Engineering Handbook

where: This is the rainfall-runoff relationship with the initial

F = actual retention after runoff begins, in inches abstraction explicitly taken into account.
S = potential maximum retention after runoff
begins (S > F), in inches The initial abstraction consists mainly of intercep-
Q = actual runoff, in inches tion, infiltration during early parts of the storm, and
P = actual rainfall (P > Q), in inches surface depression storage. It can be determined
from observed rainfall-runoff events for small water-
To satisfy the conservation of mass: sheds, where lag is minimal, as the rainfall that
F = P−Q [10–3] occurs before runoff begins. Interception and surface
depression storage may be estimated from cover and
Substituting the equation 10–3 definition of F into surface conditions, but infiltration during the early
equation 10–2 yields part of the storm is highly variable and dependent on
such factors as rainfall intensity, soil crusting, and
P−Q Q
= [10–4] soil moisture. Establishing a relationship for estimat-
S P ing Ia is not easy. Thus, Ia was assumed to be a func-
tion of the maximum potential retention, S. An em-
and solving for Q produces pirical relationship between Ia and S was expressed
P2 as
Q= [10–5]
P+S Ia = 0.2S [10–10]

This is the rainfall-runoff relationship in which the Figure 10–1 illustrates the variability for this rela-
initial abstraction Ia is zero. tionship. The points plotted in the figure are derived
from experimental watershed data.
When the initial abstraction is not zero, the amount of
rainfall available for runoff is (P – Ia) instead of P.
Substituting (P – Ia) for P in equation 10–2 results in Figure 10–1 Relationship between Ia and S
F Q
= [10–6] 10
S P − Ia
where: 50 percent of points
F<S are within the dashed lines 2S
= 0.
Q < (P – Ia) Ia

The total retention for a storm consists of both Ia and

Values of Ia in inches

1
F, so the conservation of mass equation can be ex-
pressed
(
F = P − Ia − Q ) [10–7]

Substituting equation 10–7 for F in equation 10–6 0.1

results in

( P − Ia ) − Q = Q
S ( P − Ia ) [10–8]

0.01
Solving for the total storm runoff, Q, results in the 0.1 1 10 100
Value of S in inches
runoff equation

Q=
( P − Ia )
2

[10–9]
( P − Ia ) + S
(210-VI-NEH, July 2004) 10–3
Chapter 10 Estimation of Direct Runoff Part 630
from Storm Rainfall National Engineering Handbook

The rainfall-runoff relationship is obtained by substi- (b) Use of S and CN

tuting equation 10–10 for initial abstraction into
equation 10–9 Figure 10–2 shows the solution of the runoff equation
(eq. 10–11). The parameter CN (curve number) is a
Q=
( P − 0.2S )2 P > Ia [10–11] transformation of S.
P + 0.8S
1000
CN = [10–12]
Equation 10–11, using Ia = 0.2S, was used to determine 10 + S
the curve numbers in NEH, part 630, chapter 9. Thus, if
a relationship different from Ia = 0.2S is used, a new for potential maximum retention (S) in inches. If S is in
set of curve numbers must be developed. millimeters:
1000
CN =
S [10–13]
10 +
25.4

( P − 0.2S )
2

Figure 10–2 ES–1001 graphical solution of the equation Q =

P + 0.8S

8
Rainfall (P) (P-Ia)2
Q= With P> Ia; S> Ia+F;
Runoff (Q) P-Ia+S and F=P-Ia-Q
Rate

7
Curves on this sheet are for the
case Ia=0.2S, so that
F (P-0.2S)2
Q=
6 P+0.8S
Initial Time
abstraction Ia Infiltration 0
curve 10
95
Direct runoff (Q) in inches

5 00 90
10 +S
10 85
r=
be 80
m
4 nu 75
e
rv 70
Cu
65
60
3
55
50
45
2
40

35
1 30

25
20
0
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
Rainfall (P) in inches

Note: Appendix A gives the tabular solution to this equation for P and Q up to 40 inches. In most cases use of this appendix
gives a more exact solution than reading from the figure.

10–4 (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

Chapter 10 Estimation of Direct Runoff
from Storm Rainfall
Figure 10–2 and appendix 10A are convenient ways
to estimate runoff from rainfall directly without
having to calculate S. S is generally needed for other
applications, such as the analysis of runoff data or
the development of supplementary runoff relation-
ships.
(c) Retention parameters
Several retention parameters were used in the deriva-
tion of the runoff relationship, equation 10–11. The
initial abstraction, Ia, can be considered the boundary
between the storm size that produces runoff and the
storm size that produces no runoff. The potential
maximum retention, S, is dependent upon the soil-
cover complex and, in principle, should not vary from
storm to storm. It is in excess of the initial abstraction
so that the maximum possible loss is given by Ia + S.
This can be demonstrated noting that the loss is given
by the difference between the rainfall and runoff
(P – Q). Substituting equation 10–9 for Q results in
Loss = P − Q = P −
( P − Ia ) 2
( P − Ia ) + S
After multiplying both terms on the right hand side by:
1=
( P − Ia ) + S
( P − Ia ) + S
with some manipulation this becomes:
Ia2
(S + Ia ) − P
Loss =
Ia S
1− + the Antecedent Runoff Condition (ARC). ARC is
P P
As P becomes large, where large is defined as P
being much greater than the maximum potential
retention (S), the terms with P in the denominator
approach zero, with the result
Loss = S + Ia [10–16]
The parameter F is the actual retention for a storm and
is more than the initial abstraction. That is, the total
actual retention is given by the sum of the initial
abstraction and the actual retention (Ia + F).
Part 630
National Engineering Handbook
The preceding material, which shows that the S does
not include Ia, has little significance in the normal
application of the runoff equation. It is significant if
an attempt is made to demonstrate a physical basis
for the potential maximum retention. It is tempting to
assume that S stands for storage, so that one can
determine pore space and initial soil moisture to
determine S in the same sense that Holtan and Lopez
(1971) determined S in their infiltration relation. One
of the difficulties in using this approach for an
ungaged watershed is establishing an appropriate
hydrologically active depth, a problem shared with the
application of Holtan's equation. Chen (1976) and
Hjelmfelt (1980a) showed that the Holtan and Lopez
(1971) equation and the curve number runoff equation
are identical for the special case of constant rainfall
intensity and for zero asymptotic infiltration rate.
(d) Curve number variability
Rainfall-runoff data do not fit the curve number runoff
concept precisely. This is exhibited in the data used in
NEH, part 630, chapter 5, examples 5–4 and 5–5, and
[10–14]
is expressed by the bounding curves in figure 5–6.
The curve numbers for the enveloping curves were
empirically related to the curve numbers of NEH,
part 630, chapter 9, table 9–1. The results of the
empirical relation are shown in columns 1, 2, and 3 of
table 10–1, which also gives values of S, given Ia = 0.2
S for the curve number in column 1.
The variability in the CN results from rainfall intensity
and duration, total rainfall, soil moisture conditions,
cover density, stage of growth, and temperature.
These causes of variability are collectively called
[10–15]
divided into three classses: II for average conditions,
I for dry conditions, and III for wetter conditions.
Past attempts to explain the scatter quantitatively
have focused on the antecedent soil moisture, usu-
ally as indicated by 5-day antecedent precipitation.
This was used in early editions of National Engineer-
ing Handbook Section 4 (now Part 630, Hydrology).
A graph of the maximum potential retention versus the
5-day antecedent precipitation for Watershed 2 at
Treynor, Iowa, is shown in figure 10–3. Data plotted
are from the same events used in NEH, part 630,
(210-VI-NEH, July 2004) 10–5
Chapter 10 Estimation of Direct Runoff Part 630
from Storm Rainfall National Engineering Handbook

Table 10–1 Curve numbers (CN) and constants for the case Ia = 0.2S

1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5
CN for - - CN for ARC - - S values* Curve* starts CN for - - CN for ARC - - S values* Curve* starts
ARC II I III where P = ARC II I III where P =
(in) (in) (in) (in)

100 100 100 0 0 60 40 78 6.67 1.33

99 97 100 .101 .02 59 39 77 6.95 1.39
98 94 99 .204 .04 58 38 76 7.24 1.45
97 91 99 .309 .06 57 37 75 7.54 1.51
96 89 99 .417 .08 56 36 75 7.86 1.57
95 87 98 .526 .11 55 35 74 8.18 1.64
94 85 98 .638 .13 54 34 73 8.52 1.70
93 83 98 .753 .15 53 33 72 8.87 1.77
92 81 97 .870 .17 52 32 71 9.23 1.85
91 80 97 .989 .20 51 31 70 9.61 1.92
90 78 96 1.11 .22 50 31 70 10.0 2.00
89 76 96 1.24 .25 49 30 69 10.4 2.08
88 75 95 1.36 .27 48 29 68 10.8 2.16
87 73 95 1.49 .30 47 28 67 11.3 2.26
86 72 94 1.63 .33 46 27 66 11.7 2.34
85 70 94 1.76 .35 45 26 65 12.2 2.44
84 68 93 1.90 .38 44 25 64 12.7 2.54
83 67 93 2.05 .41 43 25 63 13.2 2.64
82 66 92 2.20 .44 42 24 62 13.8 2.76
81 64 92 2.34 .47 41 23 61 14.4 2.88
80 63 91 2.50 .50 40 22 60 15.0 3.00
79 62 91 2.66 .53 39 21 59 15.6 3.12
78 60 90 2.82 .56 38 21 58 16.3 3.26
77 59 89 2.99 .60 37 20 57 17.0 3.40
76 58 89 3.16 .63 36 19 56 17.8 3.56
75 57 88 3.33 .67 35 18 55 18.6 3.72
74 55 88 3.51 .70 34 18 54 19.4 3.88
73 54 87 3.70 .74 33 17 53 20.3 4.06
72 53 86 3.89 .78 32 16 52 21.2 4.24
71 52 86 4.08 .82 31 16 51 22.2 4.44
70 51 85 4.28 .86 30 15 50 23.3 4.66
69 50 84 4.49 .90 25 12 43 30.0 6.00
68 48 84 4.70 .94 20 9 37 40.0 8.00
67 47 83 4.92 .98 15 6 30 56.7 11.34
66 46 82 5.15 1.03 10 4 22 90.0 18.00
65 45 82 5.38 1.08 5 2 13 190.0 38.00
64 44 81 5.62 1.12 0 0 0 infinity infinity
63 43 80 5.87 1.17
62 42 79 6.13 1.23
61 41 78 6.39 1.28
* For CN in column 1.

10–6 (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

Chapter 10 Estimation of Direct Runoff Part 630
from Storm Rainfall National Engineering Handbook

chapter 5. Figure 10–3 illustrates that no apparent
relationship between antecedent precipitation and S
exists for this watershed. These results are typical
for watersheds where surface runoff is prevalent.
Similar studies have been presented by Cronshey
(1983); Hjelmfelt, et al (1982); Hjelmfelt (1987,
1991); and Van Mullem (1992), all of which lead to
the same conclusion: No apparent relationship be-
tween antecedent precipitation and curve number
exists.
An alternate approach is to state that the CN is a
random variable and treat it as such (Hjelmfelt, et al.
1982; Hjelmfelt 1991). The lognormal probability
distribution for S is computed in NEH, part 630, chap-
ter 5, example 5–5. The mean of the logarithms corre-
sponds to the median of the untransformed values
(Yuan 1933), so the mean of the logarithms corre-
sponds to the antecedent runoff condition II curve
number. A normal or lognormal distribution is often
described in terms of a mean and standard deviation.

Figure 10–3 Influence of 5-day antecedent precipitation on S in Watershed 2, Treynor, Iowa (adapted from Hjelmfelt 1991)

6
Maximum potential retention, S (in)

0
0 1 2 3 4 5 6
Five-day antecedent precipitation (in)

(210-VI-NEH, July 2004) 10–7

Chapter 10 Estimation of Direct Runoff Part 630
from Storm Rainfall National Engineering Handbook

The distribution can also be described in terms of a

mean and values at particular probabilities. For
example, the curve numbers associated with 10 and
90 percent can be used to express extreme values of
the curve number distribution. One definition for ARC
conditions I and III is based on enveloping curves.
Values determined from fitted probability distributions
are compared to values from table 10–1 in figure 10–
4 (Hjelmfelt 1991). The agreement is reasonably
good, although there is an expected amount of scat-
ter. The lowest 50 percent curve number is for a
forested watershed at Coweeta, North Carolina,
which is also the data set that deviates most from the
relationship between ARC II and ARC I and ARC III.

Figure 10–4 Comparison of 10 and 90 percent extremes with ARC I and ARC III values from table 10–1 (adapted from
Hjelmfelt 1991)

100

90
90%
Curve number for 10% and 90% or ARC-I and ARC-III

10%
80
ARC-I
70 ARC-III

60

50

40

30

20

10

0
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100
Curve number for condition II CN

10–8 (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

Chapter 10 Estimation of Direct Runoff Part 630
from Storm Rainfall National Engineering Handbook

630.1002 Applications

(a) Single storms

Example 10–1 is a typical routine application of the
estimation method used when there is no question
regarding the accuracy of rainfall, land use and
treatment, and soil group determinations.

In example 10–2 the information for the watershed of

example 10–1 is used to estimate the direct runoff for
ARC I and ARC III and compare with the estimate for
ARC II.

Example 10–1 Routine application of estimation method for a single storm

Given: During a storm event an average depth of 4.3 inches of rain fell over a watershed with a land
use of pasture in good condition and soils from hydrologic soil group C.

Determine: Estimate the direct runoff.

Solution:
Step 1. Determine the CN. In table 9–1 at "Pasture, good" and under hydrologic soils group C
read CN = 74. This corresponds to S = 3.51 inches according to table 10–1 or equation 10–12.

Step 2. Estimate the runoff. Enter appendix A or figure 10–2 with the rainfall of 4.3 inches and
interpolate (with fig. 10–2) to get CN = 74 to find Q = 1.82 inches. Alternatively, the rainfall
amount and the value for S can be substituted into equation 10–11 to determine Q = 1.82
inches.

(210-VI-NEH, July 2004) 10–9

Chapter 10 Estimation of Direct Runoff Part 630
from Storm Rainfall National Engineering Handbook

Example 10–2 Direct runoff

Given: Information on watershed in example 10–1

Determine: Direct runoff for ARC I and ARC III and compare with estimate for ARC II

Solution:
Step 1. Determine the CN for ARC II. This is done in step 1 of example 10–1. The CN is 74.

Step 2. Determine CN for other ARC's. Enter table 10–1 at CN = 74 in column 1. In columns 2
and 3, read CN = 55 for ARC I and CN = 88 for ARC III.

Step 3. Estimate the runoffs. Enter appendix A or figure 10–2 with the rainfall of 4.3 inches
(from example 10–1) and at CN = 55, 74, and 88 read Q = 0.65, 1.82, and 3.01 inches, respec-
tively. The comparison in terms of ARC II runoff is as follows:

ARC CN Inches - - - Direct runoff, Q - - -

As % of As % of Q for
rainfall ARC II

I 55 0.65 15.1 35.7

II 74 1.82 42.3 100
III 88 3.01 70.0 165

Note that the runoff in inches or percentage is not simply proportional to the CN so that the
procedure does not allow for such shortcuts.

10–10 (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

Chapter 10 Estimation of Direct Runoff Part 630
from Storm Rainfall National Engineering Handbook

(b) Alternate methods of estima-
tion for multiple complexes
The direct runoff for watersheds having more than
one hydrologic soil-cover complex can be estimated
in either of two ways. Example 10–3 illustrates how
runoff is estimated for each complex and weighted
to get the watershed average. Example 10–4 illus-
trates the method where CN is weighted to get a
watershed CN, and the runoff is estimated using that
CN.
If the CNs for the various hydrologic soil-cover
complexes are similar or close in value, both meth-
ods of weighting give close results for runoff (Q).
Therefore, no reason exists for choosing one method
over the other. Each method has advantages and
disadvantages. The method of weighted Q always
gives the correct result (in terms of the given data),
but it requires more work than the weighted-CN
method especially when a watershed has many
complexes. The method of weighted CN is easier to
use with many complexes or with a series of storms.
However, where differences in CN for a watershed
are large, this method either under- or over-esti-
mates Q, depending on the size of the storm. This is
demonstrated in example 10–5.
Both WinTR–55 (USDA NRCS 2003) and WinTR–20
(USDA NRCS 2004 draft) use the weighted CN
method.

Example 10–3 Estimation of direct runoff for watershed using runoff estimates for each complex

Given: A watershed of 630 acres has 400 acres in row crop, contoured, good rotation and 230 acres in
rotation meadow, contoured, good rotation. All soils are in the Hydrologic Soil Group B.

Determine: Find the direct runoff for a rain of 5.1 inches where the watershed is in ARC II.

Solution:
Step 1. Determine the CN. Table 9–1 in NEH-630, chapter 9, shows that the CN is 75 for the
row crop and 69 for the meadow.

Step 2. Estimate runoff for each complex. Enter appendix A or figure 10–2 with the rain of 5.1
inches and at CN's of 75 and 69 read Q's of 2.53 and 2.03 inches, respectively.

Step 3. Compute the weighted runoff:

Cover Area Q
(acres) (inches) (acres x Q)

Row crop, etc. 400 2.53 1,012

Meadow, etc. 230 2.03 467
Totals 630 1,479

1, 479
The weighted Q is = 2.35 in
630

(210-VI-NEH, July 2004) 10–11

Chapter 10 Estimation of Direct Runoff Part 630
from Storm Rainfall National Engineering Handbook

Example 10–4 Estimation of direct runoff for watershed using a weighted CN

Given: Watershed and rain data of example 10–3.

Determine: Use the watershed and rain data of example 10–3 and make the runoff estimate using a
weighted CN.

Solution:
Step 1. Determine the CN. Table 9–1 in NEH-630, chapter 9, shows that the CN is 75 for the
row crop and 69 for the meadow.

Step 2. Compute the weighted CN:

Cover Area CN Acres × CN

(acres)

Row crop, etc. 400 75 30,000

Meadow, etc. 230 69 15,870
Totals 630 45,870

45, 870
The weighted CN is = 72.8 . Use 73.
630

Step 3. Estimate the runoff. Enter appendix A or figure 10–2 with the rain of 5.1 inches and at
CN = 73. Read Q = 2.36 inches. (Note: Q is 2.34 inches if the unrounded CN 72.8 is used.)

10–12 (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

Chapter 10 Estimation of Direct Runoff Part 630
from Storm Rainfall National Engineering Handbook

Example 10–5 Comparison of runoff estimation methods

Given: A watershed has 25.7 acres in woods in good condition on A soils and 379.6 acres of or-
chards and 440 acres of contoured row crops, both in good condition and on B soils. An
additional 56 acres is bare on B soils.

Determine: Runoff estimates using both the weighted CN and the weighted Q methods for storm rain-
falls of 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 inches.

Solution: Step 1. Determine the CNs for the individual land uses and calculate the area's weighted
CN. Use table 9–1 to determine the CNs for the various land uses and soils and then calcu-
late the weighted curve number.

Cover Area CN Acres × CN

(acres)

Woods 25.7 30 771.0

Orchard 379.6 58 22,016.8
Row crop 440.0 75 33,000.0
Bare soil 56.0 86 4,816.0
Totals 901.3 60,603.8
60, 603.8
Weighted CN =
901.3
Weighted CN = 67.2 use 67

Step 2. Determine the storm runoffs for the rainfall amounts specified from figure 10–2 or
appendix 10A for the weighted curve number 67.

Storm rainfall: 1 inch 2 inches 4 inches 6 inches 8 inches 10 inches

Q (weighted CN) 0.0 0.17 1.15 2.53 4.12 5.83

Step 3. Determine the runoff values for the individual land uses and calculate the area's
weighted Q for each storm rainfall. Values for CN = 30 were calculated using the runoff
equation 10–11 with S = 23.3 as given in table 10–1.

Cover Area CN Q Q × area

acres 1" rain 1" rain

Woods 25.7 30 0.0 0.0

Orchard 379.6 58 0.0 0.0
Row crop 440.0 75 0.03 13.2
Bare soil 56.0 86 0.2 11.2
Totals 901.3 24.4

(210-VI-NEH, July 2004) 10–13

Chapter 10 Estimation of Direct Runoff Part 630
from Storm Rainfall National Engineering Handbook

Example 10–5 Comparison of runoff estimation methods—Continued

Total Q × area
Weighted Q =
total area
24.4
Weighted Q =
901.3
Weighted Q = 0.027 inch for 1-inch rain

Cover Area CN Q Q × area

acres 2" rain 2" rain

Woods 25.7 30 0.0 0.0

Orchard 379.6 58 0.4 15.18
Row crop 440.0 75 0.38 167.2
Bare soil 56.0 86 0.85 47.6
Totals 901.3 229.98

Total Q × area
Weighted Q =
total area
229.98
Weighted Q =
901.3
Weighted Q = 0.255 inch for 2-inch rain

Cover Area CN Q Q × area

acres 4" rain 4" rain

Woods 25.7 30 0.0 0.0

Orchard 379.6 58 0.67 254.33
Row crop 440.0 75 1.67 734.8
Bare soil 56.0 86 2.54 142.24
Totals 901.3 1,131.37

Total Q × area
Weighted Q =
total area
1,131.37
Weighted Q =
901.3
3
Weighted Q = 1.255 inch for 4-inch rain

10–14 (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

Chapter 10 Estimation of Direct Runoff Part 630
from Storm Rainfall National Engineering Handbook

Example 10–5 Comparison of runoff estimation methods—Continued

Cover Area CN Q Q × area

acres 6" rain 6" rain

Woods 25.7 30 0.07 1.80

Orchard 379.6 58 1.76 668.10
Row crop 440.0 75 3.28 1,443.2
Bare soil 56.0 86 4.41 246.96
Totals 901.3 2,360.06

Total Q × area
Weighted Q =
total area
2, 360.06
Weighted Q =
901.33
Weighted Q = 2.62 inch for 6-inch rain

Cover Area CN Q Q × area

acres 8" rain 8" rain

Woods 25.7 30 0.42 10.79

Orchard 379.6 58 3.11 1,180.56
Row crop 440.0 75 5.04 2,217.6
Bare soil 56.0 86 6.33 354.48
Totals 901.3 3,763.43

Total Q × area
Weighted Q =
total area
3, 763.43
Weighted Q =
901.33
Weighted Q = 4.18 inch for 8-inch rain

Cover Area CN Q Q × area

acres 10" rain 10" rain

Woods 25.7 30 1.00 25.70

Orchard 379.6 58 4.63 1,757.55
Row crop 440.0 75 6.88 3,027.20
Bare soil 56.0 86 8.28 463.68
Totals 901.3 5,274.13

(210-VI-NEH, July 2004) 10–15

Chapter 10 Estimation of Direct Runoff Part 630
from Storm Rainfall National Engineering Handbook

Example 10–5 Comparison of runoff estimation methods—Continued

Total Q × area
Weighted Q =
total area
5, 274.13
Weighted Q =
901.33
Weighted Q = 5.85 inch for 10-inch rain

Step 4. Compare the storm runoffs for the rainfall amounts obtained by both methods.

Storm rainfall: 1 inch 2 inches 4 inches 6 inches 8 inches 10 inches

Q (weighted CN) 0.0 0.17 1.15 2.53 4.12 5.83

Q (weighted Q) 0.03 0.26 1.26 2.62 4.18 5.85

As pointed out in the text, although the weighted-Q method gives the correct result in terms
of the given data, it takes more work to develop. The differences between the two methods
are greatest in watersheds that have widely differing curve number values and lower rain-
fall amounts.

10–16 (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

Chapter 10 Estimation of Direct Runoff Part 630
from Storm Rainfall National Engineering Handbook

(c) Runoff during a storm (d) Applications to watersheds

An infiltration approach should be used to determine
the variation of runoff during a storm. The curve
number runoff equation is not an infiltration equation
(Smith 1976, Chen 1982, and Hjelmfelt 1980a). The
runoff equation can, however, be used as a surrogate
(example 10–6). This approach is quite similar to an
approach suggested by Linsley, Kohler, and Paulhus
(1982) for use with coaxial correlation diagrams.
The runoff estimation method is not restricted to use
for small watersheds. It applies equally well to other
large areas if the geographical variations of storm
rainfall and soil-cover complex are taken into ac-
count. This is best accomplished by working with
subareas or hydrologic units (NEH, part 630, chapter
6) of the basin. After runoff is estimated for each
unit, the average runoff at any river location may be
determined by the area-runoff weighting method of
example 10–3. For normal applications the runoff
hydrographs are developed separately for hydrologic
units and then routed and combined. Computer pro-
grams, such as WinTR–55 and WinTR–20 (USDA
2003), are useful for such applications.

Example 10–6 Using the runoff equation to determine variation of runoff during a storm

Given: A watershed has a CN of 80 and condition ARC II before a storm of 20 hours duration.

Determine: Estimate the pattern of hourly runoff for the watershed using rainfall amounts recorded at a
rain gage.

Solution: Step 1. Tabulate the accumulated rainfalls at the corresponding accumulated times
(table 10–2).

Step 2. Estimate the accumulated runoff at each corresponding accumulated time. Use the
CN and the rainfalls of column 2 in table 10–2 to estimate the runoffs using equation 10–11,
appendix A, or figure 10–2. The runoffs are given in column 3 of the table.

Step 3. Compute the increments of runoff. The increments are the differences given in
column 4.

(210-VI-NEH, July 2004) 10–17

Chapter 10 Estimation of Direct Runoff Part 630
from Storm Rainfall National Engineering Handbook

Table 10–2 Incremental runoffs for a storm of long (e) Indexes for multiple
duration, watershed CN = 80 regression analyses
Time Accumulated Accumulated ∆Q The parameter CN is not a desirable index of water-
rainfall runoff
(inches) (inches) (inches)
shed characteristics in a multiple regression analy-
sis (NEH, part 630, chapter 18) because the variation
in the CN is generally insufficient to provide a statis-
1:00 a.m. 0 0 tically significant result. The parameter S is the
0 preferred index. It is used without change if it is an
2:00 .15 0 independent variable in a regression equation of the
0 form:
3:00 .30 0 Y = a + bX1 + cX2 + … [10–17]
0
4:00 .62 0 where:
.08 Y = dependent variable
5:0 1.01 .08 a, b, c, etc. = constants
.10 subscripted X's = independent variables
6:00 1.27 .18
.04 If, however, the form is
7:00 1.36 .22
0 Y = aX1b X c2 [10–18]
8:00 1.36 .22
.01 it is necessary to use (S + l) instead of S to avoid the
9:00 1.38 .23 possibility of division or multiplication by zero.
0
10:00 1.38 .23
.09
11:00 1.55 .32
.16
12:00 noon 1.87 .48
.24
1:00 p.m. 2.25 .72
.25
2:00 2.61 .97
.03
3:00 2.66 1.00
.02
4:00 2.68 1.02
.40
5:00 3.22 1.42
.76
6:00 4.17 2.18
.56
7:00 4.82 2.74
.09
8:00 4.93 2.83
.06
9:00 5.00 2.89

10–18 (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

Chapter 10 Estimation of Direct Runoff
from Storm Rainfall
630.1003 Accuracy
Major sources of error in the runoff-estimation method
include the determinations of rainfall and CN. Chapter
4 provides graphs for estimating the errors in rain-
fall. No comparable means exists for estimating the
errors in CN of ungaged watersheds; only compari-
sons of estimated and actual runoffs indicate how
well estimates of CN are being made. Comparisons
for gaged watersheds, though not directly applicable
to ungaged watersheds, are useful as guides to judg-
ment in estimating CN and as sources of methodol-
ogy for reducing estimation errors.
Comparisons of actual and computed runoff are only
valid if the role of the runoff equation is carefully
defined. When the equation was developed, the most
common use was to determine a design discharge
(25-year, 100-year, probable maximum flood) based on
a synthetic rainstorm. The object was to take a rain-
storm that was in some sense representative of the
frequency selected for the design flood and transform
that into the runoff volume for that same frequency.
Thus, the runoff equation can be tested for its ability to
transform a rainfall frequency distribution into a
runoff frequency distribution. This approach was used
by Schaake, et al. (1967) to test the validity of the
rational formula. Hjelmfelt (1980b, 1991) applied this
approach to test the runoff equation for several water-
sheds.
Use of the runoff equation as a frequency transformer
is shown in figure 10–5. The rainfall and runoff obser-
vations for an 80-acre watershed located near Treynor,
Iowa, were used. This experimental watershed, known
as WS-2, is operated by the USDA Agricultural Re-
search Service. It is cropped to corn using conven-
tional tillage. Only the events that produced the annual
maximum discharge were used as in the example 5–4
in NEH, part 630, chapter 5.
The rainfall values were plotted on figure 10–5 using
the Weibull plotting position formula. A lognormal
distribution was fit to these data and plotted as the
straight line. The runoff data were treated separately
from the rainfall data, and the Weibull formula was
used to determine plotting positions. To test the runoff
equation, the fitted lognormal distribution of rainfall
(210-VI-NEH, July 2004)
Part 630
National Engineering Handbook
events was converted to a runoff distribution using
the runoff equation with a curve number of 88. The
correspondence of the computed runoff curve with
the plotted runoff points, as shown in figure 10–5, is
quite good.
Hjelmfelt (1991) showed that the runoff equation
served reasonably well as a frequency transformer for
the watersheds tested in the Central and Southeastern
United States. However, for the one watershed tested
in the semiarid Southwest, the agreement was poor.
Hjelmfelt (1987) also applied this approach to an
urban watershed, Boneyard Creek, Champaign-Ur-
bana, Illinois, with good results. The runoff equation
generally did reasonably well where the runoff was a
substantial fraction of the rainfall, but poorly in cases
where the runoff was a small fraction of the rainfall;
i.e., the CNs are low or rainfall values are small.
Curve numbers were originally developed from
annual flood flows from experimental watersheds,
and their application to low flows or small flood peak
flows is not recommended. (See Hawkins, et al. 1985,
for a precise measure of small.) Thus, within limits,
the runoff equation performs appropriately as a
transformation vehicle between rainfall and runoff
frequency distributions.
In the years following the development of the runoff
equation, it has been adopted for use in applications
that were not envisioned by the originator. Some of
these applications are as an infiltration method for
individual storm runoff events and as a loss function
for continuous simulation. Such applications are not
within the intended usage of curve number proce-
dures.
10–19
Chapter 10 Estimation of Direct Runoff Part 630
from Storm Rainfall National Engineering Handbook

Figure 10–5 Comparisons of computed with actual runoff on a frequency basis

200

Actual rainfall

Actual runoff

100 Computed log-normal frequency distribution for rainfall

Computed distribution for runoff with CN=88
Rainfall and Runoff (mm)

10

WS-2 Treynor, Iowa

1964-1986

Curve number=88

2
2 5 10 20 30 50 70 80 90 95 98
Exceedence probability (%)

10–20 (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

Chapter 10 Estimation of Direct Runoff
from Storm Rainfall
630.1004 References
Andrews, R.G. 1954. The use of relative infiltration
indices in computing runoff (unpublished). Soil
Conservation Service, Fort Worth, Texas, 6pp.
Chen, C.L. 1976. Urban storm inlet study, soil-cover-
moisture complex: analysis of parametric infiltra-
tion models for highway sideslopes. Federal
Highway Administration Report FHWA-RD-76-
120, Vol. 5, Federal Highway Administration,
Washington, DC.
Chen, C.L. 1982. Infiltration formulas by curve number
procedure. J.Hydr. Div., ASCE, Vol. 108, No. HY7,
pp. 823–829.
Cronshey, R.G. 1983. Discussion—Antecedent mois-
ture condition probabilities. D.D. Gray, et al., J.
Irr. and Drain. Engr., Vol. 109, No. 2, pp. 296–298.
Hawkins, R.H., A.T. Hjelmfelt, and A.W. Zevenbergen.
1985. Runoff probability, storm depth and curve
numbers. J. Irr. and Drain. ASCE, Vol. 111, No. 4,
pp. 330–340.
Hjelmfelt, A.T. 1980a. Curve-number procedure as
infiltration method. J. Hydr. Div. ASCE, Vol. 106,
No. HY6, pp. 1107–1110.
Hjelmfelt, A.T. 1980b. An empirical investigation of the
curve number technique. J. Hydr. Div. ASCE, Vol.
106, No. HY9, pp. 1471-1476.
Hjelmfelt, A.T. 1987. Curve numbers in urban hydrol-
ogy. Topics in Urban Hydraulics and Hydrology,
Proc. XXII Cong., Intr. Assoc. for Hydr. Re-
search, pp. 73–78.
Hjelmfelt, A.T. 1991. Investigation of curve number
procedure. J. Hydr. Engr. ASCE. Vol. 117, No. 6,
pp. 725–737.
Hjelmfelt, A.T., L.A. Kramer, and R.E. Burwell. 1982.
Curve numbers as random variables. Rainfall-
Runoff Relationship Resources Publ., Littleton,
CO, pp. 365–370.
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Holtan, H.N., and N.C. Lopez. 1971. USDAHL-70 model
of watershed hydrology. USDA, Agricultural
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Kent, K.M. 1966. Estimating runoff from rainfall in
small watersheds. Paper H9, 6th Western Na-
tional Meeting, AGU, Los Angeles, CA, pp. 1–19.
Kohler, M.A., and R.K. Linsley. 1951. Predicting runoff
from storm rainfall. U.S. Weather Bureau, Res.
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runoff equation. Proc. Symposium on Watershed
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future SCS runoff procedure. In Rainfall-Runoff
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30–74.

10–22 (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

Appendix 10A Rainfall-Runoff Tables for Selected
Runoff Curve Numbers

Introduction

The Natural Resources Conservation Service's National Engineering Hand-

book, Part 630, Hydrology, chapter 10, publishes figure 10–2 for estimat-
ing direct runoff from rainfall for selected runoff curve numbers. Many
users find it more convenient to work with the following tables in this
appendix, which were published in 1960 and revised in 1976 under the
direction of F.P. Erichsen, hydrologist, as Technical Release 16. This
appendix was developed using MS Excel spreadsheets. The tables show
runoff amounts from rainfall quantities up to 40 inches and for runoff
curve numbers 50 to 98, inclusive.

Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 50 .............................................. 10A–3

Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 51 .............................................. 10A–4
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 52 .............................................. 10A–5
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 53 .............................................. 10A–6
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 54 .............................................. 10A–7
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 55 .............................................. 10A–8
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 56 .............................................. 10A–9
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 57 ............................................ 10A–10
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 58 ............................................ 10A–11
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 59 ............................................ 10A–12
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 60 ............................................ 10A–13
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 61 ............................................ 10A–14
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 62 ............................................ 10A–15
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 63 ............................................ 10A–16
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 64 ............................................ 10A–17
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 65 ............................................ 10A–18
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 66 ............................................ 10A–19
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 67 ............................................ 10A–20
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 68 ............................................ 10A–21
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 69 ............................................ 10A–22
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 70 ............................................ 10A–23
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 71 ............................................ 10A–24
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 72 ............................................ 10A–25
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 73 ............................................ 10A–26
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 74 ............................................ 10A–27
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 75 ............................................ 10A–28
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 76 ............................................ 10A–29
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 77 ............................................ 10A–30
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 78 ............................................ 10A–31
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 79 ............................................ 10A–32
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 80 ............................................ 10A–33
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 81 ............................................ 10A–34
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 82 ............................................ 10A–35

(210-VI-NEH, July 2004) 10A–1

Chapter 10 Estimation of Direct Runoff Part 630
from Storm Rainfall National Engineering Handbook

Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 83 ............................................ 10A–36

Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 84 ............................................ 10A–37
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 85 ............................................ 10A–38
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 86 ............................................ 10A–39
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 87 ............................................ 10A–40
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 88 ............................................ 10A–41
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 89 ............................................ 10A–42
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 90 ............................................ 10A–43
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 91 ............................................ 10A–44
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 92 ............................................ 10A–45
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 93 ............................................ 10A–46
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 94 ............................................ 10A–47
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 95 ............................................ 10A–48
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 96 ............................................ 10A–49
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 97 ............................................ 10A–50
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 98 ............................................ 10A–51

10A–2 (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

 Curve

50
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 50
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Tenths - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Inches 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9
0
1
2 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.01 0.02 0.02 0.03 0.05 0.06 0.07
3 0.09 0.11 0.13 0.15 0.17 0.20 0.22 0.25 0.27 0.30
4 0.33 0.36 0.40 0.43 0.46 0.50 0.54 0.57 0.61 0.65
5 0.69 0.73 0.78 0.82 0.86 0.91 0.95 1.00 1.05 1.09
6 1.14 1.19 1.24 1.29 1.34 1.40 1.45 1.50 1.56 1.61
7 1.67 1.72 1.78 1.84 1.89 1.95 2.01 2.07 2.13 2.19
8 2.25 2.31 2.37 2.43 2.50 2.56 2.62 2.69 2.75 2.82
9 2.88 2.95 3.01 3.08 3.15 3.21 3.28 3.35 3.42 3.49
10 3.56 3.62 3.69 3.76 3.83 3.91 3.98 4.05 4.12 4.19
11 4.26 4.34 4.41 4.48 4.55 4.63 4.70 4.78 4.85 4.93
12 5.00 5.08 5.15 5.23 5.30 5.38 5.45 5.53 5.61 5.68
13 5.76 5.84 5.92 5.99 6.07 6.15 6.23 6.31 6.39 6.47
14 6.55 6.62 6.70 6.78 6.86 6.94 7.02 7.11 7.19 7.27
15 7.35 7.43 7.51 7.59 7.67 7.76 7.84 7.92 8.00 8.08
16 8.17 8.25 8.33 8.42 8.50 8.58 8.67 8.75 8.83 8.92
17 9.00 9.08 9.17 9.25 9.34 9.42 9.51 9.59 9.68 9.76
18 9.85 9.93 10.02 10.10 10.19 10.27 10.36 10.45 10.53 10.62
19 10.70 10.79 10.88 10.96 11.05 11.14 11.22 11.31 11.40 11.48
20 11.57 11.66 11.75 11.83 11.92 12.01 12.10 12.18 12.27 12.36
21 12.45 12.54 12.62 12.71 12.80 12.89 12.98 13.07 13.16 13.24
22 13.33 13.42 13.51 13.60 13.69 13.78 13.87 13.96 14.05 14.14
23 14.23 14.32 14.41 14.49 14.58 14.67 14.76 14.85 14.94 15.03
24 15.13 15.22 15.31 15.40 15.49 15.58 15.67 15.76 15.85 15.94
25 16.03 16.12 16.21 16.30 16.39 16.49 16.58 16.67 16.76 16.85
26 16.94 17.03 17.12 17.22 17.31 17.40 17.49 17.58 17.67 17.77
27 17.86 17.95 18.04 18.13 18.22 18.32 18.41 18.50 18.59 18.69
28 18.78 18.87 18.96 19.05 19.15 19.24 19.33 19.42 19.52 19.61
29 19.70 19.80 19.89 19.98 20.07 20.17 20.26 20.35 20.45 20.54
30 20.63 20.72 20.82 20.91 21.00 21.10 21.19 21.28 21.38 21.47
31 21.56 21.66 21.75 21.84 21.94 22.03 22.13 22.22 22.31 22.41
32 22.50 22.59 22.69 22.78 22.88 22.97 23.06 23.16 23.25 23.34
33 23.44 23.53 23.63 23.72 23.82 23.91 24.00 24.10 24.19 24.29
34 24.38 24.48 24.57 24.66 24.76 24.85 24.95 25.04 25.14 25.23
35 25.33 25.42 25.51 25.61 25.70 25.80 25.89 25.99 26.08 26.18
36 26.27 26.37 26.46 26.56 26.65 26.75 26.84 26.94 27.03 27.13
37 27.22 27.32 27.41 27.51 27.60 27.70 27.79 27.89 27.98 28.08
38 28.17 28.27 28.36 28.46 28.56 28.65 28.75 28.84 28.94 29.03
39 29.13 29.22 29.32 29.41 29.51 29.61 29.70 29.80 29.89 29.99
40 30.08 30.18 30.27 30.37 30.47 30.56 30.66 30.75 30.85 30.94
( P − 0.2S )
2

Example: 4.50 inches rainfall = 0.50 inches runoff Note: Runoff value determined by equation Q =
P + 0.8S

(210-VI-NEH, July 2004) 10A–3

 Curve

51
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 51
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Tenths - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Inches 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9
0
1
2 0.00 0.00 0.01 0.01 0.02 0.03 0.04 0.06 0.07 0.09
3 0.11 0.13 0.15 0.17 0.20 0.22 0.25 0.28 0.31 0.34
4 0.37 0.40 0.44 0.47 0.51 0.55 0.58 0.62 0.66 0.70
5 0.75 0.79 0.83 0.88 0.92 0.97 1.02 1.07 1.11 1.16
6 1.21 1.27 1.32 1.37 1.42 1.48 1.53 1.59 1.64 1.70
7 1.76 1.81 1.87 1.93 1.99 2.05 2.11 2.17 2.23 2.29
8 2.35 2.42 2.48 2.54 2.61 2.67 2.74 2.80 2.87 2.94
9 3.00 3.07 3.14 3.20 3.27 3.34 3.41 3.48 3.55 3.62
10 3.69 3.76 3.83 3.90 3.97 4.05 4.12 4.19 4.26 4.34
11 4.41 4.48 4.56 4.63 4.71 4.78 4.86 4.93 5.01 5.08
12 5.16 5.24 5.31 5.39 5.47 5.54 5.62 5.70 5.78 5.85
13 5.93 6.01 6.09 6.17 6.25 6.33 6.41 6.49 6.57 6.65
14 6.73 6.81 6.89 6.97 7.05 7.13 7.21 7.29 7.37 7.46
15 7.54 7.62 7.70 7.79 7.87 7.95 8.03 8.12 8.20 8.28
16 8.37 8.45 8.53 8.62 8.70 8.79 8.87 8.95 9.04 9.12
17 9.21 9.29 9.38 9.46 9.55 9.63 9.72 9.81 9.89 9.98
18 10.06 10.15 10.24 10.32 10.41 10.49 10.58 10.67 10.75 10.84
19 10.93 11.02 11.10 11.19 11.28 11.36 11.45 11.54 11.63 11.72
20 11.80 11.89 11.98 12.07 12.16 12.24 12.33 12.42 12.51 12.60
21 12.69 12.78 12.86 12.95 13.04 13.13 13.22 13.31 13.40 13.49
22 13.58 13.67 13.76 13.85 13.94 14.03 14.12 14.21 14.30 14.39
23 14.48 14.57 14.66 14.75 14.84 14.93 15.02 15.11 15.20 15.29
24 15.38 15.47 15.56 15.66 15.75 15.84 15.93 16.02 16.11 16.20
25 16.29 16.38 16.48 16.57 16.66 16.75 16.84 16.93 17.03 17.12
26 17.21 17.30 17.39 17.49 17.58 17.67 17.76 17.85 17.95 18.04
27 18.13 18.22 18.32 18.41 18.50 18.59 18.69 18.78 18.87 18.96
28 19.06 19.15 19.24 19.33 19.43 19.52 19.61 19.71 19.80 19.89
29 19.99 20.08 20.17 20.26 20.36 20.45 20.54 20.64 20.73 20.82
30 20.92 21.01 21.11 21.20 21.29 21.39 21.48 21.57 21.67 21.76
31 21.86 21.95 22.04 22.14 22.23 22.32 22.42 22.51 22.61 22.70
32 22.79 22.89 22.98 23.08 23.17 23.27 23.36 23.45 23.55 23.64
33 23.74 23.83 23.93 24.02 24.12 24.21 24.30 24.40 24.49 24.59
34 24.68 24.78 24.87 24.97 25.06 25.16 25.25 25.35 25.44 25.54
35 25.63 25.73 25.82 25.92 26.01 26.11 26.20 26.30 26.39 26.49
36 26.58 26.68 26.77 26.87 26.96 27.06 27.15 27.25 27.34 27.44
37 27.53 27.63 27.73 27.82 27.92 28.01 28.11 28.20 28.30 28.39
38 28.49 28.58 28.68 28.78 28.87 28.97 29.06 29.16 29.25 29.35
39 29.45 29.54 29.64 29.73 29.83 29.93 30.02 30.12 30.21 30.31
40 30.40 30.50 30.60 30.69 30.79 30.88 30.98 31.08 31.17 31.27
( P − 0.2S )
2

Note: Runoff value determined by equation Q =

P + 0.8S

10A–4 (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

 Curve

52
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 52
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Tenths - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Inches 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9
0
1
2 0.00 0.01 0.01 0.02 0.03 0.04 0.06 0.07 0.09 0.11
3 0.13 0.15 0.17 0.20 0.22 0.25 0.28 0.31 0.34 0.37
4 0.41 0.44 0.48 0.52 0.55 0.59 0.63 0.67 0.72 0.76
5 0.80 0.85 0.89 0.94 0.99 1.04 1.09 1.14 1.19 1.24
6 1.29 1.34 1.40 1.45 1.50 1.56 1.62 1.67 1.73 1.79
7 1.85 1.91 1.97 2.03 2.09 2.15 2.21 2.27 2.33 2.40
8 2.46 2.53 2.59 2.66 2.72 2.79 2.85 2.92 2.99 3.06
9 3.12 3.19 3.26 3.33 3.40 3.47 3.54 3.61 3.68 3.75
10 3.82 3.90 3.97 4.04 4.11 4.19 4.26 4.33 4.41 4.48
11 4.56 4.63 4.71 4.78 4.86 4.94 5.01 5.09 5.16 5.24
12 5.32 5.40 5.47 5.55 5.63 5.71 5.79 5.87 5.94 6.02
13 6.10 6.18 6.26 6.34 6.42 6.50 6.58 6.66 6.75 6.83
14 6.91 6.99 7.07 7.15 7.23 7.32 7.40 7.48 7.56 7.65
15 7.73 7.81 7.90 7.98 8.06 8.15 8.23 8.31 8.40 8.48
16 8.57 8.65 8.74 8.82 8.91 8.99 9.08 9.16 9.25 9.33
17 9.42 9.50 9.59 9.68 9.76 9.85 9.93 10.02 10.11 10.19
18 10.28 10.37 10.45 10.54 10.63 10.72 10.80 10.89 10.98 11.07
19 11.15 11.24 11.33 11.42 11.50 11.59 11.68 11.77 11.86 11.95
20 12.04 12.12 12.21 12.30 12.39 12.48 12.57 12.66 12.75 12.84
21 12.93 13.01 13.10 13.19 13.28 13.37 13.46 13.55 13.64 13.73
22 13.82 13.91 14.00 14.09 14.18 14.27 14.37 14.46 14.55 14.64
23 14.73 14.82 14.91 15.00 15.09 15.18 15.27 15.36 15.46 15.55
24 15.64 15.73 15.82 15.91 16.00 16.10 16.19 16.28 16.37 16.46
25 16.55 16.65 16.74 16.83 16.92 17.01 17.11 17.20 17.29 17.38
26 17.48 17.57 17.66 17.75 17.85 17.94 18.03 18.12 18.22 18.31
27 18.40 18.49 18.59 18.68 18.77 18.87 18.96 19.05 19.15 19.24
28 19.33 19.42 19.52 19.61 19.70 19.80 19.89 19.98 20.08 20.17
29 20.27 20.36 20.45 20.55 20.64 20.73 20.83 20.92 21.02 21.11
30 21.20 21.30 21.39 21.48 21.58 21.67 21.77 21.86 21.96 22.05
31 22.14 22.24 22.33 22.43 22.52 22.61 22.71 22.80 22.90 22.99
32 23.09 23.18 23.28 23.37 23.47 23.56 23.65 23.75 23.84 23.94
33 24.03 24.13 24.22 24.32 24.41 24.51 24.60 24.70 24.79 24.89
34 24.98 25.08 25.17 25.27 25.36 25.46 25.55 25.65 25.74 25.84
35 25.93 26.03 26.12 26.22 26.32 26.41 26.51 26.60 26.70 26.79
36 26.89 26.98 27.08 27.17 27.27 27.37 27.46 27.56 27.65 27.75
37 27.84 27.94 28.03 28.13 28.23 28.32 28.42 28.51 28.61 28.71
38 28.80 28.90 28.99 29.09 29.18 29.28 29.38 29.47 29.57 29.66
39 29.76 29.86 29.95 30.05 30.14 30.24 30.34 30.43 30.53 30.63
40 30.72 30.82 30.91 31.01 31.11 31.20 31.30 31.40 31.49 31.59
( P − 0.2S )
2

Note: Runoff value determined by equation Q =

P + 0.8S

(210-VI-NEH, July 2004) 10A–5

 Curve

53
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 53
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Tenths - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Inches 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9
0
1
2 0.01 0.01 0.02 0.03 0.04 0.05 0.07 0.09 0.11 0.13
3 0.15 0.17 0.20 0.22 0.25 0.28 0.31 0.34 0.38 0.41
4 0.45 0.48 0.52 0.56 0.60 0.64 0.68 0.73 0.77 0.81
5 0.86 0.91 0.95 1.00 1.05 1.10 1.15 1.20 1.26 1.31
6 1.36 1.42 1.47 1.53 1.59 1.64 1.70 1.76 1.82 1.88
7 1.94 2.00 2.06 2.12 2.18 2.25 2.31 2.37 2.44 2.50
8 2.57 2.63 2.70 2.77 2.83 2.90 2.97 3.04 3.11 3.17
9 3.24 3.31 3.38 3.45 3.53 3.60 3.67 3.74 3.81 3.89
10 3.96 4.03 4.10 4.18 4.25 4.33 4.40 4.48 4.55 4.63
11 4.70 4.78 4.86 4.93 5.01 5.09 5.16 5.24 5.32 5.40
12 5.48 5.55 5.63 5.71 5.79 5.87 5.95 6.03 6.11 6.19
13 6.27 6.35 6.43 6.51 6.59 6.68 6.76 6.84 6.92 7.00
14 7.09 7.17 7.25 7.33 7.42 7.50 7.58 7.67 7.75 7.83
15 7.92 8.00 8.08 8.17 8.25 8.34 8.42 8.51 8.59 8.68
16 8.76 8.85 8.93 9.02 9.10 9.19 9.28 9.36 9.45 9.53
17 9.62 9.71 9.79 9.88 9.97 10.05 10.14 10.23 10.32 10.40
18 10.49 10.58 10.67 10.75 10.84 10.93 11.02 11.11 11.19 11.28
19 11.37 11.46 11.55 11.64 11.73 11.81 11.90 11.99 12.08 12.17
20 12.26 12.35 12.44 12.53 12.62 12.71 12.80 12.89 12.98 13.07
21 13.16 13.25 13.34 13.43 13.52 13.61 13.70 13.79 13.88 13.97
22 14.06 14.15 14.24 14.33 14.42 14.51 14.61 14.70 14.79 14.88
23 14.97 15.06 15.15 15.24 15.34 15.43 15.52 15.61 15.70 15.79
24 15.89 15.98 16.07 16.16 16.25 16.35 16.44 16.53 16.62 16.71
25 16.81 16.90 16.99 17.08 17.18 17.27 17.36 17.45 17.55 17.64
26 17.73 17.83 17.92 18.01 18.10 18.20 18.29 18.38 18.48 18.57
27 18.66 18.76 18.85 18.94 19.04 19.13 19.22 19.32 19.41 19.50
28 19.60 19.69 19.79 19.88 19.97 20.07 20.16 20.25 20.35 20.44
29 20.54 20.63 20.72 20.82 20.91 21.01 21.10 21.19 21.29 21.38
30 21.48 21.57 21.67 21.76 21.85 21.95 22.04 22.14 22.23 22.33
31 22.42 22.52 22.61 22.71 22.80 22.89 22.99 23.08 23.18 23.27
32 23.37 23.46 23.56 23.65 23.75 23.84 23.94 24.03 24.13 24.22
33 24.32 24.41 24.51 24.60 24.70 24.79 24.89 24.98 25.08 25.18
34 25.27 25.37 25.46 25.56 25.65 25.75 25.84 25.94 26.03 26.13
35 26.22 26.32 26.42 26.51 26.61 26.70 26.80 26.89 26.99 27.09
36 27.18 27.28 27.37 27.47 27.56 27.66 27.76 27.85 27.95 28.04
37 28.14 28.24 28.33 28.43 28.52 28.62 28.72 28.81 28.91 29.00
38 29.10 29.20 29.29 29.39 29.49 29.58 29.68 29.77 29.87 29.97
39 30.06 30.16 30.26 30.35 30.45 30.54 30.64 30.74 30.83 30.93
40 31.03 31.12 31.22 31.32 31.41 31.51 31.61 31.70 31.80 31.90
( P − 0.2S )
2

Note: Runoff value determined by equation Q =

P + 0.8S

10A–6 (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

 Curve

54
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 54
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Tenths - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Inches 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9
0
1
2 0.01 0.02 0.03 0.04 0.05 0.07 0.09 0.10 0.12 0.15
3 0.17 0.20 0.22 0.25 0.28 0.31 0.35 0.38 0.41 0.45
4 0.49 0.53 0.57 0.61 0.65 0.69 0.73 0.78 0.83 0.87
5 0.92 0.97 1.02 1.07 1.12 1.17 1.22 1.28 1.33 1.38
6 1.44 1.50 1.55 1.61 1.67 1.73 1.79 1.85 1.91 1.97
7 2.03 2.09 2.16 2.22 2.28 2.35 2.41 2.48 2.54 2.61
8 2.68 2.74 2.81 2.88 2.95 3.02 3.08 3.15 3.22 3.29
9 3.37 3.44 3.51 3.58 3.65 3.73 3.80 3.87 3.94 4.02
10 4.09 4.17 4.24 4.32 4.39 4.47 4.54 4.62 4.70 4.77
11 4.85 4.93 5.01 5.08 5.16 5.24 5.32 5.40 5.48 5.55
12 5.63 5.71 5.79 5.87 5.95 6.03 6.11 6.20 6.28 6.36
13 6.44 6.52 6.60 6.68 6.77 6.85 6.93 7.01 7.10 7.18
14 7.26 7.35 7.43 7.51 7.60 7.68 7.77 7.85 7.93 8.02
15 8.10 8.19 8.27 8.36 8.44 8.53 8.61 8.70 8.79 8.87
16 8.96 9.04 9.13 9.22 9.30 9.39 9.48 9.56 9.65 9.74
17 9.82 9.91 10.00 10.09 10.17 10.26 10.35 10.44 10.52 10.61
18 10.70 10.79 10.88 10.97 11.05 11.14 11.23 11.32 11.41 11.50
19 11.59 11.68 11.77 11.86 11.94 12.03 12.12 12.21 12.30 12.39
20 12.48 12.57 12.66 12.75 12.84 12.93 13.02 13.11 13.20 13.30
21 13.39 13.48 13.57 13.66 13.75 13.84 13.93 14.02 14.11 14.20
22 14.30 14.39 14.48 14.57 14.66 14.75 14.84 14.94 15.03 15.12
23 15.21 15.30 15.39 15.49 15.58 15.67 15.76 15.85 15.95 16.04
24 16.13 16.22 16.32 16.41 16.50 16.59 16.69 16.78 16.87 16.96
25 17.06 17.15 17.24 17.34 17.43 17.52 17.62 17.71 17.80 17.89
26 17.99 18.08 18.17 18.27 18.36 18.45 18.55 18.64 18.74 18.83
27 18.92 19.02 19.11 19.20 19.30 19.39 19.49 19.58 19.67 19.77
28 19.86 19.96 20.05 20.14 20.24 20.33 20.43 20.52 20.61 20.71
29 20.80 20.90 20.99 21.09 21.18 21.27 21.37 21.46 21.56 21.65
30 21.75 21.84 21.94 22.03 22.13 22.22 22.32 22.41 22.51 22.60
31 22.70 22.79 22.89 22.98 23.08 23.17 23.27 23.36 23.46 23.55
32 23.65 23.74 23.84 23.93 24.03 24.12 24.22 24.31 24.41 24.50
33 24.60 24.69 24.79 24.89 24.98 25.08 25.17 25.27 25.36 25.46
34 25.55 25.65 25.75 25.84 25.94 26.03 26.13 26.22 26.32 26.42
35 26.51 26.61 26.70 26.80 26.90 26.99 27.09 27.18 27.28 27.38
36 27.47 27.57 27.66 27.76 27.86 27.95 28.05 28.14 28.24 28.34
37 28.43 28.53 28.63 28.72 28.82 28.91 29.01 29.11 29.20 29.30
38 29.40 29.49 29.59 29.68 29.78 29.88 29.97 30.07 30.17 30.26
39 30.36 30.46 30.55 30.65 30.75 30.84 30.94 31.04 31.13 31.23
40 31.33 31.42 31.52 31.62 31.71 31.81 31.91 32.00 32.10 32.20
( P − 0.2S )
2

Note: Runoff value determined by equation Q =

P + 0.8S

(210-VI-NEH, July 2004) 10A–7

 Curve

55
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 55
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Tenths - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Inches 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9
0
1 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.01
2 0.02 0.02 0.04 0.05 0.07 0.08 0.10 0.12 0.15 0.17
3 0.19 0.22 0.25 0.28 0.31 0.35 0.38 0.42 0.45 0.49
4 0.53 0.57 0.61 0.65 0.70 0.74 0.79 0.83 0.88 0.93
5 0.98 1.03 1.08 1.13 1.19 1.24 1.29 1.35 1.40 1.46
6 1.52 1.58 1.63 1.69 1.75 1.81 1.87 1.94 2.00 2.06
7 2.12 2.19 2.25 2.32 2.38 2.45 2.51 2.58 2.65 2.72
8 2.78 2.85 2.92 2.99 3.06 3.13 3.20 3.27 3.34 3.42
9 3.49 3.56 3.63 3.71 3.78 3.85 3.93 4.00 4.08 4.15
10 4.23 4.30 4.38 4.46 4.53 4.61 4.69 4.76 4.84 4.92
11 5.00 5.08 5.15 5.23 5.31 5.39 5.47 5.55 5.63 5.71
12 5.79 5.87 5.95 6.03 6.12 6.20 6.28 6.36 6.44 6.53
13 6.61 6.69 6.77 6.86 6.94 7.02 7.11 7.19 7.27 7.36
14 7.44 7.53 7.61 7.69 7.78 7.86 7.95 8.03 8.12 8.20
15 8.29 8.38 8.46 8.55 8.63 8.72 8.81 8.89 8.98 9.07
16 9.15 9.24 9.33 9.41 9.50 9.59 9.68 9.76 9.85 9.94
17 10.03 10.11 10.20 10.29 10.38 10.47 10.56 10.64 10.73 10.82
18 10.91 11.00 11.09 11.18 11.27 11.36 11.45 11.53 11.62 11.71
19 11.80 11.89 11.98 12.07 12.16 12.25 12.34 12.43 12.52 12.61
20 12.70 12.80 12.89 12.98 13.07 13.16 13.25 13.34 13.43 13.52
21 13.61 13.70 13.80 13.89 13.98 14.07 14.16 14.25 14.34 14.44
22 14.53 14.62 14.71 14.80 14.90 14.99 15.08 15.17 15.26 15.36
23 15.45 15.54 15.63 15.73 15.82 15.91 16.00 16.10 16.19 16.28
24 16.37 16.47 16.56 16.65 16.75 16.84 16.93 17.03 17.12 17.21
25 17.31 17.40 17.49 17.59 17.68 17.77 17.87 17.96 18.05 18.15
26 18.24 18.33 18.43 18.52 18.62 18.71 18.80 18.90 18.99 19.08
27 19.18 19.27 19.37 19.46 19.56 19.65 19.74 19.84 19.93 20.03
28 20.12 20.22 20.31 20.40 20.50 20.59 20.69 20.78 20.88 20.97
29 21.07 21.16 21.26 21.35 21.45 21.54 21.64 21.73 21.83 21.92
30 22.02 22.11 22.21 22.30 22.40 22.49 22.59 22.68 22.78 22.87
31 22.97 23.06 23.16 23.25 23.35 23.44 23.54 23.63 23.73 23.82
32 23.92 24.02 24.11 24.21 24.30 24.40 24.49 24.59 24.68 24.78
33 24.88 24.97 25.07 25.16 25.26 25.35 25.45 25.55 25.64 25.74
34 25.83 25.93 26.03 26.12 26.22 26.31 26.41 26.51 26.60 26.70
35 26.79 26.89 26.99 27.08 27.18 27.28 27.37 27.47 27.56 27.66
36 27.76 27.85 27.95 28.05 28.14 28.24 28.33 28.43 28.53 28.62
37 28.72 28.82 28.91 29.01 29.11 29.20 29.30 29.40 29.49 29.59
38 29.69 29.78 29.88 29.98 30.07 30.17 30.27 30.36 30.46 30.56
39 30.65 30.75 30.85 30.94 31.04 31.14 31.23 31.33 31.43 31.52
40 31.62 31.72 31.82 31.91 32.01 32.11 32.20 32.30 32.40 32.49
( P − 0.2S )
2

Note: Runoff value determined by equation Q =

P + 0.8S

10A–8 (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

 Curve

56
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 56
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Tenths - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Inches 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9
0
1 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.01 0.01
2 0.02 0.03 0.05 0.06 0.08 0.10 0.12 0.14 0.17 0.19
3 0.22 0.25 0.28 0.31 0.34 0.38 0.42 0.45 0.49 0.53
4 0.57 0.62 0.66 0.70 0.75 0.79 0.84 0.89 0.94 0.99
5 1.04 1.09 1.15 1.20 1.25 1.31 1.36 1.42 1.48 1.54
6 1.60 1.66 1.72 1.78 1.84 1.90 1.96 2.02 2.09 2.15
7 2.22 2.28 2.35 2.41 2.48 2.55 2.62 2.68 2.75 2.82
8 2.89 2.96 3.03 3.10 3.17 3.25 3.32 3.39 3.46 3.54
9 3.61 3.68 3.76 3.83 3.91 3.98 4.06 4.13 4.21 4.28
10 4.36 4.44 4.51 4.59 4.67 4.75 4.83 4.90 4.98 5.06
11 5.14 5.22 5.30 5.38 5.46 5.54 5.62 5.70 5.78 5.86
12 5.95 6.03 6.11 6.19 6.27 6.36 6.44 6.52 6.60 6.69
13 6.77 6.85 6.94 7.02 7.11 7.19 7.27 7.36 7.44 7.53
14 7.61 7.70 7.78 7.87 7.95 8.04 8.13 8.21 8.30 8.38
15 8.47 8.56 8.64 8.73 8.82 8.90 8.99 9.08 9.16 9.25
16 9.34 9.43 9.52 9.60 9.69 9.78 9.87 9.96 10.04 10.13
17 10.22 10.31 10.40 10.49 10.58 10.67 10.75 10.84 10.93 11.02
18 11.11 11.20 11.29 11.38 11.47 11.56 11.65 11.74 11.83 11.92
19 12.01 12.10 12.19 12.28 12.37 12.46 12.55 12.65 12.74 12.83
20 12.92 13.01 13.10 13.19 13.28 13.37 13.47 13.56 13.65 13.74
21 13.83 13.92 14.02 14.11 14.20 14.29 14.38 14.48 14.57 14.66
22 14.75 14.84 14.94 15.03 15.12 15.21 15.31 15.40 15.49 15.58
23 15.68 15.77 15.86 15.96 16.05 16.14 16.24 16.33 16.42 16.51
24 16.61 16.70 16.79 16.89 16.98 17.07 17.17 17.26 17.36 17.45
25 17.54 17.64 17.73 17.82 17.92 18.01 18.11 18.20 18.29 18.39
26 18.48 18.58 18.67 18.76 18.86 18.95 19.05 19.14 19.24 19.33
27 19.42 19.52 19.61 19.71 19.80 19.90 19.99 20.09 20.18 20.28
28 20.37 20.46 20.56 20.65 20.75 20.84 20.94 21.03 21.13 21.22
29 21.32 21.41 21.51 21.60 21.70 21.79 21.89 21.98 22.08 22.18
30 22.27 22.37 22.46 22.56 22.65 22.75 22.84 22.94 23.03 23.13
31 23.22 23.32 23.42 23.51 23.61 23.70 23.80 23.89 23.99 24.09
32 24.18 24.28 24.37 24.47 24.56 24.66 24.76 24.85 24.95 25.04
33 25.14 25.24 25.33 25.43 25.52 25.62 25.72 25.81 25.91 26.01
34 26.10 26.20 26.29 26.39 26.49 26.58 26.68 26.78 26.87 26.97
35 27.06 27.16 27.26 27.35 27.45 27.55 27.64 27.74 27.84 27.93
36 28.03 28.13 28.22 28.32 28.42 28.51 28.61 28.71 28.80 28.90
37 29.00 29.09 29.19 29.29 29.38 29.48 29.58 29.67 29.77 29.87
38 29.96 30.06 30.16 30.25 30.35 30.45 30.54 30.64 30.74 30.84
39 30.93 31.03 31.13 31.22 31.32 31.42 31.51 31.61 31.71 31.81
40 31.90 32.00 32.10 32.19 32.29 32.39 32.49 32.58 32.68 32.78
( P − 0.2S )
2

Note: Runoff value determined by equation Q =

P + 0.8S

(210-VI-NEH, July 2004) 10A–9

 Curve

57
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 57
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Tenths - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Inches 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9
0
1 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.01 0.02
2 0.03 0.04 0.06 0.08 0.09 0.12 0.14 0.16 0.19 0.22
3 0.25 0.28 0.31 0.34 0.38 0.42 0.45 0.49 0.53 0.58
4 0.62 0.66 0.71 0.75 0.80 0.85 0.90 0.95 1.00 1.05
5 1.11 1.16 1.21 1.27 1.33 1.38 1.44 1.50 1.56 1.62
6 1.68 1.74 1.80 1.86 1.93 1.99 2.05 2.12 2.18 2.25
7 2.31 2.38 2.45 2.52 2.58 2.65 2.72 2.79 2.86 2.93
8 3.00 3.07 3.15 3.22 3.29 3.36 3.44 3.51 3.59 3.66
9 3.73 3.81 3.88 3.96 4.04 4.11 4.19 4.27 4.34 4.42
10 4.50 4.58 4.65 4.73 4.81 4.89 4.97 5.05 5.13 5.21
11 5.29 5.37 5.45 5.53 5.61 5.69 5.78 5.86 5.94 6.02
12 6.10 6.19 6.27 6.35 6.44 6.52 6.60 6.69 6.77 6.85
13 6.94 7.02 7.11 7.19 7.28 7.36 7.45 7.53 7.62 7.70
14 7.79 7.88 7.96 8.05 8.13 8.22 8.31 8.39 8.48 8.57
15 8.66 8.74 8.83 8.92 9.00 9.09 9.18 9.27 9.36 9.44
16 9.53 9.62 9.71 9.80 9.89 9.98 10.06 10.15 10.24 10.33
17 10.42 10.51 10.60 10.69 10.78 10.87 10.96 11.05 11.14 11.23
18 11.32 11.41 11.50 11.59 11.68 11.77 11.86 11.95 12.04 12.13
19 12.22 12.31 12.41 12.50 12.59 12.68 12.77 12.86 12.95 13.04
20 13.14 13.23 13.32 13.41 13.50 13.59 13.69 13.78 13.87 13.96
21 14.06 14.15 14.24 14.33 14.42 14.52 14.61 14.70 14.79 14.89
22 14.98 15.07 15.17 15.26 15.35 15.44 15.54 15.63 15.72 15.82
23 15.91 16.00 16.10 16.19 16.28 16.38 16.47 16.56 16.66 16.75
24 16.85 16.94 17.03 17.13 17.22 17.31 17.41 17.50 17.60 17.69
25 17.78 17.88 17.97 18.07 18.16 18.25 18.35 18.44 18.54 18.63
26 18.73 18.82 18.92 19.01 19.10 19.20 19.29 19.39 19.48 19.58
27 19.67 19.77 19.86 19.96 20.05 20.15 20.24 20.34 20.43 20.53
28 20.62 20.72 20.81 20.91 21.00 21.10 21.19 21.29 21.38 21.48
29 21.57 21.67 21.77 21.86 21.96 22.05 22.15 22.24 22.34 22.43
30 22.53 22.63 22.72 22.82 22.91 23.01 23.10 23.20 23.30 23.39
31 23.49 23.58 23.68 23.77 23.87 23.97 24.06 24.16 24.25 24.35
32 24.45 24.54 24.64 24.74 24.83 24.93 25.02 25.12 25.22 25.31
33 25.41 25.50 25.60 25.70 25.79 25.89 25.99 26.08 26.18 26.28
34 26.37 26.47 26.57 26.66 26.76 26.85 26.95 27.05 27.14 27.24
35 27.34 27.43 27.53 27.63 27.72 27.82 27.92 28.01 28.11 28.21
36 28.30 28.40 28.50 28.59 28.69 28.79 28.89 28.98 29.08 29.18
37 29.27 29.37 29.47 29.56 29.66 29.76 29.85 29.95 30.05 30.15
38 30.24 30.34 30.44 30.53 30.63 30.73 30.83 30.92 31.02 31.12
39 31.21 31.31 31.41 31.51 31.60 31.70 31.80 31.90 31.99 32.09
40 32.19 32.28 32.38 32.48 32.58 32.67 32.77 32.87 32.97 33.06
( P − 0.2S )
2

Note: Runoff value determined by equation Q =

P + 0.8S

10A–10 (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

 Curve

58
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 58
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Tenths - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Inches 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9
0
1 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.01 0.02 0.03
2 0.04 0.05 0.07 0.09 0.11 0.13 0.16 0.18 0.21 0.24
3 0.27 0.31 0.34 0.38 0.41 0.45 0.49 0.53 0.58 0.62
4 0.67 0.71 0.76 0.81 0.86 0.91 0.96 1.01 1.06 1.11
5 1.17 1.22 1.28 1.34 1.40 1.45 1.51 1.57 1.63 1.70
6 1.76 1.82 1.88 1.95 2.01 2.08 2.14 2.21 2.27 2.34
7 2.41 2.48 2.55 2.62 2.69 2.76 2.83 2.90 2.97 3.04
8 3.11 3.19 3.26 3.33 3.41 3.48 3.55 3.63 3.70 3.78
9 3.86 3.93 4.01 4.09 4.16 4.24 4.32 4.40 4.47 4.55
10 4.63 4.71 4.79 4.87 4.95 5.03 5.11 5.19 5.27 5.35
11 5.43 5.52 5.60 5.68 5.76 5.84 5.93 6.01 6.09 6.17
12 6.26 6.34 6.43 6.51 6.59 6.68 6.76 6.85 6.93 7.02
13 7.10 7.19 7.27 7.36 7.44 7.53 7.62 7.70 7.79 7.87
14 7.96 8.05 8.13 8.22 8.31 8.40 8.48 8.57 8.66 8.75
15 8.83 8.92 9.01 9.10 9.19 9.27 9.36 9.45 9.54 9.63
16 9.72 9.81 9.90 9.98 10.07 10.16 10.25 10.34 10.43 10.52
17 10.61 10.70 10.79 10.88 10.97 11.06 11.15 11.24 11.33 11.42
18 11.52 11.61 11.70 11.79 11.88 11.97 12.06 12.15 12.24 12.33
19 12.43 12.52 12.61 12.70 12.79 12.88 12.98 13.07 13.16 13.25
20 13.34 13.44 13.53 13.62 13.71 13.81 13.90 13.99 14.08 14.18
21 14.27 14.36 14.45 14.55 14.64 14.73 14.83 14.92 15.01 15.10
22 15.20 15.29 15.38 15.48 15.57 15.66 15.76 15.85 15.95 16.04
23 16.13 16.23 16.32 16.41 16.51 16.60 16.70 16.79 16.88 16.98
24 17.07 17.17 17.26 17.35 17.45 17.54 17.64 17.73 17.83 17.92
25 18.01 18.11 18.20 18.30 18.39 18.49 18.58 18.68 18.77 18.87
26 18.96 19.06 19.15 19.25 19.34 19.44 19.53 19.63 19.72 19.82
27 19.91 20.01 20.10 20.20 20.29 20.39 20.48 20.58 20.67 20.77
28 20.86 20.96 21.05 21.15 21.25 21.34 21.44 21.53 21.63 21.72
29 21.82 21.91 22.01 22.11 22.20 22.30 22.39 22.49 22.58 22.68
30 22.78 22.87 22.97 23.06 23.16 23.26 23.35 23.45 23.54 23.64
31 23.74 23.83 23.93 24.03 24.12 24.22 24.31 24.41 24.51 24.60
32 24.70 24.80 24.89 24.99 25.08 25.18 25.28 25.37 25.47 25.57
33 25.66 25.76 25.86 25.95 26.05 26.15 26.24 26.34 26.44 26.53
34 26.63 26.73 26.82 26.92 27.02 27.11 27.21 27.31 27.40 27.50
35 27.60 27.69 27.79 27.89 27.98 28.08 28.18 28.28 28.37 28.47
36 28.57 28.66 28.76 28.86 28.95 29.05 29.15 29.25 29.34 29.44
37 29.54 29.63 29.73 29.83 29.93 30.02 30.12 30.22 30.31 30.41
38 30.51 30.61 30.70 30.80 30.90 31.00 31.09 31.19 31.29 31.38
39 31.48 31.58 31.68 31.77 31.87 31.97 32.07 32.16 32.26 32.36
40 32.46 32.55 32.65 32.75 32.85 32.94 33.04 33.14 33.24 33.33
( P − 0.2S )
2

Note: Runoff value determined by equation Q =

P + 0.8S

(210-VI-NEH, July 2004) 10A–11

 Curve

59
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 59
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Tenths - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Inches 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9
0
1 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.01 0.01 0.02 0.03
2 0.05 0.07 0.08 0.11 0.13 0.15 0.18 0.21 0.24 0.27
3 0.30 0.34 0.37 0.41 0.45 0.49 0.53 0.58 0.62 0.67
4 0.71 0.76 0.81 0.86 0.91 0.96 1.01 1.07 1.12 1.18
5 1.23 1.29 1.35 1.41 1.47 1.53 1.59 1.65 1.71 1.77
6 1.84 1.90 1.97 2.03 2.10 2.17 2.23 2.30 2.37 2.44
7 2.51 2.58 2.65 2.72 2.79 2.86 2.93 3.00 3.08 3.15
8 3.22 3.30 3.37 3.45 3.52 3.60 3.67 3.75 3.82 3.90
9 3.98 4.05 4.13 4.21 4.29 4.37 4.45 4.53 4.60 4.68
10 4.76 4.84 4.92 5.01 5.09 5.17 5.25 5.33 5.41 5.49
11 5.58 5.66 5.74 5.82 5.91 5.99 6.07 6.16 6.24 6.33
12 6.41 6.50 6.58 6.66 6.75 6.83 6.92 7.01 7.09 7.18
13 7.26 7.35 7.43 7.52 7.61 7.69 7.78 7.87 7.95 8.04
14 8.13 8.22 8.30 8.39 8.48 8.57 8.66 8.74 8.83 8.92
15 9.01 9.10 9.19 9.28 9.36 9.45 9.54 9.63 9.72 9.81
16 9.90 9.99 10.08 10.17 10.26 10.35 10.44 10.53 10.62 10.71
17 10.80 10.89 10.98 11.07 11.16 11.25 11.35 11.44 11.53 11.62
18 11.71 11.80 11.89 11.98 12.08 12.17 12.26 12.35 12.44 12.53
19 12.63 12.72 12.81 12.90 13.00 13.09 13.18 13.27 13.36 13.46
20 13.55 13.64 13.74 13.83 13.92 14.01 14.11 14.20 14.29 14.39
21 14.48 14.57 14.67 14.76 14.85 14.95 15.04 15.13 15.23 15.32
22 15.41 15.51 15.60 15.69 15.79 15.88 15.98 16.07 16.16 16.26
23 16.35 16.45 16.54 16.63 16.73 16.82 16.92 17.01 17.11 17.20
24 17.29 17.39 17.48 17.58 17.67 17.77 17.86 17.96 18.05 18.15
25 18.24 18.34 18.43 18.53 18.62 18.72 18.81 18.91 19.00 19.10
26 19.19 19.29 19.38 19.48 19.57 19.67 19.76 19.86 19.95 20.05
27 20.14 20.24 20.33 20.43 20.53 20.62 20.72 20.81 20.91 21.00
28 21.10 21.20 21.29 21.39 21.48 21.58 21.67 21.77 21.87 21.96
29 22.06 22.15 22.25 22.35 22.44 22.54 22.63 22.73 22.83 22.92
30 23.02 23.11 23.21 23.31 23.40 23.50 23.60 23.69 23.79 23.88
31 23.98 24.08 24.17 24.27 24.37 24.46 24.56 24.66 24.75 24.85
32 24.95 25.04 25.14 25.24 25.33 25.43 25.53 25.62 25.72 25.82
33 25.91 26.01 26.11 26.20 26.30 26.40 26.49 26.59 26.69 26.78
34 26.88 26.98 27.07 27.17 27.27 27.37 27.46 27.56 27.66 27.75
35 27.85 27.95 28.05 28.14 28.24 28.34 28.43 28.53 28.63 28.73
36 28.82 28.92 29.02 29.11 29.21 29.31 29.41 29.50 29.60 29.70
37 29.79 29.89 29.99 30.09 30.18 30.28 30.38 30.48 30.57 30.67
38 30.77 30.87 30.96 31.06 31.16 31.26 31.35 31.45 31.55 31.65
39 31.74 31.84 31.94 32.04 32.13 32.23 32.33 32.43 32.52 32.62
40 32.72 32.82 32.92 33.01 33.11 33.21 33.31 33.40 33.50 33.60
( P − 0.2S )
2

Note: Runoff value determined by equation Q =

P + 0.8S

10A–12 (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

 Curve

60
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 60
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Tenths - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Inches 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9
0
1 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.01 0.02 0.03 0.04
2 0.06 0.08 0.10 0.12 0.15 0.17 0.20 0.23 0.26 0.30
3 0.33 0.37 0.41 0.45 0.49 0.53 0.57 0.62 0.67 0.71
4 0.76 0.81 0.86 0.91 0.97 1.02 1.07 1.13 1.19 1.24
5 1.30 1.36 1.42 1.48 1.54 1.60 1.66 1.73 1.79 1.86
6 1.92 1.99 2.05 2.12 2.19 2.25 2.32 2.39 2.46 2.53
7 2.60 2.67 2.74 2.82 2.89 2.96 3.04 3.11 3.18 3.26
8 3.33 3.41 3.48 3.56 3.63 3.71 3.79 3.87 3.94 4.02
9 4.10 4.18 4.26 4.34 4.42 4.49 4.57 4.65 4.74 4.82
10 4.90 4.98 5.06 5.14 5.22 5.31 5.39 5.47 5.55 5.64
11 5.72 5.80 5.89 5.97 6.05 6.14 6.22 6.31 6.39 6.48
12 6.56 6.65 6.73 6.82 6.90 6.99 7.08 7.16 7.25 7.34
13 7.42 7.51 7.60 7.68 7.77 7.86 7.95 8.03 8.12 8.21
14 8.30 8.38 8.47 8.56 8.65 8.74 8.83 8.92 9.01 9.09
15 9.18 9.27 9.36 9.45 9.54 9.63 9.72 9.81 9.90 9.99
16 10.08 10.17 10.26 10.35 10.44 10.53 10.62 10.71 10.81 10.90
17 10.99 11.08 11.17 11.26 11.35 11.44 11.54 11.63 11.72 11.81
18 11.90 11.99 12.09 12.18 12.27 12.36 12.45 12.55 12.64 12.73
19 12.82 12.92 13.01 13.10 13.19 13.29 13.38 13.47 13.57 13.66
20 13.75 13.85 13.94 14.03 14.12 14.22 14.31 14.40 14.50 14.59
21 14.69 14.78 14.87 14.97 15.06 15.15 15.25 15.34 15.44 15.53
22 15.62 15.72 15.81 15.91 16.00 16.09 16.19 16.28 16.38 16.47
23 16.57 16.66 16.76 16.85 16.94 17.04 17.13 17.23 17.32 17.42
24 17.51 17.61 17.70 17.80 17.89 17.99 18.08 18.18 18.27 18.37
25 18.46 18.56 18.65 18.75 18.84 18.94 19.03 19.13 19.22 19.32
26 19.42 19.51 19.61 19.70 19.80 19.89 19.99 20.08 20.18 20.28
27 20.37 20.47 20.56 20.66 20.76 20.85 20.95 21.04 21.14 21.23
28 21.33 21.43 21.52 21.62 21.71 21.81 21.91 22.00 22.10 22.20
29 22.29 22.39 22.48 22.58 22.68 22.77 22.87 22.97 23.06 23.16
30 23.26 23.35 23.45 23.54 23.64 23.74 23.83 23.93 24.03 24.12
31 24.22 24.32 24.41 24.51 24.61 24.70 24.80 24.90 24.99 25.09
32 25.19 25.28 25.38 25.48 25.57 25.67 25.77 25.87 25.96 26.06
33 26.16 26.25 26.35 26.45 26.54 26.64 26.74 26.84 26.93 27.03
34 27.13 27.22 27.32 27.42 27.52 27.61 27.71 27.81 27.90 28.00
35 28.10 28.20 28.29 28.39 28.49 28.59 28.68 28.78 28.88 28.97
36 29.07 29.17 29.27 29.36 29.46 29.56 29.66 29.75 29.85 29.95
37 30.05 30.14 30.24 30.34 30.44 30.53 30.63 30.73 30.83 30.92
38 31.02 31.12 31.22 31.32 31.41 31.51 31.61 31.71 31.80 31.90
39 32.00 32.10 32.19 32.29 32.39 32.49 32.59 32.68 32.78 32.88
40 32.98 33.08 33.17 33.27 33.37 33.47 33.56 33.66 33.76 33.86
( P − 0.2S )
2

Note: Runoff value determined by equation Q =

P + 0.8S

(210-VI-NEH, July 2004) 10A–13

 Curve

61
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 61
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Tenths - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Inches 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9

0
1 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.01 0.02 0.03 0.04 0.06
2 0.07 0.09 0.12 0.14 0.17 0.20 0.23 0.26 0.29 0.33
3 0.37 0.40 0.44 0.49 0.53 0.57 0.62 0.67 0.71 0.76
4 0.81 0.86 0.92 0.97 1.02 1.08 1.14 1.19 1.25 1.31
5 1.37 1.43 1.49 1.55 1.62 1.68 1.74 1.81 1.87 1.94
6 2.01 2.07 2.14 2.21 2.28 2.35 2.42 2.49 2.56 2.63
7 2.70 2.78 2.85 2.92 3.00 3.07 3.14 3.22 3.29 3.37
8 3.45 3.52 3.60 3.68 3.75 3.83 3.91 3.99 4.07 4.15
9 4.23 4.31 4.38 4.47 4.55 4.63 4.71 4.79 4.87 4.95
10 5.03 5.12 5.20 5.28 5.36 5.45 5.53 5.61 5.70 5.78
11 5.87 5.95 6.04 6.12 6.20 6.29 6.38 6.46 6.55 6.63
12 6.72 6.80 6.89 6.98 7.06 7.15 7.24 7.32 7.41 7.50
13 7.59 7.67 7.76 7.85 7.94 8.03 8.11 8.20 8.29 8.38
14 8.47 8.56 8.65 8.74 8.82 8.91 9.00 9.09 9.18 9.27
15 9.36 9.45 9.54 9.63 9.72 9.81 9.90 9.99 10.08 10.18
16 10.27 10.36 10.45 10.54 10.63 10.72 10.81 10.90 11.00 11.09
17 11.18 11.27 11.36 11.45 11.55 11.64 11.73 11.82 11.91 12.01
18 12.10 12.19 12.28 12.38 12.47 12.56 12.65 12.75 12.84 12.93
19 13.03 13.12 13.21 13.30 13.40 13.49 13.58 13.68 13.77 13.86
20 13.96 14.05 14.15 14.24 14.33 14.43 14.52 14.61 14.71 14.80
21 14.90 14.99 15.08 15.18 15.27 15.37 15.46 15.55 15.65 15.74
22 15.84 15.93 16.03 16.12 16.22 16.31 16.41 16.50 16.59 16.69
23 16.78 16.88 16.97 17.07 17.16 17.26 17.35 17.45 17.54 17.64
24 17.73 17.83 17.93 18.02 18.12 18.21 18.31 18.40 18.50 18.59
25 18.69 18.78 18.88 18.97 19.07 19.17 19.26 19.36 19.45 19.55
26 19.64 19.74 19.84 19.93 20.03 20.12 20.22 20.32 20.41 20.51
27 20.60 20.70 20.80 20.89 20.99 21.08 21.18 21.28 21.37 21.47
28 21.57 21.66 21.76 21.85 21.95 22.05 22.14 22.24 22.34 22.43
29 22.53 22.63 22.72 22.82 22.92 23.01 23.11 23.20 23.30 23.40
30 23.49 23.59 23.69 23.79 23.88 23.98 24.08 24.17 24.27 24.37
31 24.46 24.56 24.66 24.75 24.85 24.95 25.04 25.14 25.24 25.34
32 25.43 25.53 25.63 25.72 25.82 25.92 26.01 26.11 26.21 26.31
33 26.40 26.50 26.60 26.70 26.79 26.89 26.99 27.08 27.18 27.28
34 27.38 27.47 27.57 27.67 27.77 27.86 27.96 28.06 28.16 28.25
35 28.35 28.45 28.54 28.64 28.74 28.84 28.93 29.03 29.13 29.23
36 29.33 29.42 29.52 29.62 29.72 29.81 29.91 30.01 30.11 30.20
37 30.30 30.40 30.50 30.59 30.69 30.79 30.89 30.99 31.08 31.18
38 31.28 31.38 31.47 31.57 31.67 31.77 31.87 31.96 32.06 32.16
39 32.26 32.36 32.45 32.55 32.65 32.75 32.85 32.94 33.04 33.14
40 33.24 33.34 33.43 33.53 33.63 33.73 33.83 33.92 34.02 34.12
( P − 0.2S )
2

Note: Runoff value determined by equation Q =

P + 0.8S

10A–14 (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

 Curve

62
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 62
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Tenths - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Inches 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9

0
1 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.01 0.02 0.03 0.05 0.07
2 0.09 0.11 0.13 0.16 0.19 0.22 0.25 0.29 0.32 0.36
3 0.40 0.44 0.48 0.52 0.57 0.62 0.66 0.71 0.76 0.81
4 0.86 0.92 0.97 1.03 1.08 1.14 1.20 1.26 1.32 1.38
5 1.44 1.50 1.56 1.63 1.69 1.76 1.82 1.89 1.95 2.02
6 2.09 2.16 2.23 2.30 2.37 2.44 2.51 2.58 2.65 2.73
7 2.80 2.87 2.95 3.02 3.10 3.17 3.25 3.33 3.40 3.48
8 3.56 3.63 3.71 3.79 3.87 3.95 4.03 4.11 4.19 4.27
9 4.35 4.43 4.51 4.59 4.67 4.75 4.83 4.92 5.00 5.08
10 5.17 5.25 5.33 5.42 5.50 5.58 5.67 5.75 5.84 5.92
11 6.01 6.09 6.18 6.26 6.35 6.43 6.52 6.61 6.69 6.78
12 6.87 6.95 7.04 7.13 7.22 7.30 7.39 7.48 7.57 7.65
13 7.74 7.83 7.92 8.01 8.10 8.19 8.27 8.36 8.45 8.54
14 8.63 8.72 8.81 8.90 8.99 9.08 9.17 9.26 9.35 9.44
15 9.53 9.62 9.71 9.80 9.89 9.99 10.08 10.17 10.26 10.35
16 10.44 10.53 10.62 10.72 10.81 10.90 10.99 11.08 11.18 11.27
17 11.36 11.45 11.54 11.64 11.73 11.82 11.91 12.01 12.10 12.19
18 12.28 12.38 12.47 12.56 12.66 12.75 12.84 12.94 13.03 13.12
19 13.22 13.31 13.40 13.50 13.59 13.68 13.78 13.87 13.97 14.06
20 14.15 14.25 14.34 14.43 14.53 14.62 14.72 14.81 14.91 15.00
21 15.09 15.19 15.28 15.38 15.47 15.57 15.66 15.76 15.85 15.95
22 16.04 16.14 16.23 16.33 16.42 16.52 16.61 16.71 16.80 16.90
23 16.99 17.09 17.18 17.28 17.37 17.47 17.56 17.66 17.75 17.85
24 17.94 18.04 18.14 18.23 18.33 18.42 18.52 18.61 18.71 18.80
25 18.90 19.00 19.09 19.19 19.28 19.38 19.48 19.57 19.67 19.76
26 19.86 19.96 20.05 20.15 20.24 20.34 20.44 20.53 20.63 20.73
27 20.82 20.92 21.01 21.11 21.21 21.30 21.40 21.50 21.59 21.69
28 21.79 21.88 21.98 22.08 22.17 22.27 22.37 22.46 22.56 22.66
29 22.75 22.85 22.95 23.04 23.14 23.24 23.33 23.43 23.53 23.62
30 23.72 23.82 23.91 24.01 24.11 24.21 24.30 24.40 24.50 24.59
31 24.69 24.79 24.88 24.98 25.08 25.18 25.27 25.37 25.47 25.57
32 25.66 25.76 25.86 25.95 26.05 26.15 26.25 26.34 26.44 26.54
33 26.64 26.73 26.83 26.93 27.03 27.12 27.22 27.32 27.41 27.51
34 27.61 27.71 27.80 27.90 28.00 28.10 28.20 28.29 28.39 28.49
35 28.59 28.68 28.78 28.88 28.98 29.07 29.17 29.27 29.37 29.46
36 29.56 29.66 29.76 29.86 29.95 30.05 30.15 30.25 30.35 30.44
37 30.54 30.64 30.74 30.83 30.93 31.03 31.13 31.23 31.32 31.42
38 31.52 31.62 31.72 31.81 31.91 32.01 32.11 32.21 32.30 32.40
39 32.50 32.60 32.70 32.79 32.89 32.99 33.09 33.19 33.28 33.38
40 33.48 33.58 33.68 33.78 33.87 33.97 34.07 34.17 34.27 34.36
( P − 0.2S )
2

Note: Runoff value determined by equation Q =

P + 0.8S

(210-VI-NEH, July 2004) 10A–15

 Curve

63
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 63
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Tenths - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Inches 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9
0
1 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.02 0.03 0.04 0.06 0.08
2 0.10 0.13 0.15 0.18 0.21 0.24 0.28 0.31 0.35 0.39
3 0.43 0.48 0.52 0.57 0.61 0.66 0.71 0.76 0.81 0.86
4 0.92 0.97 1.03 1.09 1.14 1.20 1.26 1.32 1.38 1.45
5 1.51 1.57 1.64 1.70 1.77 1.84 1.90 1.97 2.04 2.11
6 2.18 2.25 2.32 2.39 2.46 2.53 2.61 2.68 2.75 2.83
7 2.90 2.98 3.05 3.13 3.20 3.28 3.36 3.44 3.51 3.59
8 3.67 3.75 3.83 3.91 3.99 4.07 4.15 4.23 4.31 4.39
9 4.47 4.55 4.64 4.72 4.80 4.88 4.97 5.05 5.13 5.22
10 5.30 5.38 5.47 5.55 5.64 5.72 5.81 5.89 5.98 6.07
11 6.15 6.24 6.32 6.41 6.50 6.58 6.67 6.76 6.84 6.93
12 7.02 7.11 7.20 7.28 7.37 7.46 7.55 7.64 7.73 7.81
13 7.90 7.99 8.08 8.17 8.26 8.35 8.44 8.53 8.62 8.71
14 8.80 8.89 8.98 9.07 9.16 9.25 9.34 9.43 9.52 9.61
15 9.71 9.80 9.89 9.98 10.07 10.16 10.25 10.35 10.44 10.53
16 10.62 10.71 10.80 10.90 10.99 11.08 11.17 11.27 11.36 11.45
17 11.54 11.64 11.73 11.82 11.92 12.01 12.10 12.19 12.29 12.38
18 12.47 12.57 12.66 12.75 12.85 12.94 13.04 13.13 13.22 13.32
19 13.41 13.50 13.60 13.69 13.79 13.88 13.97 14.07 14.16 14.26
20 14.35 14.45 14.54 14.63 14.73 14.82 14.92 15.01 15.11 15.20
21 15.30 15.39 15.49 15.58 15.68 15.77 15.87 15.96 16.06 16.15
22 16.25 16.34 16.44 16.53 16.63 16.72 16.82 16.91 17.01 17.10
23 17.20 17.30 17.39 17.49 17.58 17.68 17.77 17.87 17.97 18.06
24 18.16 18.25 18.35 18.44 18.54 18.64 18.73 18.83 18.92 19.02
25 19.12 19.21 19.31 19.40 19.50 19.60 19.69 19.79 19.89 19.98
26 20.08 20.17 20.27 20.37 20.46 20.56 20.66 20.75 20.85 20.95
27 21.04 21.14 21.24 21.33 21.43 21.53 21.62 21.72 21.82 21.91
28 22.01 22.11 22.20 22.30 22.40 22.49 22.59 22.69 22.78 22.88
29 22.98 23.08 23.17 23.27 23.37 23.46 23.56 23.66 23.75 23.85
30 23.95 24.05 24.14 24.24 24.34 24.44 24.53 24.63 24.73 24.82
31 24.92 25.02 25.12 25.21 25.31 25.41 25.51 25.60 25.70 25.80
32 25.89 25.99 26.09 26.19 26.28 26.38 26.48 26.58 26.67 26.77
33 26.87 26.97 27.07 27.16 27.26 27.36 27.46 27.55 27.65 27.75
34 27.85 27.94 28.04 28.14 28.24 28.34 28.43 28.53 28.63 28.73
35 28.82 28.92 29.02 29.12 29.22 29.31 29.41 29.51 29.61 29.70
36 29.80 29.90 30.00 30.10 30.19 30.29 30.39 30.49 30.59 30.68
37 30.78 30.88 30.98 31.08 31.17 31.27 31.37 31.47 31.57 31.66
38 31.76 31.86 31.96 32.06 32.16 32.25 32.35 32.45 32.55 32.65
39 32.74 32.84 32.94 33.04 33.14 33.24 33.33 33.43 33.53 33.63
40 33.73 33.83 33.92 34.02 34.12 34.22 34.32 34.42 34.51 34.61
( P − 0.2S )
2

Note: Runoff value determined by equation Q =

P + 0.8S

10A–16 (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

 Curve

64
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 64
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Tenths - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Inches 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9
0
1 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.01 0.01 0.02 0.04 0.05 0.07 0.09
2 0.12 0.14 0.17 0.20 0.24 0.27 0.31 0.35 0.39 0.43
3 0.47 0.51 0.56 0.61 0.66 0.71 0.76 0.81 0.86 0.92
4 0.97 1.03 1.09 1.15 1.21 1.27 1.33 1.39 1.45 1.52
5 1.58 1.65 1.71 1.78 1.85 1.92 1.98 2.05 2.12 2.19
6 2.27 2.34 2.41 2.48 2.55 2.63 2.70 2.78 2.85 2.93
7 3.00 3.08 3.16 3.23 3.31 3.39 3.47 3.55 3.62 3.70
8 3.78 3.86 3.94 4.02 4.11 4.19 4.27 4.35 4.43 4.51
9 4.60 4.68 4.76 4.85 4.93 5.01 5.10 5.18 5.27 5.35
10 5.43 5.52 5.61 5.69 5.78 5.86 5.95 6.03 6.12 6.21
11 6.29 6.38 6.47 6.56 6.64 6.73 6.82 6.91 6.99 7.08
12 7.17 7.26 7.35 7.44 7.53 7.61 7.70 7.79 7.88 7.97
13 8.06 8.15 8.24 8.33 8.42 8.51 8.60 8.69 8.78 8.87
14 8.96 9.05 9.15 9.24 9.33 9.42 9.51 9.60 9.69 9.78
15 9.88 9.97 10.06 10.15 10.24 10.34 10.43 10.52 10.61 10.70
16 10.80 10.89 10.98 11.07 11.17 11.26 11.35 11.45 11.54 11.63
17 11.73 11.82 11.91 12.01 12.10 12.19 12.29 12.38 12.47 12.57
18 12.66 12.75 12.85 12.94 13.04 13.13 13.22 13.32 13.41 13.51
19 13.60 13.69 13.79 13.88 13.98 14.07 14.17 14.26 14.36 14.45
20 14.55 14.64 14.73 14.83 14.92 15.02 15.11 15.21 15.30 15.40
21 15.49 15.59 15.69 15.78 15.88 15.97 16.07 16.16 16.26 16.35
22 16.45 16.54 16.64 16.73 16.83 16.93 17.02 17.12 17.21 17.31
23 17.40 17.50 17.60 17.69 17.79 17.88 17.98 18.08 18.17 18.27
24 18.36 18.46 18.56 18.65 18.75 18.85 18.94 19.04 19.13 19.23
25 19.33 19.42 19.52 19.62 19.71 19.81 19.91 20.00 20.10 20.20
26 20.29 20.39 20.48 20.58 20.68 20.77 20.87 20.97 21.07 21.16
27 21.26 21.36 21.45 21.55 21.65 21.74 21.84 21.94 22.03 22.13
28 22.23 22.32 22.42 22.52 22.62 22.71 22.81 22.91 23.00 23.10
29 23.20 23.30 23.39 23.49 23.59 23.69 23.78 23.88 23.98 24.07
30 24.17 24.27 24.37 24.46 24.56 24.66 24.76 24.85 24.95 25.05
31 25.15 25.24 25.34 25.44 25.54 25.63 25.73 25.83 25.93 26.02
32 26.12 26.22 26.32 26.41 26.51 26.61 26.71 26.81 26.90 27.00
33 27.10 27.20 27.29 27.39 27.49 27.59 27.69 27.78 27.88 27.98
34 28.08 28.17 28.27 28.37 28.47 28.57 28.66 28.76 28.86 28.96
35 29.06 29.15 29.25 29.35 29.45 29.55 29.64 29.74 29.84 29.94
36 30.04 30.13 30.23 30.33 30.43 30.53 30.62 30.72 30.82 30.92
37 31.02 31.12 31.21 31.31 31.41 31.51 31.61 31.70 31.80 31.90
38 32.00 32.10 32.20 32.29 32.39 32.49 32.59 32.69 32.79 32.88
39 32.98 33.08 33.18 33.28 33.38 33.47 33.57 33.67 33.77 33.87
40 33.97 34.06 34.16 34.26 34.36 34.46 34.56 34.65 34.75 34.85
( P − 0.2S )
2

Note: Runoff value determined by equation Q =

P + 0.8S

(210-VI-NEH, July 2004) 10A–17

 Curve

65
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 65
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Tenths - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Inches 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9
0
1 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.01 0.02 0.03 0.05 0.06 0.09 0.11
2 0.14 0.16 0.19 0.23 0.26 0.30 0.34 0.38 0.42 0.46
3 0.51 0.55 0.60 0.65 0.70 0.75 0.81 0.86 0.92 0.97
4 1.03 1.09 1.15 1.21 1.27 1.33 1.39 1.46 1.52 1.59
5 1.65 1.72 1.79 1.86 1.93 2.00 2.07 2.14 2.21 2.28
6 2.35 2.43 2.50 2.57 2.65 2.72 2.80 2.87 2.95 3.03
7 3.10 3.18 3.26 3.34 3.42 3.50 3.58 3.66 3.74 3.82
8 3.90 3.98 4.06 4.14 4.22 4.30 4.39 4.47 4.55 4.64
9 4.72 4.80 4.89 4.97 5.06 5.14 5.23 5.31 5.40 5.48
10 5.57 5.65 5.74 5.83 5.91 6.00 6.09 6.17 6.26 6.35
11 6.44 6.52 6.61 6.70 6.79 6.88 6.96 7.05 7.14 7.23
12 7.32 7.41 7.50 7.59 7.68 7.77 7.86 7.95 8.04 8.13
13 8.22 8.31 8.40 8.49 8.58 8.67 8.76 8.85 8.94 9.03
14 9.13 9.22 9.31 9.40 9.49 9.58 9.68 9.77 9.86 9.95
15 10.04 10.14 10.23 10.32 10.41 10.51 10.60 10.69 10.78 10.88
16 10.97 11.06 11.16 11.25 11.34 11.44 11.53 11.62 11.72 11.81
17 11.90 12.00 12.09 12.18 12.28 12.37 12.47 12.56 12.65 12.75
18 12.84 12.94 13.03 13.12 13.22 13.31 13.41 13.50 13.60 13.69
19 13.79 13.88 13.98 14.07 14.17 14.26 14.35 14.45 14.54 14.64
20 14.73 14.83 14.93 15.02 15.12 15.21 15.31 15.40 15.50 15.59
21 15.69 15.78 15.88 15.97 16.07 16.17 16.26 16.36 16.45 16.55
22 16.64 16.74 16.84 16.93 17.03 17.12 17.22 17.32 17.41 17.51
23 17.60 17.70 17.80 17.89 17.99 18.09 18.18 18.28 18.37 18.47
24 18.57 18.66 18.76 18.86 18.95 19.05 19.15 19.24 19.34 19.44
25 19.53 19.63 19.73 19.82 19.92 20.02 20.11 20.21 20.31 20.40
26 20.50 20.60 20.69 20.79 20.89 20.98 21.08 21.18 21.27 21.37
27 21.47 21.57 21.66 21.76 21.86 21.95 22.05 22.15 22.25 22.34
28 22.44 22.54 22.63 22.73 22.83 22.93 23.02 23.12 23.22 23.32
29 23.41 23.51 23.61 23.71 23.80 23.90 24.00 24.10 24.19 24.29
30 24.39 24.49 24.58 24.68 24.78 24.88 24.97 25.07 25.17 25.27
31 25.36 25.46 25.56 25.66 25.75 25.85 25.95 26.05 26.15 26.24
32 26.34 26.44 26.54 26.63 26.73 26.83 26.93 27.03 27.12 27.22
33 27.32 27.42 27.52 27.61 27.71 27.81 27.91 28.01 28.10 28.20
34 28.30 28.40 28.50 28.59 28.69 28.79 28.89 28.99 29.08 29.18
35 29.28 29.38 29.48 29.57 29.67 29.77 29.87 29.97 30.07 30.16
36 30.26 30.36 30.46 30.56 30.66 30.75 30.85 30.95 31.05 31.15
37 31.24 31.34 31.44 31.54 31.64 31.74 31.83 31.93 32.03 32.13
38 32.23 32.33 32.42 32.52 32.62 32.72 32.82 32.92 33.02 33.11
39 33.21 33.31 33.41 33.51 33.61 33.70 33.80 33.90 34.00 34.10
40 34.20 34.30 34.39 34.49 34.59 34.69 34.79 34.89 34.99 35.08
( P − 0.2S )
2

Note: Runoff value determined by equation Q =

P + 0.8S

10A–18 (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

 Curve

66
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 66
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Tenths - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Inches 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9
0
1 0.00 0.00 0.01 0.01 0.02 0.04 0.06 0.08 0.10 0.13
2 0.15 0.18 0.22 0.25 0.29 0.33 0.37 0.41 0.45 0.50
3 0.55 0.59 0.64 0.69 0.75 0.80 0.86 0.91 0.97 1.03
4 1.09 1.15 1.21 1.27 1.33 1.40 1.46 1.53 1.59 1.66
5 1.73 1.80 1.87 1.94 2.01 2.08 2.15 2.22 2.29 2.37
6 2.44 2.52 2.59 2.67 2.74 2.82 2.89 2.97 3.05 3.13
7 3.21 3.28 3.36 3.44 3.52 3.60 3.68 3.76 3.85 3.93
8 4.01 4.09 4.17 4.26 4.34 4.42 4.51 4.59 4.67 4.76
9 4.84 4.93 5.01 5.10 5.18 5.27 5.35 5.44 5.53 5.61
10 5.70 5.79 5.87 5.96 6.05 6.13 6.22 6.31 6.40 6.49
11 6.57 6.66 6.75 6.84 6.93 7.02 7.11 7.20 7.29 7.38
12 7.47 7.56 7.65 7.74 7.83 7.92 8.01 8.10 8.19 8.28
13 8.37 8.46 8.55 8.64 8.73 8.83 8.92 9.01 9.10 9.19
14 9.28 9.38 9.47 9.56 9.65 9.74 9.84 9.93 10.02 10.11
15 10.21 10.30 10.39 10.49 10.58 10.67 10.76 10.86 10.95 11.04
16 11.14 11.23 11.33 11.42 11.51 11.61 11.70 11.79 11.89 11.98
17 12.08 12.17 12.26 12.36 12.45 12.55 12.64 12.74 12.83 12.92
18 13.02 13.11 13.21 13.30 13.40 13.49 13.59 13.68 13.78 13.87
19 13.97 14.06 14.16 14.25 14.35 14.44 14.54 14.63 14.73 14.82
20 14.92 15.02 15.11 15.21 15.30 15.40 15.49 15.59 15.68 15.78
21 15.88 15.97 16.07 16.16 16.26 16.36 16.45 16.55 16.64 16.74
22 16.84 16.93 17.03 17.12 17.22 17.32 17.41 17.51 17.61 17.70
23 17.80 17.89 17.99 18.09 18.18 18.28 18.38 18.47 18.57 18.67
24 18.76 18.86 18.96 19.05 19.15 19.25 19.34 19.44 19.54 19.63
25 19.73 19.83 19.92 20.02 20.12 20.22 20.31 20.41 20.51 20.60
26 20.70 20.80 20.89 20.99 21.09 21.19 21.28 21.38 21.48 21.58
27 21.67 21.77 21.87 21.96 22.06 22.16 22.26 22.35 22.45 22.55
28 22.65 22.74 22.84 22.94 23.04 23.13 23.23 23.33 23.43 23.52
29 23.62 23.72 23.82 23.91 24.01 24.11 24.21 24.30 24.40 24.50
30 24.60 24.70 24.79 24.89 24.99 25.09 25.18 25.28 25.38 25.48
31 25.58 25.67 25.77 25.87 25.97 26.06 26.16 26.26 26.36 26.46
32 26.55 26.65 26.75 26.85 26.95 27.04 27.14 27.24 27.34 27.44
33 27.53 27.63 27.73 27.83 27.93 28.03 28.12 28.22 28.32 28.42
34 28.52 28.61 28.71 28.81 28.91 29.01 29.10 29.20 29.30 29.40
35 29.50 29.60 29.69 29.79 29.89 29.99 30.09 30.19 30.28 30.38
36 30.48 30.58 30.68 30.78 30.87 30.97 31.07 31.17 31.27 31.37
37 31.47 31.56 31.66 31.76 31.86 31.96 32.06 32.15 32.25 32.35
38 32.45 32.55 32.65 32.75 32.84 32.94 33.04 33.14 33.24 33.34
39 33.44 33.53 33.63 33.73 33.83 33.93 34.03 34.13 34.22 34.32
40 34.42 34.52 34.62 34.72 34.82 34.91 35.01 35.11 35.21 35.31
( P − 0.2S )
2

Note: Runoff value determined by equation Q =

P + 0.8S

(210-VI-NEH, July 2004) 10A–19

 Curve

67
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 67
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Tenths - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Inches 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9

0
1 0.00 0.00 0.01 0.02 0.03 0.05 0.07 0.09 0.12 0.14
2 0.17 0.21 0.24 0.28 0.32 0.36 0.40 0.44 0.49 0.54
3 0.59 0.64 0.69 0.74 0.80 0.85 0.91 0.97 1.03 1.09
4 1.15 1.21 1.27 1.34 1.40 1.47 1.53 1.60 1.67 1.74
5 1.80 1.87 1.95 2.02 2.09 2.16 2.23 2.31 2.38 2.46
6 2.53 2.61 2.68 2.76 2.84 2.92 2.99 3.07 3.15 3.23
7 3.31 3.39 3.47 3.55 3.63 3.71 3.79 3.88 3.96 4.04
8 4.12 4.21 4.29 4.37 4.46 4.54 4.63 4.71 4.80 4.88
9 4.97 5.05 5.14 5.22 5.31 5.40 5.48 5.57 5.66 5.75
10 5.83 5.92 6.01 6.10 6.18 6.27 6.36 6.45 6.54 6.63
11 6.72 6.81 6.90 6.98 7.07 7.16 7.25 7.34 7.43 7.52
12 7.61 7.71 7.80 7.89 7.98 8.07 8.16 8.25 8.34 8.43
13 8.53 8.62 8.71 8.80 8.89 8.98 9.08 9.17 9.26 9.35
14 9.45 9.54 9.63 9.72 9.82 9.91 10.00 10.09 10.19 10.28
15 10.37 10.47 10.56 10.65 10.75 10.84 10.94 11.03 11.12 11.22
16 11.31 11.40 11.50 11.59 11.69 11.78 11.87 11.97 12.06 12.16
17 12.25 12.35 12.44 12.54 12.63 12.73 12.82 12.91 13.01 13.10
18 13.20 13.29 13.39 13.48 13.58 13.67 13.77 13.87 13.96 14.06
19 14.15 14.25 14.34 14.44 14.53 14.63 14.72 14.82 14.92 15.01
20 15.11 15.20 15.30 15.39 15.49 15.59 15.68 15.78 15.87 15.97
21 16.07 16.16 16.26 16.36 16.45 16.55 16.64 16.74 16.84 16.93
22 17.03 17.13 17.22 17.32 17.42 17.51 17.61 17.70 17.80 17.90
23 17.99 18.09 18.19 18.28 18.38 18.48 18.58 18.67 18.77 18.87
24 18.96 19.06 19.16 19.25 19.35 19.45 19.54 19.64 19.74 19.84
25 19.93 20.03 20.13 20.22 20.32 20.42 20.52 20.61 20.71 20.81
26 20.90 21.00 21.10 21.20 21.29 21.39 21.49 21.59 21.68 21.78
27 21.88 21.98 22.07 22.17 22.27 22.37 22.46 22.56 22.66 22.76
28 22.85 22.95 23.05 23.15 23.24 23.34 23.44 23.54 23.64 23.73
29 23.83 23.93 24.03 24.12 24.22 24.32 24.42 24.52 24.61 24.71
30 24.81 24.91 25.01 25.10 25.20 25.30 25.40 25.49 25.59 25.69
31 25.79 25.89 25.98 26.08 26.18 26.28 26.38 26.48 26.57 26.67
32 26.77 26.87 26.97 27.06 27.16 27.26 27.36 27.46 27.55 27.65
33 27.75 27.85 27.95 28.05 28.14 28.24 28.34 28.44 28.54 28.64
34 28.73 28.83 28.93 29.03 29.13 29.23 29.32 29.42 29.52 29.62
35 29.72 29.82 29.91 30.01 30.11 30.21 30.31 30.41 30.51 30.60
36 30.70 30.80 30.90 31.00 31.10 31.19 31.29 31.39 31.49 31.59
37 31.69 31.79 31.88 31.98 32.08 32.18 32.28 32.38 32.48 32.57
38 32.67 32.77 32.87 32.97 33.07 33.17 33.27 33.36 33.46 33.56
39 33.66 33.76 33.86 33.96 34.05 34.15 34.25 34.35 34.45 34.55
40 34.65 34.75 34.84 34.94 35.04 35.14 35.24 35.34 35.44 35.54
( P − 0.2S )
2

Note: Runoff value determined by equation Q =

P + 0.8S

10A–20 (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

 Curve

68
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 68
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Tenths - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Inches 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9

0
1 0.00 0.01 0.01 0.03 0.04 0.06 0.08 0.11 0.13 0.16
2 0.20 0.23 0.27 0.31 0.35 0.39 0.43 0.48 0.53 0.58
3 0.63 0.68 0.73 0.79 0.85 0.90 0.96 1.02 1.08 1.14
4 1.21 1.27 1.34 1.40 1.47 1.53 1.60 1.67 1.74 1.81
5 1.88 1.95 2.03 2.10 2.17 2.25 2.32 2.40 2.47 2.55
6 2.62 2.70 2.78 2.86 2.93 3.01 3.09 3.17 3.25 3.33
7 3.41 3.49 3.58 3.66 3.74 3.82 3.90 3.99 4.07 4.15
8 4.24 4.32 4.41 4.49 4.58 4.66 4.75 4.83 4.92 5.00
9 5.09 5.18 5.26 5.35 5.44 5.53 5.61 5.70 5.79 5.88
10 5.97 6.05 6.14 6.23 6.32 6.41 6.50 6.59 6.68 6.77
11 6.86 6.95 7.04 7.13 7.22 7.31 7.40 7.49 7.58 7.67
12 7.76 7.85 7.94 8.04 8.13 8.22 8.31 8.40 8.49 8.59
13 8.68 8.77 8.86 8.95 9.05 9.14 9.23 9.33 9.42 9.51
14 9.60 9.70 9.79 9.88 9.98 10.07 10.16 10.26 10.35 10.44
15 10.54 10.63 10.73 10.82 10.91 11.01 11.10 11.20 11.29 11.38
16 11.48 11.57 11.67 11.76 11.86 11.95 12.04 12.14 12.23 12.33
17 12.42 12.52 12.61 12.71 12.80 12.90 12.99 13.09 13.18 13.28
18 13.38 13.47 13.57 13.66 13.76 13.85 13.95 14.04 14.14 14.23
19 14.33 14.43 14.52 14.62 14.71 14.81 14.91 15.00 15.10 15.19
20 15.29 15.39 15.48 15.58 15.67 15.77 15.87 15.96 16.06 16.16
21 16.25 16.35 16.45 16.54 16.64 16.73 16.83 16.93 17.02 17.12
22 17.22 17.31 17.41 17.51 17.60 17.70 17.80 17.89 17.99 18.09
23 18.19 18.28 18.38 18.48 18.57 18.67 18.77 18.86 18.96 19.06
24 19.16 19.25 19.35 19.45 19.54 19.64 19.74 19.84 19.93 20.03
25 20.13 20.23 20.32 20.42 20.52 20.61 20.71 20.81 20.91 21.00
26 21.10 21.20 21.30 21.39 21.49 21.59 21.69 21.79 21.88 21.98
27 22.08 22.18 22.27 22.37 22.47 22.57 22.66 22.76 22.86 22.96
28 23.06 23.15 23.25 23.35 23.45 23.54 23.64 23.74 23.84 23.94
29 24.03 24.13 24.23 24.33 24.43 24.52 24.62 24.72 24.82 24.92
30 25.01 25.11 25.21 25.31 25.41 25.50 25.60 25.70 25.80 25.90
31 26.00 26.09 26.19 26.29 26.39 26.49 26.58 26.68 26.78 26.88
32 26.98 27.08 27.17 27.27 27.37 27.47 27.57 27.67 27.76 27.86
33 27.96 28.06 28.16 28.26 28.35 28.45 28.55 28.65 28.75 28.85
34 28.95 29.04 29.14 29.24 29.34 29.44 29.54 29.63 29.73 29.83
35 29.93 30.03 30.13 30.23 30.32 30.42 30.52 30.62 30.72 30.82
36 30.92 31.01 31.11 31.21 31.31 31.41 31.51 31.61 31.70 31.80
37 31.90 32.00 32.10 32.20 32.30 32.40 32.49 32.59 32.69 32.79
38 32.89 32.99 33.09 33.19 33.28 33.38 33.48 33.58 33.68 33.78
39 33.88 33.98 34.07 34.17 34.27 34.37 34.47 34.57 34.67 34.77
40 34.86 34.96 35.06 35.16 35.26 35.36 35.46 35.56 35.66 35.75
( P − 0.2S )
2

Note: Runoff value determined by equation Q =

P + 0.8S

(210-VI-NEH, July 2004) 10A–21

 Curve

69
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 69
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Tenths - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Inches 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9
0
1 0.00 0.01 0.02 0.03 0.05 0.07 0.09 0.12 0.15 0.18
2 0.22 0.25 0.29 0.33 0.38 0.42 0.47 0.52 0.57 0.62
3 0.67 0.72 0.78 0.84 0.90 0.95 1.02 1.08 1.14 1.20
4 1.27 1.33 1.40 1.47 1.53 1.60 1.67 1.74 1.81 1.89
5 1.96 2.03 2.11 2.18 2.25 2.33 2.41 2.48 2.56 2.64
6 2.71 2.79 2.87 2.95 3.03 3.11 3.19 3.27 3.35 3.43
7 3.52 3.60 3.68 3.76 3.85 3.93 4.01 4.10 4.18 4.27
8 4.35 4.44 4.52 4.61 4.69 4.78 4.87 4.95 5.04 5.13
9 5.21 5.30 5.39 5.48 5.56 5.65 5.74 5.83 5.92 6.01
10 6.10 6.18 6.27 6.36 6.45 6.54 6.63 6.72 6.81 6.90
11 6.99 7.08 7.17 7.27 7.36 7.45 7.54 7.63 7.72 7.81
12 7.90 8.00 8.09 8.18 8.27 8.36 8.46 8.55 8.64 8.73
13 8.83 8.92 9.01 9.11 9.20 9.29 9.38 9.48 9.57 9.66
14 9.76 9.85 9.95 10.04 10.13 10.23 10.32 10.41 10.51 10.60
15 10.70 10.79 10.88 10.98 11.07 11.17 11.26 11.36 11.45 11.55
16 11.64 11.74 11.83 11.93 12.02 12.12 12.21 12.31 12.40 12.50
17 12.59 12.69 12.78 12.88 12.97 13.07 13.16 13.26 13.35 13.45
18 13.55 13.64 13.74 13.83 13.93 14.02 14.12 14.22 14.31 14.41
19 14.50 14.60 14.70 14.79 14.89 14.99 15.08 15.18 15.27 15.37
20 15.47 15.56 15.66 15.76 15.85 15.95 16.05 16.14 16.24 16.34
21 16.43 16.53 16.63 16.72 16.82 16.92 17.01 17.11 17.21 17.30
22 17.40 17.50 17.59 17.69 17.79 17.88 17.98 18.08 18.18 18.27
23 18.37 18.47 18.56 18.66 18.76 18.86 18.95 19.05 19.15 19.25
24 19.34 19.44 19.54 19.63 19.73 19.83 19.93 20.02 20.12 20.22
25 20.32 20.41 20.51 20.61 20.71 20.80 20.90 21.00 21.10 21.20
26 21.29 21.39 21.49 21.59 21.68 21.78 21.88 21.98 22.08 22.17
27 22.27 22.37 22.47 22.56 22.66 22.76 22.86 22.96 23.05 23.15
28 23.25 23.35 23.45 23.54 23.64 23.74 23.84 23.94 24.03 24.13
29 24.23 24.33 24.43 24.52 24.62 24.72 24.82 24.92 25.02 25.11
30 25.21 25.31 25.41 25.51 25.61 25.70 25.80 25.90 26.00 26.10
31 26.19 26.29 26.39 26.49 26.59 26.69 26.78 26.88 26.98 27.08
32 27.18 27.28 27.38 27.47 27.57 27.67 27.77 27.87 27.97 28.06
33 28.16 28.26 28.36 28.46 28.56 28.66 28.75 28.85 28.95 29.05
34 29.15 29.25 29.35 29.44 29.54 29.64 29.74 29.84 29.94 30.04
35 30.13 30.23 30.33 30.43 30.53 30.63 30.73 30.83 30.92 31.02
36 31.12 31.22 31.32 31.42 31.52 31.61 31.71 31.81 31.91 32.01
37 32.11 32.21 32.31 32.41 32.50 32.60 32.70 32.80 32.90 33.00
38 33.10 33.20 33.29 33.39 33.49 33.59 33.69 33.79 33.89 33.99
39 34.09 34.18 34.28 34.38 34.48 34.58 34.68 34.78 34.88 34.98
40 35.07 35.17 35.27 35.37 35.47 35.57 35.67 35.77 35.87 35.97
( P − 0.2S )
2

Note: Runoff value determined by equation Q =

P + 0.8S

10A–22 (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

 Curve

70
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 70
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Tenths - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Inches 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9
0
1 0.00 0.01 0.03 0.04 0.06 0.08 0.11 0.14 0.17 0.20
2 0.24 0.28 0.32 0.36 0.41 0.46 0.50 0.56 0.61 0.66
3 0.72 0.77 0.83 0.89 0.95 1.01 1.07 1.14 1.20 1.27
4 1.33 1.40 1.47 1.54 1.61 1.68 1.75 1.82 1.89 1.96
5 2.04 2.11 2.19 2.26 2.34 2.42 2.49 2.57 2.65 2.73
6 2.81 2.89 2.97 3.05 3.13 3.21 3.29 3.37 3.46 3.54
7 3.62 3.70 3.79 3.87 3.96 4.04 4.13 4.21 4.30 4.38
8 4.47 4.55 4.64 4.73 4.81 4.90 4.99 5.07 5.16 5.25
9 5.34 5.43 5.52 5.60 5.69 5.78 5.87 5.96 6.05 6.14
10 6.23 6.32 6.41 6.50 6.59 6.68 6.77 6.86 6.95 7.04
11 7.13 7.23 7.32 7.41 7.50 7.59 7.68 7.78 7.87 7.96
12 8.05 8.14 8.24 8.33 8.42 8.51 8.61 8.70 8.79 8.89
13 8.98 9.07 9.17 9.26 9.35 9.45 9.54 9.63 9.73 9.82
14 9.92 10.01 10.10 10.20 10.29 10.39 10.48 10.57 10.67 10.76
15 10.86 10.95 11.05 11.14 11.24 11.33 11.43 11.52 11.62 11.71
16 11.81 11.90 12.00 12.09 12.19 12.28 12.38 12.47 12.57 12.67
17 12.76 12.86 12.95 13.05 13.14 13.24 13.34 13.43 13.53 13.62
18 13.72 13.82 13.91 14.01 14.10 14.20 14.30 14.39 14.49 14.58
19 14.68 14.78 14.87 14.97 15.07 15.16 15.26 15.36 15.45 15.55
20 15.65 15.74 15.84 15.94 16.03 16.13 16.23 16.32 16.42 16.52
21 16.61 16.71 16.81 16.90 17.00 17.10 17.20 17.29 17.39 17.49
22 17.58 17.68 17.78 17.88 17.97 18.07 18.17 18.27 18.36 18.46
23 18.56 18.65 18.75 18.85 18.95 19.04 19.14 19.24 19.34 19.43
24 19.53 19.63 19.73 19.82 19.92 20.02 20.12 20.22 20.31 20.41
25 20.51 20.61 20.70 20.80 20.90 21.00 21.10 21.19 21.29 21.39
26 21.49 21.58 21.68 21.78 21.88 21.98 22.07 22.17 22.27 22.37
27 22.47 22.56 22.66 22.76 22.86 22.96 23.05 23.15 23.25 23.35
28 23.45 23.55 23.64 23.74 23.84 23.94 24.04 24.13 24.23 24.33
29 24.43 24.53 24.63 24.72 24.82 24.92 25.02 25.12 25.22 25.31
30 25.41 25.51 25.61 25.71 25.81 25.90 26.00 26.10 26.20 26.30
31 26.40 26.49 26.59 26.69 26.79 26.89 26.99 27.09 27.18 27.28
32 27.38 27.48 27.58 27.68 27.78 27.87 27.97 28.07 28.17 28.27
33 28.37 28.47 28.56 28.66 28.76 28.86 28.96 29.06 29.16 29.25
34 29.35 29.45 29.55 29.65 29.75 29.85 29.95 30.04 30.14 30.24
35 30.34 30.44 30.54 30.64 30.74 30.83 30.93 31.03 31.13 31.23
36 31.33 31.43 31.53 31.63 31.72 31.82 31.92 32.02 32.12 32.22
37 32.32 32.42 32.51 32.61 32.71 32.81 32.91 33.01 33.11 33.21
38 33.31 33.41 33.50 33.60 33.70 33.80 33.90 34.00 34.10 34.20
39 34.30 34.39 34.49 34.59 34.69 34.79 34.89 34.99 35.09 35.19
40 35.29 35.38 35.48 35.58 35.68 35.78 35.88 35.98 36.08 36.18
( P − 0.2S )
2

Note: Runoff value determined by equation Q =

P + 0.8S

(210-VI-NEH, July 2004) 10A–23

 Curve

71
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 71
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Tenths - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Inches 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9
0 0.00 0.00 0.00
1 0.01 0.02 0.03 0.05 0.07 0.10 0.13 0.16 0.19 0.23
2 0.27 0.31 0.35 0.40 0.44 0.49 0.54 0.60 0.65 0.70
3 0.76 0.82 0.88 0.94 1.00 1.07 1.13 1.19 1.26 1.33
4 1.40 1.46 1.53 1.60 1.68 1.75 1.82 1.89 1.97 2.04
5 2.12 2.19 2.27 2.35 2.43 2.50 2.58 2.66 2.74 2.82
6 2.90 2.98 3.06 3.14 3.23 3.31 3.39 3.47 3.56 3.64
7 3.73 3.81 3.89 3.98 4.06 4.15 4.24 4.32 4.41 4.50
8 4.58 4.67 4.76 4.84 4.93 5.02 5.11 5.20 5.28 5.37
9 5.46 5.55 5.64 5.73 5.82 5.91 6.00 6.09 6.18 6.27
10 6.36 6.45 6.54 6.63 6.72 6.81 6.90 7.00 7.09 7.18
11 7.27 7.36 7.45 7.55 7.64 7.73 7.82 7.92 8.01 8.10
12 8.19 8.29 8.38 8.47 8.57 8.66 8.75 8.85 8.94 9.03
13 9.13 9.22 9.32 9.41 9.50 9.60 9.69 9.79 9.88 9.97
14 10.07 10.16 10.26 10.35 10.45 10.54 10.64 10.73 10.83 10.92
15 11.02 11.11 11.21 11.30 11.40 11.49 11.59 11.68 11.78 11.87
16 11.97 12.06 12.16 12.25 12.35 12.45 12.54 12.64 12.73 12.83
17 12.93 13.02 13.12 13.21 13.31 13.41 13.50 13.60 13.69 13.79
18 13.89 13.98 14.08 14.18 14.27 14.37 14.47 14.56 14.66 14.76
19 14.85 14.95 15.05 15.14 15.24 15.34 15.43 15.53 15.63 15.72
20 15.82 15.92 16.01 16.11 16.21 16.30 16.40 16.50 16.60 16.69
21 16.79 16.89 16.98 17.08 17.18 17.28 17.37 17.47 17.57 17.67
22 17.76 17.86 17.96 18.06 18.15 18.25 18.35 18.45 18.54 18.64
23 18.74 18.84 18.93 19.03 19.13 19.23 19.32 19.42 19.52 19.62
24 19.71 19.81 19.91 20.01 20.11 20.20 20.30 20.40 20.50 20.60
25 20.69 20.79 20.89 20.99 21.08 21.18 21.28 21.38 21.48 21.57
26 21.67 21.77 21.87 21.97 22.07 22.16 22.26 22.36 22.46 22.56
27 22.65 22.75 22.85 22.95 23.05 23.15 23.24 23.34 23.44 23.54
28 23.64 23.73 23.83 23.93 24.03 24.13 24.23 24.32 24.42 24.52
29 24.62 24.72 24.82 24.92 25.01 25.11 25.21 25.31 25.41 25.51
30 25.60 25.70 25.80 25.90 26.00 26.10 26.20 26.29 26.39 26.49
31 26.59 26.69 26.79 26.89 26.98 27.08 27.18 27.28 27.38 27.48
32 27.58 27.67 27.77 27.87 27.97 28.07 28.17 28.27 28.37 28.46
33 28.56 28.66 28.76 28.86 28.96 29.06 29.16 29.25 29.35 29.45
34 29.55 29.65 29.75 29.85 29.95 30.04 30.14 30.24 30.34 30.44
35 30.54 30.64 30.74 30.84 30.93 31.03 31.13 31.23 31.33 31.43
36 31.53 31.63 31.73 31.82 31.92 32.02 32.12 32.22 32.32 32.42
37 32.52 32.62 32.72 32.81 32.91 33.01 33.11 33.21 33.31 33.41
38 33.51 33.61 33.71 33.80 33.90 34.00 34.10 34.20 34.30 34.40
39 34.50 34.60 34.70 34.80 34.89 34.99 35.09 35.19 35.29 35.39
40 35.49 35.59 35.69 35.79 35.89 35.98 36.08 36.18 36.28 36.38
( P − 0.2S )
2

Note: Runoff value determined by equation Q =

P + 0.8S

10A–24 (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

 Curve

72
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 72
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Tenths - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Inches 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9
0 0.00 0.00
1 0.01 0.02 0.04 0.06 0.09 0.11 0.14 0.18 0.21 0.25
2 0.29 0.34 0.38 0.43 0.48 0.53 0.58 0.64 0.69 0.75
3 0.81 0.87 0.93 0.99 1.06 1.12 1.19 1.25 1.32 1.39
4 1.46 1.53 1.60 1.67 1.75 1.82 1.89 1.97 2.04 2.12
5 2.20 2.27 2.35 2.43 2.51 2.59 2.67 2.75 2.83 2.91
6 2.99 3.07 3.16 3.24 3.32 3.41 3.49 3.57 3.66 3.74
7 3.83 3.91 4.00 4.09 4.17 4.26 4.34 4.43 4.52 4.61
8 4.69 4.78 4.87 4.96 5.05 5.14 5.22 5.31 5.40 5.49
9 5.58 5.67 5.76 5.85 5.94 6.03 6.12 6.21 6.30 6.39
10 6.49 6.58 6.67 6.76 6.85 6.94 7.04 7.13 7.22 7.31
11 7.40 7.50 7.59 7.68 7.77 7.87 7.96 8.05 8.15 8.24
12 8.33 8.43 8.52 8.61 8.71 8.80 8.90 8.99 9.08 9.18
13 9.27 9.37 9.46 9.55 9.65 9.74 9.84 9.93 10.03 10.12
14 10.22 10.31 10.41 10.50 10.60 10.69 10.79 10.88 10.98 11.07
15 11.17 11.26 11.36 11.45 11.55 11.65 11.74 11.84 11.93 12.03
16 12.12 12.22 12.32 12.41 12.51 12.60 12.70 12.80 12.89 12.99
17 13.08 13.18 13.28 13.37 13.47 13.57 13.66 13.76 13.86 13.95
18 14.05 14.15 14.24 14.34 14.44 14.53 14.63 14.73 14.82 14.92
19 15.02 15.11 15.21 15.31 15.40 15.50 15.60 15.70 15.79 15.89
20 15.99 16.08 16.18 16.28 16.38 16.47 16.57 16.67 16.76 16.86
21 16.96 17.06 17.15 17.25 17.35 17.45 17.54 17.64 17.74 17.84
22 17.93 18.03 18.13 18.23 18.33 18.42 18.52 18.62 18.72 18.81
23 18.91 19.01 19.11 19.20 19.30 19.40 19.50 19.60 19.69 19.79
24 19.89 19.99 20.09 20.18 20.28 20.38 20.48 20.58 20.67 20.77
25 20.87 20.97 21.07 21.16 21.26 21.36 21.46 21.56 21.66 21.75
26 21.85 21.95 22.05 22.15 22.24 22.34 22.44 22.54 22.64 22.74
27 22.83 22.93 23.03 23.13 23.23 23.33 23.42 23.52 23.62 23.72
28 23.82 23.92 24.02 24.11 24.21 24.31 24.41 24.51 24.61 24.70
29 24.80 24.90 25.00 25.10 25.20 25.30 25.39 25.49 25.59 25.69
30 25.79 25.89 25.99 26.08 26.18 26.28 26.38 26.48 26.58 26.68
31 26.78 26.87 26.97 27.07 27.17 27.27 27.37 27.47 27.57 27.66
32 27.76 27.86 27.96 28.06 28.16 28.26 28.36 28.45 28.55 28.65
33 28.75 28.85 28.95 29.05 29.15 29.25 29.34 29.44 29.54 29.64
34 29.74 29.84 29.94 30.04 30.14 30.23 30.33 30.43 30.53 30.63
35 30.73 30.83 30.93 31.03 31.12 31.22 31.32 31.42 31.52 31.62
36 31.72 31.82 31.92 32.02 32.11 32.21 32.31 32.41 32.51 32.61
37 32.71 32.81 32.91 33.01 33.11 33.20 33.30 33.40 33.50 33.60
38 33.70 33.80 33.90 34.00 34.10 34.20 34.29 34.39 34.49 34.59
39 34.69 34.79 34.89 34.99 35.09 35.19 35.29 35.39 35.48 35.58
40 35.68 35.78 35.88 35.98 36.08 36.18 36.28 36.38 36.48 36.58
( P − 0.2S )
2

Note: Runoff value determined by equation Q =

P + 0.8S

(210-VI-NEH, July 2004) 10A–25

 Curve

73
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 73
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Tenths - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Inches 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9
0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.01
1 0.02 0.03 0.05 0.07 0.10 0.13 0.16 0.20 0.24 0.28
2 0.32 0.37 0.41 0.46 0.51 0.57 0.62 0.68 0.74 0.80
3 0.86 0.92 0.98 1.05 1.11 1.18 1.25 1.32 1.39 1.46
4 1.53 1.60 1.67 1.75 1.82 1.90 1.97 2.05 2.12 2.20
5 2.28 2.36 2.44 2.52 2.60 2.68 2.76 2.84 2.92 3.01
6 3.09 3.17 3.25 3.34 3.42 3.51 3.59 3.68 3.76 3.85
7 3.93 4.02 4.11 4.19 4.28 4.37 4.46 4.54 4.63 4.72
8 4.81 4.90 4.99 5.08 5.17 5.25 5.34 5.43 5.52 5.61
9 5.70 5.80 5.89 5.98 6.07 6.16 6.25 6.34 6.43 6.52
10 6.62 6.71 6.80 6.89 6.98 7.08 7.17 7.26 7.35 7.45
11 7.54 7.63 7.73 7.82 7.91 8.01 8.10 8.19 8.29 8.38
12 8.48 8.57 8.66 8.76 8.85 8.95 9.04 9.13 9.23 9.32
13 9.42 9.51 9.61 9.70 9.80 9.89 9.99 10.08 10.18 10.27
14 10.37 10.46 10.56 10.65 10.75 10.84 10.94 11.04 11.13 11.23
15 11.32 11.42 11.51 11.61 11.71 11.80 11.90 11.99 12.09 12.19
16 12.28 12.38 12.47 12.57 12.67 12.76 12.86 12.96 13.05 13.15
17 13.25 13.34 13.44 13.54 13.63 13.73 13.83 13.92 14.02 14.12
18 14.21 14.31 14.41 14.50 14.60 14.70 14.79 14.89 14.99 15.09
19 15.18 15.28 15.38 15.48 15.57 15.67 15.77 15.86 15.96 16.06
20 16.16 16.25 16.35 16.45 16.55 16.64 16.74 16.84 16.94 17.03
21 17.13 17.23 17.33 17.42 17.52 17.62 17.72 17.82 17.91 18.01
22 18.11 18.21 18.30 18.40 18.50 18.60 18.70 18.79 18.89 18.99
23 19.09 19.19 19.28 19.38 19.48 19.58 19.68 19.77 19.87 19.97
24 20.07 20.17 20.26 20.36 20.46 20.56 20.66 20.75 20.85 20.95
25 21.05 21.15 21.25 21.34 21.44 21.54 21.64 21.74 21.84 21.93
26 22.03 22.13 22.23 22.33 22.43 22.52 22.62 22.72 22.82 22.92
27 23.02 23.12 23.21 23.31 23.41 23.51 23.61 23.71 23.81 23.90
28 24.00 24.10 24.20 24.30 24.40 24.50 24.59 24.69 24.79 24.89
29 24.99 25.09 25.19 25.28 25.38 25.48 25.58 25.68 25.78 25.88
30 25.98 26.07 26.17 26.27 26.37 26.47 26.57 26.67 26.77 26.86
31 26.96 27.06 27.16 27.26 27.36 27.46 27.56 27.65 27.75 27.85
32 27.95 28.05 28.15 28.25 28.35 28.45 28.54 28.64 28.74 28.84
33 28.94 29.04 29.14 29.24 29.34 29.44 29.53 29.63 29.73 29.83
34 29.93 30.03 30.13 30.23 30.33 30.43 30.52 30.62 30.72 30.82
35 30.92 31.02 31.12 31.22 31.32 31.42 31.52 31.61 31.71 31.81
36 31.91 32.01 32.11 32.21 32.31 32.41 32.51 32.61 32.70 32.80
37 32.90 33.00 33.10 33.20 33.30 33.40 33.50 33.60 33.70 33.80
38 33.89 33.99 34.09 34.19 34.29 34.39 34.49 34.59 34.69 34.79
39 34.89 34.99 35.08 35.18 35.28 35.38 35.48 35.58 35.68 35.78
40 35.88 35.98 36.08 36.18 36.28 36.38 36.47 36.57 36.67 36.77
( P − 0.2S )
2

Note: Runoff value determined by equation Q =

P + 0.8S

10A–26 (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

 Curve

74
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 74
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Tenths - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Inches 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9
0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.01
1 0.02 0.04 0.06 0.09 0.12 0.15 0.18 0.22 0.26 0.30
2 0.35 0.40 0.45 0.50 0.55 0.61 0.67 0.72 0.78 0.85
3 0.91 0.97 1.04 1.11 1.17 1.24 1.31 1.38 1.45 1.52
4 1.60 1.67 1.75 1.82 1.90 1.97 2.05 2.13 2.21 2.29
5 2.37 2.45 2.53 2.61 2.69 2.77 2.85 2.94 3.02 3.10
6 3.19 3.27 3.36 3.44 3.53 3.61 3.70 3.78 3.87 3.96
7 4.04 4.13 4.22 4.31 4.39 4.48 4.57 4.66 4.75 4.84
8 4.93 5.02 5.11 5.20 5.29 5.38 5.47 5.56 5.65 5.74
9 5.83 5.92 6.01 6.11 6.20 6.29 6.38 6.47 6.57 6.66
10 6.75 6.84 6.94 7.03 7.12 7.21 7.31 7.40 7.49 7.59
11 7.68 7.77 7.87 7.96 8.06 8.15 8.24 8.34 8.43 8.53
12 8.62 8.71 8.81 8.90 9.00 9.09 9.19 9.28 9.38 9.47
13 9.57 9.66 9.76 9.85 9.95 10.04 10.14 10.23 10.33 10.43
14 10.52 10.62 10.71 10.81 10.90 11.00 11.10 11.19 11.29 11.38
15 11.48 11.58 11.67 11.77 11.86 11.96 12.06 12.15 12.25 12.35
16 12.44 12.54 12.64 12.73 12.83 12.93 13.02 13.12 13.22 13.31
17 13.41 13.51 13.60 13.70 13.80 13.89 13.99 14.09 14.19 14.28
18 14.38 14.48 14.57 14.67 14.77 14.87 14.96 15.06 15.16 15.26
19 15.35 15.45 15.55 15.65 15.74 15.84 15.94 16.04 16.13 16.23
20 16.33 16.43 16.52 16.62 16.72 16.82 16.91 17.01 17.11 17.21
21 17.31 17.40 17.50 17.60 17.70 17.79 17.89 17.99 18.09 18.19
22 18.28 18.38 18.48 18.58 18.68 18.77 18.87 18.97 19.07 19.17
23 19.27 19.36 19.46 19.56 19.66 19.76 19.85 19.95 20.05 20.15
24 20.25 20.35 20.44 20.54 20.64 20.74 20.84 20.94 21.03 21.13
25 21.23 21.33 21.43 21.53 21.62 21.72 21.82 21.92 22.02 22.12
26 22.22 22.31 22.41 22.51 22.61 22.71 22.81 22.91 23.00 23.10
27 23.20 23.30 23.40 23.50 23.60 23.69 23.79 23.89 23.99 24.09
28 24.19 24.29 24.39 24.48 24.58 24.68 24.78 24.88 24.98 25.08
29 25.18 25.27 25.37 25.47 25.57 25.67 25.77 25.87 25.97 26.06
30 26.16 26.26 26.36 26.46 26.56 26.66 26.76 26.86 26.95 27.05
31 27.15 27.25 27.35 27.45 27.55 27.65 27.75 27.85 27.94 28.04
32 28.14 28.24 28.34 28.44 28.54 28.64 28.74 28.83 28.93 29.03
33 29.13 29.23 29.33 29.43 29.53 29.63 29.73 29.83 29.92 30.02
34 30.12 30.22 30.32 30.42 30.52 30.62 30.72 30.82 30.92 31.01
35 31.11 31.21 31.31 31.41 31.51 31.61 31.71 31.81 31.91 32.01
36 32.11 32.20 32.30 32.40 32.50 32.60 32.70 32.80 32.90 33.00
37 33.10 33.20 33.30 33.40 33.49 33.59 33.69 33.79 33.89 33.99
38 34.09 34.19 34.29 34.39 34.49 34.59 34.69 34.78 34.88 34.98
39 35.08 35.18 35.28 35.38 35.48 35.58 35.68 35.78 35.88 35.98
40 36.08 36.18 36.27 36.37 36.47 36.57 36.67 36.77 36.87 36.97
( P − 0.2S )
2

Note: Runoff value determined by equation Q =

P + 0.8S

(210-VI-NEH, July 2004) 10A–27

 Curve

75
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 75
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Tenths - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Inches 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9
0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.01 0.02
1 0.03 0.05 0.07 0.10 0.13 0.17 0.20 0.24 0.29 0.33
2 0.38 0.43 0.48 0.54 0.59 0.65 0.71 0.77 0.83 0.90
3 0.96 1.03 1.10 1.16 1.23 1.30 1.37 1.45 1.52 1.59
4 1.67 1.74 1.82 1.90 1.97 2.05 2.13 2.21 2.29 2.37
5 2.45 2.53 2.61 2.70 2.78 2.86 2.95 3.03 3.11 3.20
6 3.28 3.37 3.46 3.54 3.63 3.71 3.80 3.89 3.98 4.06
7 4.15 4.24 4.33 4.42 4.51 4.59 4.68 4.77 4.86 4.95
8 5.04 5.13 5.22 5.32 5.41 5.50 5.59 5.68 5.77 5.86
9 5.95 6.05 6.14 6.23 6.32 6.42 6.51 6.60 6.69 6.79
10 6.88 6.97 7.07 7.16 7.25 7.35 7.44 7.53 7.63 7.72
11 7.82 7.91 8.00 8.10 8.19 8.29 8.38 8.48 8.57 8.67
12 8.76 8.86 8.95 9.05 9.14 9.24 9.33 9.43 9.52 9.62
13 9.71 9.81 9.90 10.00 10.09 10.19 10.29 10.38 10.48 10.57
14 10.67 10.77 10.86 10.96 11.05 11.15 11.25 11.34 11.44 11.54
15 11.63 11.73 11.82 11.92 12.02 12.11 12.21 12.31 12.40 12.50
16 12.60 12.69 12.79 12.89 12.99 13.08 13.18 13.28 13.37 13.47
17 13.57 13.67 13.76 13.86 13.96 14.05 14.15 14.25 14.35 14.44
18 14.54 14.64 14.74 14.83 14.93 15.03 15.13 15.22 15.32 15.42
19 15.52 15.61 15.71 15.81 15.91 16.00 16.10 16.20 16.30 16.40
20 16.49 16.59 16.69 16.79 16.88 16.98 17.08 17.18 17.28 17.37
21 17.47 17.57 17.67 17.77 17.86 17.96 18.06 18.16 18.26 18.36
22 18.45 18.55 18.65 18.75 18.85 18.94 19.04 19.14 19.24 19.34
23 19.44 19.53 19.63 19.73 19.83 19.93 20.03 20.12 20.22 20.32
24 20.42 20.52 20.62 20.72 20.81 20.91 21.01 21.11 21.21 21.31
25 21.40 21.50 21.60 21.70 21.80 21.90 22.00 22.09 22.19 22.29
26 22.39 22.49 22.59 22.69 22.79 22.88 22.98 23.08 23.18 23.28
27 23.38 23.48 23.58 23.67 23.77 23.87 23.97 24.07 24.17 24.27
28 24.37 24.46 24.56 24.66 24.76 24.86 24.96 25.06 25.16 25.26
29 25.35 25.45 25.55 25.65 25.75 25.85 25.95 26.05 26.15 26.24
30 26.34 26.44 26.54 26.64 26.74 26.84 26.94 27.04 27.14 27.23
31 27.33 27.43 27.53 27.63 27.73 27.83 27.93 28.03 28.13 28.22
32 28.32 28.42 28.52 28.62 28.72 28.82 28.92 29.02 29.12 29.22
33 29.31 29.41 29.51 29.61 29.71 29.81 29.91 30.01 30.11 30.21
34 30.31 30.41 30.50 30.60 30.70 30.80 30.90 31.00 31.10 31.20
35 31.30 31.40 31.50 31.60 31.70 31.79 31.89 31.99 32.09 32.19
36 32.29 32.39 32.49 32.59 32.69 32.79 32.89 32.99 33.08 33.18
37 33.28 33.38 33.48 33.58 33.68 33.78 33.88 33.98 34.08 34.18
38 34.28 34.38 34.48 34.57 34.67 34.77 34.87 34.97 35.07 35.17
39 35.27 35.37 35.47 35.57 35.67 35.77 35.87 35.97 36.07 36.16
40 36.26 36.36 36.46 36.56 36.66 36.76 36.86 36.96 37.06 37.16
( P − 0.2S )
2

Note: Runoff value determined by equation Q =

P + 0.8S

10A–28 (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

 Curve

76
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 76
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Tenths - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Inches 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9
0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.01 0.02
1 0.04 0.06 0.09 0.12 0.15 0.19 0.23 0.27 0.32 0.36
2 0.41 0.47 0.52 0.58 0.63 0.69 0.76 0.82 0.88 0.95
3 1.01 1.08 1.15 1.22 1.29 1.36 1.44 1.51 1.59 1.66
4 1.74 1.81 1.89 1.97 2.05 2.13 2.21 2.29 2.37 2.45
5 2.53 2.62 2.70 2.78 2.87 2.95 3.04 3.12 3.21 3.29
6 3.38 3.47 3.55 3.64 3.73 3.81 3.90 3.99 4.08 4.17
7 4.26 4.35 4.43 4.52 4.61 4.70 4.79 4.88 4.97 5.07
8 5.16 5.25 5.34 5.43 5.52 5.61 5.71 5.80 5.89 5.98
9 6.07 6.17 6.26 6.35 6.45 6.54 6.63 6.72 6.82 6.91
10 7.01 7.10 7.19 7.29 7.38 7.47 7.57 7.66 7.76 7.85
11 7.95 8.04 8.14 8.23 8.32 8.42 8.51 8.61 8.70 8.80
12 8.90 8.99 9.09 9.18 9.28 9.37 9.47 9.56 9.66 9.76
13 9.85 9.95 10.04 10.14 10.23 10.33 10.43 10.52 10.62 10.72
14 10.81 10.91 11.00 11.10 11.20 11.29 11.39 11.49 11.58 11.68
15 11.78 11.87 11.97 12.07 12.16 12.26 12.36 12.46 12.55 12.65
16 12.75 12.84 12.94 13.04 13.14 13.23 13.33 13.43 13.52 13.62
17 13.72 13.82 13.91 14.01 14.11 14.21 14.30 14.40 14.50 14.60
18 14.69 14.79 14.89 14.99 15.09 15.18 15.28 15.38 15.48 15.57
19 15.67 15.77 15.87 15.97 16.06 16.16 16.26 16.36 16.46 16.55
20 16.65 16.75 16.85 16.95 17.04 17.14 17.24 17.34 17.44 17.53
21 17.63 17.73 17.83 17.93 18.03 18.12 18.22 18.32 18.42 18.52
22 18.62 18.71 18.81 18.91 19.01 19.11 19.21 19.30 19.40 19.50
23 19.60 19.70 19.80 19.89 19.99 20.09 20.19 20.29 20.39 20.49
24 20.58 20.68 20.78 20.88 20.98 21.08 21.18 21.27 21.37 21.47
25 21.57 21.67 21.77 21.87 21.97 22.06 22.16 22.26 22.36 22.46
26 22.56 22.66 22.76 22.85 22.95 23.05 23.15 23.25 23.35 23.45
27 23.55 23.65 23.74 23.84 23.94 24.04 24.14 24.24 24.34 24.44
28 24.54 24.63 24.73 24.83 24.93 25.03 25.13 25.23 25.33 25.43
29 25.52 25.62 25.72 25.82 25.92 26.02 26.12 26.22 26.32 26.42
30 26.51 26.61 26.71 26.81 26.91 27.01 27.11 27.21 27.31 27.41
31 27.51 27.60 27.70 27.80 27.90 28.00 28.10 28.20 28.30 28.40
32 28.50 28.60 28.70 28.79 28.89 28.99 29.09 29.19 29.29 29.39
33 29.49 29.59 29.69 29.79 29.89 29.99 30.08 30.18 30.28 30.38
34 30.48 30.58 30.68 30.78 30.88 30.98 31.08 31.18 31.28 31.37
35 31.47 31.57 31.67 31.77 31.87 31.97 32.07 32.17 32.27 32.37
36 32.47 32.57 32.67 32.77 32.86 32.96 33.06 33.16 33.26 33.36
37 33.46 33.56 33.66 33.76 33.86 33.96 34.06 34.16 34.26 34.35
38 34.45 34.55 34.65 34.75 34.85 34.95 35.05 35.15 35.25 35.35
39 35.45 35.55 35.65 35.75 35.85 35.95 36.05 36.14 36.24 36.34
40 36.44 36.54 36.64 36.74 36.84 36.94 37.04 37.14 37.24 37.34
( P − 0.2S )
2

Note: Runoff value determined by equation Q =

P + 0.8S

(210-VI-NEH, July 2004) 10A–29

 Curve

77
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 77
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Tenths - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Inches 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9
0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.01 0.03
1 0.05 0.07 0.10 0.13 0.17 0.21 0.25 0.30 0.34 0.39
2 0.45 0.50 0.56 0.62 0.68 0.74 0.80 0.87 0.93 1.00
3 1.07 1.14 1.21 1.28 1.36 1.43 1.50 1.58 1.66 1.73
4 1.81 1.89 1.97 2.05 2.13 2.21 2.29 2.37 2.46 2.54
5 2.62 2.71 2.79 2.87 2.96 3.04 3.13 3.22 3.30 3.39
6 3.48 3.56 3.65 3.74 3.83 3.92 4.01 4.10 4.18 4.27
7 4.36 4.45 4.54 4.63 4.73 4.82 4.91 5.00 5.09 5.18
8 5.27 5.36 5.46 5.55 5.64 5.73 5.83 5.92 6.01 6.10
9 6.20 6.29 6.38 6.48 6.57 6.66 6.76 6.85 6.95 7.04
10 7.13 7.23 7.32 7.42 7.51 7.61 7.70 7.79 7.89 7.98
11 8.08 8.17 8.27 8.36 8.46 8.56 8.65 8.75 8.84 8.94
12 9.03 9.13 9.22 9.32 9.42 9.51 9.61 9.70 9.80 9.90
13 9.99 10.09 10.19 10.28 10.38 10.47 10.57 10.67 10.76 10.86
14 10.96 11.05 11.15 11.25 11.34 11.44 11.54 11.64 11.73 11.83
15 11.93 12.02 12.12 12.22 12.31 12.41 12.51 12.61 12.70 12.80
16 12.90 13.00 13.09 13.19 13.29 13.39 13.48 13.58 13.68 13.78
17 13.87 13.97 14.07 14.17 14.26 14.36 14.46 14.56 14.65 14.75
18 14.85 14.95 15.05 15.14 15.24 15.34 15.44 15.54 15.63 15.73
19 15.83 15.93 16.03 16.12 16.22 16.32 16.42 16.52 16.61 16.71
20 16.81 16.91 17.01 17.11 17.20 17.30 17.40 17.50 17.60 17.70
21 17.79 17.89 17.99 18.09 18.19 18.29 18.38 18.48 18.58 18.68
22 18.78 18.88 18.98 19.07 19.17 19.27 19.37 19.47 19.57 19.67
23 19.76 19.86 19.96 20.06 20.16 20.26 20.36 20.45 20.55 20.65
24 20.75 20.85 20.95 21.05 21.15 21.24 21.34 21.44 21.54 21.64
25 21.74 21.84 21.94 22.03 22.13 22.23 22.33 22.43 22.53 22.63
26 22.73 22.83 22.92 23.02 23.12 23.22 23.32 23.42 23.52 23.62
27 23.72 23.82 23.91 24.01 24.11 24.21 24.31 24.41 24.51 24.61
28 24.71 24.81 24.90 25.00 25.10 25.20 25.30 25.40 25.50 25.60
29 25.70 25.80 25.89 25.99 26.09 26.19 26.29 26.39 26.49 26.59
30 26.69 26.79 26.89 26.99 27.08 27.18 27.28 27.38 27.48 27.58
31 27.68 27.78 27.88 27.98 28.08 28.18 28.28 28.37 28.47 28.57
32 28.67 28.77 28.87 28.97 29.07 29.17 29.27 29.37 29.47 29.57
33 29.66 29.76 29.86 29.96 30.06 30.16 30.26 30.36 30.46 30.56
34 30.66 30.76 30.86 30.96 31.05 31.15 31.25 31.35 31.45 31.55
35 31.65 31.75 31.85 31.95 32.05 32.15 32.25 32.35 32.45 32.55
36 32.64 32.74 32.84 32.94 33.04 33.14 33.24 33.34 33.44 33.54
37 33.64 33.74 33.84 33.94 34.04 34.14 34.24 34.33 34.43 34.53
38 34.63 34.73 34.83 34.93 35.03 35.13 35.23 35.33 35.43 35.53
39 35.63 35.73 35.83 35.93 36.03 36.13 36.22 36.32 36.42 36.52
40 36.62 36.72 36.82 36.92 37.02 37.12 37.22 37.32 37.42 37.52
( P − 0.2S )
2

Note: Runoff value determined by equation Q =

P + 0.8S

10A–30 (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

 Curve

78
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 78
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Tenths - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Inches 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9
0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.01 0.02 0.04
1 0.06 0.09 0.12 0.15 0.19 0.23 0.28 0.33 0.38 0.43
2 0.48 0.54 0.60 0.66 0.72 0.79 0.85 0.92 0.99 1.06
3 1.13 1.20 1.27 1.35 1.42 1.50 1.57 1.65 1.73 1.81
4 1.89 1.97 2.05 2.13 2.21 2.29 2.38 2.46 2.54 2.63
5 2.71 2.80 2.88 2.97 3.05 3.14 3.23 3.32 3.40 3.49
6 3.58 3.67 3.76 3.85 3.93 4.02 4.11 4.20 4.29 4.38
7 4.48 4.57 4.66 4.75 4.84 4.93 5.02 5.11 5.21 5.30
8 5.39 5.48 5.58 5.67 5.76 5.86 5.95 6.04 6.14 6.23
9 6.32 6.42 6.51 6.60 6.70 6.79 6.89 6.98 7.08 7.17
10 7.26 7.36 7.45 7.55 7.64 7.74 7.83 7.93 8.03 8.12
11 8.22 8.31 8.41 8.50 8.60 8.69 8.79 8.89 8.98 9.08
12 9.17 9.27 9.37 9.46 9.56 9.65 9.75 9.85 9.94 10.04
13 10.14 10.23 10.33 10.43 10.52 10.62 10.72 10.81 10.91 11.01
14 11.11 11.20 11.30 11.40 11.49 11.59 11.69 11.79 11.88 11.98
15 12.08 12.17 12.27 12.37 12.47 12.56 12.66 12.76 12.86 12.95
16 13.05 13.15 13.25 13.34 13.44 13.54 13.64 13.74 13.83 13.93
17 14.03 14.13 14.22 14.32 14.42 14.52 14.62 14.71 14.81 14.91
18 15.01 15.11 15.20 15.30 15.40 15.50 15.60 15.70 15.79 15.89
19 15.99 16.09 16.19 16.28 16.38 16.48 16.58 16.68 16.78 16.87
20 16.97 17.07 17.17 17.27 17.37 17.47 17.56 17.66 17.76 17.86
21 17.96 18.06 18.16 18.25 18.35 18.45 18.55 18.65 18.75 18.85
22 18.94 19.04 19.14 19.24 19.34 19.44 19.54 19.63 19.73 19.83
23 19.93 20.03 20.13 20.23 20.33 20.42 20.52 20.62 20.72 20.82
24 20.92 21.02 21.12 21.22 21.31 21.41 21.51 21.61 21.71 21.81
25 21.91 22.01 22.11 22.20 22.30 22.40 22.50 22.60 22.70 22.80
26 22.90 23.00 23.10 23.19 23.29 23.39 23.49 23.59 23.69 23.79
27 23.89 23.99 24.09 24.19 24.28 24.38 24.48 24.58 24.68 24.78
28 24.88 24.98 25.08 25.18 25.28 25.37 25.47 25.57 25.67 25.77
29 25.87 25.97 26.07 26.17 26.27 26.37 26.47 26.56 26.66 26.76
30 26.86 26.96 27.06 27.16 27.26 27.36 27.46 27.56 27.66 27.76
31 27.86 27.95 28.05 28.15 28.25 28.35 28.45 28.55 28.65 28.75
32 28.85 28.95 29.05 29.15 29.25 29.34 29.44 29.54 29.64 29.74
33 29.84 29.94 30.04 30.14 30.24 30.34 30.44 30.54 30.64 30.74
34 30.84 30.93 31.03 31.13 31.23 31.33 31.43 31.53 31.63 31.73
35 31.83 31.93 32.03 32.13 32.23 32.33 32.43 32.53 32.62 32.72
36 32.82 32.92 33.02 33.12 33.22 33.32 33.42 33.52 33.62 33.72
37 33.82 33.92 34.02 34.12 34.22 34.32 34.42 34.52 34.61 34.71
38 34.81 34.91 35.01 35.11 35.21 35.31 35.41 35.51 35.61 35.71
39 35.81 35.91 36.01 36.11 36.21 36.31 36.41 36.51 36.61 36.70
40 36.80 36.90 37.00 37.10 37.20 37.30 37.40 37.50 37.60 37.70
( P − 0.2S )
2

Note: Runoff value determined by equation Q =

P + 0.8S

(210-VI-NEH, July 2004) 10A–31

 Curve

79
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 79
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Tenths - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Inches 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9
0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.01 0.02 0.04
1 0.07 0.10 0.13 0.17 0.21 0.26 0.31 0.36 0.41 0.46
2 0.52 0.58 0.64 0.71 0.77 0.84 0.90 0.97 1.04 1.12
3 1.19 1.26 1.34 1.41 1.49 1.57 1.64 1.72 1.80 1.88
4 1.96 2.04 2.13 2.21 2.29 2.38 2.46 2.54 2.63 2.71
5 2.80 2.89 2.97 3.06 3.15 3.24 3.32 3.41 3.50 3.59
6 3.68 3.77 3.86 3.95 4.04 4.13 4.22 4.31 4.40 4.49
7 4.58 4.67 4.77 4.86 4.95 5.04 5.14 5.23 5.32 5.41
8 5.51 5.60 5.69 5.79 5.88 5.97 6.07 6.16 6.26 6.35
9 6.44 6.54 6.63 6.73 6.82 6.92 7.01 7.11 7.20 7.30
10 7.39 7.49 7.58 7.68 7.77 7.87 7.96 8.06 8.16 8.25
11 8.35 8.44 8.54 8.63 8.73 8.83 8.92 9.02 9.12 9.21
12 9.31 9.41 9.50 9.60 9.70 9.79 9.89 9.99 10.08 10.18
13 10.28 10.37 10.47 10.57 10.66 10.76 10.86 10.96 11.05 11.15
14 11.25 11.34 11.44 11.54 11.64 11.73 11.83 11.93 12.03 12.12
15 12.22 12.32 12.42 12.51 12.61 12.71 12.81 12.90 13.00 13.10
16 13.20 13.30 13.39 13.49 13.59 13.69 13.79 13.88 13.98 14.08
17 14.18 14.28 14.37 14.47 14.57 14.67 14.77 14.86 14.96 15.06
18 15.16 15.26 15.36 15.45 15.55 15.65 15.75 15.85 15.95 16.04
19 16.14 16.24 16.34 16.44 16.54 16.64 16.73 16.83 16.93 17.03
20 17.13 17.23 17.32 17.42 17.52 17.62 17.72 17.82 17.92 18.02
21 18.11 18.21 18.31 18.41 18.51 18.61 18.71 18.80 18.90 19.00
22 19.10 19.20 19.30 19.40 19.50 19.60 19.69 19.79 19.89 19.99
23 20.09 20.19 20.29 20.39 20.49 20.58 20.68 20.78 20.88 20.98
24 21.08 21.18 21.28 21.38 21.47 21.57 21.67 21.77 21.87 21.97
25 22.07 22.17 22.27 22.37 22.47 22.56 22.66 22.76 22.86 22.96
26 23.06 23.16 23.26 23.36 23.46 23.56 23.65 23.75 23.85 23.95
27 24.05 24.15 24.25 24.35 24.45 24.55 24.65 24.75 24.84 24.94
28 25.04 25.14 25.24 25.34 25.44 25.54 25.64 25.74 25.84 25.94
29 26.04 26.13 26.23 26.33 26.43 26.53 26.63 26.73 26.83 26.93
30 27.03 27.13 27.23 27.33 27.43 27.52 27.62 27.72 27.82 27.92
31 28.02 28.12 28.22 28.32 28.42 28.52 28.62 28.72 28.82 28.92
32 29.02 29.11 29.21 29.31 29.41 29.51 29.61 29.71 29.81 29.91
33 30.01 30.11 30.21 30.31 30.41 30.51 30.61 30.71 30.80 30.90
34 31.00 31.10 31.20 31.30 31.40 31.50 31.60 31.70 31.80 31.90
35 32.00 32.10 32.20 32.30 32.40 32.50 32.60 32.70 32.79 32.89
36 32.99 33.09 33.19 33.29 33.39 33.49 33.59 33.69 33.79 33.89
37 33.99 34.09 34.19 34.29 34.39 34.49 34.59 34.69 34.79 34.88
38 34.98 35.08 35.18 35.28 35.38 35.48 35.58 35.68 35.78 35.88
39 35.98 36.08 36.18 36.28 36.38 36.48 36.58 36.68 36.78 36.88
40 36.98 37.08 37.18 37.27 37.37 37.47 37.57 37.67 37.77 37.87
( P − 0.2S )
2

Note: Runoff value determined by equation Q =

P + 0.8S

10A–32 (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

 Curve

80
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 80
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Tenths - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Inches 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9
0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.01 0.03 0.06
1 0.08 0.12 0.15 0.19 0.24 0.29 0.34 0.39 0.44 0.50
2 0.56 0.62 0.69 0.75 0.82 0.89 0.96 1.03 1.10 1.18
3 1.25 1.33 1.40 1.48 1.56 1.64 1.72 1.80 1.88 1.96
4 2.04 2.12 2.21 2.29 2.38 2.46 2.55 2.63 2.72 2.81
5 2.89 2.98 3.07 3.16 3.24 3.33 3.42 3.51 3.60 3.69
6 3.78 3.87 3.96 4.05 4.14 4.24 4.33 4.42 4.51 4.60
7 4.69 4.79 4.88 4.97 5.06 5.16 5.25 5.34 5.44 5.53
8 5.63 5.72 5.81 5.91 6.00 6.10 6.19 6.28 6.38 6.47
9 6.57 6.66 6.76 6.85 6.95 7.04 7.14 7.23 7.33 7.43
10 7.52 7.62 7.71 7.81 7.90 8.00 8.10 8.19 8.29 8.38
11 8.48 8.58 8.67 8.77 8.87 8.96 9.06 9.16 9.25 9.35
12 9.45 9.54 9.64 9.74 9.83 9.93 10.03 10.13 10.22 10.32
13 10.42 10.51 10.61 10.71 10.81 10.90 11.00 11.10 11.20 11.29
14 11.39 11.49 11.59 11.68 11.78 11.88 11.98 12.07 12.17 12.27
15 12.37 12.47 12.56 12.66 12.76 12.86 12.96 13.05 13.15 13.25
16 13.35 13.45 13.54 13.64 13.74 13.84 13.94 14.03 14.13 14.23
17 14.33 14.43 14.53 14.62 14.72 14.82 14.92 15.02 15.12 15.21
18 15.31 15.41 15.51 15.61 15.71 15.80 15.90 16.00 16.10 16.20
19 16.30 16.40 16.49 16.59 16.69 16.79 16.89 16.99 17.09 17.19
20 17.28 17.38 17.48 17.58 17.68 17.78 17.88 17.98 18.07 18.17
21 18.27 18.37 18.47 18.57 18.67 18.77 18.86 18.96 19.06 19.16
22 19.26 19.36 19.46 19.56 19.66 19.76 19.85 19.95 20.05 20.15
23 20.25 20.35 20.45 20.55 20.65 20.75 20.84 20.94 21.04 21.14
24 21.24 21.34 21.44 21.54 21.64 21.74 21.83 21.93 22.03 22.13
25 22.23 22.33 22.43 22.53 22.63 22.73 22.83 22.93 23.02 23.12
26 23.22 23.32 23.42 23.52 23.62 23.72 23.82 23.92 24.02 24.12
27 24.22 24.31 24.41 24.51 24.61 24.71 24.81 24.91 25.01 25.11
28 25.21 25.31 25.41 25.51 25.61 25.70 25.80 25.90 26.00 26.10
29 26.20 26.30 26.40 26.50 26.60 26.70 26.80 26.90 27.00 27.10
30 27.20 27.29 27.39 27.49 27.59 27.69 27.79 27.89 27.99 28.09
31 28.19 28.29 28.39 28.49 28.59 28.69 28.79 28.89 28.98 29.08
32 29.18 29.28 29.38 29.48 29.58 29.68 29.78 29.88 29.98 30.08
33 30.18 30.28 30.38 30.48 30.58 30.68 30.78 30.88 30.97 31.07
34 31.17 31.27 31.37 31.47 31.57 31.67 31.77 31.87 31.97 32.07
35 32.17 32.27 32.37 32.47 32.57 32.67 32.77 32.87 32.97 33.06
36 33.16 33.26 33.36 33.46 33.56 33.66 33.76 33.86 33.96 34.06
37 34.16 34.26 34.36 34.46 34.56 34.66 34.76 34.86 34.96 35.06
38 35.16 35.26 35.36 35.46 35.55 35.65 35.75 35.85 35.95 36.05
39 36.15 36.25 36.35 36.45 36.55 36.65 36.75 36.85 36.95 37.05
40 37.15 37.25 37.35 37.45 37.55 37.65 37.75 37.85 37.95 38.05
( P − 0.2S )
2

Note: Runoff value determined by equation Q =

P + 0.8S

(210-VI-NEH, July 2004) 10A–33

 Curve

81
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 81
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Tenths - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Inches 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9
0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.01 0.02 0.04 0.07
1 0.10 0.13 0.17 0.22 0.27 0.32 0.37 0.42 0.48 0.54
2 0.61 0.67 0.74 0.80 0.87 0.94 1.02 1.09 1.16 1.24
3 1.32 1.39 1.47 1.55 1.63 1.71 1.79 1.87 1.96 2.04
4 2.12 2.21 2.29 2.38 2.47 2.55 2.64 2.73 2.81 2.90
5 2.99 3.08 3.17 3.26 3.34 3.43 3.52 3.62 3.71 3.80
6 3.89 3.98 4.07 4.16 4.25 4.35 4.44 4.53 4.62 4.72
7 4.81 4.90 5.00 5.09 5.18 5.28 5.37 5.46 5.56 5.65
8 5.75 5.84 5.94 6.03 6.13 6.22 6.31 6.41 6.51 6.60
9 6.70 6.79 6.89 6.98 7.08 7.17 7.27 7.37 7.46 7.56
10 7.65 7.75 7.85 7.94 8.04 8.13 8.23 8.33 8.42 8.52
11 8.62 8.71 8.81 8.91 9.00 9.10 9.20 9.30 9.39 9.49
12 9.59 9.68 9.78 9.88 9.98 10.07 10.17 10.27 10.37 10.46
13 10.56 10.66 10.76 10.85 10.95 11.05 11.15 11.24 11.34 11.44
14 11.54 11.63 11.73 11.83 11.93 12.03 12.12 12.22 12.32 12.42
15 12.52 12.61 12.71 12.81 12.91 13.01 13.11 13.20 13.30 13.40
16 13.50 13.60 13.69 13.79 13.89 13.99 14.09 14.19 14.29 14.38
17 14.48 14.58 14.68 14.78 14.88 14.97 15.07 15.17 15.27 15.37
18 15.47 15.57 15.66 15.76 15.86 15.96 16.06 16.16 16.26 16.36
19 16.45 16.55 16.65 16.75 16.85 16.95 17.05 17.15 17.24 17.34
20 17.44 17.54 17.64 17.74 17.84 17.94 18.04 18.13 18.23 18.33
21 18.43 18.53 18.63 18.73 18.83 18.93 19.03 19.12 19.22 19.32
22 19.42 19.52 19.62 19.72 19.82 19.92 20.02 20.11 20.21 20.31
23 20.41 20.51 20.61 20.71 20.81 20.91 21.01 21.11 21.21 21.30
24 21.40 21.50 21.60 21.70 21.80 21.90 22.00 22.10 22.20 22.30
25 22.40 22.50 22.59 22.69 22.79 22.89 22.99 23.09 23.19 23.29
26 23.39 23.49 23.59 23.69 23.79 23.88 23.98 24.08 24.18 24.28
27 24.38 24.48 24.58 24.68 24.78 24.88 24.98 25.08 25.18 25.28
28 25.38 25.47 25.57 25.67 25.77 25.87 25.97 26.07 26.17 26.27
29 26.37 26.47 26.57 26.67 26.77 26.87 26.97 27.07 27.16 27.26
30 27.36 27.46 27.56 27.66 27.76 27.86 27.96 28.06 28.16 28.26
31 28.36 28.46 28.56 28.66 28.76 28.86 28.96 29.06 29.15 29.25
32 29.35 29.45 29.55 29.65 29.75 29.85 29.95 30.05 30.15 30.25
33 30.35 30.45 30.55 30.65 30.75 30.85 30.95 31.05 31.15 31.25
34 31.34 31.44 31.54 31.64 31.74 31.84 31.94 32.04 32.14 32.24
35 32.34 32.44 32.54 32.64 32.74 32.84 32.94 33.04 33.14 33.24
36 33.34 33.44 33.54 33.64 33.74 33.83 33.93 34.03 34.13 34.23
37 34.33 34.43 34.53 34.63 34.73 34.83 34.93 35.03 35.13 35.23
38 35.33 35.43 35.53 35.63 35.73 35.83 35.93 36.03 36.13 36.23
39 36.33 36.43 36.53 36.62 36.72 36.82 36.92 37.02 37.12 37.22
40 37.32 37.42 37.52 37.62 37.72 37.82 37.92 38.02 38.12 38.22
( P − 0.2S )
2

Note: Runoff value determined by equation Q =

P + 0.8S

10A–34 (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

 Curve

82
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 82
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Tenths - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Inches 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9
0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.01 0.03 0.05 0.08
1 0.11 0.15 0.20 0.24 0.29 0.34 0.40 0.46 0.52 0.58
2 0.65 0.71 0.78 0.85 0.92 1.00 1.07 1.15 1.22 1.30
3 1.38 1.46 1.54 1.62 1.70 1.78 1.86 1.95 2.03 2.12
4 2.20 2.29 2.37 2.46 2.55 2.63 2.72 2.81 2.90 2.99
5 3.08 3.17 3.26 3.35 3.44 3.53 3.62 3.71 3.80 3.89
6 3.98 4.08 4.17 4.26 4.35 4.45 4.54 4.63 4.73 4.82
7 4.91 5.01 5.10 5.19 5.29 5.38 5.48 5.57 5.67 5.76
8 5.86 5.95 6.05 6.14 6.24 6.33 6.43 6.52 6.62 6.71
9 6.81 6.91 7.00 7.10 7.19 7.29 7.39 7.48 7.58 7.68
10 7.77 7.87 7.96 8.06 8.16 8.25 8.35 8.45 8.55 8.64
11 8.74 8.84 8.93 9.03 9.13 9.23 9.32 9.42 9.52 9.61
12 9.71 9.81 9.91 10.00 10.10 10.20 10.30 10.39 10.49 10.59
13 10.69 10.79 10.88 10.98 11.08 11.18 11.28 11.37 11.47 11.57
14 11.67 11.77 11.86 11.96 12.06 12.16 12.26 12.35 12.45 12.55
15 12.65 12.75 12.85 12.94 13.04 13.14 13.24 13.34 13.44 13.53
16 13.63 13.73 13.83 13.93 14.03 14.13 14.22 14.32 14.42 14.52
17 14.62 14.72 14.82 14.91 15.01 15.11 15.21 15.31 15.41 15.51
18 15.60 15.70 15.80 15.90 16.00 16.10 16.20 16.30 16.40 16.49
19 16.59 16.69 16.79 16.89 16.99 17.09 17.19 17.29 17.38 17.48
20 17.58 17.68 17.78 17.88 17.98 18.08 18.18 18.28 18.37 18.47
21 18.57 18.67 18.77 18.87 18.97 19.07 19.17 19.27 19.37 19.46
22 19.56 19.66 19.76 19.86 19.96 20.06 20.16 20.26 20.36 20.46
23 20.56 20.65 20.75 20.85 20.95 21.05 21.15 21.25 21.35 21.45
24 21.55 21.65 21.75 21.85 21.95 22.04 22.14 22.24 22.34 22.44
25 22.54 22.64 22.74 22.84 22.94 23.04 23.14 23.24 23.34 23.43
26 23.53 23.63 23.73 23.83 23.93 24.03 24.13 24.23 24.33 24.43
27 24.53 24.63 24.73 24.83 24.93 25.03 25.12 25.22 25.32 25.42
28 25.52 25.62 25.72 25.82 25.92 26.02 26.12 26.22 26.32 26.42
29 26.52 26.62 26.72 26.82 26.92 27.01 27.11 27.21 27.31 27.41
30 27.51 27.61 27.71 27.81 27.91 28.01 28.11 28.21 28.31 28.41
31 28.51 28.61 28.71 28.81 28.91 29.01 29.11 29.20 29.30 29.40
32 29.50 29.60 29.70 29.80 29.90 30.00 30.10 30.20 30.30 30.40
33 30.50 30.60 30.70 30.80 30.90 31.00 31.10 31.20 31.30 31.40
34 31.50 31.59 31.69 31.79 31.89 31.99 32.09 32.19 32.29 32.39
35 32.49 32.59 32.69 32.79 32.89 32.99 33.09 33.19 33.29 33.39
36 33.49 33.59 33.69 33.79 33.89 33.99 34.09 34.19 34.29 34.39
37 34.48 34.58 34.68 34.78 34.88 34.98 35.08 35.18 35.28 35.38
38 35.48 35.58 35.68 35.78 35.88 35.98 36.08 36.18 36.28 36.38
39 36.48 36.58 36.68 36.78 36.88 36.98 37.08 37.18 37.28 37.38
40 37.48 37.58 37.68 37.78 37.87 37.97 38.07 38.17 38.27 38.37
( P − 0.2S )
2

Note: Runoff value determined by equation Q =

P + 0.8S

(210-VI-NEH, July 2004) 10A–35

 Curve

83
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 83
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Tenths - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Inches 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9
0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.02 0.04 0.06 0.09
1 0.13 0.17 0.22 0.27 0.32 0.38 0.44 0.50 0.56 0.63
2 0.69 0.76 0.83 0.91 0.98 1.06 1.13 1.21 1.29 1.37
3 1.45 1.53 1.61 1.69 1.77 1.86 1.94 2.03 2.11 2.20
4 2.29 2.37 2.46 2.55 2.64 2.72 2.81 2.90 2.99 3.08
5 3.17 3.26 3.35 3.45 3.54 3.63 3.72 3.81 3.90 4.00
6 4.09 4.18 4.28 4.37 4.46 4.56 4.65 4.74 4.84 4.93
7 5.03 5.12 5.22 5.31 5.40 5.50 5.59 5.69 5.79 5.88
8 5.98 6.07 6.17 6.26 6.36 6.45 6.55 6.65 6.74 6.84
9 6.93 7.03 7.13 7.22 7.32 7.42 7.51 7.61 7.71 7.80
10 7.90 8.00 8.09 8.19 8.29 8.39 8.48 8.58 8.68 8.78
11 8.87 8.97 9.07 9.16 9.26 9.36 9.46 9.56 9.65 9.75
12 9.85 9.95 10.04 10.14 10.24 10.34 10.44 10.53 10.63 10.73
13 10.83 10.93 11.02 11.12 11.22 11.32 11.42 11.51 11.61 11.71
14 11.81 11.91 12.01 12.10 12.20 12.30 12.40 12.50 12.60 12.69
15 12.79 12.89 12.99 13.09 13.19 13.29 13.38 13.48 13.58 13.68
16 13.78 13.88 13.98 14.07 14.17 14.27 14.37 14.47 14.57 14.67
17 14.77 14.86 14.96 15.06 15.16 15.26 15.36 15.46 15.56 15.66
18 15.75 15.85 15.95 16.05 16.15 16.25 16.35 16.45 16.55 16.64
19 16.74 16.84 16.94 17.04 17.14 17.24 17.34 17.44 17.54 17.64
20 17.73 17.83 17.93 18.03 18.13 18.23 18.33 18.43 18.53 18.63
21 18.73 18.82 18.92 19.02 19.12 19.22 19.32 19.42 19.52 19.62
22 19.72 19.82 19.92 20.02 20.11 20.21 20.31 20.41 20.51 20.61
23 20.71 20.81 20.91 21.01 21.11 21.21 21.31 21.41 21.51 21.60
24 21.70 21.80 21.90 22.00 22.10 22.20 22.30 22.40 22.50 22.60
25 22.70 22.80 22.90 23.00 23.10 23.19 23.29 23.39 23.49 23.59
26 23.69 23.79 23.89 23.99 24.09 24.19 24.29 24.39 24.49 24.59
27 24.69 24.79 24.89 24.99 25.08 25.18 25.28 25.38 25.48 25.58
28 25.68 25.78 25.88 25.98 26.08 26.18 26.28 26.38 26.48 26.58
29 26.68 26.78 26.88 26.98 27.08 27.17 27.27 27.37 27.47 27.57
30 27.67 27.77 27.87 27.97 28.07 28.17 28.27 28.37 28.47 28.57
31 28.67 28.77 28.87 28.97 29.07 29.17 29.27 29.37 29.47 29.57
32 29.66 29.76 29.86 29.96 30.06 30.16 30.26 30.36 30.46 30.56
33 30.66 30.76 30.86 30.96 31.06 31.16 31.26 31.36 31.46 31.56
34 31.66 31.76 31.86 31.96 32.06 32.16 32.26 32.36 32.46 32.56
35 32.65 32.75 32.85 32.95 33.05 33.15 33.25 33.35 33.45 33.55
36 33.65 33.75 33.85 33.95 34.05 34.15 34.25 34.35 34.45 34.55
37 34.65 34.75 34.85 34.95 35.05 35.15 35.25 35.35 35.45 35.55
38 35.65 35.75 35.85 35.95 36.04 36.14 36.24 36.34 36.44 36.54
39 36.64 36.74 36.84 36.94 37.04 37.14 37.24 37.34 37.44 37.54
40 37.64 37.74 37.84 37.94 38.04 38.14 38.24 38.34 38.44 38.54
( P − 0.2S )
2

Note: Runoff value determined by equation Q =

P + 0.8S

10A–36 (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

 Curve

84
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 84
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Tenths - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Inches 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9
0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.01 0.02 0.05 0.08 0.11
1 0.15 0.20 0.25 0.30 0.36 0.42 0.48 0.54 0.61 0.68
2 0.75 0.82 0.89 0.97 1.04 1.12 1.20 1.28 1.36 1.44
3 1.52 1.60 1.68 1.77 1.85 1.94 2.03 2.11 2.20 2.29
4 2.37 2.46 2.55 2.64 2.73 2.82 2.91 3.00 3.09 3.18
5 3.27 3.37 3.46 3.55 3.64 3.73 3.83 3.92 4.01 4.11
6 4.20 4.29 4.39 4.48 4.58 4.67 4.76 4.86 4.95 5.05
7 5.14 5.24 5.33 5.43 5.52 5.62 5.72 5.81 5.91 6.00
8 6.10 6.20 6.29 6.39 6.48 6.58 6.68 6.77 6.87 6.97
9 7.06 7.16 7.26 7.35 7.45 7.55 7.64 7.74 7.84 7.94
10 8.03 8.13 8.23 8.33 8.42 8.52 8.62 8.72 8.81 8.91
11 9.01 9.11 9.20 9.30 9.40 9.50 9.60 9.69 9.79 9.89
12 9.99 10.09 10.18 10.28 10.38 10.48 10.58 10.67 10.77 10.87
13 10.97 11.07 11.17 11.26 11.36 11.46 11.56 11.66 11.76 11.85
14 11.95 12.05 12.15 12.25 12.35 12.45 12.54 12.64 12.74 12.84
15 12.94 13.04 13.14 13.23 13.33 13.43 13.53 13.63 13.73 13.83
16 13.93 14.02 14.12 14.22 14.32 14.42 14.52 14.62 14.72 14.82
17 14.91 15.01 15.11 15.21 15.31 15.41 15.51 15.61 15.71 15.81
18 15.90 16.00 16.10 16.20 16.30 16.40 16.50 16.60 16.70 16.80
19 16.90 17.00 17.09 17.19 17.29 17.39 17.49 17.59 17.69 17.79
20 17.89 17.99 18.09 18.19 18.28 18.38 18.48 18.58 18.68 18.78
21 18.88 18.98 19.08 19.18 19.28 19.38 19.48 19.58 19.67 19.77
22 19.87 19.97 20.07 20.17 20.27 20.37 20.47 20.57 20.67 20.77
23 20.87 20.97 21.07 21.17 21.26 21.36 21.46 21.56 21.66 21.76
24 21.86 21.96 22.06 22.16 22.26 22.36 22.46 22.56 22.66 22.76
25 22.86 22.96 23.06 23.15 23.25 23.35 23.45 23.55 23.65 23.75
26 23.85 23.95 24.05 24.15 24.25 24.35 24.45 24.55 24.65 24.75
27 24.85 24.95 25.05 25.15 25.24 25.34 25.44 25.54 25.64 25.74
28 25.84 25.94 26.04 26.14 26.24 26.34 26.44 26.54 26.64 26.74
29 26.84 26.94 27.04 27.14 27.24 27.34 27.44 27.54 27.64 27.73
30 27.83 27.93 28.03 28.13 28.23 28.33 28.43 28.53 28.63 28.73
31 28.83 28.93 29.03 29.13 29.23 29.33 29.43 29.53 29.63 29.73
32 29.83 29.93 30.03 30.13 30.23 30.33 30.43 30.53 30.63 30.72
33 30.82 30.92 31.02 31.12 31.22 31.32 31.42 31.52 31.62 31.72
34 31.82 31.92 32.02 32.12 32.22 32.32 32.42 32.52 32.62 32.72
35 32.82 32.92 33.02 33.12 33.22 33.32 33.42 33.52 33.62 33.72
36 33.82 33.92 34.02 34.12 34.22 34.31 34.41 34.51 34.61 34.71
37 34.81 34.91 35.01 35.11 35.21 35.31 35.41 35.51 35.61 35.71
38 35.81 35.91 36.01 36.11 36.21 36.31 36.41 36.51 36.61 36.71
39 36.81 36.91 37.01 37.11 37.21 37.31 37.41 37.51 37.61 37.71
40 37.81 37.91 38.01 38.11 38.21 38.31 38.41 38.51 38.61 38.71
( P − 0.2S )
2

Note: Runoff value determined by equation Q =

P + 0.8S

(210-VI-NEH, July 2004) 10A–37

 Curve

85
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 85
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Tenths - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Inches 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9
0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.01 0.03 0.06 0.09 0.13
1 0.17 0.22 0.28 0.33 0.39 0.45 0.52 0.58 0.65 0.72
2 0.80 0.87 0.95 1.02 1.10 1.18 1.26 1.34 1.42 1.51
3 1.59 1.68 1.76 1.85 1.93 2.02 2.11 2.19 2.28 2.37
4 2.46 2.55 2.64 2.73 2.82 2.91 3.00 3.10 3.19 3.28
5 3.37 3.46 3.56 3.65 3.74 3.84 3.93 4.02 4.12 4.21
6 4.31 4.40 4.50 4.59 4.68 4.78 4.87 4.97 5.07 5.16
7 5.26 5.35 5.45 5.54 5.64 5.74 5.83 5.93 6.02 6.12
8 6.22 6.31 6.41 6.51 6.60 6.70 6.80 6.89 6.99 7.09
9 7.19 7.28 7.38 7.48 7.57 7.67 7.77 7.87 7.96 8.06
10 8.16 8.26 8.35 8.45 8.55 8.65 8.75 8.84 8.94 9.04
11 9.14 9.24 9.33 9.43 9.53 9.63 9.73 9.82 9.92 10.02
12 10.12 10.22 10.32 10.41 10.51 10.61 10.71 10.81 10.91 11.00
13 11.10 11.20 11.30 11.40 11.50 11.60 11.69 11.79 11.89 11.99
14 12.09 12.19 12.29 12.39 12.48 12.58 12.68 12.78 12.88 12.98
15 13.08 13.18 13.27 13.37 13.47 13.57 13.67 13.77 13.87 13.97
16 14.07 14.16 14.26 14.36 14.46 14.56 14.66 14.76 14.86 14.96
17 15.06 15.16 15.25 15.35 15.45 15.55 15.65 15.75 15.85 15.95
18 16.05 16.15 16.25 16.35 16.44 16.54 16.64 16.74 16.84 16.94
19 17.04 17.14 17.24 17.34 17.44 17.54 17.64 17.73 17.83 17.93
20 18.03 18.13 18.23 18.33 18.43 18.53 18.63 18.73 18.83 18.93
21 19.03 19.13 19.23 19.32 19.42 19.52 19.62 19.72 19.82 19.92
22 20.02 20.12 20.22 20.32 20.42 20.52 20.62 20.72 20.82 20.92
23 21.01 21.11 21.21 21.31 21.41 21.51 21.61 21.71 21.81 21.91
24 22.01 22.11 22.21 22.31 22.41 22.51 22.61 22.71 22.81 22.91
25 23.01 23.10 23.20 23.30 23.40 23.50 23.60 23.70 23.80 23.90
26 24.00 24.10 24.20 24.30 24.40 24.50 24.60 24.70 24.80 24.90
27 25.00 25.10 25.20 25.30 25.40 25.50 25.59 25.69 25.79 25.89
28 25.99 26.09 26.19 26.29 26.39 26.49 26.59 26.69 26.79 26.89
29 26.99 27.09 27.19 27.29 27.39 27.49 27.59 27.69 27.79 27.89
30 27.99 28.09 28.19 28.29 28.39 28.49 28.58 28.68 28.78 28.88
31 28.98 29.08 29.18 29.28 29.38 29.48 29.58 29.68 29.78 29.88
32 29.98 30.08 30.18 30.28 30.38 30.48 30.58 30.68 30.78 30.88
33 30.98 31.08 31.18 31.28 31.38 31.48 31.58 31.68 31.78 31.88
34 31.98 32.08 32.17 32.27 32.37 32.47 32.57 32.67 32.77 32.87
35 32.97 33.07 33.17 33.27 33.37 33.47 33.57 33.67 33.77 33.87
36 33.97 34.07 34.17 34.27 34.37 34.47 34.57 34.67 34.77 34.87
37 34.97 35.07 35.17 35.27 35.37 35.47 35.57 35.67 35.77 35.87
38 35.97 36.07 36.17 36.27 36.37 36.47 36.57 36.67 36.77 36.86
39 36.96 37.06 37.16 37.26 37.36 37.46 37.56 37.66 37.76 37.86
40 37.96 38.06 38.16 38.26 38.36 38.46 38.56 38.66 38.76 38.86
( P − 0.2S )
2

Note: Runoff value determined by equation Q =

P + 0.8S

10A–38 (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

 Curve

86
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 86
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Tenths - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Inches 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9
0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.02 0.04 0.07 0.11 0.15
1 0.20 0.25 0.31 0.36 0.43 0.49 0.56 0.63 0.70 0.77
2 0.85 0.92 1.00 1.08 1.16 1.24 1.32 1.41 1.49 1.58
3 1.66 1.75 1.83 1.92 2.01 2.10 2.19 2.27 2.36 2.45
4 2.54 2.64 2.73 2.82 2.91 3.00 3.09 3.19 3.28 3.37
5 3.47 3.56 3.65 3.75 3.84 3.93 4.03 4.12 4.22 4.31
6 4.41 4.50 4.60 4.69 4.79 4.88 4.98 5.08 5.17 5.27
7 5.36 5.46 5.56 5.65 5.75 5.85 5.94 6.04 6.14 6.23
8 6.33 6.43 6.52 6.62 6.72 6.82 6.91 7.01 7.11 7.20
9 7.30 7.40 7.50 7.59 7.69 7.79 7.89 7.99 8.08 8.18
10 8.28 8.38 8.47 8.57 8.67 8.77 8.87 8.97 9.06 9.16
11 9.26 9.36 9.46 9.55 9.65 9.75 9.85 9.95 10.05 10.15
12 10.24 10.34 10.44 10.54 10.64 10.74 10.84 10.93 11.03 11.13
13 11.23 11.33 11.43 11.53 11.62 11.72 11.82 11.92 12.02 12.12
14 12.22 12.32 12.42 12.51 12.61 12.71 12.81 12.91 13.01 13.11
15 13.21 13.31 13.40 13.50 13.60 13.70 13.80 13.90 14.00 14.10
16 14.20 14.30 14.40 14.49 14.59 14.69 14.79 14.89 14.99 15.09
17 15.19 15.29 15.39 15.49 15.59 15.69 15.78 15.88 15.98 16.08
18 16.18 16.28 16.38 16.48 16.58 16.68 16.78 16.88 16.98 17.08
19 17.17 17.27 17.37 17.47 17.57 17.67 17.77 17.87 17.97 18.07
20 18.17 18.27 18.37 18.47 18.57 18.67 18.77 18.86 18.96 19.06
21 19.16 19.26 19.36 19.46 19.56 19.66 19.76 19.86 19.96 20.06
22 20.16 20.26 20.36 20.46 20.56 20.66 20.76 20.85 20.95 21.05
23 21.15 21.25 21.35 21.45 21.55 21.65 21.75 21.85 21.95 22.05
24 22.15 22.25 22.35 22.45 22.55 22.65 22.75 22.85 22.95 23.05
25 23.15 23.24 23.34 23.44 23.54 23.64 23.74 23.84 23.94 24.04
26 24.14 24.24 24.34 24.44 24.54 24.64 24.74 24.84 24.94 25.04
27 25.14 25.24 25.34 25.44 25.54 25.64 25.74 25.84 25.94 26.03
28 26.13 26.23 26.33 26.43 26.53 26.63 26.73 26.83 26.93 27.03
29 27.13 27.23 27.33 27.43 27.53 27.63 27.73 27.83 27.93 28.03
30 28.13 28.23 28.33 28.43 28.53 28.63 28.73 28.83 28.93 29.03
31 29.13 29.23 29.33 29.43 29.53 29.62 29.72 29.82 29.92 30.02
32 30.12 30.22 30.32 30.42 30.52 30.62 30.72 30.82 30.92 31.02
33 31.12 31.22 31.32 31.42 31.52 31.62 31.72 31.82 31.92 32.02
34 32.12 32.22 32.32 32.42 32.52 32.62 32.72 32.82 32.92 33.02
35 33.12 33.22 33.32 33.42 33.52 33.62 33.72 33.82 33.92 34.02
36 34.12 34.22 34.31 34.41 34.51 34.61 34.71 34.81 34.91 35.01
37 35.11 35.21 35.31 35.41 35.51 35.61 35.71 35.81 35.91 36.01
38 36.11 36.21 36.31 36.41 36.51 36.61 36.71 36.81 36.91 37.01
39 37.11 37.21 37.31 37.41 37.51 37.61 37.71 37.81 37.91 38.01
40 38.11 38.21 38.31 38.41 38.51 38.61 38.71 38.81 38.91 39.01
( P − 0.2S )
2

Note: Runoff value determined by equation Q =

P + 0.8S

(210-VI-NEH, July 2004) 10A–39

 Curve

87
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 87
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Tenths - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Inches 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9
0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.01 0.02 0.05 0.09 0.13 0.17
1 0.22 0.28 0.34 0.40 0.47 0.54 0.61 0.68 0.75 0.83
2 0.91 0.99 1.07 1.15 1.23 1.31 1.40 1.48 1.57 1.65
3 1.74 1.83 1.92 2.01 2.10 2.19 2.28 2.37 2.46 2.55
4 2.64 2.73 2.82 2.92 3.01 3.10 3.20 3.29 3.38 3.48
5 3.57 3.66 3.76 3.85 3.95 4.04 4.14 4.23 4.33 4.43
6 4.52 4.62 4.71 4.81 4.90 5.00 5.10 5.19 5.29 5.39
7 5.48 5.58 5.68 5.77 5.87 5.97 6.06 6.16 6.26 6.36
8 6.45 6.55 6.65 6.75 6.84 6.94 7.04 7.14 7.23 7.33
9 7.43 7.53 7.63 7.72 7.82 7.92 8.02 8.12 8.21 8.31
10 8.41 8.51 8.61 8.71 8.80 8.90 9.00 9.10 9.20 9.30
11 9.39 9.49 9.59 9.69 9.79 9.89 9.99 10.08 10.18 10.28
12 10.38 10.48 10.58 10.68 10.78 10.87 10.97 11.07 11.17 11.27
13 11.37 11.47 11.57 11.67 11.76 11.86 11.96 12.06 12.16 12.26
14 12.36 12.46 12.56 12.66 12.75 12.85 12.95 13.05 13.15 13.25
15 13.35 13.45 13.55 13.65 13.75 13.85 13.94 14.04 14.14 14.24
16 14.34 14.44 14.54 14.64 14.74 14.84 14.94 15.04 15.14 15.23
17 15.33 15.43 15.53 15.63 15.73 15.83 15.93 16.03 16.13 16.23
18 16.33 16.43 16.53 16.63 16.73 16.82 16.92 17.02 17.12 17.22
19 17.32 17.42 17.52 17.62 17.72 17.82 17.92 18.02 18.12 18.22
20 18.32 18.42 18.52 18.62 18.71 18.81 18.91 19.01 19.11 19.21
21 19.31 19.41 19.51 19.61 19.71 19.81 19.91 20.01 20.11 20.21
22 20.31 20.41 20.51 20.61 20.71 20.81 20.91 21.00 21.10 21.20
23 21.30 21.40 21.50 21.60 21.70 21.80 21.90 22.00 22.10 22.20
24 22.30 22.40 22.50 22.60 22.70 22.80 22.90 23.00 23.10 23.20
25 23.30 23.40 23.50 23.60 23.70 23.80 23.89 23.99 24.09 24.19
26 24.29 24.39 24.49 24.59 24.69 24.79 24.89 24.99 25.09 25.19
27 25.29 25.39 25.49 25.59 25.69 25.79 25.89 25.99 26.09 26.19
28 26.29 26.39 26.49 26.59 26.69 26.79 26.89 26.99 27.09 27.19
29 27.29 27.39 27.49 27.58 27.68 27.78 27.88 27.98 28.08 28.18
30 28.28 28.38 28.48 28.58 28.68 28.78 28.88 28.98 29.08 29.18
31 29.28 29.38 29.48 29.58 29.68 29.78 29.88 29.98 30.08 30.18
32 30.28 30.38 30.48 30.58 30.68 30.78 30.88 30.98 31.08 31.18
33 31.28 31.38 31.48 31.58 31.68 31.78 31.88 31.98 32.08 32.18
34 32.28 32.37 32.47 32.57 32.67 32.77 32.87 32.97 33.07 33.17
35 33.27 33.37 33.47 33.57 33.67 33.77 33.87 33.97 34.07 34.17
36 34.27 34.37 34.47 34.57 34.67 34.77 34.87 34.97 35.07 35.17
37 35.27 35.37 35.47 35.57 35.67 35.77 35.87 35.97 36.07 36.17
38 36.27 36.37 36.47 36.57 36.67 36.77 36.87 36.97 37.07 37.17
39 37.27 37.37 37.47 37.57 37.67 37.77 37.87 37.97 38.07 38.17
40 38.27 38.37 38.47 38.57 38.67 38.77 38.87 38.96 39.06 39.16
( P − 0.2S )
2

Note: Runoff value determined by equation Q =

P + 0.8S

10A–40 (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

 Curve

88
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 88
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Tenths - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Inches 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9
0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.01 0.03 0.06 0.10 0.15 0.20
1 0.25 0.31 0.38 0.44 0.51 0.58 0.66 0.73 0.81 0.89
2 0.97 1.05 1.13 1.21 1.30 1.38 1.47 1.56 1.64 1.73
3 1.82 1.91 2.00 2.09 2.18 2.27 2.36 2.45 2.55 2.64
4 2.73 2.82 2.92 3.01 3.11 3.20 3.29 3.39 3.48 3.58
5 3.67 3.77 3.86 3.96 4.05 4.15 4.24 4.34 4.44 4.53
6 4.63 4.73 4.82 4.92 5.02 5.11 5.21 5.31 5.40 5.50
7 5.60 5.69 5.79 5.89 5.99 6.08 6.18 6.28 6.38 6.47
8 6.57 6.67 6.77 6.87 6.96 7.06 7.16 7.26 7.36 7.45
9 7.55 7.65 7.75 7.85 7.94 8.04 8.14 8.24 8.34 8.44
10 8.53 8.63 8.73 8.83 8.93 9.03 9.13 9.22 9.32 9.42
11 9.52 9.62 9.72 9.82 9.92 10.01 10.11 10.21 10.31 10.41
12 10.51 10.61 10.71 10.81 10.91 11.00 11.10 11.20 11.30 11.40
13 11.50 11.60 11.70 11.80 11.90 11.99 12.09 12.19 12.29 12.39
14 12.49 12.59 12.69 12.79 12.89 12.99 13.09 13.19 13.28 13.38
15 13.48 13.58 13.68 13.78 13.88 13.98 14.08 14.18 14.28 14.38
16 14.48 14.58 14.67 14.77 14.87 14.97 15.07 15.17 15.27 15.37
17 15.47 15.57 15.67 15.77 15.87 15.97 16.07 16.17 16.27 16.37
18 16.46 16.56 16.66 16.76 16.86 16.96 17.06 17.16 17.26 17.36
19 17.46 17.56 17.66 17.76 17.86 17.96 18.06 18.16 18.26 18.36
20 18.46 18.56 18.65 18.75 18.85 18.95 19.05 19.15 19.25 19.35
21 19.45 19.55 19.65 19.75 19.85 19.95 20.05 20.15 20.25 20.35
22 20.45 20.55 20.65 20.75 20.85 20.95 21.05 21.15 21.25 21.35
23 21.44 21.54 21.64 21.74 21.84 21.94 22.04 22.14 22.24 22.34
24 22.44 22.54 22.64 22.74 22.84 22.94 23.04 23.14 23.24 23.34
25 23.44 23.54 23.64 23.74 23.84 23.94 24.04 24.14 24.24 24.34
26 24.44 24.54 24.64 24.74 24.84 24.94 25.03 25.13 25.23 25.33
27 25.43 25.53 25.63 25.73 25.83 25.93 26.03 26.13 26.23 26.33
28 26.43 26.53 26.63 26.73 26.83 26.93 27.03 27.13 27.23 27.33
29 27.43 27.53 27.63 27.73 27.83 27.93 28.03 28.13 28.23 28.33
30 28.43 28.53 28.63 28.73 28.83 28.93 29.03 29.13 29.23 29.33
31 29.43 29.53 29.63 29.73 29.82 29.92 30.02 30.12 30.22 30.32
32 30.42 30.52 30.62 30.72 30.82 30.92 31.02 31.12 31.22 31.32
33 31.42 31.52 31.62 31.72 31.82 31.92 32.02 32.12 32.22 32.32
34 32.42 32.52 32.62 32.72 32.82 32.92 33.02 33.12 33.22 33.32
35 33.42 33.52 33.62 33.72 33.82 33.92 34.02 34.12 34.22 34.32
36 34.42 34.52 34.62 34.72 34.82 34.92 35.02 35.12 35.22 35.32
37 35.42 35.52 35.62 35.72 35.82 35.92 36.02 36.12 36.22 36.32
38 36.42 36.52 36.62 36.71 36.81 36.91 37.01 37.11 37.21 37.31
39 37.41 37.51 37.61 37.71 37.81 37.91 38.01 38.11 38.21 38.31
40 38.41 38.51 38.61 38.71 38.81 38.91 39.01 39.11 39.21 39.31
( P − 0.2S )
2

Note: Runoff value determined by equation Q =

P + 0.8S

(210-VI-NEH, July 2004) 10A–41

 Curve

89
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 89
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Tenths - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Inches 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9
0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.02 0.04 0.08 0.12 0.17 0.22
1 0.28 0.35 0.41 0.48 0.55 0.63 0.71 0.78 0.86 0.94
2 1.03 1.11 1.19 1.28 1.37 1.45 1.54 1.63 1.72 1.81
3 1.90 1.99 2.08 2.17 2.26 2.35 2.45 2.54 2.63 2.73
4 2.82 2.91 3.01 3.10 3.20 3.29 3.39 3.48 3.58 3.67
5 3.77 3.86 3.96 4.06 4.15 4.25 4.35 4.44 4.54 4.64
6 4.73 4.83 4.93 5.02 5.12 5.22 5.31 5.41 5.51 5.61
7 5.70 5.80 5.90 6.00 6.10 6.19 6.29 6.39 6.49 6.58
8 6.68 6.78 6.88 6.98 7.08 7.17 7.27 7.37 7.47 7.57
9 7.67 7.76 7.86 7.96 8.06 8.16 8.26 8.36 8.45 8.55
10 8.65 8.75 8.85 8.95 9.05 9.15 9.24 9.34 9.44 9.54
11 9.64 9.74 9.84 9.94 10.04 10.14 10.23 10.33 10.43 10.53
12 10.63 10.73 10.83 10.93 11.03 11.13 11.23 11.32 11.42 11.52
13 11.62 11.72 11.82 11.92 12.02 12.12 12.22 12.32 12.42 12.52
14 12.61 12.71 12.81 12.91 13.01 13.11 13.21 13.31 13.41 13.51
15 13.61 13.71 13.81 13.91 14.01 14.11 14.20 14.30 14.40 14.50
16 14.60 14.70 14.80 14.90 15.00 15.10 15.20 15.30 15.40 15.50
17 15.60 15.70 15.80 15.90 16.00 16.10 16.19 16.29 16.39 16.49
18 16.59 16.69 16.79 16.89 16.99 17.09 17.19 17.29 17.39 17.49
19 17.59 17.69 17.79 17.89 17.99 18.09 18.19 18.29 18.39 18.49
20 18.59 18.68 18.78 18.88 18.98 19.08 19.18 19.28 19.38 19.48
21 19.58 19.68 19.78 19.88 19.98 20.08 20.18 20.28 20.38 20.48
22 20.58 20.68 20.78 20.88 20.98 21.08 21.18 21.28 21.38 21.48
23 21.58 21.68 21.78 21.88 21.98 22.07 22.17 22.27 22.37 22.47
24 22.57 22.67 22.77 22.87 22.97 23.07 23.17 23.27 23.37 23.47
25 23.57 23.67 23.77 23.87 23.97 24.07 24.17 24.27 24.37 24.47
26 24.57 24.67 24.77 24.87 24.97 25.07 25.17 25.27 25.37 25.47
27 25.57 25.67 25.77 25.87 25.97 26.07 26.17 26.27 26.37 26.47
28 26.57 26.66 26.76 26.86 26.96 27.06 27.16 27.26 27.36 27.46
29 27.56 27.66 27.76 27.86 27.96 28.06 28.16 28.26 28.36 28.46
30 28.56 28.66 28.76 28.86 28.96 29.06 29.16 29.26 29.36 29.46
31 29.56 29.66 29.76 29.86 29.96 30.06 30.16 30.26 30.36 30.46
32 30.56 30.66 30.76 30.86 30.96 31.06 31.16 31.26 31.36 31.46
33 31.56 31.66 31.76 31.86 31.96 32.06 32.16 32.26 32.36 32.46
34 32.56 32.66 32.76 32.86 32.96 33.06 33.16 33.26 33.35 33.45
35 33.55 33.65 33.75 33.85 33.95 34.05 34.15 34.25 34.35 34.45
36 34.55 34.65 34.75 34.85 34.95 35.05 35.15 35.25 35.35 35.45
37 35.55 35.65 35.75 35.85 35.95 36.05 36.15 36.25 36.35 36.45
38 36.55 36.65 36.75 36.85 36.95 37.05 37.15 37.25 37.35 37.45
39 37.55 37.65 37.75 37.85 37.95 38.05 38.15 38.25 38.35 38.45
40 38.55 38.65 38.75 38.85 38.95 39.05 39.15 39.25 39.35 39.45
( P − 0.2S )
2

Note: Runoff value determined by equation Q =

P + 0.8S

10A–42 (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

 Curve

90
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 90
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Tenths - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Inches 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9
0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.01 0.02 0.06 0.10 0.14 0.20 0.26
1 0.32 0.39 0.46 0.53 0.61 0.68 0.76 0.84 0.93 1.01
2 1.09 1.18 1.27 1.35 1.44 1.53 1.62 1.71 1.80 1.89
3 1.98 2.08 2.17 2.26 2.36 2.45 2.54 2.64 2.73 2.83
4 2.92 3.02 3.11 3.21 3.30 3.40 3.49 3.59 3.68 3.78
5 3.88 3.97 4.07 4.17 4.26 4.36 4.46 4.56 4.65 4.75
6 4.85 4.94 5.04 5.14 5.24 5.33 5.43 5.53 5.63 5.73
7 5.82 5.92 6.02 6.12 6.22 6.31 6.41 6.51 6.61 6.71
8 6.81 6.91 7.00 7.10 7.20 7.30 7.40 7.50 7.60 7.69
9 7.79 7.89 7.99 8.09 8.19 8.29 8.39 8.48 8.58 8.68
10 8.78 8.88 8.98 9.08 9.18 9.28 9.38 9.47 9.57 9.67
11 9.77 9.87 9.97 10.07 10.17 10.27 10.37 10.47 10.57 10.66
12 10.76 10.86 10.96 11.06 11.16 11.26 11.36 11.46 11.56 11.66
13 11.76 11.86 11.96 12.05 12.15 12.25 12.35 12.45 12.55 12.65
14 12.75 12.85 12.95 13.05 13.15 13.25 13.35 13.45 13.55 13.65
15 13.75 13.85 13.94 14.04 14.14 14.24 14.34 14.44 14.54 14.64
16 14.74 14.84 14.94 15.04 15.14 15.24 15.34 15.44 15.54 15.64
17 15.74 15.84 15.94 16.04 16.14 16.24 16.33 16.43 16.53 16.63
18 16.73 16.83 16.93 17.03 17.13 17.23 17.33 17.43 17.53 17.63
19 17.73 17.83 17.93 18.03 18.13 18.23 18.33 18.43 18.53 18.63
20 18.73 18.83 18.93 19.03 19.13 19.23 19.33 19.43 19.52 19.62
21 19.72 19.82 19.92 20.02 20.12 20.22 20.32 20.42 20.52 20.62
22 20.72 20.82 20.92 21.02 21.12 21.22 21.32 21.42 21.52 21.62
23 21.72 21.82 21.92 22.02 22.12 22.22 22.32 22.42 22.52 22.62
24 22.72 22.82 22.92 23.02 23.12 23.22 23.32 23.42 23.52 23.62
25 23.72 23.82 23.92 24.02 24.11 24.21 24.31 24.41 24.51 24.61
26 24.71 24.81 24.91 25.01 25.11 25.21 25.31 25.41 25.51 25.61
27 25.71 25.81 25.91 26.01 26.11 26.21 26.31 26.41 26.51 26.61
28 26.71 26.81 26.91 27.01 27.11 27.21 27.31 27.41 27.51 27.61
29 27.71 27.81 27.91 28.01 28.11 28.21 28.31 28.41 28.51 28.61
30 28.71 28.81 28.91 29.01 29.11 29.21 29.31 29.41 29.51 29.61
31 29.71 29.81 29.91 30.01 30.11 30.21 30.31 30.41 30.51 30.61
32 30.71 30.81 30.91 31.01 31.11 31.20 31.30 31.40 31.50 31.60
33 31.70 31.80 31.90 32.00 32.10 32.20 32.30 32.40 32.50 32.60
34 32.70 32.80 32.90 33.00 33.10 33.20 33.30 33.40 33.50 33.60
35 33.70 33.80 33.90 34.00 34.10 34.20 34.30 34.40 34.50 34.60
36 34.70 34.80 34.90 35.00 35.10 35.20 35.30 35.40 35.50 35.60
37 35.70 35.80 35.90 36.00 36.10 36.20 36.30 36.40 36.50 36.60
38 36.70 36.80 36.90 37.00 37.10 37.20 37.30 37.40 37.50 37.60
39 37.70 37.80 37.90 38.00 38.10 38.20 38.30 38.40 38.50 38.60
40 38.70 38.80 38.90 39.00 39.10 39.20 39.30 39.40 39.50 39.60
( P − 0.2S )
2

Note: Runoff value determined by equation Q =

P + 0.8S

(210-VI-NEH, July 2004) 10A–43

 Curve

91
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 91
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Tenths - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Inches 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9
0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.01 0.03 0.07 0.12 0.17 0.23 0.29
1 0.36 0.43 0.50 0.58 0.66 0.74 0.82 0.91 0.99 1.08
2 1.16 1.25 1.34 1.43 1.52 1.61 1.70 1.79 1.89 1.98
3 2.07 2.16 2.26 2.35 2.45 2.54 2.64 2.73 2.83 2.92
4 3.02 3.11 3.21 3.31 3.40 3.50 3.59 3.69 3.79 3.89
5 3.98 4.08 4.18 4.27 4.37 4.47 4.57 4.66 4.76 4.86
6 4.96 5.06 5.15 5.25 5.35 5.45 5.55 5.64 5.74 5.84
7 5.94 6.04 6.14 6.23 6.33 6.43 6.53 6.63 6.73 6.83
8 6.92 7.02 7.12 7.22 7.32 7.42 7.52 7.62 7.72 7.81
9 7.91 8.01 8.11 8.21 8.31 8.41 8.51 8.61 8.71 8.80
10 8.90 9.00 9.10 9.20 9.30 9.40 9.50 9.60 9.70 9.80
11 9.90 10.00 10.09 10.19 10.29 10.39 10.49 10.59 10.69 10.79
12 10.89 10.99 11.09 11.19 11.29 11.39 11.49 11.59 11.69 11.78
13 11.88 11.98 12.08 12.18 12.28 12.38 12.48 12.58 12.68 12.78
14 12.88 12.98 13.08 13.18 13.28 13.38 13.48 13.58 13.68 13.78
15 13.88 13.97 14.07 14.17 14.27 14.37 14.47 14.57 14.67 14.77
16 14.87 14.97 15.07 15.17 15.27 15.37 15.47 15.57 15.67 15.77
17 15.87 15.97 16.07 16.17 16.27 16.37 16.47 16.57 16.67 16.77
18 16.87 16.96 17.06 17.16 17.26 17.36 17.46 17.56 17.66 17.76
19 17.86 17.96 18.06 18.16 18.26 18.36 18.46 18.56 18.66 18.76
20 18.86 18.96 19.06 19.16 19.26 19.36 19.46 19.56 19.66 19.76
21 19.86 19.96 20.06 20.16 20.26 20.36 20.46 20.56 20.66 20.76
22 20.86 20.96 21.06 21.16 21.26 21.36 21.46 21.55 21.65 21.75
23 21.85 21.95 22.05 22.15 22.25 22.35 22.45 22.55 22.65 22.75
24 22.85 22.95 23.05 23.15 23.25 23.35 23.45 23.55 23.65 23.75
25 23.85 23.95 24.05 24.15 24.25 24.35 24.45 24.55 24.65 24.75
26 24.85 24.95 25.05 25.15 25.25 25.35 25.45 25.55 25.65 25.75
27 25.85 25.95 26.05 26.15 26.25 26.35 26.45 26.55 26.65 26.75
28 26.85 26.95 27.05 27.15 27.25 27.35 27.45 27.55 27.65 27.75
29 27.85 27.95 28.05 28.15 28.25 28.35 28.45 28.55 28.65 28.75
30 28.84 28.94 29.04 29.14 29.24 29.34 29.44 29.54 29.64 29.74
31 29.84 29.94 30.04 30.14 30.24 30.34 30.44 30.54 30.64 30.74
32 30.84 30.94 31.04 31.14 31.24 31.34 31.44 31.54 31.64 31.74
33 31.84 31.94 32.04 32.14 32.24 32.34 32.44 32.54 32.64 32.74
34 32.84 32.94 33.04 33.14 33.24 33.34 33.44 33.54 33.64 33.74
35 33.84 33.94 34.04 34.14 34.24 34.34 34.44 34.54 34.64 34.74
36 34.84 34.94 35.04 35.14 35.24 35.34 35.44 35.54 35.64 35.74
37 35.84 35.94 36.04 36.14 36.24 36.34 36.44 36.54 36.64 36.74
38 36.84 36.94 37.04 37.14 37.24 37.34 37.44 37.54 37.64 37.74
39 37.84 37.94 38.04 38.14 38.24 38.34 38.44 38.54 38.64 38.74
40 38.84 38.94 39.04 39.14 39.24 39.34 39.44 39.54 39.64 39.74
( P − 0.2S )
2

Note: Runoff value determined by equation Q =

P + 0.8S

10A–44 (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

 Curve

92
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 92
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Tenths - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Inches 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9
0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.02 0.05 0.09 0.14 0.20 0.26 0.33
1 0.40 0.48 0.56 0.64 0.72 0.80 0.89 0.97 1.06 1.15
2 1.24 1.33 1.42 1.51 1.60 1.69 1.79 1.88 1.97 2.07
3 2.16 2.26 2.35 2.45 2.54 2.64 2.73 2.83 2.92 3.02
4 3.12 3.21 3.31 3.41 3.50 3.60 3.70 3.80 3.89 3.99
5 4.09 4.19 4.28 4.38 4.48 4.58 4.68 4.77 4.87 4.97
6 5.07 5.17 5.27 5.36 5.46 5.56 5.66 5.76 5.86 5.96
7 6.05 6.15 6.25 6.35 6.45 6.55 6.65 6.75 6.85 6.94
8 7.04 7.14 7.24 7.34 7.44 7.54 7.64 7.74 7.84 7.93
9 8.03 8.13 8.23 8.33 8.43 8.53 8.63 8.73 8.83 8.93
10 9.03 9.13 9.23 9.32 9.42 9.52 9.62 9.72 9.82 9.92
11 10.02 10.12 10.22 10.32 10.42 10.52 10.62 10.72 10.82 10.92
12 11.02 11.12 11.21 11.31 11.41 11.51 11.61 11.71 11.81 11.91
13 12.01 12.11 12.21 12.31 12.41 12.51 12.61 12.71 12.81 12.91
14 13.01 13.11 13.21 13.31 13.41 13.51 13.61 13.71 13.80 13.90
15 14.00 14.10 14.20 14.30 14.40 14.50 14.60 14.70 14.80 14.90
16 15.00 15.10 15.20 15.30 15.40 15.50 15.60 15.70 15.80 15.90
17 16.00 16.10 16.20 16.30 16.40 16.50 16.60 16.70 16.80 16.90
18 17.00 17.10 17.20 17.30 17.40 17.50 17.60 17.70 17.79 17.89
19 17.99 18.09 18.19 18.29 18.39 18.49 18.59 18.69 18.79 18.89
20 18.99 19.09 19.19 19.29 19.39 19.49 19.59 19.69 19.79 19.89
21 19.99 20.09 20.19 20.29 20.39 20.49 20.59 20.69 20.79 20.89
22 20.99 21.09 21.19 21.29 21.39 21.49 21.59 21.69 21.79 21.89
23 21.99 22.09 22.19 22.29 22.39 22.49 22.59 22.69 22.79 22.89
24 22.99 23.09 23.19 23.29 23.39 23.49 23.59 23.69 23.79 23.89
25 23.99 24.09 24.19 24.29 24.39 24.48 24.58 24.68 24.78 24.88
26 24.98 25.08 25.18 25.28 25.38 25.48 25.58 25.68 25.78 25.88
27 25.98 26.08 26.18 26.28 26.38 26.48 26.58 26.68 26.78 26.88
28 26.98 27.08 27.18 27.28 27.38 27.48 27.58 27.68 27.78 27.88
29 27.98 28.08 28.18 28.28 28.38 28.48 28.58 28.68 28.78 28.88
30 28.98 29.08 29.18 29.28 29.38 29.48 29.58 29.68 29.78 29.88
31 29.98 30.08 30.18 30.28 30.38 30.48 30.58 30.68 30.78 30.88
32 30.98 31.08 31.18 31.28 31.38 31.48 31.58 31.68 31.78 31.88
33 31.98 32.08 32.18 32.28 32.38 32.48 32.58 32.68 32.78 32.88
34 32.98 33.08 33.18 33.28 33.38 33.48 33.58 33.68 33.78 33.88
35 33.98 34.08 34.18 34.28 34.38 34.48 34.58 34.68 34.78 34.88
36 34.98 35.08 35.18 35.28 35.38 35.48 35.58 35.68 35.78 35.88
37 35.98 36.08 36.18 36.28 36.38 36.48 36.58 36.68 36.78 36.88
38 36.98 37.08 37.18 37.28 37.38 37.48 37.58 37.68 37.78 37.88
39 37.98 38.08 38.17 38.27 38.37 38.47 38.57 38.67 38.77 38.87
40 38.97 39.07 39.17 39.27 39.37 39.47 39.57 39.67 39.77 39.87
( P − 0.2S )
2

Note: Runoff value determined by equation Q =

P + 0.8S

(210-VI-NEH, July 2004) 10A–45

 Curve

93
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 93
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Tenths - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Inches 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9
0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.02 0.06 0.11 0.17 0.23 0.30 0.37
1 0.45 0.53 0.61 0.69 0.78 0.87 0.95 1.04 1.13 1.22
2 1.31 1.41 1.50 1.59 1.69 1.78 1.87 1.97 2.06 2.16
3 2.25 2.35 2.45 2.54 2.64 2.73 2.83 2.93 3.03 3.12
4 3.22 3.32 3.41 3.51 3.61 3.71 3.81 3.90 4.00 4.10
5 4.20 4.30 4.39 4.49 4.59 4.69 4.79 4.89 4.98 5.08
6 5.18 5.28 5.38 5.48 5.58 5.68 5.78 5.87 5.97 6.07
7 6.17 6.27 6.37 6.47 6.57 6.67 6.77 6.86 6.96 7.06
8 7.16 7.26 7.36 7.46 7.56 7.66 7.76 7.86 7.96 8.06
9 8.16 8.25 8.35 8.45 8.55 8.65 8.75 8.85 8.95 9.05
10 9.15 9.25 9.35 9.45 9.55 9.65 9.75 9.85 9.95 10.05
11 10.15 10.24 10.34 10.44 10.54 10.64 10.74 10.84 10.94 11.04
12 11.14 11.24 11.34 11.44 11.54 11.64 11.74 11.84 11.94 12.04
13 12.14 12.24 12.34 12.44 12.54 12.64 12.74 12.84 12.94 13.04
14 13.14 13.23 13.33 13.43 13.53 13.63 13.73 13.83 13.93 14.03
15 14.13 14.23 14.33 14.43 14.53 14.63 14.73 14.83 14.93 15.03
16 15.13 15.23 15.33 15.43 15.53 15.63 15.73 15.83 15.93 16.03
17 16.13 16.23 16.33 16.43 16.53 16.63 16.73 16.83 16.93 17.03
18 17.13 17.23 17.33 17.43 17.53 17.63 17.73 17.83 17.93 18.03
19 18.13 18.23 18.33 18.42 18.52 18.62 18.72 18.82 18.92 19.02
20 19.12 19.22 19.32 19.42 19.52 19.62 19.72 19.82 19.92 20.02
21 20.12 20.22 20.32 20.42 20.52 20.62 20.72 20.82 20.92 21.02
22 21.12 21.22 21.32 21.42 21.52 21.62 21.72 21.82 21.92 22.02
23 22.12 22.22 22.32 22.42 22.52 22.62 22.72 22.82 22.92 23.02
24 23.12 23.22 23.32 23.42 23.52 23.62 23.72 23.82 23.92 24.02
25 24.12 24.22 24.32 24.42 24.52 24.62 24.72 24.82 24.92 25.02
26 25.12 25.22 25.32 25.42 25.52 25.62 25.72 25.82 25.92 26.02
27 26.12 26.22 26.32 26.42 26.52 26.62 26.72 26.82 26.92 27.02
28 27.12 27.22 27.32 27.42 27.52 27.62 27.72 27.82 27.92 28.02
29 28.12 28.22 28.32 28.42 28.52 28.62 28.72 28.82 28.92 29.01
30 29.11 29.21 29.31 29.41 29.51 29.61 29.71 29.81 29.91 30.01
31 30.11 30.21 30.31 30.41 30.51 30.61 30.71 30.81 30.91 31.01
32 31.11 31.21 31.31 31.41 31.51 31.61 31.71 31.81 31.91 32.01
33 32.11 32.21 32.31 32.41 32.51 32.61 32.71 32.81 32.91 33.01
34 33.11 33.21 33.31 33.41 33.51 33.61 33.71 33.81 33.91 34.01
35 34.11 34.21 34.31 34.41 34.51 34.61 34.71 34.81 34.91 35.01
36 35.11 35.21 35.31 35.41 35.51 35.61 35.71 35.81 35.91 36.01
37 36.11 36.21 36.31 36.41 36.51 36.61 36.71 36.81 36.91 37.01
38 37.11 37.21 37.31 37.41 37.51 37.61 37.71 37.81 37.91 38.01
39 38.11 38.21 38.31 38.41 38.51 38.61 38.71 38.81 38.91 39.01
40 39.11 39.21 39.31 39.41 39.51 39.61 39.71 39.81 39.91 40.01
( P − 0.2S )
2

Note: Runoff value determined by equation Q =

P + 0.8S

10A–46 (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

 Curve

94
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 94
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Tenths - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Inches 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9
0 0.00 0.00 0.01 0.04 0.08 0.14 0.20 0.27 0.35 0.42
1 0.50 0.59 0.67 0.76 0.85 0.94 1.03 1.12 1.21 1.30
2 1.40 1.49 1.58 1.68 1.77 1.87 1.97 2.06 2.16 2.25
3 2.35 2.45 2.54 2.64 2.74 2.84 2.93 3.03 3.13 3.23
4 3.32 3.42 3.52 3.62 3.72 3.82 3.91 4.01 4.11 4.21
5 4.31 4.41 4.51 4.60 4.70 4.80 4.90 5.00 5.10 5.20
6 5.30 5.40 5.50 5.59 5.69 5.79 5.89 5.99 6.09 6.19
7 6.29 6.39 6.49 6.59 6.69 6.79 6.88 6.98 7.08 7.18
8 7.28 7.38 7.48 7.58 7.68 7.78 7.88 7.98 8.08 8.18
9 8.28 8.38 8.48 8.58 8.68 8.78 8.87 8.97 9.07 9.17
10 9.27 9.37 9.47 9.57 9.67 9.77 9.87 9.97 10.07 10.17
11 10.27 10.37 10.47 10.57 10.67 10.77 10.87 10.97 11.07 11.17
12 11.27 11.37 11.47 11.57 11.67 11.77 11.87 11.97 12.06 12.16
13 12.26 12.36 12.46 12.56 12.66 12.76 12.86 12.96 13.06 13.16
14 13.26 13.36 13.46 13.56 13.66 13.76 13.86 13.96 14.06 14.16
15 14.26 14.36 14.46 14.56 14.66 14.76 14.86 14.96 15.06 15.16
16 15.26 15.36 15.46 15.56 15.66 15.76 15.86 15.96 16.06 16.16
17 16.26 16.36 16.46 16.56 16.66 16.76 16.86 16.96 17.06 17.16
18 17.26 17.36 17.46 17.56 17.66 17.76 17.86 17.96 18.06 18.16
19 18.26 18.36 18.46 18.55 18.65 18.75 18.85 18.95 19.05 19.15
20 19.25 19.35 19.45 19.55 19.65 19.75 19.85 19.95 20.05 20.15
21 20.25 20.35 20.45 20.55 20.65 20.75 20.85 20.95 21.05 21.15
22 21.25 21.35 21.45 21.55 21.65 21.75 21.85 21.95 22.05 22.15
23 22.25 22.35 22.45 22.55 22.65 22.75 22.85 22.95 23.05 23.15
24 23.25 23.35 23.45 23.55 23.65 23.75 23.85 23.95 24.05 24.15
25 24.25 24.35 24.45 24.55 24.65 24.75 24.85 24.95 25.05 25.15
26 25.25 25.35 25.45 25.55 25.65 25.75 25.85 25.95 26.05 26.15
27 26.25 26.35 26.45 26.55 26.65 26.75 26.85 26.95 27.05 27.15
28 27.25 27.35 27.45 27.55 27.65 27.75 27.85 27.95 28.05 28.15
29 28.25 28.35 28.45 28.55 28.65 28.75 28.85 28.95 29.05 29.15
30 29.25 29.35 29.45 29.55 29.65 29.75 29.85 29.95 30.05 30.15
31 30.25 30.35 30.45 30.55 30.65 30.75 30.85 30.95 31.05 31.15
32 31.25 31.35 31.45 31.55 31.65 31.75 31.85 31.95 32.05 32.15
33 32.25 32.35 32.45 32.55 32.65 32.75 32.85 32.95 33.05 33.15
34 33.25 33.35 33.45 33.55 33.65 33.75 33.85 33.95 34.05 34.15
35 34.25 34.35 34.45 34.55 34.65 34.75 34.85 34.95 35.05 35.15
36 35.25 35.35 35.45 35.55 35.65 35.75 35.85 35.95 36.05 36.15
37 36.25 36.35 36.45 36.55 36.65 36.75 36.85 36.95 37.05 37.14
38 37.24 37.34 37.44 37.54 37.64 37.74 37.84 37.94 38.04 38.14
39 38.24 38.34 38.44 38.54 38.64 38.74 38.84 38.94 39.04 39.14
40 39.24 39.34 39.44 39.54 39.64 39.74 39.84 39.94 40.04 40.14
( P − 0.2S )
2

Note: Runoff value determined by equation Q =

P + 0.8S

(210-VI-NEH, July 2004) 10A–47

 Curve

95
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 95
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Tenths - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Inches 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9
0 0.00 0.00 0.01 0.05 0.11 0.17 0.24 0.32 0.40 0.48
1 0.56 0.65 0.74 0.83 0.92 1.01 1.11 1.20 1.29 1.39
2 1.48 1.58 1.67 1.77 1.87 1.96 2.06 2.16 2.25 2.35
3 2.45 2.55 2.65 2.74 2.84 2.94 3.04 3.14 3.23 3.33
4 3.43 3.53 3.63 3.73 3.83 3.93 4.02 4.12 4.22 4.32
5 4.42 4.52 4.62 4.72 4.82 4.92 5.01 5.11 5.21 5.31
6 5.41 5.51 5.61 5.71 5.81 5.91 6.01 6.11 6.21 6.31
7 6.41 6.51 6.61 6.70 6.80 6.90 7.00 7.10 7.20 7.30
8 7.40 7.50 7.60 7.70 7.80 7.90 8.00 8.10 8.20 8.30
9 8.40 8.50 8.60 8.70 8.80 8.90 9.00 9.10 9.20 9.30
10 9.40 9.50 9.59 9.69 9.79 9.89 9.99 10.09 10.19 10.29
11 10.39 10.49 10.59 10.69 10.79 10.89 10.99 11.09 11.19 11.29
12 11.39 11.49 11.59 11.69 11.79 11.89 11.99 12.09 12.19 12.29
13 12.39 12.49 12.59 12.69 12.79 12.89 12.99 13.09 13.19 13.29
14 13.39 13.49 13.59 13.69 13.79 13.89 13.99 14.09 14.19 14.29
15 14.39 14.49 14.59 14.69 14.79 14.89 14.99 15.09 15.19 15.29
16 15.39 15.49 15.59 15.69 15.79 15.89 15.99 16.08 16.18 16.28
17 16.38 16.48 16.58 16.68 16.78 16.88 16.98 17.08 17.18 17.28
18 17.38 17.48 17.58 17.68 17.78 17.88 17.98 18.08 18.18 18.28
19 18.38 18.48 18.58 18.68 18.78 18.88 18.98 19.08 19.18 19.28
20 19.38 19.48 19.58 19.68 19.78 19.88 19.98 20.08 20.18 20.28
21 20.38 20.48 20.58 20.68 20.78 20.88 20.98 21.08 21.18 21.28
22 21.38 21.48 21.58 21.68 21.78 21.88 21.98 22.08 22.18 22.28
23 22.38 22.48 22.58 22.68 22.78 22.88 22.98 23.08 23.18 23.28
24 23.38 23.48 23.58 23.68 23.78 23.88 23.98 24.08 24.18 24.28
25 24.38 24.48 24.58 24.68 24.78 24.88 24.98 25.08 25.18 25.28
26 25.38 25.48 25.58 25.68 25.78 25.88 25.98 26.08 26.18 26.28
27 26.38 26.48 26.58 26.68 26.78 26.88 26.98 27.08 27.18 27.28
28 27.38 27.48 27.58 27.68 27.78 27.88 27.98 28.08 28.18 28.28
29 28.38 28.48 28.58 28.68 28.78 28.88 28.98 29.08 29.18 29.28
30 29.38 29.48 29.58 29.68 29.78 29.88 29.98 30.08 30.18 30.28
31 30.38 30.48 30.58 30.68 30.78 30.88 30.98 31.08 31.18 31.28
32 31.38 31.48 31.58 31.68 31.78 31.88 31.98 32.08 32.18 32.28
33 32.38 32.48 32.58 32.68 32.78 32.88 32.98 33.08 33.18 33.28
34 33.38 33.48 33.58 33.68 33.78 33.88 33.98 34.08 34.18 34.28
35 34.38 34.48 34.58 34.68 34.78 34.88 34.98 35.08 35.18 35.28
36 35.38 35.48 35.58 35.68 35.78 35.88 35.98 36.08 36.18 36.28
37 36.38 36.48 36.58 36.68 36.78 36.88 36.98 37.08 37.18 37.28
38 37.38 37.48 37.58 37.68 37.78 37.88 37.98 38.08 38.18 38.28
39 38.38 38.48 38.58 38.68 38.78 38.88 38.98 39.08 39.18 39.28
40 39.38 39.48 39.58 39.68 39.78 39.88 39.98 40.08 40.18 40.28
( P − 0.2S )
2

Note: Runoff value determined by equation Q =

P + 0.8S

10A–48 (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

 Curve

96
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 96
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Tenths - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Inches 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9
0 0.00 0.00 0.03 0.07 0.14 0.21 0.29 0.37 0.45 0.54
1 0.63 0.72 0.81 0.91 1.00 1.09 1.19 1.29 1.38 1.48
2 1.57 1.67 1.77 1.87 1.96 2.06 2.16 2.26 2.36 2.45
3 2.55 2.65 2.75 2.85 2.95 3.04 3.14 3.24 3.34 3.44
4 3.54 3.64 3.74 3.84 3.94 4.04 4.13 4.23 4.33 4.43
5 4.53 4.63 4.73 4.83 4.93 5.03 5.13 5.23 5.33 5.43
6 5.53 5.63 5.73 5.83 5.93 6.03 6.12 6.22 6.32 6.42
7 6.52 6.62 6.72 6.82 6.92 7.02 7.12 7.22 7.32 7.42
8 7.52 7.62 7.72 7.82 7.92 8.02 8.12 8.22 8.32 8.42
9 8.52 8.62 8.72 8.82 8.92 9.02 9.12 9.22 9.32 9.42
10 9.52 9.62 9.72 9.82 9.92 10.02 10.12 10.22 10.32 10.42
11 10.51 10.61 10.71 10.81 10.91 11.01 11.11 11.21 11.31 11.41
12 11.51 11.61 11.71 11.81 11.91 12.01 12.11 12.21 12.31 12.41
13 12.51 12.61 12.71 12.81 12.91 13.01 13.11 13.21 13.31 13.41
14 13.51 13.61 13.71 13.81 13.91 14.01 14.11 14.21 14.31 14.41
15 14.51 14.61 14.71 14.81 14.91 15.01 15.11 15.21 15.31 15.41
16 15.51 15.61 15.71 15.81 15.91 16.01 16.11 16.21 16.31 16.41
17 16.51 16.61 16.71 16.81 16.91 17.01 17.11 17.21 17.31 17.41
18 17.51 17.61 17.71 17.81 17.91 18.01 18.11 18.21 18.31 18.41
19 18.51 18.61 18.71 18.81 18.91 19.01 19.11 19.21 19.31 19.41
20 19.51 19.61 19.71 19.81 19.91 20.01 20.11 20.21 20.31 20.41
21 20.51 20.61 20.71 20.81 20.91 21.01 21.11 21.21 21.31 21.41
22 21.51 21.61 21.71 21.81 21.91 22.01 22.11 22.21 22.31 22.41
23 22.51 22.61 22.71 22.81 22.91 23.01 23.11 23.21 23.31 23.41
24 23.51 23.61 23.71 23.81 23.91 24.01 24.11 24.21 24.31 24.41
25 24.51 24.61 24.71 24.81 24.91 25.01 25.11 25.21 25.31 25.41
26 25.51 25.61 25.71 25.81 25.91 26.01 26.11 26.21 26.31 26.41
27 26.51 26.61 26.71 26.81 26.91 27.01 27.11 27.21 27.31 27.41
28 27.51 27.61 27.71 27.81 27.91 28.01 28.11 28.21 28.31 28.41
29 28.51 28.61 28.71 28.81 28.91 29.01 29.11 29.21 29.31 29.41
30 29.51 29.61 29.71 29.81 29.91 30.01 30.11 30.21 30.31 30.41
31 30.51 30.61 30.71 30.81 30.91 31.01 31.11 31.21 31.31 31.40
32 31.50 31.60 31.70 31.80 31.90 32.00 32.10 32.20 32.30 32.40
33 32.50 32.60 32.70 32.80 32.90 33.00 33.10 33.20 33.30 33.40
34 33.50 33.60 33.70 33.80 33.90 34.00 34.10 34.20 34.30 34.40
35 34.50 34.60 34.70 34.80 34.90 35.00 35.10 35.20 35.30 35.40
36 35.50 35.60 35.70 35.80 35.90 36.00 36.10 36.20 36.30 36.40
37 36.50 36.60 36.70 36.80 36.90 37.00 37.10 37.20 37.30 37.40
38 37.50 37.60 37.70 37.80 37.90 38.00 38.10 38.20 38.30 38.40
39 38.50 38.60 38.70 38.80 38.90 39.00 39.10 39.20 39.30 39.40
40 39.50 39.60 39.70 39.80 39.90 40.00 40.10 40.20 40.30 40.40
( P − 0.2S )
2

Note: Runoff value determined by equation Q =

P + 0.8S

(210-VI-NEH, July 2004) 10A–49

 Curve

97
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 97
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Tenths - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Inches 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9
0 0.00 0.00 0.04 0.10 0.18 0.26 0.34 0.43 0.52 0.61
1 0.71 0.80 0.90 0.99 1.09 1.18 1.28 1.38 1.48 1.57
2 1.67 1.77 1.87 1.97 2.07 2.16 2.26 2.36 2.46 2.56
3 2.66 2.76 2.86 2.96 3.06 3.15 3.25 3.35 3.45 3.55
4 3.65 3.75 3.85 3.95 4.05 4.15 4.25 4.35 4.45 4.55
5 4.65 4.75 4.85 4.95 5.05 5.15 5.25 5.35 5.44 5.54
6 5.64 5.74 5.84 5.94 6.04 6.14 6.24 6.34 6.44 6.54
7 6.64 6.74 6.84 6.94 7.04 7.14 7.24 7.34 7.44 7.54
8 7.64 7.74 7.84 7.94 8.04 8.14 8.24 8.34 8.44 8.54
9 8.64 8.74 8.84 8.94 9.04 9.14 9.24 9.34 9.44 9.54
10 9.64 9.74 9.84 9.94 10.04 10.14 10.24 10.34 10.44 10.54
11 10.64 10.74 10.84 10.94 11.04 11.14 11.24 11.34 11.44 11.54
12 11.64 11.74 11.84 11.94 12.04 12.14 12.24 12.34 12.44 12.54
13 12.64 12.74 12.84 12.94 13.04 13.14 13.24 13.34 13.44 13.54
14 13.64 13.74 13.84 13.94 14.04 14.14 14.24 14.34 14.44 14.54
15 14.64 14.74 14.84 14.94 15.04 15.14 15.24 15.34 15.44 15.54
16 15.64 15.74 15.84 15.93 16.03 16.13 16.23 16.33 16.43 16.53
17 16.63 16.73 16.83 16.93 17.03 17.13 17.23 17.33 17.43 17.53
18 17.63 17.73 17.83 17.93 18.03 18.13 18.23 18.33 18.43 18.53
19 18.63 18.73 18.83 18.93 19.03 19.13 19.23 19.33 19.43 19.53
20 19.63 19.73 19.83 19.93 20.03 20.13 20.23 20.33 20.43 20.53
21 20.63 20.73 20.83 20.93 21.03 21.13 21.23 21.33 21.43 21.53
22 21.63 21.73 21.83 21.93 22.03 22.13 22.23 22.33 22.43 22.53
23 22.63 22.73 22.83 22.93 23.03 23.13 23.23 23.33 23.43 23.53
24 23.63 23.73 23.83 23.93 24.03 24.13 24.23 24.33 24.43 24.53
25 24.63 24.73 24.83 24.93 25.03 25.13 25.23 25.33 25.43 25.53
26 25.63 25.73 25.83 25.93 26.03 26.13 26.23 26.33 26.43 26.53
27 26.63 26.73 26.83 26.93 27.03 27.13 27.23 27.33 27.43 27.53
28 27.63 27.73 27.83 27.93 28.03 28.13 28.23 28.33 28.43 28.53
29 28.63 28.73 28.83 28.93 29.03 29.13 29.23 29.33 29.43 29.53
30 29.63 29.73 29.83 29.93 30.03 30.13 30.23 30.33 30.43 30.53
31 30.63 30.73 30.83 30.93 31.03 31.13 31.23 31.33 31.43 31.53
32 31.63 31.73 31.83 31.93 32.03 32.13 32.23 32.33 32.43 32.53
33 32.63 32.73 32.83 32.93 33.03 33.13 33.23 33.33 33.43 33.53
34 33.63 33.73 33.83 33.93 34.03 34.13 34.23 34.33 34.43 34.53
35 34.63 34.73 34.83 34.93 35.03 35.13 35.23 35.33 35.43 35.53
36 35.63 35.73 35.83 35.93 36.03 36.13 36.23 36.33 36.43 36.53
37 36.63 36.73 36.83 36.93 37.03 37.13 37.23 37.33 37.43 37.53
38 37.63 37.73 37.83 37.93 38.03 38.13 38.23 38.33 38.43 38.53
39 38.63 38.73 38.83 38.93 39.03 39.13 39.23 39.33 39.43 39.53
40 39.63 39.73 39.83 39.93 40.03 40.13 40.23 40.33 40.43 40.53
( P − 0.2S )
2

Note: Runoff value determined by equation Q =

P + 0.8S

10A–50 (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

 Curve

98
Runoff for inches of rainfall—Curve no. 98
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Tenths - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Inches 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9
0 0.00 0.01 0.07 0.15 0.23 0.32 0.41 0.50 0.60 0.69
1 0.79 0.89 0.99 1.08 1.18 1.28 1.38 1.48 1.58 1.68
2 1.77 1.87 1.97 2.07 2.17 2.27 2.37 2.47 2.57 2.67
3 2.77 2.87 2.97 3.07 3.17 3.27 3.37 3.47 3.57 3.67
4 3.77 3.86 3.96 4.06 4.16 4.26 4.36 4.46 4.56 4.66
5 4.76 4.86 4.96 5.06 5.16 5.26 5.36 5.46 5.56 5.66
6 5.76 5.86 5.96 6.06 6.16 6.26 6.36 6.46 6.56 6.66
7 6.76 6.86 6.96 7.06 7.16 7.26 7.36 7.46 7.56 7.66
8 7.76 7.86 7.96 8.06 8.16 8.26 8.36 8.46 8.56 8.66
9 8.76 8.86 8.96 9.06 9.16 9.26 9.36 9.46 9.56 9.66
10 9.76 9.86 9.96 10.06 10.16 10.26 10.36 10.46 10.56 10.66
11 10.76 10.86 10.96 11.06 11.16 11.26 11.36 11.46 11.56 11.66
12 11.76 11.86 11.96 12.06 12.16 12.26 12.36 12.46 12.56 12.66
13 12.76 12.86 12.96 13.06 13.16 13.26 13.36 13.46 13.56 13.66
14 13.76 13.86 13.96 14.06 14.16 14.26 14.36 14.46 14.56 14.66
15 14.76 14.86 14.96 15.06 15.16 15.26 15.36 15.46 15.56 15.66
16 15.76 15.86 15.96 16.06 16.16 16.26 16.36 16.46 16.56 16.66
17 16.76 16.86 16.96 17.06 17.16 17.26 17.36 17.46 17.56 17.66
18 17.76 17.86 17.96 18.06 18.16 18.26 18.36 18.46 18.56 18.66
19 18.76 18.86 18.96 19.06 19.16 19.26 19.36 19.46 19.56 19.66
20 19.76 19.86 19.96 20.06 20.16 20.26 20.36 20.46 20.56 20.66
21 20.76 20.86 20.96 21.06 21.16 21.26 21.36 21.46 21.56 21.66
22 21.76 21.86 21.96 22.06 22.16 22.26 22.36 22.46 22.56 22.66
23 22.76 22.86 22.96 23.06 23.16 23.26 23.36 23.46 23.56 23.66
24 23.76 23.86 23.96 24.06 24.16 24.26 24.36 24.46 24.56 24.66
25 24.76 24.86 24.96 25.06 25.16 25.26 25.36 25.46 25.56 25.66
26 25.76 25.86 25.96 26.06 26.16 26.26 26.36 26.46 26.56 26.66
27 26.76 26.86 26.96 27.06 27.16 27.26 27.36 27.46 27.56 27.66
28 27.76 27.86 27.96 28.06 28.16 28.26 28.36 28.46 28.56 28.66
29 28.76 28.86 28.96 29.06 29.16 29.26 29.36 29.46 29.56 29.66
30 29.76 29.86 29.96 30.06 30.16 30.26 30.36 30.46 30.56 30.66
31 30.76 30.86 30.96 31.06 31.16 31.26 31.36 31.46 31.56 31.66
32 31.76 31.86 31.96 32.06 32.16 32.26 32.36 32.46 32.56 32.66
33 32.76 32.86 32.96 33.06 33.16 33.26 33.36 33.46 33.56 33.66
34 33.76 33.86 33.96 34.06 34.16 34.26 34.36 34.46 34.56 34.66
35 34.76 34.86 34.96 35.06 35.16 35.26 35.36 35.46 35.56 35.66
36 35.76 35.86 35.96 36.06 36.16 36.26 36.36 36.46 36.56 36.66
37 36.76 36.86 36.96 37.06 37.16 37.26 37.36 37.46 37.56 37.66
38 37.76 37.86 37.96 38.06 38.16 38.26 38.36 38.46 38.56 38.66
39 38.76 38.86 38.96 39.06 39.16 39.26 39.36 39.46 39.56 39.66
40 39.76 39.86 39.96 40.06 40.16 40.26 40.36 40.46 40.56 40.66
( P − 0.2S )
2

Note: Runoff value determined by equation Q =

P + 0.8S

(210-VI-NEH, July 2004) 10A–51

United States
Department of Part 630 Hydrology
Agriculture

Natural
National Engineering Handbook
Resources
Conservation
Service

Chapter 11 Snowmelt

Rain clouds
Cloud formation

Precipitation

n
iratio
Evaporation
n

ean
tio

Transp
s o il
ta

from oc
ge
ve

fr o m
m

n
fro

ti o

s
am
n

ir a
ti o

tr e
sp
ra
po

an

ms
va

Tr

Surfa E
ce ru
fr o

noff

Infiltration

Soil
Percolation

Rock Ocean
Ground water
Deep percolation

(210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

Chapter 11 Snowmelt Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

July 2004

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimina-

tion in all its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national
origin, gender, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation,
and marital or family status. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all pro-
grams.) Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for commu-
nication of program information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should
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To file a complaint, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, Room

326W, Whitten Building, 14th and Independence Avenue, SW, Washington,
DC 20250-9410 or call (202)720-5964 (voice or TDD). USDA is an equal
employment opportunity provider and employer.

(210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

Acknowledgments

Chapter 11 was originally prepared by Victor Mockus (retired) and re-

printed with minor revisions in 1971. This version was prepared by Joseph
A. Van Mullem (retired) and David Garen, Natural Resources Conserva-
tion Service, Portland,Oregon, under guidance of Donald E. Woodward
(retired).

(210-VI-NEH, July 2004) 11–i

Chapter 11 Snowmelt Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

11–ii (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

Chapter 11 Snowmelt

Contents: 630.1100 Introduction 11–1

630.1101 Snowmelt theory 11–1

(a) The energy balance ..................................................................................... 11–1
(b) Energy sources and the behavior of snowmelt ....................................... 11–4

630.1102 Data sources 11–4

630.1103 Modeling snowmelt 11–5

(a) Energy balance approach .......................................................................... 11–5
(b) Degree-day method .................................................................................... 11–5

630.1104 Snowmelt runoff 11–6

(a) Regional analysis ........................................................................................ 11–6
(b) Spatial variability of snow cover ............................................................... 11–9
(c) Temperature and precipitation during the melt period ........................ 11–11
(d) Infiltration and losses ............................................................................... 11–12

630.1105 Runoff hydrographs from snowmelt 11–15

(a) Unit hydrograph method ......................................................................... 11–15
(b) Recession curve method .......................................................................... 11–17
(c) Water movement through snow .............................................................. 11–17
(d) Snowmelt runoff by frequency ................................................................ 11–17

630.1106 References 11–19

Table Table 11–1 Relative importance of energy balance terms 11–3

(210-VI-NEH, July 2004) 11–iii

Chapter 11 Snowmelt Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Figures Figure 11–1 Crest-stage record for a snowmelt runoff stream 11–7
in Montana

Figure 11–2 Spring season snowmelt, 25-year, 7-day runoff volume 11–8

Figure 11–3 Spring season snowmelt, 3-day, 7-day runoff ratio 11–8

Figure 11–4 Snow water equivalent determined by ground survey 11–10

in the West Branch Antelope Creek watershed on
February 27, 1979

Figure 11–5 Snow water equivalent distribution for the data 11–11
shown in figure 11–4

Figure 11–6 Cumulative SWE distribution derived from 11–11

figure 11–5

Figure 11–7 TDP curves for 50-year return period at three 11–11
stations in eastern Montana

Figure 11–8 Hourly temperatures 11–15

Figure 11–9 Snowmelt hydrographs for example 11–4 comparing 11–16

hourly rate with a constant daily rate for 10 mi2
watershed

Figure 11–10 Maximum March 16–31 snow water equivalent 11–18

expected to be equaled or exceeded once in 25 years

Examples Example 11–1 Runoff coefficient method 11–13

Example 11–2 Constant loss rate 11–13

Example 11–3 Exponentially declining loss rate 11–14

Example 11–4 Application of diurnal variation in a hydrograph 11–16

model

11–iv (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

Chapter 11 Snowmelt
630.1100 Introduction
This chapter describes the basic physical processes
that drive snowmelt and presents methods and guid-
ance for estimating snowmelt runoff volumes and
hydrographs for single events. These methods may
also be used for short-term forecasts. In addition, a
method is presented that may be used to derive flood
frequency curves for snowmelt runoff from snow
depth and temperature frequency data. Seasonal
volume and long-range streamflow forecasting are not
described here; the reader is instead referred to other
publications for these topics (e.g., USDA SCS 1972b
and 1990, Garen 1992) as well as the NRCS National
Water and Climate Center:
(http://www.wcc.nrcs.usda.gov/wcc.html)
Snowmelt runoff is a major component of the hydro-
logic cycle in many regions and is an important consid-
eration for water supply and design flood analysis. In
some areas snowmelt event runoff may be more ap-
propriate for the design of water storage facilities and
hydraulic structures than rainfall storm runoffs de-
scribed in National Engineering Handbook (NEH),
section 4 (part 630), chapter 10 (USDA SCS 1972a). In
addition, the annual peak flow in these areas can arise
from either pure snowmelt or rainfall, or a combina-
tion of both, leading to a mixed frequency distribution,
which is described in NEH, part 630, chapter 18 (USDA
NRCS 2000). The modeling methods in this chapter
may be used together with the methods described in
NEH, section 4 (part 630), chapters 10, 16 (USDA SCS
1972a), and 18 to produce a mixed distribution flood
frequency curve.
(210-VI-NEH, July 2004)
630.1101 Snowmelt theory
The thermodynamics of snowmelt are well understood
and have been thoroughly described in numerous
places. Among the early descriptions are those given
by Clyde (1931), Light (1941), and Wilson (1941). One
of the most thorough studies ever undertaken was that
of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE) (1956),
which is still often cited and regarded as a definitive
work on the subject of snowmelt dynamics, as well as
being a source of equations for practical modeling.
This study was the basis of the snowmelt component
in the hydrologic model SSARR (U.S. Army COE 1991).
The work by Anderson (1968, 1976) has also led to an
operational model in use by the National Weather
Service (Anderson 1973). More recently, energy bal-
ance snowmelt models have been developed to oper-
ate on a spatially distributed basis, taking advantage of
geographic information systems (GIS) and spatial data
sets of elevation, vegetation, soils, and hydrometeoro-
logical variables. These include, for example, the
models of Marks et al. (1998, 1999) and Tarboton et al.
(1995). Descriptions of the snow energy fluxes appear
in their papers. Other useful sources of information on
snow thermodynamics and melt include Colbeck and
Ray (1978), Gray and Male (1981), and American
Society of Civil Engineers (1996). Many engineering
hydrology textbooks also contain short, but useful,
descriptions of snowmelt (e.g., Bedient and Huber
1992, Linsley et al. 1982).
(a) The energy balance
If all the heat fluxes toward the snowpack are consid-
ered positive and those away considered negative, the
sum of these fluxes is equal to the change in heat
content of the snowpack (∆H) for a given time period.
That is,
∆H = H rs + H rt + H s + H l + H g + H p [11–1]
where:
Hrs = net solar radiation
Hrt = net thermal radiation
Hs = sensible heat transfer from air
Hl = latent heat of vaporization from condensation
or evaporation/sublimation
Hg = conducted heat from underlying ground
Hp = advected heat from precipitation
11–1
Chapter 11 Snowmelt Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

The solar radiation (Hrs) is the net of incoming minus
reflected solar radiation. The reflection is because of
the albedo of the surface, which varies with the age of
the snow (decreases with age), the sun angle (lower in
midday than in the morning and evening), and the
contamination of the snow by dirt and debris (which
reduces the albedo). The albedo is higher in the visible
parts of the spectrum (0.28–0.7µ) than it is for the near
infrared (0.7–2.8µ). For freshly fallen, clean snow, the
visible albedo is very high (about 0.95–0.98), whereas
the infrared albedo is somewhat lower (about 0.7–0.8).
The thermal radiation (Hrt) is primarily the net of
incoming radiation from the atmosphere, clouds, and
surrounding vegetation minus the outgoing blackbody
radiation from the snowpack itself.
Sensible heat transfer occurs when the air tempera-
ture is different from the snowpack temperature. If the
air is colder, Hs is negative (heat leaves the snow-
pack), and if the air is warmer, Hs is positive (heat
enters the snowpack). Latent heat is the energy re-
leased during a phase change of water from vapor to
liquid to solid when condensation onto the snowpack
occurs, or conversely, it is the energy extracted from
the snowpack when evaporation or sublimation from
the snowpack occurs. Condensation or evaporation/
sublimation depends on the humidity of the air and the
water vapor pressure gradient between the air and the
snow surface. If the humidity is high, such that the
vapor pressure of the air is greater than that at the
snow surface (i.e., at the temperature of the snow), the
vapor pressure gradient is towards the snow, and
condensation will occur, in which case H1 is positive.
If the air is dry, evaporation and/or sublimation will
occur, and H1 will be negative. Sensible and latent heat
transfers are enhanced under windy conditions.
When the snowpack is in thermal equilibrium, ∆H=0; a
negative energy balance will cool the snowpack, while
a positive energy balance will warm it. The snow can-
not be warmer than zero degrees Celsius, and melt
cannot occur in significant amounts until the entire
snowpack has reached this temperature. Once the
entire snowpack is isothermal at zero degrees Celsius,
positive values of ∆H will result in melt:
∆H
M= [11–2]
80B
where:
M = melt (cm)
∆H = heat flux (cal/cm2)
B = thermal quality of snowpack
The value 80 (cal/cm3) is the latent heat of fusion. The
thermal quality of the snowpack is the fraction of its
water content that is in the solid phase. For a melting
snowpack, B generally is in the range of 0.95 to 0.97,
corresponding to 3 to 5 percent liquid water (U.S.
Army COE 1956).
Table 11–1 summarizes each of the terms in the energy
balance equation and their relative importance.

Conduction of heat between the snowpack and the

underlying soil occurs if there is a temperature differ-
ence between the two, Hg being positive if the snow is
colder than the soil, and Hg being negative if the snow
is warmer than the soil. Advected heat from precipita-
tion Hp is positive if the temperature of the precipita-
tion is warmer than the snow and negative if it is
colder.

11–2 (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

Chapter 11 Snowmelt Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Table 11–1 Relative importance of energy balance terms

Term % ∆H Comments

Hrs, Hrt 60 – 90% Controlled by terrain, season, cloud cover, shading, air temperature, humidity.
Hrs and Hrt are generally of about the same magnitude, but different sign.
Hrt is usually negative and dominates in winter.
Hrs is positive and dominates in spring.
During a crossover period in early spring before the onset of melt, Hrs and Hrt
cancel each other, and the net is near zero.

Hs, Hl 5 – 40% Controlled by temperature and humidity gradients and wind speed.
Hs and Hl are usually of opposite sign, so they tend to cancel. That is, it is usually
either warm (Hs +) and dry (Hl -) or cold (Hs -) and humid (Hl +).
Sometimes Hs and Hl are of the same sign, but the magnitude is small (e.g., cold
and dry).
Occasionally both are positive and large (i.e., warm and humid), usually during
high winds, such as during rain-on-snow events.

Hg 2 – 5% Usually small because the temperature of the ground is generally about the same
as the temperature of the snow. During melt, both ground and snow are at 0 °C, so
Hg = 0.

Hp 0 – 1% Heat content of precipitation is relatively small compared to latent heat required

to melt snow, unless precipitation volume is very large and precipitation tempera-
ture is significantly greater than 0 °C.

(210-VI-NEH, July 2004) 11–3

Chapter 11 Snowmelt Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

(b) Energy sources and the

behavior of snowmelt
To be able to understand and describe the behavior of
snowmelt in a given situation, such as its amount and
timing during a significant melt event, it is necessary
to know which energy sources are dominant. The
specific combination of temperature, precipitation,
humidity, wind, and cloudiness during an event deter-
mines the streamflow response. It is possible, for
example, for two events to have similar air tempera-
tures and perhaps even precipitation amounts, yet
have different responses because of the effects of the
other hydrometeorological factors on the energy
fluxes.
These considerations are particularly important during
rain-on-snow events. In this situation, sensible and
latent heat (Hs and Hl) can become substantial, if not
dominant, sources of energy for snowmelt. This was
clearly illustrated by Marks et al. (1998) for the Febru-
ary 1996 flood on the Willamette River in Oregon. It
was the combination of warm temperatures plus high
humidity and wind that supplied much of the energy
for snowmelt, particularly in open areas. Immediately
after the event, however, the energy balance returned
to a more normal situation, dominated by net radia-
tion.
630.1102 Data sources
Data for evaluating snowmelt can come from hydrom-
eteorological stations or remote sensing. Station data
are available primarily from the National Weather
Service (NWS) at the National Operational Hydrologic
Remote Sensing Center (http://www.nohrsc.nws.gov)
and the NRCS at the National Water and Climate
Center (http://www.wcc.nrcs.usda.gov/wcc.html), with
smaller networks run by various other agencies, such
as the Forest Service. In addition to snow water
equivalent, temperature, and precipitation, many sites
monitor snow depth, and a few are equipped with
humidity, wind, and solar radiation sensors. Much of
these data are available in near real-time and are
therefore available for both short- and long-term
forecasting as well as for historical analysis. The NWS
also has data from remote sensing, such as snow
covered area maps from satellite images, and snow
water equivalent from flight lines obtained by sensing
gamma radiation from low-flying aircraft.

This illustrates why temperature alone cannot always

adequately represent the energy dynamics involved in
a snowmelt runoff event. It is therefore important to
know for any given event whether it was generated by
clear weather snowmelt or by rain-on-snow. If it is
known that the flows of interest are rarely affected by
rain, then the energy balance is simpler, and tempera-
ture-based methods are likely to be adequate. If, on the
other hand, it is known that the largest flows are
caused by rain-on-snow, then it becomes more com-
plex to model and predict, in that knowledge of not
only temperature, but also of several other hydrom-
eteorological variables is necessary to describe the
snowmelt and runoff behavior of the event.

11–4 (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

Chapter 11 Snowmelt
630.1103 Modeling snow-
melt
Two basic approaches are used to model snowmelt for
daily or shorter time steps. The most thorough method
is to measure or estimate each term in the energy
balance equation and to simulate the energy fluxes
within the snowpack. This method is data intensive
and sometimes cannot be done because of inadequate
data or if this level of detail is unwarranted for the
purpose at hand. The alternative is a melt index ap-
proach, the most common of which is the degree-day
method, in which air temperature is used to index all
of the energy fluxes. While the index approach has
limitations, it is nevertheless commonly used because
of its simplicity.
(a) Energy balance approach
Because of the large amount of data and the complex-
ity of the processes involved, the energy balance
approach is best implemented with computer models.
Using fast computers with large disk storage capaci-
ties, along with geographic information systems (GIS)
and spatial data layers of elevation, soils, vegetation,
and hydrometeorological inputs, such models are now
feasible for operational use. For example, the model of
Marks et al. (1998, 1999) is documented and has been
applied to several watersheds in the Western United
States. This model can be integrated into a complete
hydrologic simulation model (Schumann and Garen
1998, Garen et al. 2001, Garen et al. 2002). This type of
modeling, however, requires considerable effort in
data preparation, hence is warranted only when a very
detailed and accurate simulation is needed.
Equations used by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
in the HEC-1 model (U.S. Army COE 1998) are index
equations that include the most important parameters
for the rainy and non-rainy periods. Instead of model-
ing the energy balance, regression analysis was used
to determine the coefficients for the significant mea-
sured parameters, such as temperature, wind, and
radiation. The resulting equation for non-rainy periods
in partially forested areas is:
M = C .002I i (1 − a ) + ( .0011v + .0145 ) ( Ta − TF ) + .0039 v ( Td − TF )
(210-VI-NEH, July 2004)
Part 630
National Engineering Handbook
and for melt during rainy periods:
M = C[.09 + (.029 + .00504v + .007P) (Ta – TF)] [11–4]
where:
M = melt (inches/day)
Ii = incident solar radiation on a horizontal surface
(langleys/day)
a = albedo of the snow
v = wind speed (miles/hour) 50 feet above the
snow surface
Ta = air temperature (°F)
TF = freezing temperature (°F, allowed to vary from
32 °F for spatial and temporal fluctuations)
Td = dewpoint temperature (°F)
P = rainfall (inches/day)
C = coefficient to account for variations
(b) Degree-day method
The degree-day method is a temperature index ap-
proach that equates the total daily melt to a coefficient
times the temperature difference between the mean
daily temperature and a base temperature (generally
32 °F or 0 °C).
M = CM ( Ta − Tb ) [11–5]
where:
M = snowmelt in in/d (mm/d)
CM = the degree-day coefficient in in/degree-day F
(mm/degree-day C)
Ta = mean daily air temperature °F (°C)
Tb = base temperature °F (°C)
The coefficient CM varies seasonally and by location.
Typical values are from 0.035 to 0.13 inches per de-
gree-day Fahrenheit (1.6 to 6.0 mm/degree-day C). A
value of 0.060 inches per degree-day Fahrenheit (2.74
mm/degree-day C) is often used when other informa-
tion is lacking. CM has also been related to snow den-
sity and wind speed (Martinec 1960) and to accumu-
lated degree-days and elevation (Rosa 1956). These
variations reflect the different energy dynamics and
changing snowpack conditions over time and space.
The fact that it varies like this demonstrates that this
single index (temperature) cannot represent all of the
[11–3]
11–5
Chapter 11 Snowmelt
relevant processes, so to compensate, the degree-day
coefficient must change with the changing conditions.
During rain-on-snow, the degree-day method must be
used with caution as it most likely is not valid. It is
most applicable to clear weather melt in forested
watersheds.
11–6 (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)
Part 630
National Engineering Handbook
630.1104 Snowmelt runoff
(a) Regional analysis
Several methods can be used to do a regional analysis
of snowmelt runoff. For seasonal volumes the reader
should refer to NEH, section 22 (USDA SCS 1972b). In
some areas it may not be possible to separate the
snowmelt runoff events from the rain or rain-on-snow
events. In these cases the normal procedure would be
to regionalize the runoff peaks or volumes without
regard to cause. Methods for statistical regionalization
are described in NEH, part 630, chapter 18 (USDA
NRCS 2000).
Where the major flood events are from rainfall during
the snowmelt season, snowmelt is commonly treated
as baseflow or quick return flow and the events are
modeled as rainfall runoff using methods described in
NEH, section 4 (part 630), chapters 10 and 16 (USDA
SCS 1972a). Rain-on-snow events may also be modeled
(Marks et al. 1998, U.S. Army COE 1998, Martinec et al.
1994, U.S. Bureau of Reclamation 1966), but the curve
number method of chapter 10 is not an appropriate
method of determining the losses. Snowmelt baseflow
must not be ignored when modeling for dam design
with such models as TR-20 (USDA SCS 1992),
WinTR-20 (USDA NRCS 2004 draft), or SITES (USDA
NRCS 2001).
In some areas, such as the prairies of eastern Montana,
snowmelt events can be separated quite easily from
rainfall events strictly by season. Snowmelt typically
occurs during February, March, and April when pre-
cipitation amounts are generally quite small. The dates
of individual events are noted and compared with
precipitation and temperature records to verify the
cause. Snow-on-ground records can also be accessed
and checked. The record for a crest-stage gage in
northern Montana is shown in figure 11–1 as an ex-
ample of a primarily snowmelt runoff stream. All of
the runoff events except the one in July of 1970 were
the result of snowmelt.
Frequency analysis can be done for the peak flow and
runoff volumes from the separate causes. Figures 11–2
and 11–3 show results of a regional frequency analysis
for runoff volume in the eastern Montana region (Van
Mullem 1994). These figures may be used to estimate
Chapter 11 Snowmelt Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

hydrographs directly, similar to the methods in NEH,

section 4 (part 630), chapter 21 (USDA SCS 1972a),
or to calibrate a snowmelt runoff model.

Figure 11–1 Crest-stage record for a snowmelt runoff stream in Montana (from USGS open file report 78-219, 1978)

06138800 Spring Coulee near Havre, MT

Location—Lat 48°25'20", long 109°51'49", in NW1/4 sec. 25, T.31 N., R.14 E., Hill County, Hydrologic Unit
10050005, at culverts on county road, 13 miles (20.9 km) southwest of Havre.
Drainage area—17.8 mi2 (46.1 km2).
Records available—May 1959 to September 1973.
Gage—Crest-stage gage installed May 26, 1959. Altitude of gage is 2,670 ft (814 m), from topographic map.
Annual maximum data—
Water year Date Gage height (ft) Discharge (ft3/s)
1959 eMar. 11, 1959 5.60 257
1960 Mar. 17, 1960 --- a10
1961 --- --- (c)
1962 Mar. 18, 1962 1.32 48
1963 Feb. 3, 1963 1.35 46
1964 --- --- (c)
1965 Apr. 6, 1965 2.01 77
1966 Mar. 9, 1966 6.24 345
1967 Mar. 22, 1967 3.41 146
1968 --- --- (c)
1969 Mar. 26, 1969 5.56 255
1970 July 13, 1970 .73 22
1971 Feb. 12 1971 5.75 263
1972 Mar. 13, 1972 (f) a2
1973 Feb. 28, 1973 (f) a3

a About.
c No evidence of flow during year.
e Prior to installation of gage.
f Peak discharge did not reach bottom of gage.

(210-VI-NEH, July 2004) 11–7

Chapter 11 Snowmelt Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Figure 11–2 Spring season snowmelt, 25-year, 7-day runoff volume (inches)

1.0

1.
5
0.5
0.5

1.0
0.5
1.5

0.5 1.0

1.0

Not studied

Figure 11–3 Spring season snowmelt, 3-day, 7-day runoff ratio

.7 .7
.6
.6
.6
.6

.7 .8

.7
.8

.6
.7
.6
1.0

Not studied

11–8 (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

Chapter 11 Snowmelt Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

(b) Spatial variability of snow Another way to represent spatial variability of snow
cover cover is with a depth distribution pattern (Donald et
al. 1995). The depth distribution pattern shows the
Snow cover information is an important element in all percentage of the watershed in each range of SWE
hydrologic problems that involve snowmelt. The areal values. Figure 11–5 shows the depth distribution
extent of the snow cover determines the area contrib- pattern for the watershed in figure 11–4. The depth-
uting to runoff at any given time during the melt pe- distribution data, when accumulated, results in a
riod. For mountain basins the areal extent of the cumulative distribution function. Figure 11–6 is the
seasonal snow cover decreases gradually during the resulting cumulative distribution from figure 11–5.
snowmelt season, which may last for several months.
The depletion pattern varies with the terrain. Elevation
is the dominant variable for snow cover depletion
because of the higher accumulation of snow with
elevation (U.S. Army COE 1956). Within an elevation
zone, aspect, slope, and forest cover all are important
variables. For mountain areas, similar patterns of
depletion occur from year to year and can be related
to the snow water equivalent (SWE) at a site, accumu-
lated ablation, accumulated degree-days, or to runoff
from the watershed (Martinec et al. 1994, U.S. Army
COE 1991, Anderson 1973).

Prairie snowpack is not uniform either and varies

because of aspect and wind as well as by cover type.
South facing slopes have less snow, and north facing
slopes have more. Windswept areas and ridges may be
nearly bare, while drifts in draws and coulees may be
deep (Cooley 1988). Depletion patterns in prairie areas
are more variable, so it is more difficult to develop
depletion curves from historical data. Steppuhn and
Dyck (1973) showed that with sampling stratification
(i.e., sampling by cover and landscape type) fewer
measurements of snow depth and density were needed
to determine the SWE over a watershed accurately.
Emerson (1988) applied this sampling technique to a
watershed in North Dakota. The resulting SWE map is
shown in figure 11–4.

(210-VI-NEH, July 2004) 11–9

Chapter 11 Snowmelt Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Figure 11–4 Snow water equivalent determined by ground survey in the West Branch Antelope Creek watershed on
February 27, 1979 (Emerson 1988)

R. 89 W. 101 55' R. 88 W. 101 52'

1 6 5 4 3 2

12 9 10 11

47 23'

13 6 15 14

T. 145 N.

24 19 20 22 23

30
25 29

26 31 38 33 34 35

47 20'

Base from U. S. Geological Survey

Beulah NW, 1969; Beulah, 1968;
Beulah NE, 1969; Zap, 1969 0 1 2 Miles
0 1 2 Kilometers

Explanation
Snow Water Equivalent,
in inches
12.0 to 20.0 2.5 to 3.5
8.0 to 12.0 1.5 to 2.5
5.0 to 8.0 0.0 to 1.5
3.5 to 5.0 Watershed boundary

11–10 (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

Chapter 11 Snowmelt Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Figure 11–5 Snow water equivalent distribution for the (c) Temperature and precipitation
data shown in figure 11–4 (mean SWE is 3.6 during the melt period
inches)
40 Current conditions and forecasted weather conditions
can be used for short-term snowmelt runoff forecasts
35 (up to 7 days). For longer or more distant periods,
average conditions are often assumed. Another tech-
30 nique is to use a historical period of about 30 years to
obtain a wide range of possible outcomes that may
25 then be statistically analyzed.
Percent of area

20 To simplify computations for frequency event model-

ing, regionalization of temperatures during the melt
15 period may be done by making Temperature-Duration-
Probability (TDP) studies. TDP is the frequency analy-
sis of maximum temperatures for several durations.
10
The maximum daily mean temperatures, in degree-
days, during the usual melt period are found for each
5
of several durations for each year in the period of
record. A frequency analysis is then made for each
0 duration.
0.00 5.00 10.00 15.00
SWE (inches)
Figure 11–7 shows TDP curves when degree-days
accumulated over the entire duration at a particular
frequency are plotted against days. The lines can be
Figure 11–6 Cumulative SWE distribution derived from represented with a power function:
figure 11–5
TD = aDb [11–6]
100
90 where:
80 TD = accumulated degree-days for a duration of D
70 days
Peercent of area

60
a = value of 1-day maximum temperature
D = duration as number of days
50
b = slope of the line
40
30
20
Figure 11–7 TDP curves for 50-year return period at three
10 stations in eastern Montana
0
0.00 1.00 2.00 3.00 4.00 5.00 6.00 7.00 8.00 9.00 10.00
1,000
SWE (inches)
Accumulated degree-days

100

Great Falls
Glendive
Cutbank
10
1 10
Duration (days)

(210-VI-NEH, July 2004) 11–11

Chapter 11 Snowmelt
Figure 11–7 shows that TDP curves in a region are
quite uniform. This enables them to be easily region-
alized (Van Mullem 1998).
The sequence of daily temperatures within a given
duration can be determined by estimating an average
temporal distribution of total accumulated degree
days.
The diurnal variation in temperature may be estimated
by finding the average variation for the time of the
year and the location and then applying that to the
mean values. A model that uses the diurnal variation
and has a time step less than a day results in a more
accurate representation of runoff and better prediction
of peak discharge than a daily model. Example 11–4 in
630.1105 shows the application of the diurnal varia-
tion in a hydrograph model.
If precipitation occurs during a runoff period, it must
first be determined whether the precipitation is rain or
snow. Snow is added to the remaining SWE while
rainfall on the snowpack either fills available void
space within the pack and remains there (as a liquid or
it may freeze), or it may percolate through the pack
and be available for infiltration and runoff. Rainfall on
the snowpack can result in a heat exchange that
contributes to snowmelt; however, the melt from
rainfall is relatively small compared to the quantity of
the rainfall itself.
The importance of rainfall during the snowmelt period
is a regional factor. It is important in the Pacific North-
west, but it may be ignored for the short melt period
on the northern Great Plains.
(d) Infiltration and losses
Snowmelt as determined from the degree-day equation
is generally assumed to be the total ablation of the
snowpack, and evaporation and condensation are
ignored for short-term runoff modeling. The difference
between the melt volume and the runoff volume is
considered a loss and is assumed to be infiltration into
the soil and groundwater storage. These losses are not
expected to return to the stream during the event, but
may contribute to baseflow.
11–12 (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)
Part 630
National Engineering Handbook
Infiltration losses under a snowpack are difficult to
base on the soil and cover characteristics because of
varying frozen ground conditions (Guymon 1978).
Instead, the infiltration or loss parameter may be
selected based on calibrating the model so that runoff
volumes computed from a known volume of snowmelt
agree with measured volumes of runoff from a water-
shed.
Runoff = CRM [11–7]
The runoff coefficient (CR) is the ratio of runoff to
snowmelt (M). It takes care of all the losses between
the snowmelt and the outflow from the watershed. The
coefficient varies widely from watershed to watershed
from as little as 0.1 to more than 0.9. The ratio may be
related to soil and cover types and to total precipita-
tion (Farnes 1971). It also varies seasonally, generally
decreasing as evapotranspiration losses increase as
the melt progresses (Martinec et al. 1994).
Infiltration equations generally express the infiltration
rate either as a function of time or of cumulative
infiltration amount. Those equations that use time
(e.g., Horton's equation) are not very suitable for
modeling. Any of several equations that relate infiltra-
tion rate to cumulative infiltration amount may be
used with snowmelt. These equations include the
uniform loss rate, exponentially declining loss rate,
and the Green-Ampt equation. The various infiltration
methods are described thoroughly in many standard
hydrology textbooks (e.g., Bedient and Huber 1992).
Note that the curve number equation described in
NEH, section 4 (part 630), chapter 10 (USDA SCS
1972a), is used as an infiltration model in NEH, section
4 (part 630), chapter 16 (USDA SCS 1972a), but is not
recommended to determine losses from snowmelt.
Because the moisture and frost conditions of the soil
are not known, the simpler methods are probably
adequate. For infiltration loss estimates, the HEC-1
model (U.S. Army COE 1998) uses either the constant
rate or the exponentially declining loss rate methods.
The SRM model (Martinec et. al 1994, also at http://
hydrolab.arsusda.gov/cgi-bin/srmhome) uses the
runoff coefficient method. These methods are illus-
trated in examples 11–1 to 11–3.
Chapter 11 Snowmelt Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Example 11–1 Runoff coefficient method

Given: The daily mean temperatures, a beginning SWE of 2.46 inches, a melt rate coefficient of 0.06 inch
per degree-day, and a runoff coefficient of 0.5.

Find: The estimated daily runoff in watershed inches.

Solution: Date Average Degree -days 1/ Total Estimated Estimated

watershed available melt 3/ runoff 4/
temperature SWE 2/
(°F) (in) (in) (in)

April 5 32 0 2.46 0 0
April 6 35 3 2.46 .18 .09
April 7 34 2 2.28 .12 .06
April 8 36 4 2.16 .24 .12
April 9 48 16 1.92 .96 .48
April 10 43 11 0.96 .66 .33
April 11 42 10 .30 .30 5/ .15
April 12 40 8 0 0 0
Totals 2.46 1.23
1/ Degree-days = T – 32.
2/ Available SWE = previous SWE – preceding days melt.
3/ Using CM = .06 in the equation M = CM(T – 32).
4/ Using CR = 0.50 in the equation Runoff = CRM.
5/ Melt is limited to the available SWE.

Example 11–2 Constant loss rate

Given: The melt rates from example 11–1 and a constant loss rate of 0.23 inches per day.

Find: The estimated runoff in watershed inches.

Solution: Date Snowmelt Infiltration Runoff

(in) (in) (in)

April 5 0 0 0
April 6 .18 .18 0
April 7 .12 .12 0
April 8 .24 .23 .01
April 9 .96 .23 .73
April 10 .66 .23 .43
April 11 .30 .23 .07
April 12 0 0 0
Totals 2.46 1.22 1.24

(210-VI-NEH, July 2004) 11–13

Chapter 11 Snowmelt Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Example 11–3 Exponentially declining loss rate

Given: The maximum loss rate declines according to the equation

io
it = ΣI > 0
r ∑
c I

where: io = initial maximum loss rate

it = maximum loss rate at time t
r = rate of decline
c = exponent parameter
t

∑ I = ∑ i = accumulated loss up to time t

j =1
j

Find: The runoff in inches for io = 0.25 inch per day, r = 4, and c = 0.1.

Solution:
Day Snowmelt Accumulated Maximum Actual Runoff
loss loss rate loss
(in) (in) (in/d) (in) (in)

April 5 0 0 0.250 0 0
April 6 0.18 0 0.250 0.18 0
April 7 0.12 0.18 0.244 0.12 0
April 8 0.24 0.30 0.240 0.24 0
April 9 0.96 0.54 0.232 0.23 0.73
April 10 0.66 0.77 0.225 0.23 0.43
April 11 0.30 1.00 0.218 0.22 0.08
April 12 0 1.22 0.211 0 0

Total 2.46 1.22 1.24

Note that for this small amount of melt the loss rate did not decline much.

11–14 (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

Chapter 11 Snowmelt Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

630.1105 Runoff hydro-
graphs from snowmelt
(a) Unit hydrograph method
Snowmelt runoff hydrographs may be developed by
using the unit hydrograph method as described in
NEH, section 4 (part 630), chapter 16 (USDA SCS
1972a). To obtain realistic hydrographs with this
method, the computational interval needs to be about
0.133 the time of concentration (Tc) (see chapter 16).
For small watersheds this requires intervals much less
than the 24-hour daily melt values. Because the melt
rate varies over the day, this variation must be used to
obtain realistic snowmelt hydrographs from small
watersheds. The variation in melt rate is approximated
by the variation in temperature. For illustration, a sine
curve will be used here to describe the variation of
temperature within a day. This function is often used
(e.g., Anderson 1973, US Army COE 1998) although it
does not represent nighttime temperatures very realis-
tically (it causes the temperature to increase before
sunrise); other reasonable functions could also be
used. Example 11–4 illustrates the application of the
diurnal variation in a hydrograph model.
Using the sine curve, the temperature at any time may
be determined from:
T = Ta + A {Sin [15° ( t + C )]} [11–8]
where:
CM = daily melt coefficient
Tb = base temperature
The hourly runoff values from example 11–4 can then
be entered into a hydrograph model, such as TR–20
(USDA SCS 1992), WinTR-20 (USDA NRCS 2004
draft), or SITES (USDA NRCS 2001) (the runoff is
entered as a rain table with the CN=100), and the
snowmelt hydrograph is produced. Although melt and
runoff can be computed for shorter time increments,
the hourly values are satisfactory since the TR-20
model interpolates for the shorter computational
interval.
Figure 11–9 shows snowmelt hydrographs from a
10-square-mile watershed with Tc of 3.35 hours. Both
hydrographs have the same volume of runoff. One is
computed from the runoff distribution in example
11–4; the other has a uniform rate of melt over the 24
hours.
Figure 11–8 Hourly temperatures (Tmax = 75 °F and
Tmin = 45 °F)
Hourly Temperature
80
75
70
Temperature (degrees F)

where: A
T = temperature at time t 65
Ta = mean temperature for the day
A = amplitude, (Tmax – Tmin) / 2 60
t = hour of the day
C = time shift in hours 55

Figure 11–8 is an example of the hourly temperature

50
where Tmax is 75 °F, Tmin is 45 °F, and the time shift is
16 hours. This places the minimum temperature at
0200 and the maximum temperature at 1400. In gen- 45
eral, the time shift is computed as 30 – maxhr, where
maxhr is the desired hour (24-hour clock) of the 40
maximum temperature. The melt for any period of ∆t 0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24
hours is Time

∆t
M= CM ( T − Tb ) [11–9]
24

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Chapter 11 Snowmelt Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Example 11–4 Application of diurnal variation in a hydrograph model

Given: The hourly temperatures shown in figure 11–8.

Find: The hourly melt for CM = 0.06 and the hourly runoff for a constant loss rate of 0.05 in/ hr.

Solution: Hour Temperature Melt Runoff Hour Temperature Melt Runoff

0 47.01 0.038 0.000 13 74.49 0.106 0.056

1 45.51 0.034 0.000 14 75.00 0.108 0.058
2 45.00 0.033 0.000 15 74.49 0.106 0.056
3 45.51 0.034 0.000 16 72.99 0.102 0.052
4 47.01 0.038 0.000 17 70.61 0.097 0.047
5 49.39 0.043 0.000 18 67.50 0.089 0.039
6 52.50 0.051 0.001 19 63.88 0.080 0.030
7 56.12 0.060 0.010 20 60.00 0.070 0.020
8 60.00 0.070 0.020 21 56.12 0.060 0.010
9 63.88 0.080 0.030 22 52.50 0.051 0.001
10 67.50 0.089 0.039 23 49.39 0.043 0.000
11 70.61 0.097 0.047 24 47.01 0.038 0.000
12 72.99 0.102 0.052 _____ _____

Totals 1.719 0.568

Figure 11–9 Snowmelt hydrographs for example 11–4 comparing hourly rate with a constant daily rate for 10 mi2 watershed

Snowmelt hydrographs
400

350
Hourly T
300

250
Discharge (cfs)

200
Constant T
150

100

50

0
4 5 6 7 8
9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34
Time (hours)
Note: This plot was calculated using HEC–1 with the runoff data from example 11–4 above.

11–16 (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

Chapter 11 Snowmelt
(b) Recession curve method
This method is especially applicable to deep snowpack
areas where the melt period extends for more than a
week or two. It also fits the concept of subsurface
flow, which dominates in forested watersheds, rather
than overland flow.
Runoff during the recession of a hydrograph when
there is no snowmelt or rainfall may be represented by
the equation
Q n = Q0 k n
where:
Qn = discharge after n days
Q0 = initial discharge
k = recession constant
This equation is in standard texts. The runoff on any
day during the melt period may then be represented as
Q n +1 = CR M n +1 (1 − k n +1 ) + Q n k n +1
where:
CR = runoff coefficient
Mn+1 = snowmelt for day n+1
This relationship has been modified by Martinec, et al.
(1994) to consider the fact that the coefficient k in-
creases with decreasing discharge so that
k n +1 = xQ −n y
where:
x and y = constants determined for a given basin by
analysis of the recession curves
The recession curve method is used by the SRM model
to predict daily flow values. Peak flow for any day may
be estimated from the daily flow by considering the
normal daily fluctuation.
Part 630
National Engineering Handbook
(c) Water movement through snow
Snowmelt occurs in the upper layer of snow and
generally percolates very slowly to the ground surface.
The percolation rate is highly variable with a typical
range from 3 inches per hour to 3 feet per hour (.08–.9
m/h). The rate is dependent on the internal structure
of the snow, the condition of the snowcover, and the
amount of water available at the surface. For deep
mountain snowpacks the additional time required for
the meltwater to reach the stream channel can be
[11–10] significant and will vary during the snowmelt season.
The percolation rate for wet snow is typically 1 to 3
feet per hour (Wankiewicz 1978). For the shallow
depths of 1 to 2 feet on the prairie, the time required
for percolation is about 1/2 to 1 hour. This additional
time needs to be added to the time of concentration or
lag time of the watershed for hydrograph modeling.
After reaching the ground surface, the travel time is
[11–11] again highly variable and dependent on the snow and
surface conditions. Although additional delays of
significant time may occur at a site, overall the flow of
meltwater after reaching the bottom of the snowpack
is almost as fast as the flow of rainwater on the soil
without snowcover. This is attributed to the creation
of channels at the snow-soil interface (Obled and
Harder 1978). Therefore, no additional time needs to
be added to the time of concentration for overland
flow under snow.
[11–12]
(d) Snowmelt runoff by frequency
If the amount of SWE by frequency and the tempera-
ture during the melt period for a watershed is known,
the runoff by frequency may be determined. Figure
11–10 is an example of a snow water equivalent by
frequency map. The map is taken from the U.S. Depart-
ment of Commerce Weather Bureau Technical Paper
50 (USDOC 1964), which includes maps for both the
March 1 to 15 and March 16 to 31 periods with prob-
abilities from 50 percent to 1 percent. Snow depth
frequency maps (Van Mullem 1992) may be converted
to SWE by assuming an average snow density.
Van Mullem (1998) gives a procedure applied in east-
ern Montana to compute runoff for selected frequen-
cies.
(210-VI-NEH, July 2004) 11–17
Chapter 11 Snowmelt Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Figure 11–10 Maximum March 16–31 snow water equivalent (inches) expected to be equaled or exceeded once in 25 years

95°
105° 7
2 2.5 3 100° 4 5 6
8 9 90° 85°
10

10 12
10 11 10 9 8
12 11
9
1.5 8 80°
7 7 6 5
7 6 6 45°
5
45° 6
2 5 4 3
3 4 5
2
4
4 3 1.5
3
2 2 1.5
1.5
3
2.5
40°
2 0°
40° 1 8
1.5 1 85°
105° 100° 1.5 90°
95°

11–18 (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)

Chapter 11 Snowmelt
630.1106 References
American Society of Civil Engineers. 1996. Hydrology
handbook (2nd ed.). ASCE Manuals and reports
on engineering practice No. 28.
Anderson, E. 1968. Development and testing of snow
pack energy balance equations. Water Resourc.
Res. 4(1) 19-37.
Anderson, E. 1973. National Weather Service river
forecast system—snow accumulation and abla-
tion model. NOAA Tech. Memo. NWS HYDRO-17,
U.S. Dep. Commerce, Silver Springs, MD, 217 pp.
Anderson, E.A. 1976. A point energy and mass balance
model of a snow cover. NOAA Tech. Rep. NWS
29, National Weather Service, Silver Spring, MD.
Bedient, P.B., and W.C. Huber. 1992. Hydrology and
floodplain analysis (2nd ed.). Addison-Wesley
Publ. Co., Reading, MA.
Clyde, G. 1931. Snow-melting characteristics. Tech.
Bull. 231, Utah Agric. Exp. Sta., Logan, UT.
Colbeck, S., and M. Ray, eds. 1978. Proceeding, model-
ing of snow cover runoff. U.S. Army Cold
Regions Res. and Eng. Lab., Hanover, NH, 432 pp.
Cooley, K. 1988. Snowpack variability on western
rangelands. Western Snow Conf., Kalispell, MT.
Donald, J., E. Soulis, N. Kouwen, and A. Pietroniro.
1995. A land cover-based snow cover representa-
tion for distributed hydrologic models. Water
Resourc. Res. 31, 995-1009.
Emerson, D. 1988. Surface-water hydrology of Hay
Creek watershed. Montana and West Branch
Antelope Creek watershed, North Dakota, U.S.
Geol. Surv., WRI report 88-4038.
Farnes, P. 1971. Hydrology of mountain watersheds.
USDA, Soil Conserv. Serv., Bozeman, MT.
Garen D.C. 1992. Improved techniques in regression-
based streamflow volume forecasting. J. Water
Resourc. Planning and Manag. 118(6), 654-670.
(210-VI-NEH, July 2004)
Part 630
National Engineering Handbook
Garen, D.C., D. Marks, and A.H. Schumann. 2002.
Spatially distributed snowmelt, water balance
and streamflow modelling for water and natural
resources management in a large mountainous
catchment. Proc. Third Int. Conf. on Water
Resourc. and Environ. Res., Dresden, Germany,
Vol. I, 37-41.
Garen, D.C., J. Geyer, A.H. Schumann, and D. Marks.
2001. Spatially distributed snowmelt, water
balance and streamflow modelling for a large
mountainous catchment: Boise River, Idaho,
USA. In Soil-Vegetation-Atmosphere Transfer
Scemes and Large-Scale Hydrological Models.
Int. Assoc. Hydrol. Sci. Pub. No. 270, 199-207.
Gray, D., and D. Male, eds. 1981. Handbook of snow.
Pergamon Press, Willowdale, Ontario, 776 pp.
Guymon, G. 1978. A review of snow-soil interactions.
In S. Colbeck and M. Ray, eds., 1978 proceeding,
modeling of snow cover runoff, U.S. Army Cold
Reg. Res. and Eng. Lab., Hanover, NH.
Light, P. 1941. Analysis of high rates of snow melting.
Trans. AGU, 195-205.
Linsley, R.K., M.A. Kohler, and J.L.H. Paulhus. 1982.
Hydrology for engineers (3nd ed.). McGraw-Hill
Book Co., NY.
Marks, D., J. Domingo, D. Susong, T. Link, and D.
Garen. 1999. A spatially distributed energy bal-
ance snowmelt model for application in
mountain basins. Hydrol. Process. 13:1953-1959.
Marks, D., J. Kimball, D. Tingey, and T. Link. 1998. The
sensitivity of snowmelt processes to climate
conditions and forest cover during rain-on-snow:
a case study of the 1996 Pacific Northwest flood.
Hydrol. Process. 12:1569-1587.
Martinec, J. 1960. The degree-day factor for snowmelt
runoff forecasting. IUGG General Assembly of
Helsinki, IAHS Publ. No. 51, 468-477.
Martinec, J., A. Rango, R. Roberts. 1994. Snowmelt
runoff model (SRM) user's manual. Dep. Geog-
raphy, Univ. Berne, Berne Switzerland.
11–19
Chapter 11 Snowmelt
Obled, C., and H. Harder. 1978. A review of snowmelt
in the mountain environment. In S. Colbeck and
M. Ray, eds., Proceedings, Modeling of Snow
Cover Runoff, U.S. Army Cold Regions Res. and
Eng. Lab., Hanover, NH, 179-204.
Rosa, J. 1956. Forest snowmelt and spring floods. J.
Forestry 54(4).
Schumann, A.H., and D.C. Garen. 1998. Spatially dis-
tributed hydrologic modeling for streamflow
simulation and forecasting. Proc. First Federal
Interagency Hydrologic Modeling Conf., Las
Vegas, NV, 7.139-7.146.
Steppuhn, H., and G.E. Dyck. 1973. Estimating true
basin snow cover. In H.S. Sanderford and J.L.
Smith, eds., Advanced concepts and techniques
in the study of snow and ice resources. Washing-
ton, D.C., Natl. Academy of Sciences, 314-324.
Tarboton, D.G., T.G. Chowdhury, and T.H. Jackson.
1995. A spatially distributed energy balance
snowmelt model. In Biogeochemistry of season-
ally snow-covered catchments (proceedings of
Boulder symposium). Int. Assoc. Hydrol. Sci.
Pub. No. 228, 141-155.
United States Bureau of Reclamation. 1966. Effect of
snow compaction on runoff from rain on snow.
Eng. Monog. No. 35, Washington, DC.
United States Army, Corps of Engineers. 1956. Snow
hydrology. Portland, OR.
United States Army, Corps of Engineers. 1998. HEC-1
flood hydrograph package. Hydrol. Eng. Ctr.,
Davis, CA, 283 pp.
United States Army, Corps of Engineers. 1991. Stream-
flow synthesis and reservoir regulation (SSARR)
model user manual. N. Pacific Div., Portland, OR.
United States Department of Agriculture, Natural
Resources Conservation Service. 2000. Selected
Statistical Methods, Natl. Eng. Handb., part 630,
chapter 18, Washington, DC (available at http://
www.wcc.nrcs.usda.gov/hydro/hydro-techref-
neh-630.htm)
11–20 (210-VI-NEH, July 2004)
Part 630
National Engineering Handbook
United States Department of Agriculture, Natural
Resources Conservation Service. 2001. SITES
Version 2000. Water Resource Site Analysis
Computer Program User's Guide.
United States Department of Agriculture, Natural
Resources Conservation Service. 2003. Small
Watershed Hydrology (WinTR–55), November
2003.
United States Department of Agriculture, Natural
Resources Conservation Service. 2004. Water-
shed Hydrology (WinTR–20), draft, March 2004.
United States Department of Agriculture, Soil Con-
servation Service. 1972a. National Engineering
Handbook, section 4 (part 630), chapters 10, 16,
and 21. Washington, DC (available at http://
www.wcc.nrcs.usda.gov/hydro/hydro-techref-
neh-630.htm).
United States Department of Agriculture, Soil Conser-
vation Service. 1972b. Snow survey and water
supply forecasting. Natl. Eng. Handb., sec. 22,
chapters 1–18, Washington, DC.
United States Department of Agriculture, Soil Conser-
vation Service. 1990. Water supply forecasts—a
field office guide for interpreting streamflow
forecasts. Available at NRCS National Water and
Climate Center, Portland, ORm(http://
www.wcc.nrcs.usda.gov/publications/).
United States Department of Agriculture, Soil Conser-
vation Service. 1992. Computer program for
project formulation—hydrology. Tech. Release
No. 20 (TR–20), draft, March 1992.
United States Department of Commerce. 1964. Fre-
quency of maximum water equivalent of March
snow cover in North Central United States.
Weather Bur. Tech. Pap. No. 50, Washington, DC.
United States Department of Interior, U.S. Geological
Survey. 1978. Annual peak discharges from small
drainages in Montana. Open file rep. 78-219,
Helena, MT.
Van Mullem, J. 1992. Snow depth frequency in eastern
Montana. ASAE Pap. PNW 92104, Bozeman, MT.
Chapter 11 Snowmelt Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Van Mullem, J. 1994. Seasonal runoff volumes in

eastern Montana. ASAE Pap. 942130, Kansas
City, MO.

Van Mullem, J. 1998. Modeling prairie snowmelt

runoff. Proc. First Federal Interagency Hydro-
logic Modeling Conf., Las Vegas, NV,
7.155–7.162.

Wankiewicz, A. 1978. A review of water movement in

snow. In S. Colbeck and M. Ray, eds., Proceed-
ings, Modeling of Snow Cover Runoff, U.S. Army
Cold Regions Res. and Eng. Lab., Hanover, NH,
179-204.

Wilson, W. 1941. An outline of the thermodynamics of

snowmelt. Trans. AGU, 182-195.

(210-VI-NEH, July 2004) 11–21

United States
Department of Part 630 Hydrology
Agriculture

Natural
National Engineering Handbook
Resources
Conservation
Service

Chapter 12 Hydrologic Effects of Land

Use and Treatment

Rain clouds
Cloud formation

Precipitation

n
iratio
Evaporation
n

ean
tio

Transp
soil
ta

from oc
ge
ve

fr o m
m

n
fr o

ti o

s
am
n

ir a
ti o

tr e
sp
ra
po

an

ms
va

Tr

Surfa E
fr o

ce ru
noff

Infiltration

Soil
Percolation

Rock Ocean
Ground water
Deep percolation

(210-VI-NEH, September 2000)

Chapter 12 Hydrologic Effects of Land Use Part 630
and Treatment National Engineering Handbook

Issued September 2000

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimina-

tion in all its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national
origin, gender, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation,
and marital or family status. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all pro-
grams.) Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for commu-
nication of program information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should
contact USDA's TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TDD).

To file a complaint, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, Room

326W, Whitten Building, 14th and Independence Avenue, SW, Washington,
DC 20250-9410 or call (202)720-5964 (voice or TDD). USDA is an equal
employment opportunity provider and employer.

(210-VI-NEH, September 2000)

Acknowledgments

Chapter 12 was originally prepared by Victor Mockus (retired) in 1956 and

was reprinted with minor revisions in 1971. This version was prepared by
the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) under guidance of
Donald E. Woodward, national hydraulic engineer, Washington, DC.

(210-VI-NEH, September 2000) 12–i

Chapter 12 Hydrologic Effects of Land Use Part 630
and Treatment National Engineering Handbook

12–ii (210-VI-NEH, September 2000)

Chapter 12 Hydrologic Effects of Land
Use and Treatment

Contents: 630.1200 General 12–1

630.1201 Volume effects 12–1

630.1202 Lag effects 12–2

630.1203 Determination of effects 12–3

(a) Determination of effects on volume ......................................................... 12–3
(b) Determination of effects on lag ................................................................. 12–3
(c) Determination of effects on snowmelt runoff ......................................... 12–6
(d) Determination of surface storage effects ................................................ 12–7

630.1204 References 12–8

Tables Table 12–1 Principal effects of land use and treatment measures 12–2
on direct runoff

Table 12–2 Relative effects of land use and treatment measures 12–2
on types of lag

Table 12–3 Sample working table for estimation of effects of future 12–3
land use and treatment on direct runoff volumes

Figures Figure 12–1 Typical peak-volume relationship 12–1

Figure 12–2 Volume effects of land use and treatment 12–4

Figure 12–3 Effects of land use and treatment on lag 12–5

Figure 12–4 Percent peak reduction by increasing lag 0.33 hour 12–6
and the corresponding increase in Tp

(210-VI-NEH, September 2000) 12–iii

Chapter 12 Hydrologic Effects of Land Use
and Treatment

630.1200 General 630.1201 Volume effects

The hydrologic effects described in chapter 12 are
changes in volumes of direct runoff and changes in lag
that affect peak rates of direct runoff.
Figure 12–1 Typical peak-volume relationship
Land use and treatment measures reduce the volume
of direct runoff during individual storms by either
increasing infiltration rates or surface storage, or both.
Other factors influencing runoff volume generally are
of minor importance. Interception increases, for
instance, are appreciable only under certain climatic
and vegetative conditions and generally need not be
considered in Natural Resources Conservation
Service's (NRCS) watershed studies.

The unit hydrograph principle states that with other

10,000 things constant, the peak rate of flow varies directly
with the volume of flow. This principle is the basis for
proportionate reductions in peaks when volumes are
reduced (see National Engineering Handbook (NEH)
630, chapter 16). Figure 12–1 shows a typical peak
8,000
versus volume relation. The straight line is drawn so
that some points are on the line, if possible, with half
Peak rate, ft3/s

of the remaining points on one side of the line and the

other half on the other side. Drawing a curve is not
6,000 justified because other important relations must be
accounted for (see NEH 630, chapter 16) if greater
accuracy is required. The figure shows that a 30 per-
cent reduction in volume gives a 30 percent reduction
4,000 in the peak rate, and so on.

Table 12–1 shows the principal effects of land use and

treatment measures on direct runoff. The degree of
2,000 effect of any single measure generally depends on the
Annual floods at quantity that can be installed. Contour furrows, how-
Eagle Creek, Indianapolis, Ind.
A=170 square miles
ever, can be made to have a small or a large effect by
changing the dimensions of the furrows. The effect of
a land use change depends on the change in cover. A
0
0 1 2 3 4 change from spring oats to spring wheat would ordi-
Volume of direct runoff, inches narily be hardly noticeable, while a change from oats
to a permanent meadow could have a large effect.
Graded terraces with grass outlets to some extent
increase overall infiltration and overall storage. These
effects are also confused with a lag effect. Lime and
fertilizers, by increasing plant or root density, can
indirectly reduce direct runoff volumes.

(210-VI-NEH, September 2000) 12–1

Chapter 12 Hydrologic Effects of Land Use Part 630
and Treatment National Engineering Handbook

Table 12–1 Principal effects of land use and treatment

measures on direct runoff
630.1202 Lag effects
Measure Reduction in direct runoff volume because of:
Increasing Increasing
infiltration surface Lag, as used here, means the delay between the pro-
rates 1/ storage duction of direct runoff on upland areas and its ap-
pearance at a given cross section in a stream channel.
Lag is also described in NEH 630, chapter 15.
Land use that increases X
plant or root density 2/
Land use and treatment measures can produce lag
Increasing mulch or litter X effects by
Contouring X • increasing infiltration (reducing surface runoff)
Contour furrowing X and causing the increased infiltration to appear
some time later as subsurface flow, or
Level terracing X
• causing a delay in the arrival of surface runoff by
Graded terracing X increasing the flow length or reducing the veloc-
1/ Assuming soils not frozen. ity of flow.
2/ Example: Row crop to grass for hay; poor pasture to good
pasture. Either effect is best studied by the methods described
in NEH 630, chapters 15 and 16. Table 12–2 shows the
relative effects of land use and treatment measures on
the two types of lag. The subdivisions of small and
large watersheds do not depend solely on size in
square miles. The methods of chapters 15 and 16 are
necessary in quantitative studies of lag.

Table 12–2 Relative effects of land use and treatment measures on types of lag

Measure Effect on subsurface flow 1/ Effect of increasing surface flow

length or decreasing velocity
Small watersheds Large watersheds Small watersheds Large watersheds

Land use changes that increase Can be large Can be large Not usually considered
plant or root density 2/
Increasing mulch or litter Can be large Can be large Not usually considered
Contouring Can be large Usually negligible Can be large Negligible
Contour furrowing Can be large Can be large Not usually considered
Level terracing Can be large Can be large Not usually considered
Graded terracing Usually negligible Usually negligible Can be large Negligible
1/ Assuming soils not frozen.
2/ Examples: Row crop to grass; poor pasture to good pasture.

12–2 (210-VI-NEH, September 2000)

Chapter 12 Hydrologic Effects of Land Use Part 630
and Treatment National Engineering Handbook

Step 4. Plot the corresponding present and future

630.1203 Determination of values as shown on figure 12–2. For example, plot 0.23
versus 0.02, 0.60 versus 0.l8, and 1.10 versus 0.43, and
effects draw in the curve for ARC I. Do the same for the other
conditions.

(a) Determination of effects on
volume
The same procedure used in determining the present
hydrologic conditions of a watershed is used to esti-
mate future hydrologic conditions. The future effects
of land use and treatment changes can be estimated
with relatively little additional work. Assuming that
present conditions have been studied, the procedure
is:
Step 1. Determine the hydrologic soil-cover complex
number and antecedent moisture condition (ARC) II
for future land use and treatment conditions. (See
NEH 630, chapters 7, 8 and 9.)
Step 2. Obtain complex numbers for ARC I and III.
(See table 10–1 in NEH 630, chapter 10).
Step 3. Prepare a working table similar to table 12–3.
Step 5. Enter figure 12–2 with the present volume and
condition for a storm or flood in the evaluation series
and find the future volume on the appropriate curve.
(b) Determination of effects on
lag
Increased infiltration appearing some time later as
subsurface flow is seldom easy to evaluate quantita-
tively. Fortunately, however, in most flood prevention
surveys the changes in the hydrograph because of this
lag effect can generally be neglected. Where they
cannot, special studies are needed to determine the
source areas (which may vary with infiltrated vol-
umes) and watershed retention. The techniques for
these special studies have not been fully developed,
however, and the results may be controversial.

Table 12–3 Sample working table for estimation of effects of future land use and treatment on direct runoff volumes

Selected values of P Direct runoff for selected values of P (from fig. 10–1)
- - - - - - ARC* I - - - - - - - - - - - - ARC* II - - - - - - - - - - - - ARC* III - - - - - -
Present Future Present Future Present Future

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - inches - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
0.5 0 0 0 0 0.08 0
1 0 0 .02 0 .35 .12
2 0 0 .38 .11 1.15 .70
3 .23 .02 .97 .50 2.05 1.45
4 .60 .18 1.68 1.03 3.00 2.30
5 1.10 .43 2.46 1.65 3.95 3.20

Curve numbers: 57 45 75 65 91 83
* ARC is antecedent runoff condition.

(210-VI-NEH, September 2000) 12–3

Chapter 12 Hydrologic Effects of Land Use Part 630
and Treatment National Engineering Handbook

Figure 12–2 Volume effects of land use and treatment

8,000
with future land use and treatment in place
Direct runoff in inches

6,000
ct III
fe on
ef iti
no nd
of Co
ne
4,000 Li

II
tion
ndi
Co
2,000

I
ition
nd
Co
0
0 1 2 3 4
Direct runoff in inches
present land use and treatment

12–4 (210-VI-NEH, September 2000)

Chapter 12 Hydrologic Effects of Land Use Part 630
and Treatment National Engineering Handbook

Quite often the first type of lag (producing increased q1 q 2

infiltration) can be assumed to take place in the man-
ner of the second type of lag which causes a delay in
surface runoff arrival. The technique that follows can
be used to estimate expected changes in hydrograph
quantities.
The effect of causing a delay in the arrival of surface
runoff by increasing the distance of flow is easily
computed when it must be considered. Figure 12–3
shows hydrographs for adjacent treated and untreated
watersheds. Additional information is given in J.A.
Allis' article "Runoff from Conservation and Non-
Conservation Watersheds" (Allis, 1953). Two effects
are evident. Some of the reduction in peak rate is a
result of the lesser amount of runoff from the treated
watershed. Given the data as shown, the expected
peak for the treated watershed would be:
(1.35) = 1.40 in / hr
(1.68)
1.74
since =
Q1 Q 2
when runoff is uniformly (or nearly so) distributed on
each watershed, but the actual value for Watershed W-
5 is 0.87 inch per hour. The difference is primarily
because of a lag caused by graded terraces and
open-end level terraces (which tend to grade).
Following the methods described in NEH 630, chap-
ters 15 and 16, the additional lag can be computed
from data in figure 12–3. The time to peak (Tp) for W-3
is about 0.72 hour, and for W-5, about 1.05 hours. The
increase in lag (since storm D is essentially identical
for both hydrographs) is:
1.05 – 0.72 = 0.33 hour

Figure 12–3 Effects of land use and treatment on lag

2.00

1.80
Watershed W-3
Area: 481 acres
1.60
Untreated
Peak rate: 1.74 inches per hour
1.40 Total rainfall: 2.63 inches
Total runoff: 1.68 inches

1.20
Inches per hour

1.00

.80
Watershed W-5
Area: 411 acres
.60 Treated
Peak rate: 0.87 inches per hour
Total rainfall: 2.84 inches
.40 Total runoff: 1.35 inches

.20

0
6:00 am 7:00 8:00 9:00 10:00 11:00
July 10, 1951

(210-VI-NEH, September 2000) 12–5

Chapter 12 Hydrologic Effects of Land Use Part 630
and Treatment National Engineering Handbook

Since Tp consists of storm duration and time of con-
centration (see NEH 630, chapter 16), the changes in
either (or both) factors can be studied in a graph
similar to that of figure 12–4. The graph shows that, for
this case, the second type of lag effect becomes rela-
tively insignificant at about Tp = 5 hours.
In practice, the second type of lag effect is ordinarily
neglected. The technique given above can be used
when the second type must be evaluated and, quite
often, for evaluations of the first type of lag effect. The
altered hydrographs can be reproduced by the meth-
ods described in NEH 630, chapter 16.
(c) Determination of effects on
snowmelt runoff
The effects of land treatment on snowmelt runoff may
vary considerably from the effects on runoff from
rainfall. The principal changes in effects partly result
from the changes in the measures themselves, and
partly because of frost action.
By the time the snow season arrives, cultivation and
weathering generally have eliminated the mechanical
distinction between straight row and contour farming
on cultivated lands. Other effects of contouring gener-
ally are small enough to be overshadowed by varia-
tions in areal distribution of precipitation and are
usually neglected. Graded terracing effects would be
confined to the second type of lag and are determined
by the method shown. Closed-end level terraces and
contour furrows are usually dependent on storage, not
infiltration, for their effect, which is therefore calcu-
lable. The effect of land use or cover on cultivated
land and pasture is small enough to be obscured by the
effects of topography, fences, roads, and nearby trees

Figure 12–4 Percent peak reduction by increasing lag 0.33 hour and the corresponding increase in Tp

40
Percent reduction in peak

30

20
Reduction resulting from increasing given
Tp by the additional lag of 0.33 hours.

Reduction in percent = 33
Tp + 0.33
10

0
0 10 30 40
Tp in hours

12–6 (210-VI-NEH, September 2000)

Chapter 12 Hydrologic Effects of Land Use
and Treatment
and shrubs on the distribution of snow on the ground.
The effect of crop rotation is similarly obscured.
For land treatment measures to be effective through
the snow season, they must either maintain high
infiltration rates on soils that have a large water stor-
age potential or maintain surface storage, but seldom
both at once. High infiltration rates are maintained by
vegetation that provides heavy litter or large depths of
humus. Ordinary practices on cultivated land and
pasture seldom provide sufficient residue, and such
areas need not be considered. Permanent meadows
generally provide enough litter and humus to prevent
mild frost action, but not enough to be effective
against heavy freezes. Commercial forest and wood-
land effectively maintain infiltration and, when located
on a soil with sufficient internal storage capacity,
effectively reduce flood runoff from snowmelt. The
exception of this is areas of swamps and spruce flats.
The Forest Service procedure given in NEH 630,
chapter 9 (see fig. 9–1) covers the evaluation of com-
mercial forest and woodland.
Surface storage in closed-end level terraces and in
contour furrows can effectively reduce snowmelt
runoff as described in the next section. On field-size
watersheds, the storage generally must be quite large
to control the additional volumes of snowmelt from
snow drifting from adjacent smooth fields and caught
by the earthwork.
(d) Determination of surface
storage effects
Storage in closed-end level terraces and contour
furrows can be evaluated on a watershed or
subwatershed basis using the equation:
Qs =
( )
A s Qo − S s + A oQo
[12–1]
A s + Ao
where:
Qs = runoff with storage in effect, in inches
As = area draining into storage including storage
pond area, in square miles
Ss = storage, in inches
Qo = runoff with no storage, in inches
Ao = area not draining into storage, in square miles
(210-VI-NEH, September 2000)
Part 630
National Engineering Handbook
When Ss exceeds Qo, only the storage equal to Qo is
effective. For example, if Ss = 3.0 inches and Qo = 1.2
inches, then 1.8 inches of storage have not been used
and the effective storage is 1.2 inches. For example,
when Ss>Qo, use As (Qo – Ss) = 0.
Note: Equation 12–1 and subsequent equations 12–2,
12–4, 12–5a, and 12–5b are for use when runoff and
storage volumes are distributed uniformly (or nearly
so) on a watershed. When the distribution is not uni-
form, the watershed is divided into subwatersheds on
which the distribution may be considered uniform. See
remarks accompanying equations 12–5a and 12–5b.
Infiltration in the storage area, including that caused
by increased head, is generally assumed to offset
storm rainfall on the storage pond area. When this
infiltration is significantly large or small, it can be
accounted for on a volumetric basis by changing
equation 12–1 to read:
Qs =
( ) ( )( )
A p P − F + A s − A p Qo − S s + A oQo
[12–2]
A s + Ao
where:
Ap = average pond surface area, in square miles
P = storm rainfall, in inches
F = total infiltration on the area occupied by the
pond, in inches.
If P is less than F, use (P – F) equal to zero. When
other data are lacking and the average depth of the
pond is less than about 3 feet, F may be approximated
using the following equation:
F = D fc (1.5h + 1) [12–3]
where:
F = total infiltration on the pond area, in inches
D = storm duration for equation 12–2, or snowmelt
duration for equation 12–4, in hours
fc = minimum infiltration rate, in inches per hour
h = average depth of pond during time D, in feet
Acres or square feet may be used instead of square
miles in equations 12–1 and 12–2, but the unit chosen
must be used for all the areas in a particular computa-
tion.
12–7
Chapter 12 Hydrologic Effects of Land Use Part 630
and Treatment National Engineering Handbook

The effect of storage on snowmelt runoff is generally

computed using equation 12–1 because the increase in References
infiltration caused by head in the pond area is usually
negligible because of the temperature. When this
infiltration is important, equation 12–2 becomes Allis, J.A. 1953. Runoff from conservation and non-

Qs =
(A s − A p )(Qo − S s ) + A oQo − A p (Qo − F)
A s + Ao
unless there is rainfall on the pond surface during the
melt period, in which case equation 12–2 is used. The
effect of the earthwork in increasing the average depth
of snow in an area (by catching drifting snow) is
important only in small areas and is generally ignored.
[12–4]
conservation watersheds. Agricultural
Engineering, Vol. 34, No. 11.
United States Department of Agriculture, Natural
Resources Conservation Service. 1999. National
Engineering Handbook, Part 630 Hydrology,
chapters 9, 10, 15, and 16.

According to unit hydrograph theory, the effect of

surface storage on peak rate of flow is proportional to
the effect on volume of flow when the storage and
runoff are about equally distributed over the water-
shed:
qs Qs
= [12–5a]
q o Qo
or
Qs
q s = qo [12–5b]
Qo

where
qs = reduced peak
qo = original peak

Equation 12–5b is adequate for many watersheds.

However, when the distribution of Qo and Ss is not
sufficiently uniform or when a watershed has a com-
plex drainage pattern, is unusually shaped, or has
channel improvements, qs must be determined by
• determining the storage effects on a
subwatershed basis,
• preparing hydrographs on a subwatershed basis,
and
• routing floods.

This routing procedure is often needed for large water-

sheds because the distribution of Qo and Ss is nearly
always nonuniform on these watersheds.

12–8 (210-VI-NEH, September 2000)

United States
Department of Part 630 Hydrology
Agriculture

Natural
National Engineering Handbook
Resources
Conservation
Service

Chapter 13 Stage Inundation Relations

Rain clouds
Cloud formation

Precipitation

n
iratio
Evaporation
n

ean
tio

Transp
oil
ta

from oc
ge

s
ve

from
m

on
fro

ms
ati
n
tio

ir

a
tre
sp
ra
po

an

ms
va

Tr

Surfa E
fro

ce ru
noff

Infiltration

Soil
Percolation

Rock Ocean
Ground water
Deep percolation

(210–VI–NEH, July 2007)

Chapter 13 Stage Inundation Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Issued July 2007

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all

its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, age,
disability, and where applicable, sex, marital status, familial status, parental
status, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, political beliefs, re-
prisal, or because all or a part of an individual’s income is derived from any
public assistance program. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs.)
Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communication
of program information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should con-
tact USDA’s TARGET Center at (202) 720–2600 (voice and TDD). To file a
complaint of discrimination, write to USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights,
1400 Independence Avenue, SW., Washington, DC 20250–9410, or call (800)
795–3272 (voice) or (202) 720–6382 (TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity
provider and employer.

(210–VI–NEH, July 2007)

Acknowledgments

Chapter 13 was originally prepared by Victor Mockus (retired) in 1956 and

was reprinted with minor revisions in 1971. This version was revised by
William Merkel, hydraulic engineer, Natural Resources Conservation
Service (NRCS), Beltsville, Maryland, and Helen Fox Moody, hydraulic
engineer, NRCS, Beltsville, Maryland, under the guidance of Donald E.
Woodward, retired, NRCS, Washington, DC.

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Chapter 13 Stage Inundation Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

13–ii (210–VI–NEH, July 2007)

Chapter 13 Stage Inundation Relations

Contents 630.1300 Introduction 13–1

630.1301 Stage versus area inundated methods 13–1

(a) Simple cases...................................................................................................13–1
(b) Complex cases...............................................................................................13–4

630.1302 Flood peak or volume versus area inundated method 13–6

630.1303 Frequency versus area inundated method 13–6

630.1304 Computer determination of area inundated 13–7

(a) HEC–RAS program........................................................................................13–7
(b) HEC–GeoRAS................................................................................................13–7
(c) WSP2 program...............................................................................................13–7
(d) Comparison method......................................................................................13–7

630.1305 Combination method of determining area inundated 13–8

630.1306 Stereoscopic and other methods 13–9

630.1307 References 13–10

Tables Table 13–1 Sample computation of stage versus area inundated 13–1
for a simple case using a representative cross section
in the reach

Table 13–2 Sample computation of stage versus area inundated at 13–1

selected depths of flooding

Table 13–3 Sample computation of stage versus area inundated 13–4

with two cross sections in the reach (head and foot)
and drainage areas not significantly different

Table 13–4 Sample computation of stage versus area inundated 13–5

with two cross sections in the reach (head and foot)
and drainage areas at the sections vary significantly

Table 13–5 Sample computation of stage versus area inundated 13–5

with three cross sections in the reach and drainage
areas at the sections not significantly different

(210–VI–NEH, July 2007) 13–iii

Chapter 13 Stage Inundation Relations Part 630
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Figures Figure 13–1 Increasing area flooded caused by increasing flooding 13–2
stage

Figure 13–2 Area flooded at given depth of flooding increments 13–3

Figure 13–3 Flood damage reach showing weighting of area between 13–5
cross sections

13–iv (210–VI–NEH, July 2007)

Chapter 13 Stage Inundation Relations

630.1300 Introduction 630.1301 Stage versus area in-

Water resources planning often requires tabular or
plotted data showing the relation between the area in-
undated and stream stage, discharge, flood volume, or
frequency. These types of data are called stage inunda-
tion relations and are often used in the economic eval-
uation of a project’s justification. The information is
developed using data obtained in project field surveys.
Different planning efforts require different levels of
accuracy and detail in stage inundation relations, and
the expected use of the information should ultimate-
ly dictate the preferred analysis technique. Section
611.0201 of the National Water Resources Economics
Handbook provides some guidance for flood damage
analysis.
undated methods
(a) Simple cases
This method relates the acres flooded in a stream
reach to the stage somewhere along the length of the
reach, generally at the downstream end. The stage in-
undation relation shows the number of acres flooded
at different depths appropriate for the particular analy-
sis. The simplest case occurs when one cross section
is used to represent conditions in a reach. Table 13–1
shows a typical computation of a stage versus total
area inundated relation for this case.
The acres inundated at selected depths of flooding
are computed as shown in table 13–2 and figure 13–1
(a–e). Figure 13–2 shows how the results are generally
presented.

Table 13–1 Sample computation of stage versus area Table 13–2 Sample computation of stage versus area
inundated for a simple case using a repre- inundated at selected depths of flooding
sentative cross section in the reach

Cross section Width minus Inundated area

Acres inundated at given depths 1/
Stage top width channel width in reach 1/ Total area
(ft) (ft) (ft) (acres) Stage inundated 0–2 2–4 4–6 >6 2/
(1) (2) (3) (4) (ft) (acres) (ft) (ft) (ft) (ft)
  4 2/   24    0    0 (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6)
 6   92   68   13.5  4    0  0  0  0  0
 8 367 343   68.0  6   13.5 13.5  0  0  0
10 608 584 115.8  8   68.0 54.5 13.5  0  0
12 786 762 151.1 10 115.8 47.8 54.5 13.5  0
14 872 848 168.2 12 151.1 35.3 47.8 54.5 13.5
1/ Computed using the width minus channel width (col. 3) and the 14 168.2 17.1 35.3 47.8 68.0
valley length of the reach. In this case, the reach is 8,640 feet long. 1/ Values can also be obtained graphically. See figure 13–2.
To get acres, the formula is: 2/ Values are those of the total area inundated (col. 2) shifted down-
ward three lines.
8,640
(col. 3) = 0.1984 (col. 3) = col. 4
43,560

2/ Stage at which flood damages begin is 4 feet.

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Figure 13–1 Increasing area flooded caused by increasing flooding stage

(a) 6-ft stage

0–2 ft depth

Area flooded
6 ft 0–2 feet depth 13.5 acres
6 ft
Total 13.5 acres
4 ft: Bankfull

(b) 8-ft stage

0–2 ft 2–4 ft 2–4 ft 0–2 ft
depth depth depth depth

8 ft Area flooded
6 ft 8 ft 0–2 feet depth 54.5 acres
6 ft
4 ft: Bankfull 2–4 feet depth 13.5 acres
Total 68.0 acres

(c) 10-ft stage

0–2 ft 2–4 ft 2–4 ft 0–2 ft

depth depth 4–6 ft depth depth depth

10 ft Area flooded
10 ft
8 ft 6 ft 8 ft 0–2 feet depth 47.8 acres
6 ft
4 ft: Bankfull 2–4 feet depth 54.5 acres
4–6 feet depth 13.5 acres
Total 115.8 acres

(d) 12-ft stage

0–2 ft 2–4 ft 4–6 ft Over 6 ft depth 4–6 ft 2–4 ft 0–2 ft

depth depth depth depth depth depth

12 ft
10 ft 10 ft 12 ft
8 ft 6 ft 6 ft 8 ft
Area flooded
4 ft: Bankfull
0–2 feet depth 35.3 acres
2–4 feet depth 47.8 acres
4–6 feet depth 54.5 acres
Over 6 feet depth 13.5 acres
Total 151.1 acres

13–2 (210–VI–NEH, July 2007)

 Chapter 13 Stage Inundation Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Figure 13–1 Increasing area flooded caused by increasing flooding stage—Continued

(e) 14-ft stage

0–2 ft 2–4 ft 4–6 ft Over 6 ft depth 4–6 ft 2–4 ft 0–2 ft

depth depth depth depth depth depth

14 ft 14 ft
10 ft 8 ft 10 ft 12 ft
12 ft 8 ft
4 ft: Bankfull
Area flooded
0–2 feet depth 17.1 acres
2–4 feet depth 35.3 acres
4–6 feet depth 47.8 acres
Over 6 feet depth 68.0 acres
Total 168.2 acres

Figure 13–2 Area flooded at given depth of flooding increments

16
Depth of flooding
14 over 6 ft

4 ft to 6 ft
12
2 ft to 4 ft
10 0 to 2 ft
Stage in feet

Total for
all depths
8

4 Stage at which
flooding begins
2

0
0 40 80 120 160
Acres inundated

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Chapter 13 Stage Inundation Relations Part 630
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(b) Complex cases
The computation of the stage inundation relation be-
comes more complex when more than one cross sec-
tion per reach is used, and also if a variable length of
reach is used. The number of acres flooded at various
depths is sometimes obtained by comparing the areas
between flow lines plotted on a map of the flood plain.
When two cross sections per reach are used and the
drainage areas at the sections are not significantly dif-
ferent in size, the sections may be averaged as shown
in table 13–3. Determination of acres flooded for given
depth increments follows the procedure of table 13–2.
When the drainage areas of the two cross sections are
significantly different in size, the sections may be av-
eraged as shown in table 13–4, with the procedure of
table 13–2 used to get flooding by depth increments.
In this case, the inundated acreage has been related to
the lower or downstream end, the foot of the reach.
The footnote for table 13–3 tells how the acreage may
be related to the middle of the reach. The method used
in table 13–4 is probably best when acreage is related
to the lower end of the reach, as shown.
In table 13–4, column 4, the corresponding discharges
at the upstream cross section have been proportioned
using the ratio of the bankfull discharges. This meth-
od is applicable when the channels are not excessive-
ly eroded or silted and the cross section rating curves
are consistent between the two cross sections. The
method of expressing the same discharge in cubic feet
per second per square mile is sometimes used, but this
method ignores the fact that this relation is seldom lin-
ear. The upstream bankfull discharge in cubic feet per
second per square mile is normally greater (for natu-
ral channels in noncohesive materials and in an equi-
librium condition or nearly so) than the downstream
bankfull discharge in cubic feet per second per square
mile. In these cases, discharges should be used that
are of the same frequency. For example, the top width
for the 2-year frequency discharge at the upper section
is averaged with the top width for the 2-year frequency
discharge at the lower section, and so on. When this
frequency method is not used and the channel sections
vary widely, much accuracy in the averaging should
not be expected.
With more than two cross sections, a system of weight-
ing must be used. Figure 13–3 shows a typical reach
with seven cross sections. The weight for section A is
a/L, for section B it is b/L, and so on. Table 13–5 shows
a computation using three cross sections.
The method illustrated in table 13–2 is used to com-
plete the work.

Table 13–3 Sample computation of stage versus area inundated with two cross sections in the reach (head and foot) and
drainage areas not significantly different

–—––Foot of reach–—– –—–Head of reach–—–

–—–—–—Areas related to foot of reach 1/–—–—–—–—
cross section 1 cross section 2
average top width inundated area
stage top width stage top width stage average top width minus channel width in reach 2/
(ft) (ft) (ft) (ft) (ft) (ft) (ft) (acres)
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8)
10 3/    41   7 3/   30 10 3/   35.5    0    0
12   168  9 125 12 146.5 111.0 10.8
14   646 11 478 14 562.0 526.5 51.1
16 1,070 13 786 16 928.0 892.5 86.7
1/ If related to middle of reach, the stages (col. 5) are 8.5, 10.5, 12.5, and 14.5
4,230
2/ Length of valley in reach is 4,230 feet, and (col. 7) = (col. 8)
43,560
3/ Bankfull stage

13–4 (210–VI–NEH, July 2007)

Chapter 13 Stage Inundation Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Table 13–4 Sample computation of stage versus area inundated with two cross sections in the reach (head and foot) and
drainage areas at the sections vary significantly

–—–—Cross section A–—–— –—Cross section B–—

Foot of reach Head of reach –—–—Areas related to foot of reach (cross section A)–—–—
(D.A.=36.0 mi2) (D.A.=24.0 mi2)
average top width inundated area in
stage discharge top width discharge top width average top width minus channel width reach 3/
(ft) (ft3/s) (ft) (ft) (ft) (ft) (ft) (acres)
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8)
10 720 1/    41   680 1/   32   36.5    0    0
12 1,510   168 1,426 2/ 141 154.5 118.0 11.1
14 3,060   646 2,890 2/ 362 504.0 467.5 43.8
16 5,030 1,070 4,751 2/
858 964.0 927.5 86.9
1/ Bankfull discharge
2/ Proportioned by the bankfull discharge ratio 680/720. For example,
680
(1, 510) = 1, 426 ft /s 3

720
4,080
3/ Length of reach is 4,080 feet, and (col. 7) = (col. 8)
43,560

Table 13–5 Sample computation of stage versus area inundated with three cross sections in the reach and drainage areas at
the sections not significantly different

—–Cross section 1–— –—Cross section 2–— –—Cross section 3–—

–––—–—–—–—Related to cross section 1–—–—–—–—–––
weight = 0.22 weight = 0.47 weight = 0.31
weighted top width inundated area
stage top width stage top width stage top width weighted top width minus channel width in reach 3/
(ft) (ft) (ft) (ft) (ft) (ft) (ft) (ft) (acres)
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9)
  8 1/    42 10 1/   44   7 1/   32   39.8 2/    0    0
10   154 12 250  9 140 194.8 155.0   30.7
12   702 14 540 11 603 595.2 555.4 109.9
14 1,100 16 832 13 948 926.9 887.1 175.5
1/ Bankfull stage. Widths at this stage are channel widths.
2/ 39.8 = 0.22 (42) + 0.47 (44) + 0.31 (32). The weights are in proportion to total reach length as shown on figure 13–3.
8,620
3/ Length of reach is 8,620 feet, and (col. 8) = (col. 9)
43,560

Figure 13–3 Flood damage reach showing weighting of area between cross sections

Head Foot
of of
reach reach
Cross section Lengths a, b, c, etc., are measured along the path of
designation flow. Length of reach "L" = a+b+c+d+e+f+g. Cross
G section A has the weight a/L; while B has the weight
C E
A B b/L; and so on. Flood plain lengths may be more
D e
c F appropriate to use for weighting in some cases. Flood
g

a plain lengths are usually shorter than channel lengths

Path b d which are illustrated here.
of f
flow Midpoint between
section A and B
along the path of Axis of
flow cross section

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Chapter 13 Stage Inundation Relations Part 630
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630.1302 Flood peak or volume 630.1303 Frequency versus

versus area inundated method
This method is generally used with alluvial fan floods;
although it can also be used for other types of floods
instead of the stage methods described. Alluvial fan
flooding occurs on the surface of an alluvial fan or sim-
ilar landform on which flooding begins at an apex and
is characterized by unpredictable flow paths with high
flow velocities, active erosion, sediment transport, and
deposition.
Step 1 Conduct field interviews for as many
floods as possible to determine the extent of the
areas flooded.
Step 2 Determine actual or estimated flood peak
or volume for each flood, using a cross section or
gage upstream from the fan as a reference point.
Step 3 Plot the flooded area, in acres, versus the
flood peak or volume for each flood, using arith-
metic plots to determine the relation between area
and peak or volume.
area inundated method
This method is sometimes used instead of the meth-
ods already described. It is applicable to both stream
reaches and alluvial fans.
Field interviews are used to collect data on area flood-
ed for all known floods. The earliest known flood de-
termines the length of record, y. The techniques out-
lined in NEH630.18, Selected Statistical Methods, are
used to perform a frequency analysis, and a frequency
versus area flooded curve is developed. The area un-
der the curve divided by y gives the average area flood-
ed.
A major problem with this method may be that the
dollar damage per acre may vary greatly from flood to
flood. In such cases, a damage-frequency curve is more
accurate.

Once the relation is determined, the effects of up-

stream projects can be computed in terms of runoff. A
reduced runoff means a reduced area flooded. When a
channel system within the fan is proposed for reducing
flooding, hydrographs are prepared at the upstream
section or gage and routed downstream.

13–6 (210–VI–NEH, July 2007)

Chapter 13 Stage Inundation Relations Part 630
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by NRCS. Use of HEC–RAS for water surface profiles

630.1304 Computer determina-
tion of area inundated
(a) HEC–RAS program
Stage inundation relations may be computed using
the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ (USACE) HEC–
RAS program. The USACE HEC–RAS computes acres
flooded when English units are used for output. If SI
(metric) units are used, the area flooded is in units
of 1,000 square meters. Area flooded is computed for
each profile between two cross sections based on
the average top width of the flow for left overbank,
channel, and right overbank segments. A total for the
entire cross section is also computed.
Within HEC–RAS, the area flooded displayed for
a cross section is the accumulated value from the
beginning of the reach to that cross section. When the
next reach is encountered, the flooded areas are reset
to zero. To compute the area flooded between two
cross sections, the area flooded at the downstream
cross section should be subtracted from the area
flooded at the upstream cross section. For more
information on how to apply HEC–RAS, refer to the
latest program documentation at the USACE Web site
(http://www.hec.usace.army.mil/software).
is recommended because of its ability to handle both
subcritical and supercritical flow.
Stage inundation relations from WSP2 may be used in
the ECON2 program to determine agricultural eco-
nomic damages because of inundation.
Many older projects will have hydraulic data available
for the WSP2 format and, if all flows are subcritical,
this program may still be used. New projects should
use HEC–RAS.
(d) Comparison method
In actual practice, flood plain boundaries for the re-
turn intervals being evaluated are generally drawn on
a topographic map. The actual flooded area is deter-
mined and then compared to the area computed in
HEC–RAS or WSP2. This comparison may be by cross
section or by reach (a group of cross sections). A ratio
of actual to computed flooded area is then used in a
flood economics program to reflect actual flooded area
more accurately.

(b) HEC–GeoRAS program

The USACE’s HEC–GeoRAS program is an ArcGIS ex-

tension designed to process geospatial data for use
with HEC–RAS. HEC–GeoRAS is a set of procedures,
tools, and utilities for processing geospatial data with
a graphical user interface (GUI). This interface allows
users with limited GIS experience to build a HEC-RAS
file containing geometric data from an existing digi-
tal terrain model (DTM) and complementary data sets
and to process results exported from HEC–RAS, and it
can be used to develop a flood inundation map based
on digital elevation data.

(c) WSP2 program

Stage inundation relations may also be computed us-

ing the NRCS WSP2 program. NEH 630.31 (1993, re-
vised 2005) describes this water surface profile pro-
gram. This program is no longer actively supported

(210–VI–NEH, July 2007) 13–7

Chapter 13 Stage Inundation Relations Part 630
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Hydrologic procedures use information developed

630.1305 Combination method
of determining area inundated
Additional sources of information can also be used to
help define flood plains. These are geomorphic surfac-
es, soils, botanical, hydrologic, and historical methods.
The use of these together, or of some combination, is
called the combination method of flood plain delinea-
tion. The combination method has been used in vari-
ous locations in the United States with good success.
This method uses all the information available to de-
fine the flood plain between cross sections. Cross sec-
tion locations can be better established using the com-
bination method.
from hydrologic studies, such as WinTR–20 (Computer
Program for Project Formulation Hydrology) and/or
HEC–RAS runs to delineate inundated areas. Gage
heights can be used to relate geomorphic surfaces
with historic floods.
Historic information obtained from interviews and
newspaper articles can provide valuable data on ex-
tent and depth of flooding. In some cases, aerial photo-
graphs can be obtained for recent floods.

Geomorphic surfaces and features help define flood

plains. An abandoned flood plain along a stream is
called a terrace. A river may develop a sequence of
stepped terrace levels over time as the channel cuts
deeper or incises into the flood plain surface. These
terraces and other features often vary with height
along the channel length. Other geomorphic features
typical of flood plain areas include previous river chan-
nels, oxbows, sloughs, natural levees, and backswamp
deposits. Generally, the same flood along the entire
watershed will flood the same feature. Often many
standard flood plain features can be recognized more
easily through analysis of aerial photographs than
from ground inspections (Reckendorf 1968).

Soils information and maps also help to determine

flood plains. It has been shown that generally the soils
formed in recent depositions of alluvial materials have
slight or no horizon development. Soils on terraces are
generally older with more developed horizons than
soils on flood plains. Thus, it is possible to use soils
information and development to distinguish older or
higher surfaces from younger or newer flood plains.

Botanical evidence along a stream helps identify flood-

ing and flooding limits. Scarred tree trunks and felled
trees, for instance, indicate a catastrophic event at or
near their location. Sprouts growing on a fallen trunk
can be dated by their tree rings. Sigafoos (1964) de-
scribes many such procedures and how this informa-
tion plus a knowledge or history of past floods can
help to identify flooding extent.

13–8 (210–VI–NEH, July 2007)

Chapter 13 Stage Inundation Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Other methods involving areal measurement are some-

630.1306 Stereoscopic and times useful. For example, flood lines for each of sev-
eral floods may be used to delineate inundated areas
other methods on aerial photos, which are measured and related to
stage or runoff or frequency. If a flood plain delinea-
A stereoscopic procedure can be used either to devel- tion can be depicted on a GIS layer, its area can then
op a stage versus area inundated relation or to check a be determined by GIS methods. The USACE’s HEC–
relation developed by other methods. GeoRAS program can be used to develop a flood in-
Step 1 Locate the limits of a large, recent flood undation map based on digital data. The flood bound-
at each cross section on aerial photographs (4- ary developed by HEC–GeoRAS can be overlaid on
inch to the mile preferred). an aerial photograph (digital orthoquad, or DOQ) and
checked for accuracy. Generally, lack of data on the lo-
Step 2 Using a stereoscope, outline the flood cation of the flood lines of historic floods limits the ap-
plain for this flood. plication of this and similar methods.
Step 3 Lay out and match the photographs.
Step 4 Make a tracing of the flood plain outline.
Show the cross-section locations and details of
land use.
Step 5 Determine the area flooded in each reach.
If stereoscopic photographs are used, the area
flooded can be determined using a planimeter.
Step 6 Compute the area flooded by using the
water surface width at each cross section for each
reach, and multiplying by:
reach length in feet
43, 560
where reach length is defined as the length of the
flow path.
Step 7 Compare the area measured in step 4
with the computed area from step 5.
measured area
Cf =
computed area
where:
Cf = correction factor

Step 8 Compute the area for various other

floods using widths as in step 5 and assuming the
flood plain outline increases and decreases paral-
lel to the outline of the selected recent large flood.
For a given reach length, use the correction factor
of step 6, if required.
Step 9 Plot area flooded versus stage at the se-
lected cross section.
Step 10 Determine areas flooded at required
depth increments (table 13–2).

(210–VI–NEH, July 2007) 13–9

Chapter 13 Stage Inundation Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

630.1307 References
Reckendorf, F.F. 1968. Methods of identification and
mapping of flood plains. American Soc. Agric.
Eng. Pap. 68–232. St. Joseph, MI.

Sigafoos, R.S. 1964. Botanical evidence of floods and

flood plain deposition. U.S. Geological Survey
Prof. Pap. 485–A. U.S. Government Printing
Office, Washington, DC.

U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources

Conservation Service. WinTR–20, Ver. 1.00,
Computer Program for Project Formulation
Hydrology. Washington, DC.

U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources

Conservation Service. 2000. Selected statistical
methods. National Engineering Handbook, part
630, chapter 18. Washington, DC.

U.S. Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation

Service. Economics—floodwater damage
(ECON2 PC, Ver. dated 11/05/1991). Washington,
DC.

U.S. Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation

Service. Computer program for water surface
profiles (WSP2 PC, Ver. 2.0). Washington, DC.

U.S. Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation

Service. 1993, rev. 2005. Computer program
for water surface profiles (WSP2). National
Engineering Handbook (NEH) part 630, ch. 31.
Washington, DC.

U.S. Department of Defense, U.S. Army Corps of

Engineers. HEC–RAS, Ver. 3.1.3. Washington, DC.

U.S. Department of Defense, U.S. Army Corps of

Engineers. HEC–GeoRAS, Ver. 4.1.1. Washington,
DC.

13–10 (210–VI–NEH, July 2007)

 Part 630 Hydrology
National Engineering Handbook

Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations

Rain clouds
Cloud formation

Precipitation

n
iratio
Evaporation
n

ean
tio

Transp
oil
ta

from oc
ge

s
ve

from
m

n
fro

tio

ms
n

ira
tio

a
sp

tre
ra
po

an

ms
va

Tr

Surfa E
fro

ce ru
noff

Infiltration

Soil
Percolation

Rock Ocean
Groundwater
Deep percolation

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012) 1

Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Issued April 2012

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all

its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, age,
disability, and where applicable, sex, marital status, familial status, parental
status, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, political beliefs,
reprisal, or because all or a part of an individual’s income is derived from
any public assistance program. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all pro-
grams.) Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for commu-
nication of program information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should
contact USDA’s TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TDD). To file a
complaint of discrimination, write to USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights,
1400 Independence Avenue, SW., Washington, DC 20250–9410, or call (800)
795-3272 (voice) or (202) 720-6382 (TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity
provider and employer.

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012)

Acknowledgments

Chapter 14 was originally prepared in 1971 by Robert Pasley (retired),

NRCS, Washington, DC, and Dean Snider (retired), NRCS, Fort Worth,
Texas, and revised in 1972 by Owen P. Lee, (retired), NRCS, Washington,
DC, and Edward G. Riekert (retired), NRCS, Washington, DC. This version
was prepared by William H. Merkel, hydraulic engineer, NRCS, Beltsville,
Maryland; Helen Fox Moody, hydraulic engineer, NRCS, Beltsville, Mary-
land; Quan D. Quan, hydraulic engineer, NRCS, Beltsville, Maryland; Karl
Visser, hydraulic engineer, National Design, Construction, and Soil Mechan-
ics Center, Fort Worth, Texas; and Donald E. Woodward (retired), NRCS,
Washington, DC, under the guidance of Claudia C. Hoeft, national hy-
draulic engineer, NRCS, Washington, DC. The Technical Publications Team,
NRCS, Fort Worth, Texas, prepared the final document.

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012)

Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

14–ii (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012)

Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations

Contents 630.1400 Introduction 14–1

630.1401 Development of stage discharge curves 14–3

(a) Direct measurement ...................................................................................... 14–3
(b) Indirect measurements ................................................................................. 14–3
(c) Slope-area estimates ..................................................................................... 14–6
(d) Synthetic methods ....................................................................................... 14–10

630.1402 Collection of field data 14–11

(a) Selecting Manning’s n values...................................................................... 14–11
(b) Selecting cross section locations .............................................................. 14–11
(c) Selecting representative reach lengths...................................................... 14–11

630.1403 Discharge versus drainage area 14–14

630.1404 Computing profiles 14–16

630.1405 Road crossings 14–24

(a) Bridges .......................................................................................................... 14–24
(b) Full bridge flow ............................................................................................ 14–32
(c) Overtopping of bridge embankment.......................................................... 14–33
(d) Multiple bridge openings ............................................................................ 14–35
(e) Culverts.......................................................................................................... 14–36

630.1406 References 14–48

Appendix A Estimating the Roughness Coefficient n for Use in 14A–1

Hydraulic Computations Associated with Natural Streams,
Floodways, and Similar Streams

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012) 14–iii

Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Tables Table 14–1 Computation of discharge using velocity head rod 14–5
(VHR) measurements

Table 14–2 Data for computing discharge from slope-area 14–9

measurements, example 14–1

Table 14–3 Hydraulic parameters for starting cross section 14–18

M–1, example 14–4

Table 14–4 Stage discharge for section M–1 with meander 14–19
correction, example 14–5

Table 14–5 Water surface profiles from cross sections, 14–22

example 14–6

Table 14–6 Backwater computations through bridges, 14–30

example 14–8

Table 14–7 Stage discharge over roadway at cross section 14–35

M–4 without submergence, example 14–9

Table 14–8 Headwater computations for eight 16- by 8-foot 14–45

concrete box culverts, headwalls parallel to
embankment (no wingwalls), square-edged on three
sides, example 14–10

Table 14–9 Stage discharge over roadway at cross section 14–47

T–3, figure 14–5, example 14–10

Table 14A–1 Examples of effect of vegetation on n 14A–5

Table 14A–2 Computations for example 14A–2 14A–11

14–iv (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012)

Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Figures Figure 14–1 Energy balance equation 14–2

Figure 14–2 Velocity head rod for measuring streamflow 14–4

Figure 14–3 High water mark profile and cross sections, 14–8
Concho River near San Angelo, Texas

Figure 14–4 Reach length versus elevation, Little Nemaha, 14–13

section 35

Figure 14–5 Schematic of watershed outlet with cross sections 14–17

and floodplain for examples 14–4, 14–5, 14–6, 14–8
14–9, and 14–10

Figure 14–6 Cross section M–1, examples 14–4 and 14–5 14–17

Figure 14–7 Conveyance values section M–1, example 14–4 14–18

Figure 14–8 Stage discharge curve, section M–1, example 14–4 14–19

Figure 14–9 Conveyance values, section M–2, example 14–6 14–21

Figure 14–10 Conveyance values, section T–1, example 14–6 14–21

Figure 14–11 Stage discharge, section M–2, example 14–6 14–24

Figure 14–12 Stage discharge, section T–1, example 14–6 14–24

Figure 14–13 Water surface profiles, example 14–8 14–27

Figure 14–14 Stage discharge without embankment overflow, 14–28

section M–5, example 14–8

Figure 14–15 Bridge opening areas, example 14–8 14–28

Figure 14–16 M values for bridge, example 14–8 14–31

Figure 14–17 J values for bridge, example 14–8 14–32

Figure 14–18 Stage discharge with embankment overflow, 14–36

section M–5, example 14–9

Figure 14–19 Approach section for a bridge opening 14–37

Figure 14–20 Culvert flow conditions 14–38

Figure 14–21 Types of culvert inlets 14–39

Figure 14–22 Elements of culvert flow for outlet control 14–41

Figure 14–23 Plots of data for cross section T–3, example 14–10 14–42

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012) 14–v

Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Figure 14–24 Stage discharge exit section T–2, example 14–10 14–43

Figure 14–25 Rating curves, cross section T–4, example 14–10 14–44

Figure 14A–1 Selection of Manning’s n for a cross section 14A–7

Figure 14A–2 Example of field notes describing roughness conditions 14A–8

Figure 14A–3 Hydraulic properties of a subdivided cross section, 14A–10

example 14A–2

Exhibits Exhibit 14–1 K values for converting cubic feet per second 14–51
per square mile to cubic feet per second

Exhibit 14–2 Estimate of velocity head in bridges 14–52

Exhibit 14–3 Estimate of M for use in BPR equation 14–53

Exhibit 14–4 BPR base curve for bridges, Kb 14–54

Exhibit 14–5(a) Incremental backwater coefficients ∆K and 14–55

J for the more common types of columns, piers,
and pile bents

Exhibit 14–5(b) Incremental backwater coefficients σ and M 14–56

for the more common types of columns, piers,
and pile bents

Exhibit 14–6 Headwater depth for box culverts with inlet control 14–57

Exhibit 14–7 Headwater depth for concrete pipe culverts with 14–58
inlet control

Exhibit 14–8 Headwater depth for oval concrete pipe culverts 14–59
long axis horizontal with inlet control

Exhibit 14–9 Headwater depth for corrugated metal (C.M.) 14–60

pipe culverts with inlet control

Exhibit 14–10 Headwater depth for corrugated metal (C.M.) 14–61

pipe-arch culverts with inlet control

Exhibit 14–11 Head for concrete box culverts flowing 14–62

full—n = 0.012

14–vi (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012)

Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Exhibit 14–12 Head for concrete pipe culverts flowing 14–63

full—n = 0.012

Exhibit 14–13 Head for oval concrete pipe culverts long axis 14–64
horizontal or vertical flowing full—n = 0.012

Exhibit 14–14 Head for standard corrugated metal (C.M.) 14–65

pipe culverts flowing full—n = 0.024

Exhibit 14–15 Head for standard corrugated metal (C.M.) 14–66

pipe-arch culverts flowing full—n = 0.024

Exhibit 14–16 Critical depth—rectangular section 14–67

Exhibit 14–17 Critical depth—circular pipe 14–68

Exhibit 14–18 Critical depth—oval concrete pipe—long 14–69

axis horizontal

Exhibit 14–19 Critical depth—standard corrugated metal 14–70

(C.M.) pipe-arch

Exhibit 14–20 Critical depth—structural plate—corrugated 14–71

metal (C.M.) pipe-arch, 18-inch corner radius

Exhibit 14–21 Entrance loss coefficients 14–72

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012) 14–vii

Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Examples Example 14–1 Peak discharge computation from slope-area 14–7

measurements

Example 14–2 Peak discharge computation using exhibit 14-1 14–15

for drainage area of 400 square miles

Example 14–3 Peak discharge computation using exhibit 14-1 14–15

for drainage area of 50 square miles

Example 14–4 Develop stage discharge curve for cross section 14–16

Example 14–5 Develop stage discharge curve for meandering reach 14–19

Example 14–6 Compute water surface profiles and develop 14–20

stage discharge curves for cross sections

Example 14–7 Bridge backwater effect 14–26

Example 14–8 Stage discharge curves for bridge alternatives 14–26

Example 14–9 Stage discharge curve for overflow section of 14–34

highway bridge

Example 14–10 Culvert analysis 14–40

Example 14A–1 Estimation of n for a reach 14A–8

Example 14A–2 Effect of subdividing cross sections 14A–9

14–viii (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012)

Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations
630.1400 Introduction
In planning and evaluating aspects of watershed
protection, it is necessary for U.S. Department of
Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation
Service (NRCS) hydrologists and engineers to develop
stage discharge curves at selected locations on natural
streams.
Many hydraulics textbooks, handbooks (NRCS Nation-
al Engineering Handbook (NEH) Section 5, Hydraulics,
1956), and others contain methods for developing
stage discharge curves assuming nonuniform steady
flow. Some of these methods are elaborate and time
consuming. The type of available field data and the
use to be made of these stage discharge curves should
dictate the method used in developing the curves.
This chapter presents methods of developing these
curves at selected points on a natural stream. This
chapter demonstrates hand calculation methods. Many
of these are now automated by computer programs
such as HEC–RAS (2010b).
The examples in this chapter contain many tables
generated by calculator or spreadsheet. Some values
may be different from values calculated by other meth-
ods. The hand methods, including charts, graphs, and
tables, represent valid engineering methods and prin-
ciples. Numerical accuracy is a function of the number
of significant digits and the algorithms used in data
processing, so some slight differences in numbers may
be found if the examples are checked by other means.
The rate of change of discharge for a given portion of
the stage discharge curve can differ between the rising
and falling sides of a hydrograph. Some streams oc-
cupy relatively small channels during low flows, but
overflow onto wide floodplains during high discharges.
During the rising stage, the flow away from the stream
causes a steeper slope than that for a constant dis-
charge and produces a highly variable discharge with
distance along the channel. After passage of the flood
crest, the water reenters the stream and again causes a
highly variable discharge, together with a stream slope
less than that for a constant discharge. The effect
on the stage discharge relation is to produce what is
called a loop rating for each flood (Chow 1959). Gen-
erally, in the work performed by the NRCS, the maxi-
mum stage the water reaches is of primary interest.
(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012)
Therefore, the stage discharge curve used for routing
purposes is a plot for the maximum elevation obtained
during the passage of flood hydrographs of varying
magnitudes. This results in the plot being a single
line. A detailed treatment of unsteady flow is included
in standard textbooks, such as Chow (1959), and is
beyond the scope of this chapter.
One of the basic equations used throughout this chap-
ter, which constitutes the basis of many hydraulic
calculations, is the energy balance equation, some-
times referred to as the “Bernoulli equation.” At two
locations along a stream, the energy of the water at the
upstream location equals the energy of the water at
the downstream location plus energy losses that occur
between the two locations. Figure 14–1 shows a dia-
gram of how this is applied along a stream.
The hydraulic grade line is a hydraulic profile of the
piezometric level of water at all points along the line.
The term is usually applied to water moving in a con-
duit, open channel, stream, etc., but it may also be
applied to free or confined groundwater. In an open
channel it is the free water surface. The energy grade
line is a line drawn above the hydraulic grade line a
distance equivalent to the velocity head of the flow-
ing water at each section along a stream, channel, or
conduit (ASCE 1962).
The energy at the upstream cross section 2 consists
of the channel bottom elevation (Z2) plus the depth of
water (d2) plus the velocity head, which is calculated
based on the velocity head correction factor (α2), the
average velocity of flowing water (V2), and the accel-
eration of gravity (g). The energy is generally repre-
sented in units of elevation such as feet or meters. The
velocity head correction coefficient (α) has a value of
1.0 if the velocity of water is the same for the entire
cross section. If the velocity varies within the cross
section, such as in a cross section with channel and
floodplain segments, the value of α is greater than 1.0.
This energy is to be balanced against the energy at
the downstream cross section, which consists of the
channel bottom elevation (Z1) depth of water (d1), and
velocity head of flowing water plus the energy losses
occurring between the two cross sections. The energy
losses are due to two major factors. One is friction
loss. Friction loss between two cross sections is gener-
ally estimated using Manning’s equation (described in
detail in NEH630.1401). Energy losses can also occur
through expansion or contraction of the flow. For ex-
Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Figure 14–1 Energy balance equation

Section 2

Section 1
α 2 V22 α V2
Z2 + d2 + = Z1 + d1 + 1 1 + Losses
2g 2g

Energy Losses
grade li
2
α 2 V2 ne
2g

2
Wate α 1 V1
r sur
face 2g
d2 or hy
drau
lic gr
ade l
ine

Flow

Channel
bottom
d1

Z2

Z1

Datum

14–2 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012)

Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

ample, if the velocity decreases from the upstream to

downstream direction, it is referred to as “expansion
loss.” Much more detail concerning the energy balance
630.1401 Development of stage
equation is available in standard hydraulic engineering discharge curves
texts such as Chow (1959).
(a) Direct measurement

The most direct method of developing stage discharge

curves for natural streams is to obtain velocities at se-
lected points through a cross section. The most popu-
lar method is to use a current meter; other methods
include the use of dynamometers, floats, Pitot tubes,
and chemical and electrical methods. From these
velocities and associated cross-sectional areas, the
discharge is computed for various stages on the rising
and falling side of a flood flow and a stage discharge
curve developed.

The current meter method is described in detail in the

U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Water Supply Paper
2175, Measurement and Computation of Streamflow,
Volume 1, Measurement of Stage and Discharge (USGS
1982).

The velocity head rod (fig. 14–2) may be used to

measure flows in small streams or baseflow in larger
streams (Carufel 1980). In making a measurement with
a velocity head rod, a tape is stretched across the flow-
ing stream, and both depth and velocity head readings
are taken at selected points that represent the cross
section of the channel. Table 14–1 is an example of a
discharge determined by the velocity head rod. The
data is tabulated as shown in columns 1, 2, and 3, and
the computation made as shown.

The total area of flow in the section is shown in col-

umn 9, and the total discharge in column 10. The aver-
age velocity is 45.19/15.00, or 3.01 feet per second.

(b) Indirect measurements

Indirectly, discharge is measured by methods such as

slope-area, contracted-opening, flow over a dam, flow
through a culvert, and critical depth. These methods,
described in Techniques of Water Resources Investiga-
tions of the U.S. Geological Survey, Book 3, chapters
3–7 (USGS 1967, 68), use information on the water-sur-
face profile for a specific flood peak and the hydraulic
characteristics of the channel to determine the peak
discharge.

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012) 14–3

Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Figure 14–2 Velocity head rod for measuring streamflow

The rod is first placed in the water with its foot on the bottom and the sharp
edge facing directly upstream. The stream depth at this point is indicated
1 ft

by the water elevation at the sharp edge, neglecting the slight ripple or bow
B 4 B wave. If the rod is now revolved 180 degrees so that the flat edge is turned
Top of upstream, a hydraulic jump will be formed by the obstruction to the flow
copper
of the stream. After the depth or first reading has been subtracted from the
3 second reading, the net height of the jump equals the actual velocity head at
that point. Velocity can then be computed by the standard formula:

V = 2g∆h = 8.02 ∆h
A 2 A
4 ft

Trailing Cutting where:

edge edge
V = velocity in ft/s
1
g = acceleration of gravity, 32.16 ft/s2
∆h = velocity head in ft
½-in
brass
shoe The average discharge for the stream is obtained by taking a number of
measurements of depth and velocity throughout its cross section and apply-
26-gage ing the equation:
Trailing sheet
edge copper
Q = AV
1 in

Cutting
edge where:
1 in 2 in Q = discharge in ft3/s
Section A-A A = cross-sectional area in ft2
V = velocity in ft/s
3 in ½-in radius
Velocity for different values of ∆h:
1 in

V = 8.02 ∆h
Section B-B
Velocity head rod
developed at San Dimas Velocity head, h Velocity
experimental forest (ft) (ft/s)
0.05 1.79
0.10 2.54
0.15 3.11
0.20 3.59
0.25 4.01
0.30 4.39
0.35 4.74
0.40 5.07
0.45 5.38
0.50 5.67

14–4 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012)

 Chapter 14
Table 14–1 Computation of discharge using velocity head rod (VHR) measurements

 
Depth of flow using VHR  Velocity 1/ 

Distance Cutting Flat ∆h Average for Mean depth Width Area Discharge
along section edge edge col (3)–col (2) At point section from col (2) from col (1) col (7) × col (8) col (9) × col (6)
ft ft ft ft ft/s ft/s ft ft ft2 ft3/s
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9) (10)

3.5 0 0 0 0
0.9 0.68 1.00 0.68 0.61
4.5 1.35 1.4 0.05 1.8
2.15 2.05 0.40 0.82 1.76

Stage Discharge Relations

4.9 2.75 2.85 0.1 2.5
(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012)

3.35 2.90 1.00 2.90 9.72

5.9 3.05 3.32 0.27 4.2
4.05 3.03 1.50 4.54 18.39
7.4 3.01 3.25 0.24 3.9
3.40 2.60 0.50 1.30 4.42
7.9 2.18 2.31 0.13 2.9
2.35 1.48 2.80 4.14 9.73
10.7 0.78 0.83 0.05 1.8
0.9 0.39 1.60 0.62 0.56
12.3 0 0
Totals 15.00 45.19

National Engineering Handbook

Part 630
Note:
1/ Column 5 is read from table in figure 14–2 using ∆h in column 4.
14–5
Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations
It should be remembered that no indirect method of
discharge determination can be of an accuracy equal
to a meter measurement.
Fairly accurate discharges may be computed from
measurements made of flows over different types
of weirs by using the appropriate formula and coef-
ficients selected from the Handbook of Hydraulics
(Brater and King 1976), sections 4 and 5. Overfall dams
or broad-crested weirs provide an excellent location
to determine discharges. Details on procedures for
broad-crested weirs may be found in Brater and King
(1976).
(c) Slope-area estimates
Field measurements taken after a flood are used to
determine one or more points on the stage discharge
curve at a selected location. The peak discharge of the
flood is estimated using high water marks to determine
the slope.
Three or four cross sections are usually surveyed so
that two or more independent estimates of discharge,
based on pairs of cross sections, can be made and
averaged. Additional field work required for slope-area
estimates consists of selecting the stream reach, esti-
mating n values, and surveying the channel profile and
high water profile at selected cross sections. The work
is guided by the following:
• The selected reach is as uniform in channel align-
ment, slope, size, and shape of cross section, and
factors affecting the roughness coefficient n as is
practicable to obtain. The selected reach should
not contain sudden breaks in channel bottom
grade such as shallow drops or rock ledges.
• Elevations of selected high water marks are
determined on both sides of the channel for each
cross section.
• The three or more cross sections are located to
represent as closely as possible the hydraulic
characteristics of the reach. Distances between
sections must be long enough to keep the errors
in estimating stage or elevation small.
The flow in a channel reach is computed by one of the
open-channel formulas. The most commonly used for-
mula in the slope-area method is Manning’s equation:
14–6 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012)
Part 630
National Engineering Handbook
2 1
1.486 AR 3 S 2
Q= (eq. 14–1)
n
where:
Q = discharge in ft3/s
n = Manning’s coefficient of roughness
A = cross-sectional area in ft2
R = hydraulic radius in ft
S = slope of the energy gradient in ft/ft
Rearranging equation 14–1 gives:
2
Q 1.486 AR 3
Kd = =
1
n
S2
(eq. 14–2)
where:
Kd = cross-sectional conveyance
The right side of equation 14–2 contains only the
physical characteristics of the cross section and is
referred to as the “conveyance,” Kd. The slope is deter-
mined from the elevations of the high water marks and
the distances between the high water marks along the
direction of flow.
Manning’s formula has been used to develop stage
discharge curves for natural streams assuming the
water surface to be parallel to the slope of the channel
bottom. This can lead to large errors since this condi-
tion can only exist in long reaches having the same
bed slope without a change in cross section shape or
retardance.
In computing the hydraulic parameters of a cross
section on a natural stream when floodplain flow
exists, it is desirable to divide the cross section into
segments. The number of segments will depend on the
irregularity of the cross section and the variation in
n values assigned to the different portions. Appendix
A gives a method of determining n values for use in
computing stage discharge curves. For a description of
determining the water surface in curved channels, see
NEH654.06, Stream Hydraulics (NRCS 2007).
Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations
Example 14–1 Peak discharge computation
from slope-area measurements
Using data for the Concho River near San Angelo,
Texas, for the September 17, 1936, flood, compute the
peak discharge that occurred. Figure 14–3 shows sec-
tions A and B with the high water mark profile along
the stream reach between the two sections.
Step 1 Draw a water surface through the aver-
age of the high water marks. From figure 14–3, the
elevation of the water surface at the lower cross
section B is 55.98 feet designated in the example as
E2. The elevation of the water surface at cross sec-
tion A is 56.50 feet designated as El. The difference
in elevation between E2 and E1 is 0.52 feet.
Step 2 Compute the length of reach between the
two sections. From figure 14–3, the length of reach
is 680 feet (1,100 – 420). The slope S of the reach
E2 – E1 is (0.52 ft)/(680 ft) or 0.000765. This value is
used in step 10 to calculate the discharge Q.
Step 3 Divide each cross section into segments as
needed due to different n values as shown in figure
14–3.
Step 4 Compute the cross-sectional area (A) and
wetted perimeter (WP) for each segment of each
cross section. Tabulate in columns 2 and 3 of table
14–2(a) for cross section A and table 14–2(b) for
cross section B.
Step 5 Compute hydraulic radius R (R = A/WP)
for each segment, and tabulate in column 4, table
14–2(a) and 14–2(b). For segment 1 of section B =
1,598/236 = 6.77 feet.
Step 6 Compute R2/3 for each segment, and tabu-
late in column 5. For segment 1 of cross section B,
R2/3 = (6.77)2/3 = 3.58 feet.
Step 7 Tabulate the Manning’s n value. Tabulate
the n value assigned to each segment in column 6 of
table 14–2(a) and 14–2(b).
Step 8 Compute Kd for each segment. Kd is com-
puted by multiplying 1.486 times columns (2) times
(5) and dividing by column (6). This is commonly
called the conveyance. For segment 1 of cross sec-
tion A, Kd = 1.486(2,354)(4.44)/.08 = 1.94 × 105.
Step 9 Compute the total area and the total Kd
sum in columns 2 and 7 of table 14–2(a) and 14–2(b).
(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012)
Part 630
National Engineering Handbook
Step 10 Compute the velocity for each segment of
cross sections A and B. In column 8 of tables 14–
2(a) and (b), compute the velocity for each segment
by multiplying column 7 by the square root of the
slope (0.000765) and dividing by column 2.
Step 11 Compute the velocity cubed multiplied by
the area for each segment. Raise the value in col-
umn 8 to the third power, and multiply by column 2,
and tabulate the results in column 9, table 14–2 (a)
and (b). Sum the values for all segments for each
cross section.
Step 12 Compute the velocity head correction
coefficient alpha (α) for cross sections A and B.
Compute the average velocity (column 10), average
velocity cubed times total area (column 11), and al-
pha (column 12). The average velocity (column 10)
equals the total conveyance ( the sum of the values
in column 7) multiplied by the square root of the
slope (0.000765) divided by the sum of the values in
column 2. The average velocity cubed times the area
(column 11) equals the average velocity (column
10) raised to the third power multiplied by the sum
of the values in column 2. Alpha (column 12) equals
the sum of values in column 9 divided by the value
in column 11.
Step 13 Use the energy balance between sections
A and B to estimate the discharge. The calculations
are in table 14–2 (c). Select a discharge to see if
energy balances. For the first try, use 240,000 cubic
feet per second. Enter the value in column 1, table
14–2 (c).
Step 14 Compute the velocity at cross section A
in column 2. Divide the discharge in column 1 by
34,729 square feet (total cross section area in table
14–2 (a) column 2), and enter the result 6.91 in col-
umn 2, table 14–2(c).
Step 15 Compute velocity head for cross section A
in column 3. Square the value in column 2, multiply
by alpha (α) in table 14–2 (a) column 12, and divide
by 64.4. Enter the result in column 3, table 14–2 (c).
Step 16 Compute velocity at cross section B. Di-
vide the discharge in column 1 by 32,771 square feet
(total cross section area in table 14–2 (b) column 2).
Enter the result in column 4, table 14–2 (c).
Step 17 Compute velocity head at cross section B
in column 5. Square the value in column 4, multiply
by alpha (α) in table 14–2 (b) column 12, and divide
by 64.4. Enter the result in column 5, table 14–2 (c).
14–7
Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Figure 14–3 High water mark profile and cross sections, Concho River near San Angelo, Texas

W.S. slope=0.000765
Elevation in ft

57 E1 High water marks

E2 On left bank
56 On right bank
Sec. A
4+20

High water marks

Sec. B
11+00
55
through the reach

0+00 2+00 4+00 6+00 8+00 10+00 12+00

Stations

60
Seg 1 Seg 2 Seg 3 Seg 4 Seg 5 Seg 6 n=0.05 Seg 7
50 n=0.08 n=0.03 n=0.05 n= n=0.10 n=0.035
Elevation in ft

0.035
40

30

20 Section A

10

Seg 1 Seg 7
50 n=0.08 Seg 2 Seg 3 Seg 6
Seg 5 n= n=0.045
n=0.03 n=0.045 Seg 8
n= 0.100
Seg 4 n=0.035
Elevation in ft

40 0.035
n=0.055
30

20
Section B
10

0
0+00 2+00 4+00 6+00 8+00 10+00 12+00 14+00 16+00 18+00 20+00 22+00
Stations

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Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Table 14–2 Data for computing discharge from slope-area measurements, example 14–1

(a) Cross section A at station 4+20

section A
3
Segment Area Wetted Hydraulic R2/3 n Kd Velocity V3 A Vave Vave A tot Alpha
A perimeter radius V α
WP R
ft2 ft ft ft ft/s ft/s
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9) (10) (11) (12)
1 2,354 252 9.34 4.44 0.080 1.94×10 5 2.28 2.79×10 4

2 12,691 735 17.27 6.68 0.030 4.20×10 6 9.15 9.73×106

3 5,862 231 25.38 8.64 0.050 1.50×106 7.10 2.10×106
4 5,385 167 32.25 10.13 0.035 2.32×106 11.9 9.07×106
5 2,523 135 18.69 7.04 0.100 2.64×10 5 2.89 6.12×104
6 2,498 350 7.14 3.71 0.050 2.75×105 3.05 7.07×104
7 3,416 645 5.30 3.04 0.035 4.41×105 3.57 1.55×105
sum 34,729 9.19×106 2.12×107 7.32 1.36×107 1.56

(b) Cross section B at station 11+00

section B
3
Segment Area Wetted Hydraulic R2/3 n Kd Velocity V3 A Vave Vave A tot Alpha
A perimeter radius V α
WP R
ft2 ft ft ft ft/s ft/s
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9) (10) (11) (12)
1 1,598 236 6.77 3.58 0.080 1.06×105
1.84 9.95×10 3

2 11,750 725 16.21 6.40 0.030 3.73×106

8.77 7.93×106
3 4,750 227 20.93 7.59 0.045 1.19×106 6.94 1.59×106
4 2,486 78 31.87 10.05 0.055 6.75×105 7.51 1.05×106
5 4,944 153 32.31 10.15 0.035 2.13×106 11.91 8.35×106
6 3,455 134 25.78 8.73 0.100 4.48×105 3.59 1.60×105
7 2,270 273 8.32 4.10 0.045 3.08×105
3.75 1.20×105
8 1,518 513 2.96 2.06 0.035 1.33×105 2.42 2.15×104
sum 32,771 8.72×106 1.92×107 7.36 1.31×107 1.47

(c) Using energy balance between cross sections A and B to estimate discharge
Discharge Veloc- (αVA2)/2g Velocity V (αVB2)/2g Sf Friction Contrac- HL Upstream Down- Difference
Q ity V VB loss tion loss energy stream
VA energy
ft3/s ft/s ft ft/s ft ft ft ft ft ft ft
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9) (10) (11) (12)
240,000 6.91 1.16 7.32 1.22 0.000718 0.49 0.01 0.50 57.66 57.70 –0.04
235,000 6.77 1.11 7.17 1.17 0.000689 0.47 0.01 0.48 57.61 57.63 –0.02
230,000 6.62 1.06 7.02 1.12 0.000660 0.45 0.01 0.46 57.56 57.56 0.00

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012) 14–9

Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Step 18 Compute friction slope (column 6) for the (d) Synthetic methods
discharge in column 1. Divide the discharge value
(column 1) by the average conveyance at cross There are various methods that depend entirely on
sections A and B (8,955,000), and then square this data that may be gathered at any time. These methods
number. Place the result in column 6, table 14–2 (c). establish a water surface slope based entirely on the
Step 19 Compute friction loss in column 7. Multiply physical elements present such as channel size and
the value in column 6 by the reach length of 680 shape, floodplain size and shape, and the roughness
feet. Place result in column 7, table 14–2 (c). coefficient. The method generally used by the NRCS
is the standard step method in the U.S. Army Corps
Step 20 Compute contraction loss in column 8. of Engineers (USACE) HEC–RAS water surface com-
Using a contraction coefficient of 0.1, multiply 0.1 puter program (2010b).
times the difference in velocity heads (column 5 mi-
nus column 3). In this example, values are rounded This method bases the average rate of friction loss in
to the nearest 0.01 foot. Place the result in column the reach between two cross sections on the elements
8, table 14–2 (c). of those two cross sections. Manning’s equation is
Step 21 Compute total head loss between cross applied to these elements, and the difference in eleva-
sections A and B. Add the friction loss in column tion of the water surface plus the difference in velocity
7 and the contraction loss in column 8. Place the head between the two cross sections is assumed to be
result in column 9, table 14–2 (c). equal to the total energy loss in the reach. This meth-
od, ignoring the changes in velocity head, is illustrated
Step 22 Compute upstream energy. Add the water later in example 14–6.
surface elevation at the upstream cross section A
(56.50 feet) and the velocity head from column 3.
Place result in column 10, table 14–2 (c).
Step 23 Compute downstream energy plus head
loss. Add the water surface elevation at the down-
stream cross section B (55.98 feet), the velocity
head from column 5, and head loss from column 9.
Place result in column 11, table 14–2 (c).
Step 24 Compute the difference in energy between
upstream and downstream cross sections. Subtract
the value in column 11 from the value in column 10.
If the result is negative, upstream energy is too high
to be balanced. Try a lower discharge, and repeat
steps 1 through 12. In this example, the second esti-
mated discharge is 235,000 cubic feet per second. If
the energy difference in column 12 is less than 0.01
feet, then stop as the energy balances within the
tolerance. The third estimate of discharge (230,000
ft3/s) produces a match between the upstream and
downstream energy and is the final discharge esti-
mate.
This compares favorably with the 230,000 cubic feet
per second computed in Water Supply Paper 816 for
the Concho River. The solution just given for example
14–1, and similar cases can be automated by freely
available tools, such as the Cross-Section Hydraulic
Analyzer (Moore 2010) spreadsheet available at http://
go.usa.gov/0Eo.

14–10 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012)

Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations
630.1402 Collection of field data
(a) Selecting Manning’s n values
The selection of appropriate Manning’s n values is
important in the computation of water surface profiles
and flow in open channels. The selected values should
be representative of flow conditions at the cross sec-
tion location. The cross section can be subdivided into
several segments to properly represent the resistance
to flow within a cross section. Normally, a natural
cross section is subdivided into three segments: chan-
nel, right and left overbanks. The overbank segments
can be further subdivided depending on the condi-
tions. Manning’s n values can vary with the depth of
water within a segment. Chow (1959) includes a table
of Manning’s n values for five land uses with different
water depths, and many of the other references cited
contain similar information.
Standard textbooks and hydraulic references such
as Brater and King (1976) and various NRCS and
USGS books provide examples of Manning’s n values
in constructed and natural channels. The reference
section lists some of the available Manning’s n values
references, such as U.S. Geological Survey (1967),
Aldridge and Garrett (1973), U.S. Geological Survey
(1989a) U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE 2010b),
Chow (1959), and Yochum (2010). Appendix A gives a
procedure for estimating Manning’s n values in natural
streams, floodways, and similar streams (Cowan 1956).
(b) Selecting cross section locations
Valley sections can serve many needs (geologic, engi-
neering, economic, hydraulic), and all of them should
be considered when selecting the location. For hydrau-
lic purposes, valley sections are surveyed at points
along the valley length and need to be representative
of parameters such as flow area, wetted perimeter, and
roughness.
With the increased availability and quality of digital
topography and imagery, such as light detection and
ranging (LiDAR) and digital elevation models (DEM),
cross section locations, reach lengths, and even Man-
ning roughness estimates may be determined remotely
at a project site. While locations of structures, such as
(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012)
Part 630
National Engineering Handbook
bridges, culverts, or weirs, may be seen and located,
often detailed information still needs to be collected
for these in the field. Also, if there is water in a stream,
elevations below the water surface need to be col-
lected in the field if they are necessary for the analy-
ses. Certain software packages, such as the HEC–RAS
model (2010b) and computer aided drafting, save time
in developing cross section and other hydraulic infor-
mation. These software packages are generally de-
signed to merge digital data and data collected in the
field. Based on the project purpose, scope, and budget,
use of digital topographic data may greatly enhance
the quality of analyses.
The HEC–RAS model considers energy losses due to
friction and expansion or contraction and uses the rate
of friction loss at the upstream and downstream sec-
tions to estimate the rate of friction loss throughout
the reach. Therefore, valley sections should be located
as follows: divide the valley length into reaches with
nearly constant parameters that affect hydraulics and
locate the valley section near the upstream end of the
reach. Two cross sections should be placed immediate-
ly above and below a road-type restriction and placed
as noted in the HEC–RAS user’s manual (2010c).
Always start cross sections some distance either
below (for subcritical flow) or above (for supercritical
flow) the point where reliable estimates are needed.
The distance above or below depends on slope and
the landscape variability, but should be a minimum of
five cross sections normally spaced. This will allow
the HEC–RAS model to mitigate any errors in assumed
or estimated starting elevations. This will improve the
accuracy of the predicted water surface profiles for a
given flow within the area of interest. For more detail
on this procedure, see the technical references avail-
able on the USACE HEC–RAS Web site (http://www.
hec.usace.army.mil/software/hec-ras/).
Survey sections should be perpendicular to the direc-
tion of flow and not necessarily straight across the
valley. The Manning’s n values used for the reach
should be representative of the channel and floodplain
downstream of the cross section.
(c) Selecting representative reach
lengths
The flow distance between one section and the next
has an important bearing on the friction losses be-
14–11
Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

tween sections. For flows that are entirely within the Qt = total discharge, ft3/s
channel the channel, distance should be used. On a Kdt = total conveyance
meandering stream, the overbank portion of the flow Sa = average slope of energy gradient
may have a flow distance less than the channel dis-
tance. This distance approaches but does not equal the The subscript f refers to the combined right and left
floodplain distance due to the effect of the channel on overbanks. The total discharge in a reach is equal to
the flow. Determination of this average reach length the flow in channel plus the flow in the overbank.
will be important for use in reach routing equations
and models. Then:
Q t = Qc + Q f
From a practical standpoint, the water surface is con- (eq. 14–7)
sidered level across a cross section. Thus, the eleva-
tion difference between two cross sections is consid- Substituting from equations 14–4, 14–5, and 14–6
ered equal for both the channel flow portion and the
1 1 1
overbank portion.
Kd t × S a 2 = Kd c × S c 2 + Kd f × S f 2
It has been common practice to compute the convey- H H
Let S c = and S f =
ance for the total section and then compute the dis- Lc Lf (eq. 14–8)
charge by using a given slope with this conveyance,
where the slope used is an average slope between the where:
slope of the channel portion and the overbank portion. H = elevation of reach head minus elevation of
The average slope is computed by the formula: reach foot, ft
Lc = length of reach for channel, ft
H Lf = length of reach for floodplain, ft
Sa =
La
(eq. 14–3)
Then, substituting into equation 14–8 using the proper
where: subscripts:
Sa = average slope of energy gradient in reach
H = elevation difference of the energy level be- 1 1 1

tween sections, ft  H 2  H2  H2

Kd t ×   = Kd c ×   + Kd f ×  
La = average reach length, ft  La   Lc   Lf 
(eq. 14–9)
The reach length La can be computed as follows:
Divide both sides by H½.
1
Qc = Kd c × S c 2
(eq. 14–4) 1 1
Kd t  1 2  1  2 Kd Kd
1 1
= Kd c ×   + Kd f ×   = 1c + 1f
Q f = Kd f × S f 2
 Lc   Lf 
(eq 14–5) La 2 Lc 2 Lf 2
2
1
 
Q t = Kd t × S a 2  
(eq. 14–6)  Kd t 
La =  
where: Kd Kd
 1c + 1f 
Qc = discharge in channel portion, ft3/s  2 
Kdc = conveyance in channel portion  Lc Lf 2 
Sc = energy gradient in channel portion
Qf = discharge in floodplain portion, ft3/s (eq. 14–10)
Kdf = conveyance in floodplain portion
Sf = energy gradient in floodplain portion

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 Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

If the average reach length is plotted versus elevation Sf and Sc can be represented as:
for a section, it is possible to read the reach length di-
rectly to use with the Kd for any desired elevation. The 1
 H 1  H2
data will plot in a form as shown in figure 14–4. Sf =   or (S )f
2 = 
L  L 
f f
(eq. 14–13)
This procedure is somewhat difficult to use because
each time a new elevation is selected for use, a new 1

reach length must also be used. The procedure can be  H 1  H2

modified slightly by using a constant reach length in all
Sc =  
 Lc 
or (S )c
2 = 
 Lc 
(eq. 14–14)
computations.
Divide equation 14–13 by equation 14–14.
Multiply both sides of equation 14–5 by:
1 1

 Sc  2
1
 H2 1
S   Sf  2  L  L 2
 c f
= c
S  = 1
L 
This gives:  c
 H2 f

 L 
1 1 c
(eq. 14–15)
S 2 1 
S 2
Q f  c  = (Kd f ) (S c ) 2  f  Equation 14–12 becomes by substitution:
 Sc   Sc 
(eq. 14–11) 1
1  Lc  2
1 Q f = (Kd f ) (S c ) 2
 L 
S 2 f
(eq. 14–16)
The  c  on the left hand side drops out with a value
 Sc 
The term “Lc/Lf” is commonly referred to as the “mean-
of 1, giving:
der factor.”
1
1  Sf  2
Q f = (Kd f ) (S c ) 2
S 
Then, substituting equations 14–16 and 14–4 into equa-
 c tion 14–7:
(eq. 14–12)
1
1  1L 2
Figure 14–4 Reach length versus elevation, Little Nema-
Q t = (Kd c )(S c ) 2 + (Kd f )  S c 2   c 
 L  f
ha, section 35

1,020 Rearranging:

1,015  1

 L  2 1
Little Nemaha section 35 Q t =  Kd c + (Kd f )    (S c ) 2
c

1,010
  Lf   (eq. 14–17)
 
Elevation (ft)

1,005
Equation 14–17 can be used to compute the total stage
discharge at a section by using the meander factor,
1,000
rather than a variable reach length. Example 14–5 illus-
995
trates the use of modifying the floodplain conveyance
Meander factor=1.25 Meander factor=1.53
by the square root of the meander factor in developing
990 a stage discharge curve. Equation 14–17 applies to a
Bankfull single cross section. It does not apply to water surface
985 profiles, which introduce more than one section along
3,600 3,800 4,000 4,200 4,400 4,600 4,800 5,000 5,200 5,400 5,600 a stream reach.
Reach length (ft)

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012) 14–13

Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Assuming that c remains constant for any point in the

630.1403 Discharge versus watershed, then the discharge at any point in the wa-
tershed may be related to the discharge of any other
drainage area point in the watershed by the formula.
It is desirable for the water surface profile to rep-   
  0.894  
resent a flow that has the same occurrence interval   0.048  −1
  a1  
 
throughout the watershed. The cubic feet per second q p1 46 c a 1
=K=
per square mile (ft3/s/mi2) values for most floods vary q p2   
  0.894  
within a channel system having a smaller value for   0.048  −1
  a 2  
 
larger drainage areas. Thus, when running a profile for 46 c a 2

the 50 cubic feet per second per square mile rate at
the outlet, the actual cubic feet per second per square Canceling 46 c, the resulting equation is:
mile rate will increase as the profile progresses up the
watershed. The HEC–RAS model requires the user to   
  0.894  
input the discharge range at each cross section where   0.048  −1
  a1  
 
the stage discharge relation is computed. q p1 a1
=K=  
q p2 
  0.894  
The rate of discharge at any point in the watershed can   0.048  −1
  a 2  
 
be based on the formula (Creager, Justin, and Hines a2
(eq. 14–19)
1945):
 
  0.894 


where:
  0.048  −1
  a1

 

qp1 and a1 = discharge rate in ft3/s/mi2 and drainage
q p = 46 c a area in mi2 of one point in the water-
(eq. 14–18)
shed
where: qp2 and a2 = discharge rate in ft3/s/mi2 and drainage
qp = discharge in ft3/s/mi2 for any specific location area in mi2 at another point
in the watershed K = ratio of qp1 and qp2
a = drainage area in mi2
c = coefficient depending on the characteristics of The coefficient c does not need to be estimated be-
the watershed cause for most watersheds the coefficient cancels out
in equation 14–19. Equation 14–19, therefore, applies
Equation 14–18 was derived based on a plot of the to all watershed regardless of what c equals for an
largest peak discharge at 720 locations in the contigu- individual watershed.
ous United States (48 States), 5 locations in Hawaii,
and 25 locations in foreign countries. The data in- In practice, qp2 and a2 usually represent the outlet of
cludes years through 1940. Watersheds in the data the watershed and remain constant, and a1 is varied to
set have drainage areas between 0.17 square miles obtain qp1 at other points of interest within the water-
and more than 2 million square miles (Amazon River, shed.
Brazil). The curve was developed to estimate extreme
flood discharges at ungaged locations where only the Equation 14–19 is plotted in exhibit 14–1 for the case
drainage area is known. For this chapter, the equa- where a2 is 400 square miles. This curve may be used
tion is used only in a relative way to proportion the directly to obtain the cubic feet per second per square
peak discharge along a stream and its tributaries. This mile discharge of the outlet if the outlet is at 400
procedure will provide an initial estimate of discharge square miles as shown in example 14–2. Example 14–3
along a stream and its tributaries. After estimating the shows how to use exhibit 14–1 if the drainage area at
peak discharge (ft3/s/mi2) at locations in the watershed the outlet is not 400 square miles.
for various return periods using a hydrologic model,
these discharges (which provide more accurate val- Other methods can also be used to determine the flow
ues) may be entered into the hydraulic model to com- for various watershed locations. Some of the other ac-
plete water surface profiles. ceptable methods would include hydrology programs

14–14 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012)

Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

such as WinTR–20 Computer Program for Project
Formulation Hydrology, ver. 1.11 (2009) or HEC–HMS,
Hydrologic Modeling System, ver. 3.5 (2010a) and re-
gression techniques such as those published by USGS.
The USGS regional regression curves can also be used
to compute the discharge at the upstream cross sec-
tions when using the HEC–RAS water surface profile
computer program. Be sure to use USGS regional re-
gression curves and equations within their valid range
for drainage area, location, percent impervious areas,
and other watershed characteristics, as apply.
Example 14–2 Peak discharge computation
using exhibit 14-1 for drainage area of 400
square miles
Step 2 Determine K for a drainage area of 50
square miles. From exhibit 14–1 for a drainage area
of 50 square miles read K=2.61.
Step 3 Compute a new K value for a drainage area
of 20 square miles. Divide step 1 by step 2.
3.66
= 1.40
2.61
Step 4 Determine cubic feet per second per
square mile rate for the 20 square mile drainage
area. Multiply K obtained in step 3 by the cubic feet
per second per square mile at the outlet.
(1.40 )(60 ) = 84 ft33/s/mi
/s/mi22

Find the cubic feet per second per square mile dis-
charge value to be used for a reach with a drainage
area of 50 square miles when the cubic feet per second
per square mile discharge at the outlet is 80 cubic feet
per second per square mile. The drainage area at the
outlet is 400 square miles.
Step 1 Determine K for a drainage area of 50
square miles. From Exhibit 14–1 with a drainage
area of 50 square miles read K = 2.61.
Step 2 Determine the cubic feet per second per
square mile rate for 50 square miles. Multiply the cu-
bic feet per second per square mile rate at the outlet
by K computed in step 1:
(80) (2.61) = 209 ft3/s/mi2 at 50 mi2

This example could also be solved using equation

14–19.

Example 14–3 Peak discharge computation

using exhibit 14-1 for drainage area of 50
square miles

Find the cubic feet per second per square mile dis-
charge value to be used for a reach with a drainage
area of 20 square miles if the drainage area at the
outlet is 50 square miles. The cubic feet per second
per square mile rate at the outlet is 60 cubic feet per
second per square mile.
Step 1 Determine K for a drainage area of 20
square miles. From exhibit 14–1 with a drainage
area of 20 square miles read K=3.66.

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012) 14–15

Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

between each segment is not considered as wetted

perimeter.
630.1404 Computing profiles
Step 4 Tabulate elevations to be used in making
When using water surface profiles to develop stage computations. Start at the lowest point of the chan-
discharge curves for flows at more than critical depth, nel, and proceed to an elevation equal to or above
it is necessary to have a stage discharge curve for a any flood of record, and tabulate in column 1 of
starting point at the lower end of a reach. This start- table 14–3 elevations that will be required to define
ing point may be a stage discharge curve developed the hydraulic elements of each segment.
by current meter measurements or one computed
Step 5 Compute the wetted perimeter at each
from a control section where the flow passes through
elevation listed in step 4. Starting at the lowest
critical discharge, or it may be one computed from
elevation in column 1, measure or calculate the
the elements of the cross section and an estimate
wetted perimeter of each segment at each elevation,
of the slope. The latter case is the most commonly
and tabulate in columns 3, 6, 9, and 12 of table 14–3.
used by the NRCS since the more accurate stage
Note that the maximum wetted perimeter for the
discharge curves are not generally available on small
channel segment is 62 at elevation 94.
watersheds. Locate four to five normally spaced cross
sections downstream (or upstream for supercritical Step 6 Compute the cross-sectional area for each
flow) of the first point of interest where reliable data is elevation listed in step 4. Starting at the lowest
needed. This allows for any errors in the starting eleva- elevation, compute the accumulated cross-sectional
tion to be mitigated by distance and elevation. The area for each segment at each elevation in column 1,
actual distance needed (and number of cross sections) and tabulate in columns 2, 5, 8, and 11 of table 14–3.
to obtain reliable model results increases with lesser
Step 7 Compute Kd for each elevation. Compute:
slopes or increased errors in the assumed or computed
starting elevation.  2
1.486 ( A )  R 3 
 
Example 14–4 Develop stage discharge curve Kd =
n
for cross section
and tabulate in columns 4, 7, 10, and 13, table 14–3.
Develop the starting stage discharge curve for cross
section M–1 (fig. 14–5) shown as the first cross section
at the outlet of the watershed, assuming an energy Step 8 Sum columns 4, 7, 10, and 13, and tabulate
gradient Sa of 0.001 feet per foot. in column 14. A plot of column 14 and elevation is
shown on figure 14–7. The elevation scale is select-
Step 1 Plot the surveyed cross section. From field
ed based on the elevation of the channel bottom.
survey notes, plot the cross section, figure 14–6(a),
noting the points where there is an apparent change Step 9 Compute the discharge for each eleva-
in the n value. tion. Using the average slope at cross section M–l,
S = .00l feet per foot, develop stage discharge data
Step 2 Divide the cross section into segments. An
for cross section M–l, Q = (Sa1/2)(Kd). The stage
abrupt change in shape or a change in n is the main
discharge curve for cross section M–l is shown on
factor to be considered in determining extent and
figure 14–8.
number of segments required for a particular cross
section. Compute the n value for each segment us-
The next example shows the effect of a meandering
ing appendix A, or the n may be based on other data
channel in a floodplain on the elevation discharge
or publications.
relation. Equation 14–17 will be used to determine the
Step 3 Plot the channel segment on an enlarged discharge.
scale. Figure 14–6(b) is for use in computing the
area and measuring the wetted perimeter at selected
elevations in the channel. The length of the segment
at selected elevations is used as the wetted perim-
eter for the floodplain segments. The division line

14–16 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012)

Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Figure 14–5 Schematic of watershed outlet with cross sections and floodplain for examples 14–4, 14–5, 14–6, 14–8, 14–9, and
14–10

M-5 51+00
51 +85
50 +00
5

M-4 46+00
+1
51

CL Highway
0
+0
33

M-3
36+00
T- 4
T-
3
2
T-

1
T-

M-2 21+50

M-1 0+00

Figure 14–6 Cross section M–1, examples 14–4 and 14–5

(a) 110
Station 0+00
M-1

100
Elevation (ft)

Seg 1 Seg 2 Seg 4

n=0.08 n=0.045 n=0.045

90
Seg 3
n=0.040

80
0 5+00 10+00 15+00 20+00 25+00 30+00
Distance (ft)

(b) 100

Channel section enlarged

Elevation (ft)

Segment 3
n=0.040
90

80
14+75 15+00 15+25
Distance (ft)

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012) 14–17

Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Table 14–3 Hydraulic parameters for starting cross section M–1, example 14–4

  n = 0.08 Segment 1 n = 0.045 Segment 2 n = 0.04 Segment 3 n = 0.045 Segment 4 Totals

Elev. A WP Kd A WP Kd A WP Kd A WP Kd Kd Q
ft ft2 ft ft2 ft ft2 ft ft2 ft ft3/s
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9) (10) (11) (12) (13) (14) (15)
 82               0  0       0 0
 85              87 35 5.93×103     5.93×103    188
 87             155 41 1.40×104     1.40×104    442
 89             231 46 2.52×104     2.52×104    796
 91             315 52 3.89×104     3.89×104   1,230
 93     0   0   0  0 407 58 5.54×104    0   0 0 5.54×104   1,753
 94    0   0 0   93 925 6.64×102 456 62 6.41×104   378 1,050 6.32×103 7.10×104   2,247
 95  150 300 1.76×103 1,018 925 3.58×104 506 62 7.63×104  1,543 1,275 5.79×104 1.72×105  5,428
 96  487 375 1.08×104 1,943 925 1.05×105 556 62 8.92×104  2,833 1,300 1.57×105 3.62×105  11,500
 98 1,322 460 4.96×104 3,793 925 3.21×105 656 62 1.17×105  5,523 1,380 4.60×105 9.48×105  30,000
100 2,272 490 1.17×105 5,643 925 6.22×105 756 62 1.49×10  8,325 1,400 9.02×105 1.79×106  56,600
102 3,272 510 2.10×105 7,493 925 9.98×105 856 62 1.83×105 11,175 1,440 1.45×106 2.84×106  89,700
105 4,862 550 3.86×105 10,268 925 1.69×106 1006 62 2.40×105 15,555 1,460 2.49×106 4.80×106 152,000

Figure 14–7 Conveyance values section M–1, example 14–4

Kd curve for cross section M–1

110

105

100
Elevation (ft)

95

90

85

80
0 1,000,000 2,000,000 3,000,000 4,000,000 5,000,000 6,000,000
Kd

14–18 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012)

Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Example 14–5 Develop stage discharge curve used to develop the hydraulic parameters for section
for meandering reach M–l for each segment. From table 14–3, add the Kd
values for each elevation from columns 4, 7, and 13,
Develop the stage discharge curve for cross section and tabulate as Kdf in column 2 of table 14–4.
M–l (fig. 14–5) if M–l represents a reach having a chan-
Step 2 Determine the meander factor Lc/Lf. For
nel length of 2,700 feet and a floodplain length of 2,000
the channel length of 2,700 feet and the floodplain
feet. The energy gradient of the channel portion is
length of 2,000 feet, the meander factor is:
0.001 feet per foot.
2700
Step 1 Compute the total floodplain conveyance = 1.35
Kdf. Figure 14–6 shows that segments 1, 2, and 4 of 2000
section M–l are floodplain segments. Table 14–3 was Step 3 Determine (Lc/Lf)1/2.
1

(1.35 ) 2 = 1.16

Figure 14–8 Stage discharge curve, section M–1, example Step 4 Compute (Kdf) (Lc/Lf)1/2. For each elevation
14–4 in column 1 of table 14–4, multiply column 2 by
(Lc/Lf)1/2 and, tabulate in column 3.
Stage discharge curve for cross section M–1
102

(4.56 × 106 ) (1.16) = 5.29 × 106
100
Step 5 Compute the channel conveyance Kd.
98 From table 14–3, the channel is segment 3, and the
conveyance has been calculated in column 10. Tabu-
Elevation (ft)

96
late Kdc in column 4 of table 14–4.
94 Step 6 Compute Kdc + (Kdf) (Lc/Lf)1/2. From table
92
14–4, add columns 3 and 4, and tabulate in column
5.
90
Step 7 Compute the discharge for each elevation.
88 Use Sc = 0.00l and equation 14–17. Multiply column
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 5 by Sc1/2, and tabulate in column 6.
Discharge, Q in 1,000 ft3/s

Table 14–4 Stage discharge for section M–1 with meander correction, example 14–5

Elevation Floodplain Kdf Kdf(Lc/Lf)1/2 Channel Kdc Col 3 + Col 4 Q

ft ft3/s
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6)
91 0 0 3.9×10 4
3.9×10 4
1.2×103
93 0 0 5.5×104 5.5×104 1.7×103
94 7.0×103 8.1×103 6.4×104 7.2×104 2.3×103
95 9.5×104 1.1×105 7.6×104 1.9×105 5.9×103
96 2.7×105 3.2×105 8.9×104 4.1×105 1.3×104
98 8.3×105 9.6×105 1.2×105 1.1×106 3.4×104
100 1.6×106 1.9×106 1.5×105 2.1×106 6.5×104
102 2.7×106 3.1×106 1.8×105 3.3×106 1.0×105
105 4.6×106 5.3×106 2.4×105 5.5×106 1.7×105

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012) 14–19

Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations
 1 
 second per square mile values selected should be
  Lc  2   1
Q t =  Kd c + (Kd f )    (S c ) 2
  Lf   
 
 Step 2 Compute the discharge in cubic feet per
= (5.54 × 10 6 ) (0.0316 )
= 1.75 × 105
= 175, 000 ft 3 /s
Example 14–6 shows the use of the modified step
method in computing water surface profiles. It is a trial
and error procedure based on estimating the elevation
at the upstream section, determining the conveyance,
Kd, for the estimated elevation, and computing Sa1/2 by
using Manning’s equation in the form:
 1
Q = Kd  S a 2 
 
 2
1.486 ( A )  R 3 
where: Kd =  
n of table 14–5(a).
Sa is the head loss per foot (neglecting velocity head)
from the downstream to the upstream section. This
head loss added to the downstream water surface
elevation should equal the estimated upstream eleva-
tion.
Example 14–6 Compute water surface pro-
files and develop stage discharge curves for
cross sections
Using the rating curve developed in example 14–4 for
cross section M–l and parameters plotted on figures
14–9 and 14–10 for cross sections M–2 and T–l, com-
pute the water surface profiles required to develop
stage discharge curves for cross sections M–2 and T–l.
The changes in velocity head will be ignored for these
computations. The drainage area at section M–l is 400
square miles, at M–2 is 398 square miles, and at T–l is
48 square miles. The reach length between M–l and
M–2 is 2,150 feet and between M–2 and T–l is 1,150
feet. Assume the meander factor for this example is
1.0.
Step 1 Determine the range of cubic feet per
second per square mile needed to define the stage
discharge curve. One or more of the cubic feet per
14–20 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012)
Part 630
National Engineering Handbook
contained within the channel. Tabulate in column 1,
table 14–5(a).
second for each cubic foot per second per square
mile at the two cross sections M–l and M–2. At
section M–l, the drainage area is 400 square miles.
Using exhibit 14–l, the K factor is 1.0, and the cu-
bic feet per second for 2 cubic feet per second per
square mile is 2 × 400 × 1.0 = 800 cubic feet per
second. At section M–2, the drainage is 398 square
miles, and from exhibit 14–l, the K factor is 1.002.
For 2 cubic feet per second per square mile, the
discharge at M–2 is 2 × 398 × 1.002 = 798 cubic feet
per second. Tabulate the discharges at M–l and M–2
on table 14–5(a), columns 2 and 3.
Step 3 Tabulate the reach length between the two
cross sections in column 8. The reach length be-
tween section M–l and M–2 is 2,150 feet.
Step 4 Determine the water surface elevation at
M–l. For the discharge listed in column 2, read the
elevation from figure 14–8, and tabulate in column 4
Step 5 Assume a water surface elevation at sec-
tion M–2. For the smallest discharge of 798 cubic
feet per second, assume an elevation of 90.0 at M–2,
and tabulate in column 5 of table 14–5(a).
Step 6 Determine Kd for assumed elevation. Read
QM–2/Sal/2 or KdM–2 of 3.70 × 104 at elevation 90.0
from figure 14–9 and tabulate in column 6 of table
14–5(a).
Step 7 Determine Sa.
2
 Q 
Sa =  M − 2 
 Kd M − 2 
Divide column 3 by column 6, and square the results
(798/37,000)2 = 0.00046, and tabulate in column 7 of
table 14–5(a).
Step 8 Determine Sa × L. Multiply column 8 by
column 7: 0.00046 × 2,150 = 0.99, and tabulate in
column 9 of table 14–5(a).
Step 9 Compute elevation at M–2. Add column 9
(Sf) to column 4 (elevation at M–l), and tabulate in
column 10 of table 14–5(a).
 Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Figure 14–9 Conveyance values, section M–2, example 14–6

103

99 15

Stage above bottom

94 10
Elevation (ft)

89 5

85 1
1 2 3 4 6 8 1 2 3 4 5 6 8 1 2 3 4 6 8 1
1×104 5
1×10 1×106
KdM–2

Figure 14–10 Conveyance values, section T–1, example 14–6

105

100 10

Stage above bottom

Elevation (ft)

95 5

92

91 1
1 2 3 4 6 8 1 2 3 4 5 6 8 1 2 3 4 6 8 1
1×103 4
1×10 1×105
1,000 10,000 KdT–1 100,000

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012) 14–21

14–22

Chapter 14
Table 14–5 Water surface profiles from cross sections, example 14–6

(a) M–1 to M–2

Col 4 + col 9
Assumed estimated Computed
Discharge Elevation elevation elevation at elevation
per mi2 QM–1, QM–2, at M–1 at M–2  L Sf=L×Sa M–2 at M–2
ft3/s/mi2 ft3/s ft3/s ft ft KdM–2 (QM–2/KdM–2)2=Sa ft ft ft ft
 (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6)  (7) (8) (9) (10) (11)
2 800 798 89.02 90.00 37,000 0.00046 2,150 0.99 90.01 90
10 4,000 3,990 94.55 95.30 140,000 0.00081 2,150 1.74 96.29

3,990 94.55 95.70 170,000 0.00055 2,150 1.18 95.73 95.7

Stage Discharge Relations

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012)

20 8,000 7,980 95.42 97.40 330,000 0.00058 2,150 1.25 96.67

7,980 95.42 97.10 290,000 0.00076 2,150 1.63 97.05 97.1

50 20,000 19,940 96.92 99.50 740,000 0.00073 2,150 1.57 98.49

19,940 96.92 99.10 650,000 0.00094 2,150 2.02 98.94
19,940 96.92 99.10 640,000 0.00097 2,150 2.09 99.01 99

100 40,000 39,900 98.75 101.10 1,400,000 0.00081 2,150 1.74 100.49

39,900 98.75 100.90 1,300,000 0.00094 2,150 2.02

National Engineering Handbook

Part 630
100.77
39,900 98.75 100.80 1,280,000 0.00097 2,150 2.09 100.84 100.8

200 80,000 79,800 101.41 103.20 3,200,000 0.00062 2,150 1.33 102.74

79,800 101.41 103.00 3,000,000 0.00071 2,150 1.53 102.94 102.9

 Chapter 14
Table 14–5 Water surface profiles from cross sections, example 14–6—Continued

(b) M–2 to T–1

Col 4 + col 9
Assumed estimated Computed
Discharge Elevation elevation elevation elevation
per mi2 QM–2, QT–1, at M–2 at T–1 L Sf=Sa× L at T–1 at T–1
ft3/s/mi2 ft3/s ft3/s  ft ft KdT–1 (QT–1/KdT–1)2=Sa ft ft ft ft
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5)  (6)  (7)  (8)  (9) (10) (11)
2 798 260 90.0 93.74 1,700 0.02339 1,150 26.90 116.9
260 90.0 94.71 3,400 0.00585 1,150 6.72 96.7
260 90.0 95.07 4,400 0.00349 1,150 4.02 94.0
260 90.0 94.93 4,000 0.00422 1,150 4.86 94.9 94.9

Stage Discharge Relations

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012)

10 3,990 1,290 95.7 97.06 16,500 0.00611 1,150 7.03 102.7

1,290 95.7 98.36 35,000 0.00136 1,150 1.56 97.3
1,290 95.7 98.04 29,000 0.00198 1,150 2.28 98.0 98.0

20 7,980 2,580 97.1 99.20 57,000 0.00205 1,150 2.36 99.5

2,580 97.1 99.29 60,000 0.00185 1,150 2.13 99.2 99.2
50 19,950 6,450 99.0 101.62 232,000 0.00077 1,150 0.89 99.9
6,450 99.0 101.23 185,000 0.00122 1,150 1.40 100.4
6,450 99.0 100.98 160,000 0.00163 1,150 1.87 100.9 100.9

National Engineering Handbook

Part 630
100 39,900 12,900 100.8 102.61 410,000 0.00099 1,150 1.14 101.9
12,900 100.8 102.47 380,000 0.00115 1,150 1.33 102.1
12,900 100.8 102.38 360,000 0.00128 1,150 1.48 102.3 102.3
200 79,800 25,800 102.9 103.88 860,000 0.00090 1,150 1.04 103.9 103.9
14–23
 Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations
Step 10 Compare computed elevation with as-
sumed elevation. Compare column 10 with column
5, and adjust column 5 up if column 10 is greater
and down if it is less. For 2 cubic feet per second
per square mile discharge, the computed elevation
is 90.01, and the estimated elevation is 90.0. Since
column 10 is very close in the value to column 5, a
revision to the estimated elevation at M–2 in column
5 is not needed.
If the difference between elevations on columns 10
and 5 are more than 0.1 foot, repeat steps 5 through
10 until a reasonable balance between columns 10
and 5 is obtained. A tolerance of 0.1 foot was used
in this example.
Step 11 Repeat steps 5 through 10 for each cubic
feet per second per square mile value selected.
Step 12 Plot stage discharge curve, columns 3 and
11 as shown on figure 14–11.
Table 14–5(b) shows computations similar to step
1 through step 11 computing water surface profiles
between cross section M–2 on the main stem and T–l,
the first cross section on a tributary. Discharge values
at T–1 are based on exhibit 14–1. Use of this exhibit is
demonstrated in example 14–3 and in step 3 of exam-
ple 14–6. Kd values are shown on figure 14–10. Figure
14–12 was plotted from table 14–5(b).
Figure 14–11 Stage discharge, section M–2, example 14–6
104
102
100
Elevation (ft)
98
96
94
92
90
88 20,000 40,000 60,000
Discharge in ft3/s
14–24 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012)
Part 630
National Engineering Handbook
630.1405 Road crossings
(a) Bridges
In developing the hydraulics of natural streams,
bridges of all types and sizes are encountered. These
bridges may or may not have a significant effect on the
stage discharge relation in the reach above the bridge.
Many of the older bridges were designed without
regard to their effect on flooding in the reach upstream
from the road crossing.
The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Federal
Highway Administration (FHWA), formerly known
as the Bureau of Public Roads, initiated a research
project with Colorado State University in 1954 that
culminated in the investigation of several features of
the bridge problem. Included in these investigations
was a study of bridge backwater. Laboratory studies
using hydraulic models as the principal research tools
were completed and considerable progress made in
the collection of field data by the USGS to substantiate
the model results and extend the range of application.
The procedure developed is explained in the publica-
tion entitled “Hydraulics of Bridge Waterways” (DOT
FHWA 1978). This is one method that is recommended
by the NRCS for use in computing effects of bridges in
natural channels and floodplains.
The FHWA method has been formulated by applying
the principle of conservation of energy or momentum
between the point of maximum backwater upstream
Figure 14–12 Stage discharge, section T–1, example 14–6
105
104
103
102
Elevation (ft)
101
100
99
98
97
96
95
94
0 5,000 10,000 15,000 20,000 25,000 30,000
Discharge in ft3/s
80,000
Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations
from the bridge and a point downstream from the
bridge at which normal stage has been reestablished.
The general expression for the computation of back-
water upstream from a bridge constricting the flow is:
α 2 Vn22  α 4 V42 α1 V12 
hl* = K * + −
2g  2g 2g 
(eq. 14–20)
where:
hl* = total backwater, ft
*
K = total backwater coefficient
α1 , α 2 , α 4 = velocity head energy coefficients at the
upstream, constriction, and downstream
section
Vn2 = average velocity in constriction or Q/A,
ft/s
V1 = average velocity at section 1 upstream,
ft/s
V4 = average velocity at section 4 down-
stream, ft/s
For a more detailed explanation of each term and
the development of the equation, refer to DOT FHWA
(1978).
Equation l4–20 is reasonably valid if the channel in the
vicinity of the bridge is essentially straight, the cross-
sectional area of the stream is fairly uniform, the gradi-
ent of the bottom is approximately constant between
sections 1 and 4, the flow is free to expand and con-
tract, there is no appreciable scour of the bed in the
constriction, and the flow is in the subcritical range.
This procedure relates the total backwater effect to
the velocity head caused by the constriction times
the total backwater coefficient. The total backwater
coefficient is comprised of the effect of constriction as
measured by the bridge opening coefficient, M; type of
bridge abutments; size, shape, and orientation of piers;
and eccentricity and skew of the bridge.
For a detailed description of the backwater coefficient
and the effect of constriction, abutments, piers, ec-
centricity, and skew of bridges, refer to DOT FHWA
(1978).
(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012)
Part 630
National Engineering Handbook
A preliminary analysis may be made to determine the
maximum backwater effect, of a bridge. If the analysis
shows a significant bridge effect then a more detailed
procedure should be used. If the analysis shows only a
minor effect, then the bridge may be eliminated from
the backwater computation.
The examples shown in this chapter are based on the
approximate equation to compute bridge head losses
taken from the DOT FHWA (1978) report:
V2
h1 * = K *
2g
(eq. 14–21)
where:
h l * = total backwater, ft
K * = total backwater coefficient
V = average velocity in constriction Q/A, ft/s
A = gross water area in constriction measured
below normal stage, ft2
The following data are the minimum needed for es-
timating the maximum backwater effect of a bridge
using equation 14–21.
• total area of bridge opening
• length (span) of bridge opening; span being de-
fined as the distance or space between supports
of a bridge
• cross section upstream from the bridge at a
distance approximately equal to the length of the
bridge opening, also called the approach section
(DOT FHWA 1978)
• area of approach section at elevation of the bot-
tom of bridge stringers or at the low point in the
road embankment (DOT FHWA 1978)
• width of floodplain in approach section
• estimate of the velocity of unrestricted flow at
the elevation of the bottom of the bridge string-
ers or at the low point in the road embankment
A preliminary analysis to determine an estimate of
the maximum backwater effect of a bridge is shown
in example 14–7. Exhibits 14–2 and 14–3 were devel-
oped only for use in making preliminary estimates and
should not be used in a more detailed analysis.
14–25
Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations
Example 14–7 Bridge backwater effect
Estimate the backwater effect of a bridge with 45-de-
gree wingwalls given the following data:
area of bridge = 4,100 ft2
length (span) of bridge = 400 ft
area of approach = 11,850 ft2
width of floodplain = 2,650 ft
estimated velocity in the natural stream = 2.5 ft/s
Step 1 Compute the ratio of the area of the bridge
to the area of approach section. From the given
data: 4,100/11,850 = 0.346
Step 2 Compute the ratio of length of bridge to
the width of the floodplain. From the given data:
400/2,650 = 0.151
Step 3 Determine the change in velocity head.
Using the results of step 1 (0.346) and the estimated
velocity in the natural stream (2.5 ft/s), read the
velocity head h from exhibit 14–2. This is the veloc-
ity head, V2/2g, in equation 14–21 and (from exhibit
14–2), it equals 0.8 feet.
Step 4 Estimate the constriction ratio, M. Using
the results from step 1 (0.346) and step 2 (0.151),
read M = 0.67 from exhibit 14–3.
Step 5 Estimate the total backwater coefficient.
Using M = 0.67 from step 4, read from exhibit 14–4
curve 1, Kb = 0.6. Kb is the base curve backwater
coefficient, and for estimating purposes, is consid-
ered to be the total backwater coefficient, K*, in
equation 14–21.
Step 6 Compute the estimated total change in
water surface, h1* . From equation 14–21 the total
change in water surface is:
V2
h* = K *
1 2g
= (0.6 )(0.8 )
= 0.48 ft
If the estimate shows a change in water surface that
would have an appreciable effect on the evaluation or
level of protection of a plan or the design and con-
struction of proposed structural measures, a more
14–26 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012)
Part 630
National Engineering Handbook
detailed survey and calculation should be made for the
bridge and flood in question.
Example 14–8 shows a more detailed solution to the
backwater loss using equation 14–21. To use the FHWA
method, it is necessary to develop stage discharge
curves for an exit and an approach section assuming
no constriction between the two cross sections. The
exit section should be located downstream from the
bridge a distance approximately twice the length of
the bridge. The approach section should be located
upstream from the upper edge of the bridge a distance
approximately equal to the length of the bridge.
Based on the BPR manual, HEC–RAS (2010d) has dif-
ferent recommendations.
If the elevation difference between the water surface
at the exit section and the approach section prior to
computing head loss is relatively small, the bridge
tailwater may be taken as the elevation of the exit
section and the bridge head loss simply added to the
water elevation of the approach section. However, if
this difference is not small, the bridge tailwater should
be computed by interpolation of the water elevation at
the approach section and exit section and the friction
loss from the bridge to the approach section recom-
puted after the bridge headwater is obtained.
In example 14–8, it is assumed that all preliminary
calculations have been made. The profiles are shown
on figure 14–13(a), and the stage discharge curve for
cross section M–5 is shown on figure 14–14, natural
condition without constriction.
Example 14–8 Stage discharge curves for
bridge alternatives
Develop stage discharge curves for each of four bridge
span alternatives located at cross section M–4 (fig.
14–5), 300, 400, 500, and 700 feet long (fig. 14–13(c))
with 45-degree wingwalls. The elevation of the bottom
of the bridge stringer is 103 feet for each trial bridge
length. The span over the channel is 100 feet with the
remaining portion of the bridge supported by 24-inch
H piers placed 25 feet on center (o. c.). Assume the
fill is sufficiently high to prevent overtopping for the
maximum discharge (70,000 ft3/s) studied. It is as-
sumed that water surface profiles have been run for
present conditions through section M–5 and that this
 Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Figure 14–13 Water surface profiles, example 14–8

(a) Water surface profiles without constriction, example 14–8

105
70,000 (ft3/s)
104 60,000 (ft3/s)
103 50,000 (ft3/s)
Elevation (ft)

102 40,000 (ft3/s)

30,000 (ft3/s)
101
20,000 (ft3/s)
100
99
10,000 (ft3/s)
98
X-Sec M–5 X-Sec M–4 5,000 (ft3/s) X-Sec M–3
97

(b) Water surface profile with constriction, example 14–8

Top of roadway in example

107
W. S. along bank
106
105 W. S. without
constriction 50,000 (ft3/s)
104
Elevation (ft)

103
Bottom of stringers Actual W. S. on cL of 700-ft bridge
102
50,000 (ft3/s) discharge

Cross section M–3

Cross section M–5

Cross section M–4

101

station 36+00
station 51+00

station 46+00

100
99
98
97

(c) Cross section of road at section M–4, example 14–8

cL of bridge
110
108 Top of roadway used in example 14–8

106 500-ft bridge

700-ft bridge 400-ft bridge 0.2% grade
104 300-ft bridge
102
Elevation (ft)

100
98
96
94
92
90
88
86
0 2+00 4+00 6+00 8+00 10+00 12+00 14+00 16+00 18+00 20+00 22+00 24+00 26+00 28+00 30+00
Station (ft)

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 Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Figure 14–14 Stage discharge without embankment over- information is available for use in analyzing the effect
flow, section M–5, example 14–8 of bridge losses.
125 Step 1 Select a range of discharges that will define
24
the rating curve. For this problem, select a range of
23
22
discharges from 5,000 to 70,000 cubic feet per sec-
21 ond for each bridge length, and tabulate in column l
120 of table 14–6.
c.

19
ft o.

18 Step 2 Determine the present condition elevation

.
o. c
s 25

17 for each discharge at the bridge section M–4. For

5 ft

16 this example water surface profiles have been com-

pier

115
iers

puted from section M–3 to M–5 without the bridge

in H

. c.

14
Hp

in place. The results are plotted in figure 14–13(a).

Elevation (ft)

to
24-

13
n

5f

From figure 14–13(a), read the normal elevation

dge

4-i

12
s2
e2

without constriction for each discharge at cross sec-

bri

11
pie
g
rid

tion M–4, and tabulate in column 2 of table 14–6.

-ft

110
H
tb
300

c.

9
-in
0-f

o.
24

Step 3 Compute the elevation versus gross bridge

40

8
ft
ge

s2
5

7 opening area. The gross area of the bridge is the

id

er
pi
br

ft
6 0- H tion total area of the bridge opening at a given elevation
50 -in tric
105
e 24 t cons without regard to the area of piers. The channel
g u
4 id itho
3 t br r ge w area is 600 square feet, and for the 300-foot-long
0- f ch a
2 70 Dis Elevation of bottom bridge, the gross bridge area is plotted in figure
of stringers 103.0
1 14–15.
100
99 Plot the elevation versus gross bridge opening area
98 as shown in figure 14–15.
97
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100
Discharge in 1,000 ft3/s

Figure 14–15 Bridge opening areas, example 14–8

108
7
6
105
4
Bottom of bridge stringers
3
Elevation (ft)

ing
rid ope g
op g
nin

2
ge nin
en
pe

ing

1
br e o

en
t b ge

op
g
id
id

100 g
e
br

-f rid
0- 00 t b
ft
ft

99 40 5 00-f
0-
30

7
98
97
96

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 91 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
2 3
1×10 2
1×10
Area (ft )

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Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Step 4 Determine the gross area of the bridge The bridge opening ratio, M, is most easily ex-
opening at each water surface elevation. Using plained in terms of discharges, but it is usually
figure 14–15, read the gross area at each elevation determined from conveyance relations. Since con-
tabulated in column 2, and tabulate in column 3 of veyance (Kd) is proportional to discharge, assuming
table 14–6. all subsections to have the same slope, M can be
expressed also as:
Step 5 Compute the average velocity through the
bridge opening.
Kd b
Divide column 1 by column 3, and tabulate in col- M=
Kd a + Kd b + Kd c
umn 4 of table 14–6. For the 300-foot-long bridge:
Kd b
=
Q Kd t
V=
A
The approach section information is not shown for
5, 000
= this example.
885
= 5.65 ft/s Plot M versus elevation for each bridge size as

shown in figure 14–16.
Step 6 Compute the velocity head V2/2g. Using
Step 9 Read M for each elevation. Using figure
the velocities from column 4, compute the velocity
14–16 prepared in step 8, read M for each elevation
head for each discharge, and tabulate in column 11
in column 2, and tabulate in column 6 of table 14–6.
of table 14–6. For a discharge of 5,000 cubic feet per
second and a bridge length of 300 feet, the velocity Step 10 Determine the base backwater coefficient,
head is: Kb. Using M from step 9, read Kb from exhibit 14–4
for bridges having 45-degree wingwalls, and tabu-
(5.65 )2
= 0.496 late in column 7 of table 14–6.
( 2) (32.16 )
Step 11 Compute the area of pier/area of bridge
Step 7 Determine the elevation for each discharge versus elevation.
at section M–5 under natural conditions. Using
figure 14–13(a) or figure 14–14 (natural condition area of piers Ap
= =J
without constriction curve), read the elevation for gross area of bridge opening A n2
each discharge at cross section M–5, and tabulate in
column 5 of table 14–6.
For the 300-foot-long bridge, the piers are located
Step 8 Compute M versus elevation for each in an area 200 feet wide. (300 ft – 100 ft clear span
bridge size. M is computed as outlined in Hydraulics = 200 ft). The piers are on 25-foot centers and are 2
of Bridge Waterways, (DOT FHWA 1978). It is com- feet wide. Within the 200-foot width, the piers will
puted as the ratio of that portion of the discharge at occupy:
the upstream section computed for a width equal to
the length of the bridge to the total discharge of the (200 ) ( 2)
channel system. If Qb is the discharge at the up- = 16 ft
(25 )
stream section computed for a floodplain or channel
width equal to the length of the bridge, and Qa and At an elevation of 103, the piers will occupy an area
Qc are the remaining discharges on either side of Qb, 25 feet wide by 7 feet deep (103 – 96 = 7 ft). From
then: figure 14–15, the gross area of the bridge opening is
2,700 square feet.
Qb
M=
Qa + Q b + Qc
Then: Ap (16 )(7 )
Q =
= b A n2 2, 700
Q
= 0.041

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Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Table 14–6 Backwater computations through bridges, example 14–8

Bridge Q in 1000 Normal Bridge Velocity Normal M1/ Kb1/ J1/ ΔKp1/ K*1/ 2
Vn2
1/
h1* Elev. with
span, ft ft3/s el. @ opening through el. @ 2g 24-in piers;
ft
(see x-sec area An2 bridge x-sec M–5 25 ft on
note 2) M–4 ft2 opening, ft ft centers
ft ft/s ft
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9) (10) (11) (12) (13)

300 5 97.20 885 5.65 97.35 0.470 1.24 0.020 0.06 1.30 0.496 0.64 97.99
10 98.25 1280 7.81 98.55 0.350 1.74 0.028 0.08 1.82 0.947 1.72 100.27
20 99.82 1720 11.63 100.00 0.276 2.08 0.035 0.08 2.16 2.10 4.54 104.54
30 100.95 2060 14.56 101.15 0.243 2.24 0.038 0.08 2.32 3.29 7.63 108.78
40 101.90 2340 17.09 102.10 0.222 2.34 0.040 0.08 2.42 4.54 10.99 113.09
50 102.80 2600 19.23 103.00 0.208 2.41 0.041 0.08 2.49 5.74 14.29 117.29
60 103.55 2660 22.56 103.75 0.183 2.54 0.042 0.08 2.62 7.90 20.70 124.45
70 104.25 2660 26.32 104.50 0.160 2.66 0.042 0.07 2.73 10.76 29.37 133.87

400 5 97.20 1030 4.85 97.35 0.510 1.09 0.027 0.10 1.19 0.365 0.43 97.78
10 98.25 1470 6.80 98.55 0.385 1.59 0.036 0.12 1.71 0.718 1.23 99.78
20 99.82 2070 9.66 100.00 0.315 1.90 0.043 0.12 2.02 1.45 2.93 102.93
30 100.95 2540 11.81 101.15 0.282 2.05 0.046 0.12 2.17 2.17 4.71 105.86
40 101.90 2950 13.56 102.10 0.265 2.13 0.048 0.12 2.25 2.86 6.44 108.54
50 102.80 3300 15.15 103.00 0.250 2.21 0.049 0.12 2.33 3.56 8.29 111.29
60 103.55 3380 17.75 103.75 0.220 2.35 0.049 0.11 2.46 4.89 12.03 115.78
70 104.25 3380 20.71 104.50 0.192 2.49 0.049 0.10 2.59 6.66 17.25 121.75

500 5 97.20 1160 4.31 97.35 0.525 1.03 0.032 0.13 1.16 0.288 0.33 97.68
10 98.25 1670 5.99 98.55 0.420 1.44 0.042 0.15 1.59 0.557 0.89 99.44
20 99.82 2550 7.84 100.00 0.350 1.74 0.049 0.16 1.90 0.954 1.81 101.81
30 100.95 3050 9.84 101.15 0.325 1.85 0.052 0.16 2.01 1.50 3.02 104.17
40 101.90 3520 11.36 102.10 0.310 1.92 0.054 0.16 2.08 2.00 4.16 106.26
50 102.80 3950 12.66 103.00 0.298 1.98 0.055 0.16 2.14 2.49 5.33 108.33
60 103.55 4050 14.81 103.75 0.262 2.15 0.055 0.14 2.29 3.41 7.81 111.56
70 104.25 4050 17.28 104.50 0.230 2.30 0.055 0.13 2.43 4.64 11.28 115.78

700 5 97.20 1420 3.52 97.35 0.580 0.84 0.040 0.19 1.03 0.192 0.20 97.55
10 98.25 2170 4.61 98.55 0.480 1.20 0.050 0.21 1.41 0.330 0.47 99.02
20 99.82 3300 6.06 100.00 0.415 1.46 0.056 0.21 1.67 0.570 0.95 100.95
30 100.95 4080 7.35 101.15 0.394 1.55 0.058 0.21 1.76 0.839 1.48 102.63
40 101.90 4750 8.42 102.10 0.377 1.62 0.059 0.21 1.83 1.10 2.01 104.11
50 102.80 5380 9.29 103.00 0.367 1.67 0.060 0.20 1.87 1.34 2.51 105.51
60 103.55 5520 10.87 103.75 0.325 1.85 0.061 0.19 2.04 1.83 3.73 107.48
70 104.25 5520 12.68 104.50 0.285 2.04 0.061 0.17 2.21 2.50 5.53 110.03
Notes:
1/ Letters and symbols are the same as used in Hydraulics of Bridge Waterways, U.S. Dept. of Transportation, Bureau of Public Roads (1978)
2/ 45-degree wingwall abutments are assumed for all four bridge span trials

14–30 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012)

 Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Compute and plot Ap/An2 = J versus elevation for Step 14 Determine the total backwater coefficient,
each bridge length as shown in figure 14–17. K*. Add columns 7 and 9, and tabulate as K* in col-
umn 10. This is the total backwater coefficient for
Step 12 Determine J for each elevation. Read J
the bridge that will be considered for this example.
from figure 14–17 for each elevation in column 2,
If there are other losses that appear to be signifi-
and tabulate in column 8 of table 14–6.
cant, the user should follow the procedure shown in
Step 13 Determine the incremental backwater the FHWA report (1978) for computing their effects.
coefficient ∆Kp. Using J from step 12, read ∆K from
Step 15 Determine the total change in water sur-
the appropriate curve (for this example curve 1)
face h1* . Multiply column 10 by column 11, and
from exhibit 14–5(a). Using M from step 9, read σ
tabulate in column 12. From equation 14–21:
from the appropriate curve (curve l) from exhibit
14–5(b). Multiply ∆K by σ, and tabulate as ∆Kp in V2
column 9 of table 14–6. h1* = K *
2g
For 5,000 cubic feet per second and a 300-foot-long
bridge: For 5,000 cubic feet per second and a 300-foot-long
bridge with piers:
∆K = 0.105 σ = 0.59
∆K p = ∆Kσ h1* = (1.30 )(0.496 )
= (0.105 )(0.59 ) = 0.64 ft
= 0.06
If the example did not include piers or if the effect
of eliminating the piers are desired, the h1* could be
determined by multiplying column 7 by column 11.

Figure 14–16 M values for bridge, example 14–8

106

105 Kdb Bridge section

M=
Kda Approach section

104
Bottom of bridge stringers
103

102
Elevation (ft)

500-

700-
40 0

101
30 0

ft b
-ft

ft b
-ft

bri

r
idg
bri

idg
dg

100
dg

e
e
e

99

98

97

0.10 0.15 0.20 0.25 0.30 0.35 0.40 0.45 0.50 0.55 0.60 0.65
M

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 Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

For 5,000 cubic feet per second and a 300-foot-long (b) Full bridge flow
bridge without piers:
The analysis of flood flows past existing bridges in-
h1* = (1.24 ) (0.496 ) volves flows that submerge all or a part of the bridge
= 0.62 ft girders. When this condition occurs, the computation
of the head loss through the bridge must allow for the
Step 16 Determine the elevation with bridge losses. losses imposed by the girders. This may be accom-
Add column 5 and column 12, and tabulate in col- plished in several ways.
umn 13. Column 13 is plotted on figure 14–14, which
shows the stage discharge curve for cross section One method is to continue using the FHWA report
M–5, assuming the fill to be high enough to force (1978), but hold the bridge flow area and Kd constant
all of the 70,000 cubic feet per second discharge for all elevations above the bridge girder. Example
through the bridge opening. 14–8 uses this procedure (fig. 14–15).
The water surface at the bridge with a 700-foot Another approach commonly taken is to compute the
opening at 50,000 cubic feet per second is plotted on flow through the bridge opening by the orifice flow
figure 14–13(b). equation.

Q = CA 2g∆h
(eq. 14–22)

where:
Figure 14–17 J values for bridge, example 14–8 Q = discharge in ft3/s
∆h = the difference in water surface elevation be-
106 tween headwater and tailwater in ft
A = flow area of bridge opening in ft2
g = acceleration of gravity, ft/s2
300-ft bridge

400-ft bridge
500-ft bridge

700-ft bridge

105 Area piers C = coefficient of discharge

=J
Area bridge
24 in H piers
104 25 ft center In estimating C, if conditions are such that flow ap-
proaches the bridge opening with relatively low tur-
Bottom of bridge stringers bulence, the appropriate value of C is about 0.90. In
103
the majority of cases, C probably is in the 0.70 to 0.90
range. For very poor conditions (much turbulence), it
102 may be as low as 0.40 to 0.50. In judging a given case,
Elevation (ft)

consider the following:

101 • whether the abutments are square-cornered or
shaped to reduce turbulence
100 • number and shape of piers
• degree of skew
99
• number and spacing of piles and the pile bents
that cap them since closely spaced piles and
98
bents increase turbulence
• existence of trees, drift, or other types of ob-
97
struction at the bridge or in the approach reach

0 0.01 0.02 0.03 0.04 0.05 0.06 0.07

Ap/An2=J

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Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Using a C value of 0.8 has given approximately the 1

same results as the method for example 14–7; how- Q = C ′ Ah 2 (eq. 14–24)
ever, the C value varied with discharge.
where:
(c) Overtopping of bridge embankment A = flow area over the embankment at a given
depth, h, in ft2
When the fill of a bridge is overtopped, the total dis- h = flow depth measured from the low point on the
charge at the bridge section is equal to the discharge embankment in ft
through the bridge opening plus the discharge over the C´ = coefficient, which accounts for the velocity of
embankment. A reliable estimate of the effect of the approach
bridge constriction on stages upstream under these Q = discharge in ft3/s
conditions is difficult to obtain.
The coefficient C´ can be computed by equating equa-
A generally accepted procedure to use in analyzing tions 14–23 and 14–24 and solving for C´.
flows over embankments is to consider the embank- 1
ment as acting as a broad crested weir. The broad C′ = C 3
crested weir equation is:  depth 2
 depth + velocity head 
3 (eq. 14–25)
Q = CLh e2
(eq. 14–23)
In equation 14–25, the depth is measured from the low
point on the embankment of the bridge section, and
where:
the velocity head is computed at the upstream section
L = length of weir, ft
for the same elevation as water is flowing over the
he = energy head, which is comprised of the veloc-
embankment. The approach velocity may be approxi-
ity head at the upstream section plus the depth
mated by V = Q/A, where Q is the total discharge, and
of flow over the weir, ft
A is the total flow area at the upstream section for the
C = coefficient
given elevation. In cases where the approach velocity
Q = discharge, ft3/s
is sufficiently small, C´ will equal C, and no correction
for velocity head will be needed to use equation 14–24.
The following approximate ranges of C values for
flows over embankments are recommended for use
The free discharge over the road computed using
in equation 14–23. For road and highway fills, C = 2.5
equation 14–24 must be modified when the tailwater
to 2.8; for single-track railroad fills, C = 2.2 to 2.5; for
elevation downstream is great enough to submerge the
double-track railroad fills, C = 1.9 to 2.2. The weir coef-
embankment of the bridge section. The modification to
ficient for double-track railroad fills is less than the
the free discharge, Qf, is made by computing a submer-
weir coefficient for single-track railroad fills because
gence ratio, H2/H1, where H2 and H1 are the depths of
the double-track railroad fills create more turbulence
water downstream and upstream, respectively, above
and energy loss.
the low point on the embankment. A submergence
factor, R, is read from figure 3–4, USDA SCS (1986),
Equation 14–23 was developed for use in rectangular
and the submerged discharge is computed as Qs = RQf.
weir sections. Since road profiles encountered in the
Then the total discharge at the bridge section is equal
field seldom represent rectangular sections, it be-
to the discharge through the bridge opening plus the
comes difficult to determine the weir length to use.
submerged discharge over the embankment.
Many approaches have been formulated to approxi-
mate this length.

A method suggested for use in this chapter substitutes

the flow area A for the weir length and flow depth over
the weir in equation 14–23.

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Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Example 14–9 shows the use of equations 14–24 and Step 8 List the total estimated discharge going
14–25 in computing flows over embankments using a past the bridge section. Sum columns 6 and 7, and
trial and error procedure to determine C´. tabulate in column 8 of table 14–7.
Step 9 Compute the average velocity at the up-
Example 14–9 Stage discharge curve for over-
stream section. The velocity can be estimated by
flow section of highway bridge
using the total upstream area from column 5 and the
estimated discharge from column 8 for the eleva-
Develop a stage discharge curve for the overflow
tions listed in column 1 in the equation V = Q/A. For
section of the highway analyzed in example 14–8 (fig.
example, for elevation 107.5:
l4–13c) for the bridge opening of 300 feet. The top of
embankment is at elevation 107. Assume a C value of
28, 250 ft 3 /s
2.7. V=
26, 700 ft 2
Step 1 Select a range of elevations that will define = 1.06 ft/s
the rating curve over the road. Tabulate in column 1
of table 14–7. The low point on the road is at eleva- Tabulate the velocity in column 9 of table 14–7.
tion 107.
Step 10 Compute the velocity head. Using the
Step 2 Compute the depth of flow, h, over the V2
road. For each elevation listed in column 1, com- velocity from column 9, compute , and tabulate
in column 10 of table 14–7. 2g
pute h and list in column 2 of table 14–7.
Step 3 Compute h½, and tabulate in column 3 of Step 11 Compute C´. Using equation 14–25 and data
table 14–7. from table 14–7, compute C´. For example, at eleva-
tion 107.5:
Step 4 Compute the flow area, A, over the road.
For each elevation listed in column 1, compute the 1
area over the road and tabulate in column 4 of table C ′ = 2.7 3

14–7.  0.5 2
 0.5 + 0.017 
Steps 5 through 11 are used to calculate the modified 2.7
=
coefficient, C´ to account for the approach velocity 3

head. If it is determined that no modification to the (0.967 ) 2

coefficient C is required, these steps may be omitted. = 2.84

Step 5 Compute the flow area at the upstream sec-
tion. For each elevation listed in column 1, compute
the total area at the upstream section, and tabulate
in column 5 of table 14–7. The flow area can be
obtained from the Kd computations at the upstream
section or computed directly from the surveyed
cross section.
Step 6 Determine the discharge through the
bridge. For the elevation in column 1, read the
discharge through the bridge opening previously
computed using bridge loss equations, and tabulate
in column 6 of table 14–7.
Step 7 Estimate the discharge over the road using
equation 14–24. Tabulate the discharge in column 7
of table 14–7.
List C´ in column 11 in table 14–7.
Step 12 Compute discharge over the road. Using
equation 14–24 and data from table 14–7, compute
the discharge over the road. For example, at eleva-
tion 107.5:
1
Q = C ′ Ah 2
= 2.84 (625 )(0.707 )
= 1, 254 ft 3 /s
Round to the nearest hundreds value, 1,300 cubic
feet per second, and list in column 12. Compare this
discharge value to the estimated discharge listed
in column 7. If the computed discharge is less than
or greater than the estimated discharge, modify the

14–34 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012)

Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

estimated discharge in column 7, and recompute C´
following steps 8 through 12.
Sum columns 6 and 12, and tabulate in column 13 of
table 14–7.
Step 13 List the total discharge going past the
bridge section.
Step 14 Plot the stage discharge curve. Using the
computations shown in columns 1 and 13 of table
14–7, plot the elevation versus discharge. The por-
tion of the discharge flowing over the road (column
12) and the total discharge curve is shown in figure
14–18 for the 300-foot-long bridge. This is the total
stage discharge curve for the approach section
(M–5).
When multiple openings are present, the proper ratio
must be assigned to each opening and then the capac-
ity computed accordingly. If the flow is divided on the
approach, the problem is then one of divided flow with
single openings in each channel. In many cases, the
flow is not divided for overbank flows. In these cases,
the headwater elevation must be considered to be
the same elevation for each opening, and the solution
becomes trial and error until the head losses are equal
for each opening and the sum of the flows equals the
desired total.
The approaches are divided as shown in figure 14–19.
When the headwater is below the physical dividing
point as illustrated by level A, then the M ratio is com-
puted as in a single opening.

(d) Multiple bridge openings When the headwater is above the physical dividing
point, crossflow can occur. When this occurs, the
Multiple openings in roads occur quite often and must approach used to compute the M ratio and J is as fol-
be considered differently from single openings. The lows:
M ratio in the BPR procedure (DOT FHWA 1978) is
Step 1 Compute the Kd value for each bridge
defined as:
opening.
Kd bridge Step 2 Compute the Kd value for the total ap-
M= proach section.
Kd approach

Table 14–7 Stage discharge over roadway at cross section M–4 without submergence, example 14–9

Elevation h h1/2 A A Q Q est. Q est. V V2 / 2g C´ Q Q

ft ft ft over upstream through over total ft/s ft over total
road, ft2 bridge, road ft3/s road, ft3/s
ft2 ft3/s ft3/s ft3/s
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9) (10) (11) (12) (13)
107.0 0 0 0 25,500 26,000 0 26,000 1.02 0.016 0 0 26,000
107.5 0.5 0.707 625 26,700 27,000 1,300 28,300 1.06 0.017 2.84 1,300 28,300
108.0 1.0 1.000 1500 28,000 28,000 4,300 32,300 1.15 0.021 2.79 4,200
4,200 32,200 1.15 0.021 2.79 4,200 32,200
108.5 1.5 1.225 2525 29,200 29,300 8,500 37,800 1.29 0.026 2.76 8,500 37,800
109.0 2.0 1.414 4000 30,400 30,300 12,000 42,300 1.39 0.030 2.76 15,600
15,600 45,900 1.51 0.035 2.76 15,600 45,900
110.0 3.0 1.732 7500 32,800 32,800 35,000 67,800 2.07 0.067 2.79 36,200
36,200 69,000 2.10 0.068 2.79 36,200 69,000

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012) 14–35

Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Step 3 Proportion the approach Kd value for each (e) Culverts

opening by the relationship:
Culverts of all types and sizes are encountered when
Kd apprx = computing stage discharge curves in natural streams.
Kd bridgex These culverts may or may not have a significant effect
× total approach Kd on the development of a watershed work plan. Howev-
Kd bridge1 + Kd bridge2 +  Kd bridgen
er, in many cases, the acceptable plan can be installed
without enlarging or replacing the existing culvert.

Step 4 Compute M as before using the Kd value The FHWA has developed procedures based on re-
computed in step 3 for the approach. search data for use in designing culverts. This proce-
Step 5 Compute the approach area contributing to dure is documented in Hydraulic Design of Highway
this opening by the relationship: Culverts (1985).

Area apprx = Culverts of various types, installed under different

Kd bridgex conditions, were studied to develop procedures to
× total approach area determine the backwater effect for the two flow condi-
Kd bridge1 + Kd bridge2 +  Kd bridgen
tions: culverts flowing with inlet control and culverts
flowing with outlet control.
Step 6 Compute J as before using the area com-
puted in step 5 for the approach area.

Figure 14–18 Stage discharge with embankment overflow, section M–5, example 14–9

113
112
111 Weir flow
over embankment
110

109
.
o. c

108 Stage discharge Stage discharge

300-ft bridge 700-ft bridge
5 ft

107 plus weir flow plus weir flow

rs 2

5 10 15 over embankment over embankment

Elevation (ft)

Stage discharge
pie

106
weir flow over
c.
in H

o. s
embankment tion
105
5f
t
ns tric
24-

s2 t co
er hou
104 wit
dge

pi
H ons
diti
bri

-in n
103 24 c o
ral
-ft

ge at u
300

102 rid N
tb
0-f
101 70

100

99

98

97
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100
Discharge, Q in 1,000 ft3/s

14–36 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012)

Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations
(1) Inlet control
Inlet control means that the capacity of the culvert
is controlled at the culvert entrance by the depth of
headwater (HWI) and the entrance geometry of the
culvert including the barrel shape and cross-sectional
area and the type of inlet edge, shape of headwall, and
other losses. With inlet control, the entrance acts as
an orifice and the barrel of the culvert is not subjected
to pressure flow. Figures 14–20(a) and 14–20(b) show
sketches of two types of inlet controlled flow.
The nomographs shown in exhibits 14–6 through l4–10
were developed from research data by FHWA (1985).
They have been checked against actual measurements
made by USGS with favorable results.
Types of inlets
The following descriptions are taken from Hydraulic
Design of Highway Culverts (1985). Some of the types
of inlets are illustrated in figure 14–21.
• Tapered—this inlet is a type of improved en-
trance that can be made of concrete or metal.
The larger diameter of the inlet gradually reduces
to the diameter of the culvert.
• Bevel A and Bevel B—these bevels, a type of
improved entrance, can be formed of concrete or
metal. The square edge of a culvert inlet has been
Figure 14–19 Approach section for a bridge opening
Physical division point
Approach for opening A
When water elevation is at A approaches act as directed by the physical division point.
When water elevation is at B approaches act according to the ratio of Kds of openings.
(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012)
Part 630
National Engineering Handbook
formed to an angled entrance to improve flow
conditions into the culvert.
• Angled wingwall—similar to headwall, but at an
angle with the culvert.
• Projecting —the culvert barrel extends from the
embankment. The transverse section at the inlet
is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the
culvert.
• Headwall—a concrete or metal structure placed
around the entrance of the culvert. Headwalls
considered are those giving a flush or square
edge with the outside edge of the culvert bar-
rel. No distinction is made for wingwalls with
skewed alignment.
• Mitered—the end of the culvert barrel is on a
miter or slope to conform with the fill slope. All
degrees of miter are treated alike since research
data on this type of inlet are limited. Headwater
is measured from the centerline elevation of the
pipe inlet.
• End section—the common prefabricated end
made of either concrete or metal and placed on
the inlet or outlet ends of a culvert. The closed
portion of the section, if present, is not tapered
(not illustrated).
Approach for opening B
B
A
14–37
Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

• Grooved edge—the bell or socket end of a stan- Figure 14–20 Culvert flow conditions
dard concrete pipe is an example of this entrance
(not illustrated). (a) Unsubmerged inlet

(2) Outlet control

Culverts flowing with outlet control can flow with Water surface
the culvert barrel full or part full for part of the bar- HWI D
rel length or for all of it. Figure 14–20(c), (d), (e), and WS
(f) show the various types of outlet control flow. The
equation and graphs for solving head loss give ac- (b) Submerged inlet
curate results for the first three conditions. For the
fourth condition shown in figure 14–20(f), the ac-
curacy decreases as the head decreases. The head Ht Water surface
HWI
(fig. 14–20(c) and (d)) or the energy required to pass D
a given discharge through the culvert flowing in out- WS
let control with the barrel flowing full throughout its
(c) Submerged outlet
length consists of three major parts: velocity head Hv,
entrance loss He, and friction loss Hf, all expressed in
feet.
Ht
HWo WS
From figure 14–22a: D

H t = H v + He + Hf
(eq. 14–26)
(d) Outlet flowing full
where:
Ht = total head in ft
V2
Hv = when V is the average velocity in the HWo Ht
2g D WS
culvert barrel, ft
He = entrance loss, which depends on the geometry
of the inlet. The loss is expressed as a coeffi- (e) Pipe full part way
cient Ke (exhibit 14–21) times the barrel veloc-
ity head, ft
Hf = friction loss in barrel, in ft
HWo Ht
D WS
2
V
He = K e
2g (eq. 14–27)
(f) Open flow through pipe
where:
Ke = entrance energy loss coefficient
HWo Ht WS
29 n 2 L V 2
H f = 1.33 ×
R 2g (eq. 14–28)

where: HWI is associated with inlet control.

n = Manning’s friction factor HWo is associated with outlet control.
L = length of culvert barrel, ft
V = velocity in culvert barrel, ft/s
g = acceleration of gravity, ft/s2
R = hydraulic radius, ft
14–38 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012)
Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Figure 14–21 Types of culvert inlets

Note: Angle of
Inlet may or Box culvert
A B wingwall
may not be beveled. flare

¼D

A B Angled wing wall

Plan view
Projecting

Section A–A Section B–B

Tapered inlet

c Bevel can be made of

1½ metal or concrete
d
b 1 D=inside diameter of pipe
Headwall
a
D

Bevel b a c d
D D D D
A 0.042 0.063 0.042 0.083
B 0.083 0.125 0.042 0.125

Bevels A and B Mitered

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012) 14–39

Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Substituting in equation 14–26: The depth d2 or ho (fig. 14–22(c)) for this type of flow is
equal to:
 29 n 2 L   V 2 
H t =  1 + K e + 1.33    dc + D
 R   2g 
(eq. 14–29) 2

Figure 14–22(a) shows the terms of equation 14–26,
hydraulic grade line, energy grade line, and headwater
depth HWo.
The expression for Ht is derived by equating the total
energy upstream from the culvert to the energy at the
invert of the culvert outlet.
V1 2
H t = d1 + + LS o − d 2
2g
= H v + He + Hf
where:
V1 = velocity in the approach section, ft/s
So = slope of the channel bed, ft/ft
d1 = depth of water at inlet, ft
d2 = depth of water at outlet, ft
or TW, whichever is greater.
With the definition of d2, which will be designated as
ho, an equation common to all outlet control condi-
tions can be written:
HWo = H t + h o − LS o
(eq. 14–32)
This equation was used to develop the nomographs
shown in exhibits 14–11 through 14–15, which can be
(eq. 14–30) used to develop stage discharge curves for the ap-
proach section to culverts flowing with outlet control.
Exhibit 14–16 shows dc for discharge per foot of width
for rectangular sections. Exhibits 14–17 to 14–20 show
dc for discharges for various nonrectangular culvert
sections.

From figure 14–22(a): Example 14–10 Culvert analysis

HWo = H t + d 2 − LS o Develop a stage discharge curve for cross section

(eq. 14–31)
T–4 (fig. 14–5) showing the backwater effect of eight
16-foot by 8-foot concrete box culverts for each of
V1 2 three conditions: inlet control; outlet control, present
If the velocity head in the approach section is low,
2g channel; and outlet control, improved channel. Figure
it can be ignored, and HWo is considered to be the dif- 14–23(a) shows a cross section along the centerline
ference between the water surface and the invert of of the roadway at cross section T–3. Figure 14–23(b)
the culvert inlet. shows a section through the roadway with water sur-
face profiles prior to and after the construction of the
The depth, d2, for culverts flowing full is equal to the culverts and roadway embankment.
culvert height in figure 14–20(d), or the tailwater depth
(TW), whichever is greater, figure 14–22(b). The culvert headwalls are parallel to the embankment
with no wingwalls, and the entrance is square on three
The hydraulic grade line for culverts flowing with the edges.
barrel part full for part of the barrel length passes
through a point where the water breaks with the top of
the culvert, and if extended as a straight line, will pass
through the plane of the outlet end of the culvert at
a point above the critical depth, dc. This point is ap-
proximately halfway between dc and the crown of the
culvert, or equal to:

dc + D
2

14–40 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012)

Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Figure 14–22 Elements of culvert flow for outlet control

(a) Energy grade line

2
V1
Hydraulic grade line
2g
WS
He
Hf Ht
HWo d1 Hv WS
D
d2
Datum

LSo

(b)

Ht
HWo

D
TW=d2

LSo L

(c)

Hydraulic grade line

HWo Ht
D

dc
TW
LSo L

dc + D
or TW=ho or d2
2

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012) 14–41

 Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Figure 14–23 Plots of data for cross section T–3, example 14–10

(a) Cross section T–3

Top of roadway
Elevation (ft)

105

100
Eight 16-ft by 8-ft
95 concrete boxes
0+00 2+00 4+00 6+00 8+00 10+00 12+00
Station (ft)
(b) Profile through culvert

20,000
15,000
12,500
20,000 10,000 20,000
15,000
105 8,000 Embankment 15,000
12,500
10,000 12,500
8,000 10,000
5,000 8,000
5,000
5,000
3,000 3,000
3,000
Elevation (ft)

Top of culvert
No roadway, from figure 14–25(a)
Roadway and culvert with outlet control, from figure 14–25(c)

100 From figure 14–24

present condition
curve A for

95.33 95.00

95 So=.0025
L=130
Cross Sec T–4

Cross Sec T–2

Cross Sec T–3
51+85

50+15
51+00

14–42 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012)

 Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

The following are given in this example: a stage dis-
charge curve for cross section T–2, present condition
and with proposed channel improvement (fig. 14–24,
curves A and B). Also given is a stage discharge curve
for cross section T–4 disregarding the effect of the
culverts and roadway fill (fig. 14–25(a)).
Condition 1—Inlet control
Step 1 Select a range of discharges sufficient to
define the new stage discharge curve, and tabulate
in column 1 of table 14–8.
Step 2 Determine the discharge for each culvert.
Divide the discharges in column 1 by the number of
culverts (8), and tabulate in column 2 of table 14–8.
Step 3 Determine the discharge per foot of width
(Q/B). Divide the discharges in column 2 by the
width of each culvert (16 ft), and tabulate in column
3 of table 14–8.
Step 4 Compute HW/D. Using exhibit 14–6, read
HW/D for each discharge per foot of width in col-
umn 3, and tabulate in column 4 of table 14–8. Re-
ferring to exhibit 14–6, project a line from the depth
of culvert (8 ft) through the discharge per foot of
width (line Q/B) to the first HW/D line, then hori-
zontal to line (3), which is the HW/D for the type of
culvert in this example.
Step 5 Compute HW. Multiply column 4 by the
depth of the culvert (8 ft), and tabulate in column 5
of table 14–8.
Step 6 Add the invert elevation at the entrance to
the culvert (elev. 95.33 ft) to column 5, and tabulate
in column 6 of table 14–8.
Step 7 Plot the stage discharge curve assuming
inlet control. Plot column 1 and column 6 of table
14–8 as the stage discharge curves for cross section
T–4 (fig. 14–25(b), curve A). This assumes inlet con-

Figure 14–24 Stage discharge exit section T–2, example 14–10

112

110

108
Elevation (ft)

106

Stage discharge
present condition A
104
B

Stage discharge
102 improved channel

100

98
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

Discharge, Q in 1,000 ft3/s

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012) 14–43

Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Figure 14–25 Rating curves, cross section T–4, example 14–10

(a) Assuming no roadway in place (b) Inlet control

114 114
Stage discharge
112 112 Eight 16-ft by 8-ft
conc. box clvts.
110 110 inlet control
B A
Elevation (ft)

108

Elevation (ft)
108
106 106
0 2 4 6 8 Culverts + weir
104 104 flow
102 102
Stage discharge
100 100
weir flow over
98 98 embankment

96 96
0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24
Discharge, Q in 1,000 ft3/s Discharge, Q in 1,000 ft3/s

(c) Outlet control (d) Improved channel outlet control

114 114
Stage discharge Stage discharge
112 Eight 16-ft by 8-ft 112 Eight 16-ft by 8-ft conc.
conc. box clvts. box clvts. outlet control
A
110 outlet control A 110 improved channel
B B
Elevation (ft)

108
Elevation (ft)

108
106 106
0 2 4 6 8 Culverts + weir 0 2 4 6 8 Culverts + weir
104 flow 104 flow

102 102
100 Stage discharge 100
weir flow over Stage discharge
98 embankment 98 weir flow over
embankment
96 96
0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24
Discharge, Q in 1,000 ft3/s Discharge, Q in 1,000 ft3/s

14–44 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012)

 Chapter 14
Table 14–8 Headwater computations for eight 16- by 8-foot concrete box culverts, headwalls parallel to embankment (no wingwalls), square-edged on
three sides, example 14–10

Total Discharge Discharge

Outlet control Outlet control
discharge for each per foot Inlet control
present channel improved channel
culvert of width
ho 2/ TW HWo 3/ TW HWo
Q Q Q/B HW HWI 1/ Ht dc (dc+D)/2 elev. elev. LSo elev. elev. elev.
ft3/s ft3/s ft3/s/ft HW/D ft ft Ke ft ft ft ft ft ft ft ft ft
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9) (10) (11) (12) (13) (14) (15) (16)
  3,000   375  23.4   0.55  4.40 4/
0.5   0.22   2.6 5.30 100.30 101.4 0.33 4/
100.7 4/

  5,000   625  39.1   0.77  6.16 4/

0.5  0.60 5/
  3.6 5.80 100.80 102.3 0.33   102.57 101.6  101.87
  8,000 1,000  62.5   1.08  8.64 103.97 6/ 0.5   1.40   4.9 6.45 101.45 103.0 0.33 104.07 6/ 102.6 103.67 6/
10,000 1,250  78.1   1.31 10.48   105.81 0.5   2.00   5.7 6.85 101.85 103.5 0.33   105.17 103.0  104.67
12,500 1,563  97.7   1.61 12.88   108.21 0.5   3.00   6.7 7.35 102.35 104.0 0.33   106.67 103.6  106.27

Stage Discharge Relations

15,000 1,875 117.2   2.01 7/ 16.08   111.41 0.5   4.10   7.5 7.75 102.75 104.5 0.33   108.27 104.0  107.77
20,000 2,500 156.3 — 8/ — 8/ — 8/ 0.5 6.50 9.1 8/ 8.00 9/ 103.00 105.5 0.33   111.67 104.8  110.97
(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012)

Notes:
1/ HWI = HW+95.33 (invert elevation at entrance end of culvert = 95.33)
2/ ho = (dc+D)/2 + 95.00 (invert elevation at outlet end of culvert = 95.00)
3/ HWo = Ht+TW–LSo or Ht+ho–LSo, whichever is greater
4/ Tailwater elevation is higher than the computed elevation and open channel flow exists
5/ See example on exhibit 14–11
6/ With channel improvement the control switches from outlet to inlet control between 5,000 and 8,000 ft3/s.
7/ See example on exhibit 14–6
8/ If dc ≥ D, the outlet always controls
9/ (dc+D)/2 cannot exceed D

National Engineering Handbook

Part 630
14–45
Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations
trol with the road sufficiently high to prevent over
topping.
Condition 2—Outlet control, present channel
Step 1 Compute the entrance loss coefficient,
Ke. Read Ke = 0.5 from exhibit 14–21 for the type of
headwall and entrance to box culvert, and tabulate
in column 7 of table 14–8.
Step 2 Compute the head loss, H, for the concrete
box culvert flowing full. Using exhibit 14–11, draw
a line from L =130 feet on the Ke = 0.5 scale to the
cross-sectional area scale, 16 feet × 8 feet = 128
square feet, and establish a point on the turning line.
Draw a line from the discharge (Q) line for each of
the discharges shown in column 2 through the turn-
ing point to the head (Ht) line. Tabulate Ht in column
8 of table 14–8.
Step 3 Compute the critical depth, dc, for each
discharge per foot of width. Using exhibit 14–16,
read dc for each discharge per foot of width shown
in column 3, and tabulate in column 9 of table 14–8.
Step 4 Compute (dc + D)/2 . Tabulate in column 10
of table 14–8. D is the inside diameter of pipe.
Note: (dc + D)/2 cannot exceed D.
Step 5 Compute ho. Add the invert elevation of the
outlet end of the culvert (elevation. 95.00) to
(dc + D)/2, and tabulate as ho in column 11 of table
14–8.
Step 6 Compute the TW elevation for each dis-
charge in column 1. Using figure 14–24, curve A,
read the elevation for each discharge in column 1,
and tabulate as TW elevation in column 12 of table
14–8.
Step 7 Compute the difference in elevation of the
inlet and outlet inverts of the culverts. Multiply L ×
So = 130 × 0.0025 = 0.33, and tabulate in column 13
of table 14–8.
Step 8 Compute the water surface elevation, HWo,
assuming outlet control. Add values in column 8 to
the larger of column 11 or column 12 minus column
13, and tabulate as HWo in column 14 of table 14–8.
Step 9 Plot the stage discharge curve assuming
outlet control. Plot column 1 and column 14 on
figure 14–25(c) as curve A assuming outlet control
with the roadway sufficiently high to prevent over
topping.
14–46 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012)
Part 630
National Engineering Handbook
Condition 3—Outlet control, improved channel
Step 1 Compute the tailwater elevation at the
culvert for the improved channel condition. Using
figure 14–24, curve B, read the elevation for each
discharge in column 1, and tabulate as TW elevation
in column 15 of table 14–8.
Step 2 Compute the elevation assuming outlet
control, improved channel. Add column 8 plus col-
umn 15 minus column 13, and tabulate in column 16
of table 14–8.
Step 3 Plot the stage discharge curve assuming
outlet control with improved channel. Plot column
1 and column 16 on figure l4–25(d) as curve A, the
stage discharge curve for cross section T–4 assum-
ing outlet control with improved channel and the
roadway sufficiently high to prevent over topping.
Condition 4—flow over roadway
Assume the approach velocity head for this example
is negligible, and the coefficient C will equal C´ used in
equation 14–24. If the velocity head is significant, and
a correction to the coefficient C is desired by using
equation 14–25, follow steps 5 through 9 of example
14–9.
Step 1 Select a range of elevations that will define
the rating curve over the road. Tabulate in column 1
of table 14–9. The low point on the road is at eleva-
tion 106.
Step 2 Compute the depth of flow, H, over the
road. For each elevation in column 1, compute H
and list in column 2 of table 14–9.
1
Step 3 Compute H 2 . Tabulate in column 3 of
table 14–9.
Step 4 Compute the flow area, A, over the road.
For each elevation listed in column 1, compute the
area over the road, and tabulate in column 4 of table
14–9.
Step 5 Determine coefficient, C. Assume C = 2.7
for this example, and assume C = C´. Tabulate C´ in
column 5 of table 14–9.
Step 6 Compute the discharge over the roadway
using equation 14–24.
Step 7 Plot the stage discharge curve. Using the
computations shown in table 14–9, plot columns
1 and 6 shown on figure 14–25(b), (c), and (d) as
curve B.
Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Step 8 Graphically combine curves A and B in
figure 14–25(b), (c), and (d) to form the stage dis-
charge curve for the culverts and weir flow over the
roadway.
Each of the three flow conditions were computed inde-
pendent of each other. The flow condition that actually
controls is that which requires the greater upstream
elevation for the discharge being considered. By
comparing elevations for the same discharge for the
three conditions tabulated on table 14–8 and plotted
on figure 14–25(b) and (c), the type of control at any
given discharge can be determined. It may be advan-
tageous to plot all the curves on one graph to better
define points of intersection.
If the actual profile for discharges occurring under
open channel flow conditions is desired, water surface
profiles should be run through the culverts.
It can also be seen from figure 14–25(a) and (b) that
by constructing the highway with eight 16- by 8-foot
concrete box culverts, elevations upstream will in-
crease over present conditions for discharges greater
than 5,000 cubic feet per second. For improved outlet
conditions, upstream elevations will not be increased
above present conditions until a discharge of 6,500
cubic feet per second occurs.

Under the old channel conditions, it can be deter-

mined that open channel flow conditions exist for
discharges less than about 4,000 cubic feet per second,
outlet control governs between about 4,000 and 8,300
cubic feet per second, and inlet control governs for
discharges greater than 8,300 cubic feet per second.

Under new channel conditions, open channel flow

exists for discharges less than 3,800 cubic feet per
second, outlet control governs for discharges between
3,800 and 6,600 cubic feet per second, and inlet control
governs for discharges greater than 6,600 cubic feet
per second. Also, in both cases, discharges greater
than 10,200 cubic feet per second flow will occur over
the road embankment.

Table 14–9 Stage discharge over roadway at cross section

T–3, figure 14–5, example 14–10

Elevation H H½ A C´ Q
ft ft ft ft2 ft3/s
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6)
106 0 0 0 2.7 0
106.5 0.5 0.707 340 2.7 650
107 1 1 750 2.7 2,020
107.5 1.5 1.225 1,230 2.7 4,070
108 2 1.414 1,790 2.7 6,830

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012) 14–47

Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations
630.1406 References
Aldridge, B.N., and J.M. Garrett. 1973. Roughness
coefficients for stream channels in Arizona. U.S.
Geological Survey Open-File Report, Tucson, AZ.
American Society of Civil Engineers. 1962. Nomen-
clature for hydraulics, abbreviations, units of
measurements, symbols, and glossary. ASCE
manuals and reports on engineering practice –
No. 43. New York, NY.
Brater, E.F., and H.W. King. 1976. Handbook of hydrau-
lics. Sixth edition. McGraw-Hill. New York, NY.
Carufel, L.H. 1980. Construction and use of a velocity
head rod for measuring stream velocity and flow.
U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land
Management, Alaska. BLM/AK Technical report
5.
Chow, V.T. 1964. Handbook of applied hydrology.
McGraw-Hill, New York, NY.
Chow, V.T. 1959. Open channel hydraulics. McGraw-
Hill, New York, NY.
Cowan, W.L. 1956. Estimating hydraulic roughness
coefficients. Agricultural Engineering, ASAE. St.
Joseph, MI.
Creager, W.P., J.D.W. Justin, and J. Hinds. 1945. Engi-
neering for dams. J. Wiley and Sons, New York,
NY.
Moore, D.S. 2010. Cross-section hydraulic analyzer,
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resourc-
es Conservation Service. http://go.usa.gov/0Eo
Simons, D.B., and F. Sentürk. 1977. Sediment Trans-
port Technology. Water Resources Publications,
Fort Collins, CO.
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Institute For Water Re-
sources. Hydrologic Engineering Center. 2010a.
HEC–HMS hydrologic modeling system, ver. 3.5,
Davis, CA.
14–48 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012)
Part 630
National Engineering Handbook
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Institute For Water Re-
sources. Hydrologic Engineering Center. 2010b.
HEC–RAS river analysis system, hydraulic refer-
ence manual, ver. 4.1. Davis, CA.
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Institute For Water Re-
sources. Hydrologic Engineering Center. 2010c.
HEC–RAS river analysis system, user’s manual,
ver. 4.1. Davis, CA.
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Institute For Water Re-
sources. Hydrologic Engineering Center. 2010d.
HEC–RAS river analysis system, applications
guide, ver. 4.1. Davis, CA.
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Division of Agricul-
tural Engineering. 1929. Technical Bulletin 129,
Flow of water in drainage channels. Washington,
DC.
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources
Conservation Service. 2007. National Engineering
Handbook 654, Stream Restoration Design, Ch. 6,
Stream Hydraulics, Washington, DC.
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources
Conservation Service. 2009. WinTR–20 computer
program for project formulation hydrology, ver.
1.11, Washington, DC.
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation
Service. 1956. National Engineering Handbook
(NEH), Section 5, Hydraulics. Washington, DC.
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation
Service. 1963. Guide for selecting roughness co-
efficients “n” values for channels. Lincoln, NE.
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation
Service. 1986. NEH–11, Drop Spillways, Circular
No. 1. Washington, DC.
U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Highway
Administration (DOT FHWA). 1965. HEC–5,
Hydraulic Branch, Bridge Division, Office of
Engineering. Washington, DC.
U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Highway
Administration (DOT FHWA). 1978. Hydraulics of
bridge waterways, hydraulics design series no. 5,
Washington, DC.
Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Highway

Administration (DOT FHWA). 1985. Hydraulic de-
sign of highway culverts, hydraulic design series
5, Report No FHWA–IP–85–15, Washington, DC.

U.S. Geological Survey. 1947. Major Texas floods of

1936. Water Supply Paper 816, Washington, DC.

U.S. Geological Survey. 1967. Roughness character-

istics of natural channels. Water Supply Paper
1849, Washington, DC.

U.S. Geological Survey. 1967, 1968. Techniques of wa-

ter resources investigations of the United States
Geological Survey, Book 3, Chps. 3–7, Washing-
ton, DC.

U.S. Geological Survey. 1982. Measurement and com-

putation of stream flow, Volume 1, Measurement
of stage and discharge. Water Supply Paper 2175,
Washington, DC.

U.S. Geological Survey. 1989a. Guide for selecting

Manning’s roughness coefficients for natural
channels and floodplains, 1989. Water Supply
Paper 2339, Washington, DC.

U.S. Geological Survey. 1989b. Method to estimate

effects of flow-inducted vegetation changes
on channel conveyances of streams in central
Arizona. Water-Resources Investigation Report
98–4040, Washington, DC.

Yochum, S. 2010. Flow resistance estimation in

high-gradient streams. 4th Federal Interagency
Hydrologic Modeling Conference. Las Vegas, NV.

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012) 14–49

Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

14–50 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012)

 Exhibit 14–1 K values for converting cubic feet per second per square mile to cubic feet per second

9
Exhibits

7  0.894  
  − 1
 a10.048  
a1
K=  0.894  
  − 1
6  a 20.048  
a2

ft 3 /s = ft/s/mi 2 × DA × K
( )

K
to
5

ft3/s/mi2 at 400 mi2

4

Ratio of ft3/s/mi2 at any drainage area

3

2
Charts and Graphs

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012)

1
0.3 0.4 0.6 0.80 1.0 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.10. 15. 20. 30. 40. 60. 80. 100. 150. 200. 300. 400.
0.5 0.7 0.9 50. 70. 90.
Drainage area, a in mi2

14–51
Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Exhibit 14–2 Estimate of velocity head in bridges

0.60

0.55

0.50
2
 Aa 
 V × A 
0.45 h= b

2g
Area of approach section

0.40
Area of bridge

0.35 Velocity in natural stream without restriction caused by bridge

0.30
8 ft/s

0.25 7 ft/s

6 ft/s
0.20
5 ft/s
2
ft/
s 4 ft/s
1 ft/

0.15
s

3 ft/s
0.10
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24
h= Velocity head in ft

14–52 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012)

Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Exhibit 14–3 Estimate of M for use in BPR equation

Length or span of bridge

Width of floodplain 0.40
0.4
0.35
0.30
0.25
0.20
0.3 0.15
Area of approach section

0.10
Area of bridge

0.05

0.2

0.1

0
0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7
Kd bridge =M
Kd approach

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012) 14–53

Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Exhibit 14–4 BPR base curve for bridges, Kb

3.0
90°
2.8

2.6 45°
1
2.4
2 90° Wingwall
2.2 3
45° Wingwall
2.0 90° WW

1.8
For lengths up to 200 ft 30° WW
1.6
Kb

1.4

1.2 All spill through or 45° and 60° WW

Spillthrough
abutments over 200 ft in length
1.0

0.8

0.6

0.4

0.2

0
0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9 1.0
M

Note: Exhibits 14-4 and 14-5 are from U.S. Department of Department of Transportation documents (DOT FHWA)
1965, 1978, and 1985.

14–54 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012)

Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Exhibit 14–5(a) Incremental backwater coefficients ∆K and J for the more common types of columns, piers, and pile bents

0.45

0.4

0.35

1
2
0.3
3
4
5

0.25 6
7
∆K

Shape of pier,
0.2 column,
Μ=1.0

or pile bent
.0

8
Μ=1

Μ= 0
1.
1.0
Μ=

1.0
Μ=

0.15
.0
=1
Μ

.0
=1
Μ
0.1

∆Kp=∆Kσ
0.05

0
0 0.01 0.02 0.03 0.04 0.05 0.06 0.07 0.08 0.09 0.10 0.11 0.12 0.13 0.14 0.15 0.16 0.17
J

Notes: Exhibits 14-4 and 14-5 are from U.S. Department of Department of Transportation documents (DOT FHWA)
1965, 1978, and 1985.
J is defined in step 11 of example of 14–8 as the area of the piers divided by the gross area of the bridge opening.

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012) 14–55

Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Exhibit 14–5(b) Incremental backwater coefficients σ and M for the more common types of columns, piers, and pile bents

1.0

0.9

0.8

0.7

0.6

8
0.5

∆Kp=∆Kσ

0.4

1
0.3 7
5
3 2
0.2
0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9 1.0

Note: Exhibits 14-4 and 14-5 are from U.S. Department of Department of Transportation documents (DOT FHWA)
1965, 1978, and 1985.

14–56 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012)

 Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Exhibit 14–6 Headwater depth for box culverts with inlet control

12
600 (1) (2) (3)
11 Example
16- by 8-ft box 500 8 9 10
10 Q/B=117 8
400 7
Inlet HW HW 7 8
D 6
9 300 6 7
(3) 2.01 16.08 5 6
5
8 4 5
Exam
200 4
ple 4
7 3
3
3
100
6
80 2
2
2
Ratio of discharge to width, Q/B in ft3/s/ft

60

Headwater depth in terms of height (HW/D)

5
50 1.5
40 1.5
1.5
Height of box, D in ft

4 30

20 1.0
Angle of
wingwall 1.0 1.0
flare 0.9
3
10 0.8 0.9 0.9

8
0.8 0.8
0.7
6
5 HW Scale Wingwall 0.7 0.7
4 D flare 0.6
2
3
(1)
˚
30 to 75
˚
(2)
˚
90 and 15
˚ 0.6 0.6
(3)
˚
0 (extensions
of sides)
0.5
2
0.5 0.5
To use scale (2) or (3) project
horizontally to scale (1), then 0.4
use straight inclined line
1 through D and Q/B scales, or
0.8 reverse as illustrated. 0.4 0.4

0.6
1 0.5 0.30 0.35 0.35

Hydraulic Design of Highway Culverts

(DOT FHWA) 1985

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012) 14–57

 Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Exhibit 14–7 Headwater depth for concrete pipe culverts with inlet control

180 10,000
168 8,000 (1) (2) (3)
Example
156 6
6,000 D=42 in (3.5 ft)
6
Q=120 ft3/s
144 5,000 5
4,000 Inlet HW* HW
6 5
132 D ft
3,000 5 4
(1) 2.5 8.8 4
120 (2) 2.1 7.4
2,000 (3) 2.2 7.7 4
108 3
*D in ft 3

96 1,000 3
800
84 2
600 2
Discharge, Q in ft3/s

500
400 2
72
Diameter of culvert, D in inches

le
300 amp 1.5
Ex 1.5
Headwater depth in diameters (HW/D)

60 200 1.5

54
100
48
80
60 1.0
42 1.0
50 HW Scale Entrance
40 D type 1.0
36 0.9 0.9
30 (1) Square edge with
headwall 0.9
33 (2) Groove end with
20 headwall 0.8 0.8
30 (3) Groove end 0.8
projecting
27
10
0.7 0.7
24 8 0.7
6 To use scale (2) or (3) project
5 horizontally to scale (1), then
21 use straight inclined line
4 through D and Q scales, or 0.6 0.6
3 reverse as illustrated. 0.6
18
2 Headwater scales 2 and 3
Revised May 1964
15
0.5
0.5 0.5
1.0

12
Hydraulic Design of Highway Culverts
(DOT FHWA) 1985

14–58 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012)

 Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Exhibit 14–8 Headwater depth for oval concrete pipe culverts long axis horizontal with inlet control

151 by 97
3,000 Example
Size: 76 by 48 in
Q=300 ft3/s (1) (2) (3)
136 by 87 2,000
4.0
HW* HW 4.0
121 by 77 D ft
(1) 2.8 11.2 4.0 3.0
113 by 72 1,000 (2) 2.2 8.8 3.0
800 (3) 2.3 9.2
106 by 68 *D in ft 3.0
600 2.0
98 by 63 le 2.0
500 amp
Ex
400 2.0
91 by 58
300 1.5 1.5
83 by 53 To use scale (2) or (3) draw a 1.5
Size (span × rise) of oval pipe in inches

200 straight line through known

76 by 48 values of size and discharge
to intersect scale (1). From Headwater depth in terms of rise (HW/D)
point on scale (1) project
68 by 43
Discharge, Q in ft3/s

100 horizontally to solution on

1.0 1.0
80 either scale (2) or (3). 1.0
60 by 38 60 0.9 0.9
50 0.9

53 by 34 40 0.8 0.8
0.8
30
49 by 32
0.7 0.7
20 0.7
45 by 29
HW Scale Entrance
42 by 27 D type 0.6 0.6
Square edge with 0.6
10 (1)
38 by 24 headwall
8 (2) Groove end with
6 headwall 0.5 0.5
(3) Groove end 0.5
5
projecting
4
30 by 19 3

0.4 0.4 0.4

2

B D

1.0
23 by 14

Hydraulic Design of Highway Culverts

(DOT FHWA) 1985

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012) 14–59

Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Exhibit 14–9 Headwater depth for corrugated metal (C.M.) pipe culverts with inlet control

180 10,000
8,000 (1) (2) (3)
168
Example
Structural plate corrugated metal (C.M.)

156 6,000 D=36 in (3.0 ft) 6

5,000 Q=66 ft3/s
144 4,000 5 6
132 3,000 HW* HW 6
D ft 5
120 (1) 1.8 5.4
4
2,000 5
(2) 2.1 6.3 4
108 (3) 2.2 6.6
3 4
1,000 *D in ft
96 3
800 3
84 600 2
500
400
Discharge, Q in ft3/s

72 2 2
300
1.5
Diameter of culvert, D in inches

Headwater depth in diameters (HW/D)

200
60 le 1.5 1.5
amp
Ex
54
100
48 80
60 1.0
42 1.0
50
40 1.0
0.9 0.9
36 30
HW Scale Entrance 0.9
33 20 D type 0.8 0.8
Standard corrugated metal (C.M.)

30 (1) Headwall
0.8
27 10 (2) Mitered to conform
to slope 0.7 0.7
8 (3) Projecting
24 0.7
6
5
21 4 0.6 0.6
3 0.6
To use scale (2) or (3) project
18
horizontally to scale (1), then
2
use straight inclined line
through D and Q scales, or
15 reverse as illustrated. 0.5 0.5
1.0 0.5

12
Hydraulic Design of Highway Culverts
(DOT FHWA) 1985

14–60 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012)

Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Exhibit 14–10 Headwater depth for corrugated metal (C.M.) pipe-arch culverts with inlet control

5,000
(1) (2) (3)
4,000
16 ft-7 in by 10 ft-1 in
3,000 Example 4
15 ft-4 in by 9 ft-3 in Size: 36 in by 22 in
Q=20 ft3/s 4
2,000
plate corrugated metal (C.M.)
18-in corner radius structural

HW* HW 3 4
12 ft-10 in by 8 ft-4 in
D ft
(1) 1.10 2.0 3
1,000 (2) 1.15 2.1 3
11 ft-5 in by 7 ft-3 in
800 (3) 1.22 2.2
*D in ft 2
600
9 ft-6 in by 6 ft-5 in 500 2 2
400
8 ft-2 in by 5 ft-9 in 1.5
300 To use scale (2) or (3) project
horizontally to scale (1), then 1.5 1.5
7 ft-0 in by 5 ft-1 in 200 use straight inclined line
through D and Q scales, or
reverse as illustrated.
Discharge, Q in ft3/s

6 ft-1 in by 4 ft-7 in
100
1.0
80 1.0
Size (span × rise) of pipe-arch

72 in by 44 in
1.0
Headwater depth in terms of rise (HW/D)

60 0.9 0.9
65 in by 40 in 50 le 0.9
40 a mp
58 in by 36 in Ex 0.8 0.8
30
0.8
50 in by 31 in 20 0.7 0.7
Standard corrugated metal (C.M.)

0.7
43 in by 27 in HW Scale Entrance
10 D type
0.6 0.6
8 (1) Headwall
0.6
36 in by 22 in 6 (2) Mitered to conform
5 to slope
(3) Projecting
0.5 0.5
3 0.5
29 in by 18 in
2
25 in by 16 in

1 B 0.4 0.4
0.4
22 in by 13 in 0.8
D
0.6
0.5 0.35 0.35
18 in by 11 in 0.35

Hydraulic Design of Highway Culverts

(DOT FHWA) 1985

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012) 14–61

Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Exhibit 14–11 Head for concrete box culverts flowing full—n = 0.012

Ht
HW
5,000 ho
4,000
Slope So
3,000 Submerged outlet culvert flowing full
HW=Ht+ho-LSo
2,000
For outlet crown not submerged, compute
HW by methods described in the design
procedure in Hydraulic Design of Highway
Culverts (1985).
12 by 12 0.4
1,000
0.5
800 10 by 10 100 Example 14–10
16- by 8-ft box 0.6
Dimension of square box in ft

9 by 9 80
600 L=
1 0.8
500 8 by 8 K = 30
60
Area of rectangular box in ft2

e 0
.5 K Le 1.0

Head (Ht) in ft
400 7 by 7 50 e =0 ng
K .2
e =0 th
50

40 K .
0

300 6 by 6 =0 5 (L
10

e
.7 )i
n
Discharge, Q in ft3/s

30 ft
0
20

5 by 5 2
200 0
30
10 0
5

20
0

0 3
4 by 4 40
0
20

0 0
30 50 4
100 3.5 by 3.5
0
80 10 40 5
3 by 3
500 6
8
60
2.5 by 2.5 8
50 6
10
40 5
2 by 2 4
30

20
20
Turning line

10
8

6
5
Hydraulic Design of Highway Culverts
(DOT FHWA) 1985

14–62 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012)

Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Exhibit 14–12 Head for concrete pipe culverts flowing full—n = 0.012

Ht
HW
ho
2,000 Slope So
Submerged outlet culvert flowing full
Turning line

HW=Ht+ho-LSo 0.4
For outlet crown not submerged, compute
1,000 HW by methods described in the design 0.5
800 procedure in Hydraulic Design of Highway 0.6
120 Culverts (1985).
600 108
0.8
500 96 4
0.9 1.0
H t=
400 84

300
72 le
mp
66 Exa
50

200 60 0 2
10
Le

Head (Ht) ft
ng

54 70
Q=
th

50 0
Discharge, Q in ft3/s

L=110 20
(L

D=48
Diameter (D) in inches

3
48 00
)i

ke=0.5 1
n
ft

100 0
42 0 30 4
20
80 0
36 30
0 40 5
60 0 6
33 0 50
50 40
30
0
K e 0.5

40 50 8
=0
Ke

27
=
.2

10
30 24

21
20

18 20

10 15

6 12
5
4
Hydraulic Design of Highway Culverts
(DOT FHWA) 1985

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012) 14–63

Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Exhibit 14–13 Head for oval concrete pipe culverts long axis horizontal or vertical flowing full—n = 0.012

Ht
HW
ho
2,000
Slope So
Turning line

Submerged outlet culvert flowing full

HW=Ht+ho-LSo
1,000 0.4
For outlet crown not submerged, compute
800 HW by methods described in the design 0.5
151 by 97 procedure in Hydraulic Design of Highway
600 Culverts (1985). 0.6
136 by 87
500 0.7
121 by 77 0.8
400 113 by 72 0.9
106 by 66 1.0
300 98 by 63 K
e =0
91 by 58 K .2
50

e =0
.5 0
83 by 53 10
Le

200
Size (span by rise) in inches

Head (Ht) in ft
ng

76 by 48 0
th

50 20 2
(L
Discharge, Q in ft3/s

68 by 43 0
)f

10
t

0 3 00
60 by 38 L=16 0
100 .5 20
Size k e=0 0 3
0 40
80 53 by 34 Q=1 30
20 0
49 by 32 0 50 4
60 Exam 40
45 by 29 ple 0
50 42 by 27 50 5
Note: H =7 6
40 38 by 24 t .0
Dimensions on size scale are 7
30 ordered for long axis 8
horizontal installation. They 9
30 by 19 should be reversed for long 10
20 axis vertical.

23 by 14
10 20

6
5
Hydraulic Design of Highway Culverts
(DOT FHWA) 1985

14–64 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012)

Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Exhibit 14–14 Head for standard corrugated metal (C.M.) pipe culverts flowing full—n = 0.024

Ht
HW
ho
2,000 Slope So
Submerged outlet culvert flowing full
Turning line

HW=Ht+ho-LSo 0.4
1,000 0.5
800 For outlet crown not submerged, compute 0.6
HW by methods described in the design
600 120 procedure in Hydraulic Design of Highway
Culverts (1985). 0.8
500 108
400 96 1.0

300 84
K e =0 9
=0 .5

50
K e =0.

.2
5

72
Ke

200
66 0
10
Le

2
ng

60
50
th

Head (Ht) ft
54
(L
)f

100 0 3
Discharge, Q in ft3/s

48 10
80
120 200
Diameter (D) in

42 L= .9 4
60 0
k e= 0
50
36 20 5
40 33 300 6
Q=35 Example Ht=7.5
30 30
27 300 8
=
27 D
400 10
20 24 400
500
21
500
10 18
20
8

6 15
5
4 12
3

2
Hydraulic Design of Highway Culverts
(DOT FHWA) 1985

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012) 14–65

Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Exhibit 14–15 Head for standard corrugated metal (C.M.) pipe-arch culverts flowing full—n = 0.024

Ht
HW
ho

Slope So
300
Submerged outlet culvert flowing full
HW=Ht+ho-LSo
200
Turning line

For outlet crown not submerged, compute

HW by methods described in the design
procedure in Hydraulic Design of Highway
Culverts (1985).
0.4
K e =0
=0 .5

100
.2
K e =0.

50 0.5
5

90
Ke

80 0.6
9

72 by 44 0.7
70 0
Len

10
60 65 by 40 50 0.8
gth

0.9
Head (Ht) ft
Size (span x rise) of pipe-arch (in)

50
(L)

58 by 36 1.0
0
10
ft

40
Q=40
Example Ht=1.7 200
Discharge, Q in ft3/s

50 by 31
30 Siz
e=5 200
43 by 27 8×3 2
6
L=3 300
20
ke = 80 300
0.9
36 by 22 3
400
400 4

10 29 by 18 500 5
9 500
8 6
25 by 16
7 7
6 8
9
5 10

2
Hydraulic Design of Highway Culverts
(DOT FHWA) 1985

14–66 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012)

Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Exhibit 14–16 Critical depth—rectangular section

(a)
5

3
dc in ft

2
Critical depth
Rectangular section
1

0
0 10 20 30 40 50 60
Q
B

(b)
16

15

14

13

12

11
Critical depth
Rectangular section
dc in ft

10

8 B
B (ft)
7 Q (ft3/s)
2
6  Q
dc = 0.315 3  
 B
5

4
50 100 150 200 250 300 350
Q
*Note: dc cannot exceed D
B
Hydraulic Design of Highway Culverts
(DOT FHWA) 1985

Note: The diagram and equation in (b) applies to (a) also.

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012) 14–67

 Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Exhibit 14–17 Critical depth—circular pipe

(a)
3
Critical depth dc (ft)

2
4.0'
1 3.0' 3.5'
dc Cannot exceed
2.0' 2.5' top of pipe
1.5'
1.0' Dia.
0
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100
Discharge, Q in ft3/s
(b)
6 8
Critical depth dc (ft)

Critical depth dc (ft)

5 7

9'
4 7' 6
8'
9'
8'
3 dc Cannot exceed 5
4' Dia. 7'
6' top of pipe
5'
2
0 100 200 300 400 500 600 700 800 900 1,000
Discharge, Q in ft3/s
(c)
14

12
Critical depth dc (ft)

10

6 15' dc Cannot exceed

13' top of pipe
9' Dia. 11'
4
0 1,000 2,000 3,000 4,000
Discharge, Q in ft3/s
Hydraulic Design of Highway Culverts
(DOT FHWA) 1985

14–68 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012)

Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Exhibit 14–18 Critical depth—oval concrete pipe—long axis horizontal

(a)
3.4

3
Critical depth dc in ft

68” by 43”
1
53” by 34”
45” by 29”
38” by 29”
dc Cannot exceed
23” by 14” top of pipe

0 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 160 180 200

Discharge, Q in ft3/s

(b)
7

6
Critical depth dc in ft

3 60” by 38”
151” by 97”
2 121” by 77”
106” by 68” dc Cannot exceed
91” by 58” top of pipe
76” by 48”
1
0 100 200 300 400 500 600 700 800 900 1,000
Discharge, Q in ft3/s
Hydraulic Design of Highway Culverts
(DOT FHWA) 1985

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012) 14–69

 Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Exhibit 14–19 Critical depth—standard corrugated metal (C.M.) pipe-arch

(a)
2.0

1.8

1.6
Critical depth dc in ft

1.4

1.2

1.0

0.8
43” by 27”
0.6 dc Cannot exceed
36” by 22”
top of pipe
29” by 18”
0.4 25” by 16”
0 10 20 30 40 50 60
Discharge, Q in ft3/s

(b)
3.4
3.2
3.0
2.8
Critical depth dc in ft

2.6
2.4
2.2
2.0
1.8
1.6
1.4
1.2 72” by 44”
1.0 65” by 40” dc Cannot exceed
58” by 36” top of pipe
0.8 50” by 31”
0.6 43” by 27”
0 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 160 180 200 220 240
Discharge, Q in ft3/s
Hydraulic Design of Highway Culverts
(DOT FHWA) 1985

14–70 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012)

 Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Exhibit 14–20 Critical depth—structural plate—corrugated metal (C.M.) pipe-arch, 18-inch corner radius

(a)
5

4
Critical depth dc in ft

3
6’-1” by 4’-7”

9’-6” by 6’-5”
2
8’-2” by 5’-9”
7’ by 5’-1”
dc Cannot exceed
top of pipe
1
0 100 200 300 400 500 600
Discharge, Q in ft3/s

(b)
9

8
Critical depth dc in ft

5
9’-6” by 6’-5”
4
16’-7” by 10’-1”
15’-4” by 9’-3” dc Cannot exceed
3
12’-10” by 8’-4” top of pipe
2 11’-5” by 7’-3”
0 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 160 180 200 220 240
Discharge, Q in ft3/s
Hydraulic Design of Highway Culverts
(DOT FHWA) 1985

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012) 14–71

Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Exhibit 14–21 Entrance loss coefficients

Coefficient Ke to apply to velocity head V2/2g for determination of head loss at entrance to a structure, such as a
culvert or conduit, operating full or partly full with control at the outlet.
V2
Entrance head loss He = K e
2g
Type of structure and design of entrance Coefficient Ke
Pipe, concrete
Projecting from fill, socket end (groove end) 0.2
Projecting from fill, square cut end 0.5
Headwall or headwall and wingwalls
Socket end of pipe (groove end) 0.2
Square-edge 0.5
Rounded (radius = 1/12D) 0.2
Mitered to conform to fill slope 0.7
*End-section conforming to fill slope 0.5
Pipe, or pipe-arch, corrugated metal
Projecting from fill (no headwall) 0.9
Headwall or headwall and wingwalls
Square-edge 0.5
Mitered to conform to fill slope 0.7
*End-section conforming to fill slope 0.5
Box, reinforced concrete
Headwall parallel to embankment (no wingwalls)
Square-edged on 3 edges 0.5
Rounded on 3 edges to radius of 1/12 barrel dimension 0.2
Wingwalls at 30 degrees to 75 degrees to barrel
Square-edged at crown 0.4
Crown-edge rounded to radius of 1/12 barrel dimension 0.2
Wingwalls at 10 degrees to 25 degrees to barrel
Square-edged at crown 0.5
Wingwalls parallel (extension of sides)
Square-edged at crown 0.7

* “End-section conforming to fill slope,” made of either metal or concrete, are the sec-
tions commonly available from manufacturers. From limited hydraulic tests, they are
equivalent in operation to a headwall in both inlet and outlet control. Some end sections
incorporating a closed taper in their design have a superior hydraulic performance.
These latter sections can be designed using the information given for the beveled inlet,
p. 5–13, DOT FHWA (1985).

14–72 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012)

Appendix A Estimating the Roughness Coefficient n for Use
in Hydraulic Computations Associated with Nat-
ural Streams, Floodways, and Similar Streams
This appendix (Cowan 1956) describes a method for
estimating the roughness coefficient n for use in hy-
draulic computations associated with natural streams,
floodways, and similar streams. The procedure pro-
posed applies to the estimation of n in Manning’s
formula. This formula is now widely used, it is simpler
to apply than other widely recognized formulas, and
has been shown to be reliable.
Manning’s formula is empirical. The roughness coef-
ficient n is used to quantitatively express the degree of
retardation of flow. The value of n indicates not only
the roughness of the sides and bottom of the channel,
but also all other types of irregularities of the channel
and profile. In short, n is used to indicate the net effect
of all factors causing retardation of flow in a reach of
channel under consideration.
There seems to have developed a tendency to regard
the selection of n for natural channels as either an
arbitrary or an intuitive process. This probably results
from the rather cursory treatment of the roughness
coefficient in most of the more widely used hydraulic
textbooks and hand­books. The fact is that the estima-
tion of n requires the exercise of critical judgment
in the evaluation of the primary factors affecting n.
With any method of estimating n, care should be ap-
plied to ensure reasonable answers. For example,
if this seven-step process yields a resulting n value
greater than one for a natural stream, the result is very
likely too high. Comparing the systematic method
results with pictorial n values in references listed in
NEH630.1402(a) will ensure the reasonableness of
systematically computed n values. These factors are
irregularity of the surfaces of the channel sides and
bottom, variations in shape and size of cross sections,
obstructions, vegetation, and meandering of the chan-
nel.
The need for realistic estimates of n justifies the adop-
tion of a systematic procedure for making the esti-
mates.
Procedure for estimating n—The general procedure
for estimating n involves first the selection of a basic
value of n for a straight, uniform, smooth channel in
the natural materials involved; then secondly, through
critical consideration of the factors listed, the selec-
tion of a modifying value associated with each factor.
The modifying values are added to the basic value to
obtain n for the channel under consideration.
(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012)
In the selection of the modifying values associated
with the five primary factors, it is important that each
factor be examined and consider­ed independently.
In considering each factor, it should be kept in mind
that n represents a quantitative expression of retar-
dation of flow. Turbulence of flow can, in a sense, be
visualized as a measure or indicator of retardance.
Therefore, in each case, more critical judgment may be
ex­ercised if it is recognized that as conditions associ-
ated with any factor change so as to induce greater
turbulence, there should be an increase in the modi-
fying value. A description and tabulated guide to the
selection of modifying values for each factor is given
under the following procedural steps.
Step 1 Select the basic n value. This step requires
the selection of a basic n value for a straight, uni-
form, smooth channel in the natural materials in-
volved. The selection involves consideration of what
may be regarded as a hypothetical channel. The
conditions of straight alignment, uniform cross sec-
tion, and smooth side and bottom surfaces without
vegetation should be kept in mind. Thus, the basic n
will be visualized as varying only with the materials
forming the sides and bottom of the channel. The
minimum values of n shown by reported test results
for the best channels in earth are in the range from
0.016 to 0.018. Practical limitations associated with
maintaining smooth and uniform channels in earth
for any appreciable period indicate that 0.02 is a re-
alistic basic n. The basic n, as it is intended for use
in this procedure, for natural or excavated channels,
may be selected from the following table. Where the
bottom and sides of a channel are of different ma-
terials, this fact may be recog­nized in selecting the
basic n.
Character of channel Basic n
Channels in earth 0.020
Channels cut into rock 0.025
Channels in fine gravel 0.024
Channels in coarse gravel 0.028
Step 2 Select the modifying value for surface ir-
regularity. The selection is to be based on the degree
of roughness or irregularity of the surfaces of chan-
nel sides and bottom. Consider the actual surface
irregulari­ty; first, in relation to the degree of surface
smoothness obtainable with the natural materials
involved, and second, in relation to the depths of
14A–1
Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

flow under consideration. Actual surface irregular- Character of variations in size and shape Modifying
ity comparable to the best sur­face to be expected of of cross sections value
the natural materials involved calls for a modifying Changes in size or shape occurring gradu- 0.000
value of zero. Higher degrees of irregularity induce ally
turbulence and call for increased modifying values.
Large and small sections alternating 0.005
This table may be used as a guide to the selection. occasionally or shape changes causing
occasional shift of main flow from side
Degree of Surfaces Modifying
irregularity comparable to value
to side

Smooth The best obtainable for the 0.000 Large and small sections alternating 0.010 to
materials involved frequently or shape changes causing 0.015
frequent shifting of main flow from
Minor Good dredged channels; 0.005 side-to-side
slightly eroded or scoured
side slopes of canals or
Step 4 Selection of modifying value for obstruc-
drainage channels
tions. The selection is to be based on the presence
Moderate Fair to poor dredged chan- 0.010 and characteristics of ob­structions such as debris
nels; moderately sloughed deposits, stumps, exposed roots, boulders, fallen
or eroded side slopes of
and lodged logs. Care should be taken that condi-
canals or drainage channels
tions consider­ed in other steps are not re-evaluated
Severe Badly sloughed banks of 0.020 or double-counted by this step.
natural channels; badly
eroded or sloughed sides of In judging the relative effect of obstructions consid-
canals or drainage channels; er: the degree to which the obstructions occupy or
unshaped, jagged and ir- reduce the average cross-sectional area at various
regular sur­faces of channels stages; the character of obstructions (sharp-edged
excavated in rock or angular objects induce greater turbulence than
curved, smooth-surfaced objects); and the position
Step 3 Selection of modifying value for variations and spacing of obstructions transversely and longi-
in shape and size of cross sections. In considering tudinally in the reach under consideration. The fol-
changes in size of cross sections, judge the ap- lowing table may be used as a guide to the selection.
proximate magnitude of increase and decrease in
successive cross sections as compared to the aver-
Relative effect of Modifying
age. Changes of con­siderable magnitude, if they obstructions value
are gradual and uniform, do not cause significant
Negligible 0.000
turbulence. The greater turbulence is associated
with alternating large and small sections where the Minor 0.010 to 0.015
changes are abrupt. The degree of effect of size Appreciable 0.020 to 0.030
changes may be best visualized by considering it as Severe 0.040 to 0.060
depending primarily on the frequency with which
large and small sections alternate and secondarily
on the magnitude of the changes. Step 5 Selection of modifying value for vegetation.
The re­tarding effect of vegetation is probably due
In the case of shape variations, consider the degree primarily to the turbulence induced as the water
to which the changes cause the greatest depth of flows around and between the limbs, stems and
flow to move from side to side of the channel. Shape foliage, and secondarily to reduction in cross sec-
changes causing the greatest turbulence are those tion. As depth and velocity in­crease, the force of the
for which shifts of the main flow from side-to-side flowing water tends to bend the vegetation. There-
occur in distances short enough to produce eddies fore, the ability of vegetation to cause turbulence
and upstream currents in the shallower portions of is partly relat­ed to its resistance to bending force.
those sections where the maximum depth of flow is Furthermore, the amount and character of foliage,
near either side. Selection of modifying values may that is, the growing season condition versus dor-
be based on the follow­ing guide: mant season condition is important. In judging the

14A–2 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012)

Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

retarding effect of vegeta­tion, critical consideration
should be given to the following: the height in rela-
tion to depth of flow; the capacity to resist bending;
the degree to which the cross section is occupied
or blocked out; and the transverse and longitudinal
distribution of vegetation of different types, densi-
ties, and heights in the reach under consideration.
The following table may be used as a guide to the
selection:

Vegetation and flow conditions comparable to: Degree of Range in modifying

effect on n value
value
• Dense growths of flexible turf grasses or weeds, of which Bermuda and blue Low 0.005 to 0.010
grasses are examples, where the average depth of flow is 2 to 3 times the
height of vegetation
• Supple seedling tree switches such as willow, cottonwood or salt cedar
where the average depth of flow is 3 to 4 times the height of the vegetation

• Turf grasses where the average depth of flow is 1 to 2 times the height of
vegetation
• Stemmy grasses, weeds or tree seedlings with moderate cover where the Medium 0.010 to 0.025
average depth of flow is 2 to 3 times the height of vegetation
• Dormant season brushy growths, moderately dense, similar to willows 1 to
2 years old, along side slopes of channel with no significant vegetation along
the channel bottom, where the hydraulic radius is greater than 2 feet

• Turf grasses where the average depth of flow is about equal to the height of High 0.025 to 0.050
vegetation
• Dormant season, willow or cottonwood trees 8 to 10 years old, intergrown
with some weeds and brush, none of the vegetation in foliage, where the
hydraulic radius is greater than 2 feet
• Growing season, bushy willows about 1 year old intergrown with some weeds
in full foliage along side slopes, no significant vegetation along channel bot-
tom, where hydraulic radius is greater than 2 feet

• Turf grasses where the average depth of flow is less than one half the height Very high 0.050 to 0.100
of vegetation
• Growing season, bushy willows about 1 year old, intergrown with weeds in
full foliage along side slopes; dense growth of cattails along channel bottom;
any value of hydraulic radius up to 10 or 15 feet
• Growing season; trees intergrown with weeds and brush, all in full foliage;
any value of hydraulic radius up to 10 or 15 feet

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012) 14A–3

Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations
A further basis for judgment in the selection of the
modifying value for vegetation may be found in
table 14A–1 which contains descrip­tions and data
for actual cases where n has been determined. In
each of the cases listed in table 14A–1, the data
were such that the increase in n due to vegetation
could be determined within reasonably close limits.
Step 6 Determination of the modifying value for
meandering of channel. The modifying value for
meandering may be estimated as follows: Add the
basic n for step 1 and the modifying values of steps
2 through 5 to obtain an estimate of n for a straight
channel, or ns.
Let Lf= the straight length of the reach under consid-
eration.
Lc = the meander length of the channel in the reach.
Compute modifying value for meandering in accor-
dance with the following table.
Ratio Lc/Lf Degree of Modifying
meandering value
1.0 to 1.2 Minor 0.000
1.2 to 1.5 Appreciable 0.15 ns
1.5 and greater Severe 0.30 ns
Where lengths for computing the approximate value
of Lc/Lf are not readily obtainable, the degree of
meandering can usually be judged reasonably well.
Step 7 Computation of n for the reach. The value
of n for the reach is obtained by adding the values
determined in steps 1 through 6. An illus­tration of
the estimation of n is given in example 14A–1.
Dealing with cases where both channel and
floodplain flow occurs
Work with natural streams and floodways often re-
quires consideration of a wide range of discharges.
At the higher stages both channel and overbank or
floodplain flow are involved. Usually the conditions
are such that the channel and floodplain will have dif-
ferent degrees of retardance and, there­fore, different n
values. In such cases, the hydraulic computations will
be improved by dividing the cross sections into parts
or subdivisions having different n values.
The reason for and effect of subdividing cross sections
is to permit the composite n for the reach to vary with
14A–4 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012)
Part 630
National Engineering Handbook
stage above the bankfull stage. This effect is illustrated
by example14A– 2. The usual practice is to divide the
cross section into two parts; one subdivision being
the channel portion and the other the floodplain. More
than two subdivisions may be made if conditions
indicate wide variations of n. However, in view of the
practical aspects of the problem, more than three sub-
divisions would not normally be justified.
In estimating n for the channel subdivision, all of the
factors described previously and all of the procedural
steps would be considered. Although conditions might
indicate some variation of n with stage in the channel,
it is recommended that an average value of n be select-
ed for use in the hy­draulic computations for all stages.
In the case of floodplain subdivisions, the estimate of
n would consider all factors except meandering. That
is, the estimate would employ all of the procedural
steps except step 6. Floodplain n values will normally
be somewhat greater than the channel values. Agricul-
tural floodplain conditions are not likely to indicate an
n less than 0.05 to 0.06. Many cases will justify values
in the 0.07 to 0.09 range, and cases calling for values as
high as 0.15 to 0.20 may be encountered. These higher
values apply primarily because of the relatively shal-
low depths of flow. The two factors requiring most
careful consideration are obstructions and vegetation.
Many agricultural floodplains have fairly dense net-
works of fences to be evaluated as obstructions in step
4. Vegetation probably would be judged on the basis of
growing season conditions.
Field and office work
It is suggested that field parties record adequate notes
on field conditions pertinent to the five factors affect-
ing n at the time cross section surveys are being made.
The actual estimates of n may then be made in the
office. This will require training of both field and office
personnel. The conditions to be covered by field notes
and considered in the estimate of n apply to a reach of
channel and floodplain. It is not adequate to consider
only those conditions in the immediate vicinity of a
cross section. Note the sketch on figure 14A–l. With
cross sections located as shown, field notes should de-
scribe the channel and floodplain conditions through
the reach indicated as a basis for estimating the n val-
ues (assuming subdivided sections) to be incorporated
in the hydraulic computations at section 2.
Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Table 14A–1 Examples of effect of vegetation on n

Example Names and descriptions of channels Range in Range in Average Modifying

no. Names, plates, and tables mean hydraulic value n value
Refer to USDA SCS (1963); USDA (1929) velocity radius
1 Kaskaskia Mutual Dredged Channel near Bondville, Il- 0.89–1.15 1.36–4.35
linois; page 1. Channel shape, approximately trapezoidal,
approximate bottom width 10 feet and more than 8-foot
depth. An estimated n for the channel without vegetation
is 0.025.
a. Condition: badly obstructed by trees 1 to 6 inches in 0.049 0.024
diameter on side slopes and edges of bottom; some
weeds, but practically no grass; no foliage.
b. Condition: as described in a, but with summer foliage 0.067 0.042
and water weed on bottom along one-tenth of course.
2 Cummins Lake dredged channel near Gould, Arkansas; 0.53–1.82 2.41–6.23
pages 19 and 20. Average cross section of channel resem-
bles a parabola. At bankfull stage depth about 13 feet, top
width about 75 feet.
a. Side slopes moderately irregular from erosion and
sloughing; estimated n for channel without vegetation
0.035.
b. Dormant season. Willows about 1 year old and 6 to 10 0.056 0.021
feet high continuous along side slopes except for about
the upper third of sides. No growth in a strip about 20
feet wide along bottom. No foliage.
c. Growing season, otherwise vegetation same as above. 0.072 0.037
Willows and some weeds in full foliage. No vegetation
along bottom.
3 Natural channel of Embarras River near Charleston, Illi- 2.09–2.94 6.52–11.72
nois, page 24. Channel shape, approximately trapezoidal,
approximate bottom width 100 feet and depth 19 feet.
a. An estimate of n for this channel with no growth on the
banks would be 0.025.
b. Condition: channel bottom comparatively clean, and 0.032 0.007
smooth, upper part of side slope covered with large
trees, natural channel.
4 Ditch No. 18 of Cypress Creek drainage district near 0.47–1.08 1.91–4.99
Arkansas City, Arkansas; page 3. Average cross section is
approximately triangular; at bankfull stage depth about
13 feet, top width about 70 feet.
a. Dredged channel about 8 years old. Side slopes mod-
erately irregular. Estimated n for the channel without
vegetation 0.035.
b. Dormant season. Practically the entire reach covered 0.061 0.026
with trees, mostly willows and cottonwoods. Some dry
weeds and brush. No foliage.
c. Growing season. Vegetation described under b, in full 0.102 0.067
foliage.

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012) 14A–5

Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Table 14A–l Examples of effect of vegetation on n—Continued

Example Names and descriptions of channels Range in Range in Average Modifying

no. Names, plates, and tables mean hydraulic value n value
Refer to USDA SCS (1963); USDA (1929) velocity radius
5 Lake Fork special dredged channel near Bement, Illinois; 0.76–1.65 2.6–7.33
pages 14 and 15. Average cross section is approximately
parabolic; at bankfull stage depth about 13 feet, top width
about 65 to 70 feet.

a. Dormant season. Channel cleared; practically no veg- 0.031

etation of any type in channel.
b. Growing season. Densely growing, bushy willows con- 0.062 0.031
tinuous along side slopes; some poplar saplings scat-
tered among willows; no growth in a strip 20 to 30 feet
wide along bottom. No foliage.
c. Growing season. Vegetation described under b, in full 0.092 0.061
foliage.
6 Ditch No. 1 of Little River drainage district near Chaffee, 0.68–1.51 2.00–4.26
Missouri, page 4. Average cross section trapezoidal, side
slopes about 1:1, bottom width about 10 feet, depth about
8 feet.
a. Channel newly cleared, practically no vegetation. 0.029
b. Dormant season. Dense, bushy willows continuous 0.071 0.042
along side slopes; no foliage. No vegetation along bot-
tom of channel.

14A–6 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012)

Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Figure 14A–1 Selection of Manning’s n for a cross section

Point about
halfway between
section 2 and section 3 Point about
halfway between
section 1 and section 2

Approximate flood
plain boundaries
Section 3

Section 1
Section 2

Approximate reach through

which conditions are to be
considered for estimating
values of n at section 2

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012) 14A–7

Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Figure 14A–2 shows a sample set of notes that illus-
trate the type of field information to be recorded as a
basis for estimating n. Field staff should be trained to
recognize and record in brief state­ments those condi-
tions that are necessary for realistic evaluation of the
five factors discussed under procedural steps 1 to 6.
Example 14A–1 Estimation of n for a reach
willows and climbing vines; thick growth of water
weed on bottom; summer condition with vegetation in
full foliage.
Average cross section approximates a trapezoid with
side slopes about 1.5 to 1 and bottom width about
10 feet. At bankfull stage, average depth and surface
width are about 8.5 and 40 feet, respectively.

This example is based on a case where n has been Step Remarks Modifying
determined so that comparison between the estimated values
and actual n can be shown. 1 Soil materials indicate minimum 0.02
basic n
Channel: Camp Creek dredged channel near Seymour, 2 Description indicates moderate 0.01
Illinois; see USDA SCS (1963). irregularity
3 Changes in size and shape judged 0.00
Description: Course straight; 661 feet long. Cross insignificant
section, very little variation in shape; variation in size 4 No obstructions indicated 0.00
moderate, but changes not abrupt. Side slopes fairly 5 Description indicates very high 0.08
regular, bottom uneven and irregular. Soil, lower effect of vegetation
part yellowish gray clay; upper part, light gray silty 6 Reach described as straight 0.00
clay loam. Condition, side slopes cover­ed with heavy
Total estimated n 0.11
growth of poplar trees 2 to 3 inches in diameter, large

Figure 14A–2 Example of field notes describing roughness conditions

1. Channel: bottom width 20 to Notes on Roughness By: J. Doe

40 ft., side slopes 1 to 1 to Conditions.
3 to 1: depth range 8 to 12 ft. Section 2, __________________ Creek
a. Bottom: small pot holes and
bars; average grade fairly 3. Right floodplain: at least 90% cultivated,
uniform, some small logs and mostly row crops and some small grain;
roots affect low flows. small fields; 8 or 10 transverse fences with
b. Banks: some sloughing and brushy or weedy fence rows.
erosion, fairly rough.
c. Section: size fairly uniform;
considerable shape changes
but gradual over 200 to
400 ft.
d. Vegetation: very little bottom;
sides mostly grass and weeds
with occasional patches
dense brush 3 to 5 ft high.

2. Left floodplain: less than 10%

cultivated in small fields; few
fences; 50 to 60% brushy
with small trees; remainder
scattered open areas and
bunch grasses and weeds

14A–8 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012)

Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

USDA SCS (1963) gives the following determined val- Table 14A–2 shows the computations for example
ues for n for this channel: for average depth of 4.6 feet 14A–2, and figure 14A–3 shows a plot of cross section
n = 0.095; for average depth of 7.3 feet n = 0.104. properties for the complete section versus depth.

Example 14A–2 Effect of subdividing cross sec- In natural streams, n normally shows a minor decrease
tions as stage in­creases up to, or somewhat above, the
bankfull stage, then appreciably increases as overbank
The purpose of this example is to illustrate the ef- stage increases. When n is significantly different for
fect of subdividing sections on the value of n for the different parts of the cross section, subdivision of the
complete section. It is not an illustration of hydraulic cross section, as a basis for making the computations,
computations for determining water sur­face profiles or automatically causes nt to vary with stage above the
stage discharge relationships. bankfull stage. This is true although nt is not computed
in methods for determining water surface profiles.
This illustration is based on the following: Note on figure 14A–3 that nt, which has been comput-
ed in example 14A–2 for illustrative purposes, shows
• An actual stream cross section for which curves
considerable increase with stage above the 10-foot
showing depth versus area and depth versus
depth and that this increase is automatically recog-
hydraulic radius for the channel and floodplain
nized by subdivision of the cross section.
subdivisions and for the complete section are
plotted on figure 14A–3. Values of n are: for the
The plot of hydraulic radius on figure 14A–3 illustrates
channel subdivision 0.04; for the floodplain sub-
a typical characteristic of natural streams. Note that
division 0.08.
the hydraulic radius for the complete section increases
• The conditions of uniform, steady flow are as- up to bankfull depth, then decreases through a limited
sumed. range of depth, and again increases as depth of over­
bank flow increases.
Notation:
This example also illustrates that recognition of high
Q = discharge, ft3/s
retardance for floodplain subdivisions by the use
A = cross section area, ft2
of relatively high n values does not cause n for the
R = hydraulic radius, ft
complete section, nt, to be unreasonably high. In this
So = channel slope, ft/ft
case, the channel and floodplain are assigned n values
n = roughness coefficient
of 0.04 and 0.08. The value of nt ranges up to 0.072 as
1.486 2 1
shown by table 14A–2 and figure 14A–3.
Q= AR 3 S o 2
n (eq. 14A–1)
2
1.486
Let Kd = AR 3 (eq. 14A–2)
n
then: 1

Q = Kd S o 2 (eq. 14A–3)

Assume the conditions are such that it is desirable to

recognize more than one subdivision, each having a
different n. Let subscripts 1, 2, and 3 refer to the sec-
tion subdivisions and subscript t to the total section.

From equation 14A–3:

1 1
Q = (Kd1 + Kd 2  Kd n ) S o 2 = ∑ Kd S o 2
(eq. 14A–4)

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012) 14A–9

Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Figure 14A–3 Hydraulic properties of a subdivided cross section, example 14A–2

Hydraulic radius in ft
2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16

20

1 4 3 2 5 7
6

15
Depth in ft

10
1 Channel area–A1
2 Channel hydraulic radius–R1
3 Floodplain area–A2
4 Floodplain hydraulic radius–R2
5 5 Composite area–At
6 Composite hydraulic radius–Rt
7 Composite Mannings–nt

0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Area in 1,000 ft2
Manning’s n in hundredths

14A–10 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012)

Chapter 14 Stage Discharge Relations Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Table 14A–2 Computations for example 14A–2

Depth A1 R1 R12/3 Kd1 A2 R2 R22/3 Kd2 ΣKd At Rt Rt2/3 K nt

(ft) (ft2) (ft) (ft) (ft) (ft2) (ft)
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9) (10) (11) (12) (13) (14) (15)
0.0 0 0.0 0.0 0 0 0.0 0.0 0 0 0 0.0 0.0 0 0.0
4.7 90 3.33 2.23 7,456 0 0.0 0.0 0 7,456 90 3.33 2.23 298 0.04
7.8 180 5.29 3.036 20,302 0 0.0 0.0 0 20,302 180 5.29 3.036 812 0.04
9.7 240 7.06 3.68 32,813 750 1.06 1.04 14,493 47,296 990 1.31 1.197 1,761 0.037
11.7 300 8.82 4.269 47,576 2,238 2.88 2.024 84,149 131,726 2,538 3.14 2.144 8,087 0.061
13.7 360 10.59 4.822 64,495 3,853 4.58 2.758 197,381 261,876 4,213 4.82 2.854 17,864 0.068
16.7 450 13.22 5.591 93,467 6,488 7.08 3.687 444,353 537,821 6,938 7.30 3.763 38,797 0.072

2 2 2
1.486
Kd1 = A 1 R1 3 = 37.15 A1 R1 3 K = 1.486 A t R t 3
0.04

K
1.486 2 2
nt =
Kd 2 =
0.08
A 2 R 2 3 = 18.58 A 2 R 2 3 ∑ Kd

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 53, April 2012) 14A–11

United States
Department of Part 630 Hydrology
Agriculture

Natural
National Engineering Handbook
Resources
Conservation
Service

Chapter 15 Time of Concentration

Rain clouds
Cloud formation

Precipitation

n
iratio
Evaporation
n

ean
tio

Transp
oil
ta

from oc
ge

s
ve

from
m

on
fro

ms
ati
n
tio

ir

a
tre
sp
ra
po

an

ms
va

Tr

Surfa E
fro

ce ru
noff

Infiltration

Soil
Percolation

Rock Ocean
Ground water
Deep percolation

(210–VI–NEH, May 2010)

Chapter 15 Time of Concentration Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Issued May 2010

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all

its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, age,
disability, and where applicable, sex, marital status, familial status, parental
status, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, political beliefs, re-
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Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communication
of program information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should con-
tact USDA’s TARGET Center at (202) 720–2600 (voice and TDD). To file a
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795–3272 (voice) or (202) 720–6382 (TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity
provider and employer.

(210–VI–NEH, May 2010)

Acknowledgments

Chapter 15 was originally prepared in 1971 by Kenneth M. Kent (retired).

This version was prepared by Donald E. Woodward (retired), under the
guidance of Claudia C. Hoeft, national hydraulic engineer, NRCS, Wash-
ington, DC. Annette Humpal, hydraulic engineer, NRCS, Wisconsin, and
Geoffrey Cerrelli, hydraulic engineer, NRCS, Pennsylvania, provided the
information in appendix 15B and provided reviews and edits to the docu-
ment.

The following are recognized for their work in developing this revision.
Sonia Jacobsen, hydraulic engineer, NRCS, Minnesota, provided multiple
reviews. William Merkel, hydrology team leader, Helen Fox Moody,
hydraulic engineer, and Quan D. Quan, hydraulic engineer, NRCS, all in
Beltsville, Maryland, provided reviews, development and editing of con-
tent material, and assisted Geoffrey Cerrelli with preparation of this
document. Lynn Owens, editor, Wendy Pierce, illustrator, and Suzi Self,
editorial assistant, Technical Publications Team, NCGC, NRCS, Fort Worth,
Texas prepared the final document.

(210–VI–NEH, May 2010) 15–i

Chapter 15 Time of Concentration Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

15–ii (210–VI–NEH, May 2010)

Chapter 15 Time of Concentration

Contents 630.1500 Introduction 15–1

630.1501 Definitions and basic relations 15–1

(a) Types of flow..................................................................................................15–1
(b) Travel time......................................................................................................15–2
(c) Lag...................................................................................................................15–2
(d) Time of concentration..................................................................................15–3
(e) Relation between lag and time of concentration......................................15–3

630.1502 Methods for estimating time of concentration 15–5

(a) Watershed lag method..................................................................................15–5
(b) Velocity method.............................................................................................15–6

630.1503 Other considerations 15–9

(a) Field observations.........................................................................................15–9
(b) Multiple subarea watersheds.......................................................................15–9
(c) Surface flow...................................................................................................15–9
(d) Travel time through bodies of water...........................................................15–9
(e) Variation in lag and time of concentration . ............................................15–10
(f) Effects of urbanization...............................................................................15–11
(g) Geographic information systems .............................................................15–11

630.1504 Examples 15–12

(a) Example of watershed lag method...........................................................15–12
(b) Example of velocity method......................................................................15–12

630.1505 References 15–15

Appendix 15A Other Methods for Computing Time of Concentration 15A–1

Appendix 15B Shallow Concentrated Flow Alternatives 15B–1

(210–VI–NEH, May 2010) 15–iii

Chapter 15 Time of Concentration Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Tables Table 15–1 Manning’s roughness coefficients for sheet flow 15–6

Table 15–2 Maximum sheet flow lengths using the McCuen-Spiess 15–7
limitation criteria

Table 15–3 Equations and assumptions developed from figure 15–4 15–8

Table 15–4 Variation in lag time for selected events for selected 15–10
streams on three watersheds in Maryland

Table 15–5 Field data and computed velocities at each cross 15–14
section in reach R–2

Table 15–6 Travel times for flow segments along reach R–3 15–14

Table 15A–1 SCS Drainage area equations 15A–1

Table 15B–1 Assumptions used by Cerrelli and Humpal to 15B–3

develop shallow concentrated flow curves

Figures Figure 15–1 Types of flow 15–2

Figure 15–2 Conceptual watershed illustrating travel time from 15–3

the centroid (gray dot) of each band of area to the
watershed outlet

Figure 15–3 The relation of time of concentration (Tc) and lag (L) 15–4
to the dimensionless unit hydrograph

Figure 15–4 Velocity versus slope for shallow concentrated flow 15–8

Figure 15–5 Mawney Brook Watershed, Kent County, RI 15–12

Figure 15–6 Sample watershed for velocity method example 15–13

Figure 15B–1 TR–55 shallow concentrated flow curves 15B–2

Figure 15B–2 Cerrelli’s and Humpal’s shallow concentrated 15B–3

flow curves

15–iv (210–VI–NEH, May 2010)

Chapter 15 Time of Concentration
630.1500 Introduction
This chapter contains information on the watershed
characteristics called travel time, lag, and time of
concentration. These watershed characteristics influ-
ence the shape and peak of the runoff hydrograph. The
National Engineering Handbook, Part 630, Hydrology,
Chapter 16, Hydrographs (NEH630.16) contains infor-
mation on development of runoff hydrographs. The
methods presented in this chapter are suitable for use
with any hydrologic model which uses time of concen-
tration or lag as an input parameter. Users of models
are cautioned to be mindful of specific model input
parameters and limitations, which may not be the
same as limitations of a particular time of concentra-
tion estimation tool. Limitations of specific models are
not described in this chapter.
(210–VI–NEH, May 2010)
630.1501 Definitions and basic
relations
(a) Types of flow
Rainfall over a watershed that reaches the ground
will follow one of four potential paths. Some will be
intercepted by vegetation and evaporate into the at-
mosphere. Some will fall onto the ground surface and
evaporate. Some will infiltrate into the soil. Some will
run directly off from the ground surface. Depending
on total storm rainfall and a variety of other factors, a
portion of the water will find its way to the stream sys-
tem. Of the portion that makes its way to the stream
system, there are four types of flow that may occur
singly or in combination throughout the watershed.
Figure 15–1 illustrates these types of flow.
Surface flow—In figure 15–1, point 1 represents a loca-
tion where precipitation falls on a watershed. Surface
runoff is represented by lines with arrows showing
travel along the surface of the watershed from point 1
to point 2. Surface flow takes the form of sheet flow,
shallow concentrated flow, and/or channel flow.
Surface flow with transmission losses—In figure
15–1, point 3 represents a location where precipitation
falls on a watershed. Surface flow is represented by
the lines with arrows showing travel along the surface
of the watershed from point 3 to point 4, while the
transmission losses are represented by the lines with
arrows indicating water infiltrating into the ground
surface. In this type of flow, runoff is largely infiltrated
into the ground before reaching the stream channel.
This type of flow is common in arid, semiarid and sub-
humid climates, and in karst areas. The distance from
point 3 to point 4 depends on the amount of runoff,
moisture characteristics of the soil, topography, and
hydraulic features of the flow.
Interflow or quick return flow—In figure 15–1, point
5 represents a location where precipitation falls on
a watershed. Water is infiltrated at this point, flows
rapidly underground, and eventually returns to the
surface at point 6. From point 6, it continues as sur-
face flow until reaching the stream channel at point 7.
This flow appears rapidly in comparison to baseflow
and is generally much in excess of normal baseflow. It
15–1
Chapter 15 Time of Concentration Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

is common in humid climates and in watersheds with (b) Travel time

soils having high infiltration capacities and moderate
to steep slopes.
Baseflow—In figure 15–1, point 8 represents a location
where precipitation falls on a watershed, infiltrates
directly into the ground, and enters the ground wa-
ter table. From there, it flows slowly until it eventu-
ally reappears, entering a stream channel at point 9.
This type of flow has little effect on flood peaks in
small watersheds. However, if baseflow is a factor
in flood flows, it is usually added to the base of the
hydrograph.
In figure 15–1, flows from points 1 to 2, 3 to 4, and 6
to 7 can be measured directly. Flow from points 5 to 6
and 8 to 9 are usually determined indirectly by storm
and hydrograph analyses or by field observation of
rainfall and runoff. Ground water movement is de-
termined indirectly by analyses of precipitation, soil
moisture movements, and evapotranspiration.
Travel time (Tt) is the time it takes water to travel
from one location to another. Travel time between two
points is determined using the following relationship:

Tt = (eq. 15–1)
3, 600 V
where:
Tt = travel time, h
 = distance between the two points under
consideration, ft
V = average velocity of flow between the two
points, ft/s
3,600 = conversion factor, s to h
(c) Lag
Lag is the delay between the time runoff from a rainfall
event over a watershed begins until runoff reaches
its maximum peak. Conceptually, lag may be thought
of as a weighted time of concentration where, if for
a given storm, the watershed is divided into bands of
area (fig. 15–2), the travel times from the centroids of
the areas to the main watershed outlet may be repre-
sented by the following relationship:

L=
∑ (a Q T )
x x tx
(eq. 15–2a)
Figure 15–1 Types of flow
∑ (a Q ) x x

∑ (a Q x Tt x )
Rainfall or

(eq. 15–2b)
snowmelt

x
L=
AQa
where:
channel
Major

1 L = lag, h
Surface flow
2
ax = increment of watershed area, mi2
Qx = runoff in inches from area ax, in
Ttx = travel time from the centroid of ax to the point
Surface flow 3 of reference, h
with transmission
losses A = total area of the watershed above the point of
4
reference, mi2
Qa = total runoff, in
5 6
Quick return flow In general hydrologic modeling practice, lag is not
7 computed using equation 15–2a or 15–2b. Instead, time
of concentration is estimated using one of the methods
in this chapter. In cases where only a peak discharge
8
Baseflow and/or hydrograph are desired at the watershed outlet
and watershed characteristics are fairly homogenous,
9 the watershed may be treated as a single area. A time

15–2 (210–VI–NEH, May 2010)

Chapter 15 Time of Concentration
of concentration for that single area is required. A
hydrograph is then developed using the methods de-
scribed in NEH630.16. However, if land use, hydrologic
soil group, slope, or other watershed characteristics
are not homogeneous throughout the watershed, the
approach is to divide the watershed into a number
of smaller subareas, which requires a time of con-
centration estimation for each subarea. Hydrographs
are then developed for each subarea by the methods
described in NEH630.16 and routed appropriately to
a point of reference using the methods described in
NEH630.17, Flood Routing.
In hydrograph analysis, lag is the time interval be-
tween the center of mass of the excess rainfall and the
peak runoff rate (fig. 15–3).
(d) Time of concentration
Time of concentration (Tc) is the time required for
runoff to travel from the hydraulically most distant
point in the watershed to the outlet. The hydraulically
most distant point is the point with the longest travel
Figure 15–2 Conceptual watershed illustrating travel time
from the centroid (gray dot) of each band of
area to the watershed outlet
aA 3 3
TT 33
Aa 2
TT 2
aA 11
TT 1
(210–VI–NEH, May 2010)
Part 630
National Engineering Handbook
time to the watershed outlet, and not necessarily the
point with the longest flow distance to the outlet. Time
of concentration is generally applied only to surface
runoff and may be computed using many different
methods. Time of concentration will vary depending
upon slope and character of the watershed and the
flow path.
In hydrograph analysis, time of concentration is the
time from the end of excess rainfall to the point on
the falling limb of the dimensionless unit hydrograph
(point of inflection) where the recession curve begins
(fig. 15–3).
(e) Relation between lag and time of
concentration
Various researchers (Mockus 1957; Simas 1996) found
that for average natural watershed conditions and an
approximately uniform distribution of runoff:
L = 0.6 Tc (eq. 15–3)
where:
L = lag, h
Tc = time of concentration, h
When runoff is not uniformly distributed, the water-
shed can be subdivided into areas with nearly uniform
flow so that equation 15–3 can be applied to each of
the subareas.
15–3
Chapter 15 Time of Concentration Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Figure 15–3 The relation of time of concentration (Tc) and lag (L) to the dimensionless unit hydrograph

Excess rainfall
L
1.0
∆D
.9

.8

.7
q/qp or Qa/Q

.6
qp
.5
Tc Point of inflection
.4

.3

.2

.1

0
0 1 2 3 4 5
Tp t/Tp

where:
L = Lag, h
Tc = time of concentration, h
Tp = time to peak, h
∆D = duration of excess rainfall, h
t/Tp = dimensionless ratio of any time to time to peak
q = discharge rate at time t, ft3/s
qp = peak discharge rate at time Tp, ft3/s
Qa = runoff volume up to t, in
Q = total runoff volume, in

15–4 (210–VI–NEH, May 2010)

Chapter 15
630.1502 Methods for estimating
time of concentration
Two primary methods of computing time of concentra-
tion were developed by the Natural Resources Conser-
vation Service (NRCS) (formerly the Soil Conservation
Service (SCS)).
(a) Watershed lag method
The SCS method for watershed lag was developed
by Mockus in 1961. It spans a broad set of conditions
ranging from heavily forested watersheds with steep
channels and a high percent of runoff resulting from
subsurface flow, to meadows providing a high retar-
dance to surface runoff, to smooth land surfaces and
large paved areas.
 0.8 (S + 1)
0.7
L=
1, 900 Y 0.5
Applying equation 15–3, L=0.6Tc, yields:
Tc =
 0.8
( S + 1)
0.7
1,140 Y 0.5
where:
L = lag, h
Tc = time of concentration, h
 = flow length, ft
Y = average watershed land slope, %
S = maximum potential retention, in
1, 000
= − 10
cn ′
where:
cn′ = the retardance factor
Flow length (  )—In the watershed lag method of
computing time of concentration, flow length is de-
fined as the longest path along which water flows from
the watershed divide to the outlet. In developing the
regression equation for the lag method, the longest
flow path was used to represent the hydraulically most
distant point in the watershed. Flow length can be
measured using aerial photographs, quadrangle sheets,
or GIS techniques. Mockus (USDA 1973) developed an
Time of Concentration Part 630
National Engineering Handbook
empirical relationship between flow length and drain-
age area using data from Agricultural Research Service
(ARS) watersheds. This relationship is:
 = 209 A 0.6 (eq. 15–5)
where:
 = flow length, ft
A = drainage area, acres
Land slope (Y), percent—The average land slope
of the watershed, as used in the lag method, not to be
confused with the slope of the flow path, can be deter-
mined in several different ways:
• by assuming land slope is equal to a weighted
average of soil map unit slopes, determined us-
ing the local soil survey
• by using a clinometer for field measurement to
determine an estimated representative average
land slope
• by drawing three to four lines on a topographic
(eq. 15–4a) map perpendicular to the contour lines and de-
termining the average weighted slope of these
lines
• by determining the average of the land slope
from grid points using a dot counter
(eq. 15–4b)
• by using the following equation (Chow 1964):
100 (CI )
Y= (eq. 15–6)
A
where:
Y = average land slope, %
C = summation of the length of the contour lines
that pass through the watershed drainage area
on the quad sheet, ft
I = contour interval used, ft
A = drainage area, ft2 (1 acre = 43,560 ft2)
Retardance factor—The retardance factor, cn´, is a
measure of surface conditions relating to the rate at
which runoff concentrates at some point of interest.
The term “retardance factor” expresses an inverse
relationship to “flow retardance.” Low retardance fac-
tors are associated with rough surfaces having high de-
grees of flow retardance, or surfaces over which flow
will be impeded. High retardance factors are associ-
ated with smooth surfaces having low degrees of flow
retardance, or surfaces over which flow moves rapidly.
(210–VI–NEH, May 2010) 15–5
Chapter 15 Time of Concentration
Thick mulches in forests are associated with low retar-
dance factors and reflect high degrees of retardance, as
well as high infiltration rates. Hay meadows have rela-
tively low retardance factors. Like thick mulches in for-
ests, stem densities in meadows provide a high degree
of retardance to overland flow in small watersheds. Con-
versely, bare surfaces with little retardance to overland
flows are represented by high retardance factors.
The retardance factor is approximately the same as
the curve number (CN) as defined in NEH630.09,
Hydrologic Soil-Cover Complexes. In practical usage,
CN is used as a surrogate for cn´, and the CN tables in
NEH 630.09 may be used to approximate cn´ in equa-
tions 15–4a and 15–4b. A CN of less than 50, or greater
than 95 should not be used in the solution of equations
15–4a and 15–4b (Mockus 1961).
Applications and limitations—The watershed lag
equation was developed using data from 24 watersheds
ranging in size from 1.3 acres to 9.2 square miles, with
the majority of the watersheds being less than 2,000
acres in size (Mockus 1961). Folmar and Miller (2000)
revisited the development of this equation using ad-
ditional watershed data and found that a reasonable
upper limit may be as much as 19 square miles.
(b) Velocity method
Another method for determining time of concentration
normally used within the NRCS is called the velocity
method. The velocity method assumes that time of
concentration is the sum of travel times for segments
along the hydraulically most distant flow path.
Tc = Tt1 + Tt 2 + Tt 3 +  Ttn (eq. 15–7)
where:
Tc = time of concentration, h
Ttn = travel time of a segment n, h
n = number of segments comprising the total hy-
draulic length
The segments used in the velocity method may be of
three types: sheet flow, shallow concentrated flow, and
open channel flow.
Sheet flow—Sheet flow is defined as flow over plane
surfaces. Sheet flow usually occurs in the headwa-
ters of a stream near the ridgeline that defines the
15–6 (210–VI–NEH, May 2010)
Part 630
National Engineering Handbook
watershed boundary. Typically, sheet flow occurs for
no more than 100 feet before transitioning to shallow
concentrated flow (Merkel 2001).
A simplified version of the Manning’s kinematic solu-
tion may be used to compute travel time for sheet flow.
This simplified form of the kinematic equation was
developed by Welle and Woodward (1986) after study-
ing the impact of various parameters on the estimates.
0.007 ( n )
0.8
Tt = (eq. 15–8)
(P )
0.5
2 S 0.4
where:
Tt = travel time, h
n = Manning’s roughness coefficient (table 15–1)
 = sheet flow length, ft
P2 = 2-year, 24-hour rainfall, in
S = slope of land surface, ft/ft
Table 15–1 Manning’s roughness coefficients for sheet
flow (flow depth generally ≤ 0.1 ft)
Surface description n 1/
Smooth surface (concrete, asphalt, gravel, or
  bare soil)...........................................................................0.011
Fallow (no residue).............................................................0.05
Cultivated soils:
  Residue cover ≤ 20%........................................................0.06
  Residue cover > 20%........................................................0.17
Grass:
  Short-grass prairie...........................................................0.15
  Dense grasses 2/................................................................0.24
  Bermudagrass..................................................................0.41
Range (natural)....................................................................0.13
Woods: 3/
Light underbrush...........................................................0.40
Dense underbrush.........................................................0.80
1 The Manning’s n values are a composite of information compiled
by Engman (1986).
2 Includes species such as weeping lovegrass, bluegrass, buffalo
grass, blue grama grass, and native grass mixtures.
3 When selecting n, consider cover to a height of about 0.1 ft. This
is the only part of the plant cover that will obstruct sheet flow.
Chapter 15 Time of Concentration Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

This simplification is based on the following assump- where:

tions: n = Manning’s roughness coefficient
 = limiting length of flow, ft
• shallow steady uniform flow
S = slope, ft/ft
• constant rainfall excess intensity (that part of
a rain available for runoff) both temporally and Table 15–2 provides maximum sheet flow lengths
spatially based on the McCuen-Spiess limiting criteria for vari-
ous cover type—n value—slope combinations.
• 2-year, 24-hour rainfall assuming standard
NRCS rainfall intensity-duration relations apply
Shallow concentrated flow—After approximately
(Types I, II, and III)
100 feet, sheet flow usually becomes shallow concen-
• minor effect of infiltration on travel time trated flow collecting in swales, small rills, and gullies.
Shallow concentrated flow is assumed not to have a
For sheet flow, the roughness coefficient includes the well-defined channel and has flow depths of 0.1 to 0.5
effects of roughness and the effects of raindrop impact feet. It is assumed that shallow concentrated flow can
including drag over the surface; obstacles such as lit- be represented by one of seven flow types. The curves
ter, crop ridges, and rocks; and erosion and transport in figure 15–4 were used to develop the information in
of sediment. These n values are only applicable for table 15–3.
flow depths of approximately 0.1 foot or less, where
sheet flow occurs. Table 15–1 gives roughness coef- To estimate shallow concentrated flow travel time,
ficient values for sheet flow for various surface condi- velocities are developed using figure 15–4, in which
tions. average velocity is a function of watercourse slope and
type of channel (Kent 1964). For slopes less than 0.005
Kibler and Aron (1982) and others indicated the maxi- foot per foot, the equations in table 15–3 may be used.
mum sheet flow length is less than 100 feet. To support
the sheet flow limit of 100 feet, Merkel (2001) reviewed After estimating average velocity using figure 15–4, use
a number of technical papers on sheet flow. McCuen equation 15–1 to estimate travel time for the shallow
and Spiess (1995) indicated that use of flow length as concentrated flow segment.
the limiting variable in the equation 15–8 could lead to
less accurate designs, and proposed that the limitation Open channel flow— Shallow concentrated flow
should instead be based on: is assumed to occur after sheet flow ends at shallow
depths of 0.1 to 0.5 feet. Beyond that channel flow
100 S is assumed to occur. Open channels are assumed to
= (eq. 15–9)
n begin where surveyed cross-sectional information has
been obtained, where channels are visible on aerial
photographs, or where bluelines (indicating streams)
appear on U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) quadrangle
sheets.
Table 15–2 Maximum sheet flow lengths using the
McCuen-Spiess limitation criterion Manning’s equation or water surface profile informa-
tion can be used to estimate average flow velocity.
Slope Length
Average flow velocity is usually determined for the
Cover type n values bankfull elevation.
(ft/ft) (ft)
Range 0.13 0.01 77
Manning’s equation is:
Grass 0.41 0.01 24
2 1
Woods 0.80 0.01 12.5 1.49 r 3 s 2
V= (eq. 15–10)
Range 0.13 0.05 172 n
Grass 0.41 0.05 55
Woods 0.80 0.05 28

(210–VI–NEH, May 2010) 15–7

 Chapter 15 Time of Concentration Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Figure 15–4 Velocity versus slope for shallow concentrated flow

1.00
0.90
0.80
0.70
0.60
0.50

ons
0.40

i
reg
0.30

ain
unt
mo
ds
0.20
lan

ern
ws

ood
ado

est
dw

sw
me

, an

fan
hay

0.10
ped
Slope (ft/ft)

ial
and

0.09
lluv
rop

0.08
er

da

0.07
ip-c
litt

; an

0.06
s
und

str

rop

lies
ure

w)

0.05
or
gro

wc

gul
ast

flo
our

ays
sp
t ro
vy

and

0.04
nd
ont
hea

ras

rla

rw
igh

upl
n, c

ove

ate
rt-g

0.03
ith

tra

all
dw
tio

d(
tw

Sho

ds

sm
tiva

ille
ate
res

sse
and
unt
cul

0.02
ltiv
Fo

Gra
ent
Cu
ge

and
illa

em
are
mt

Pav
yb
imu

arl

0.01
Min

Ne

0.005
0.1

0.2

0.3

0.4
0.5
0.6
0.7
0.8
0.9
1.0

4
5
6
7
8
9
10

15

20

Velocity (ft/s)

Table 15–3 Equations and assumptions developed from figure 15–4

Flow type Depth Manning’s n Velocity equation

(ft) (ft/s)
Pavement and small upland gullies 0.2 0.025 V =20.328(s)0.5
Grassed waterways 0.4 0.050 V=16.135(s)0.5
Nearly bare and untilled (overland flow); and alluvial fans in western mountain 0.2 0.051 V=9.965(s)0.5
regions
Cultivated straight row crops 0.2 0.058 V=8.762(s)0.5
Short-grass pasture 0.2 0.073 V=6.962(s)0.5
Minimum tillage cultivation, contour or strip-cropped, and woodlands 0.2 0.101 V=5.032(s)0.5
Forest with heavy ground litter and hay meadows 0.2 0.202 V=2.516(s)0.5

15–8 (210–VI–NEH, May 2010)

Chapter 15 Time of Concentration
where:
V = average velocity, ft/s
r = hydraulic radius, ft
a
=
Pw
a = cross-sectional flow area, ft2
Pw = wetted perimeter, ft
s = slope of the hydraulic grade line (channel
slope), ft/ft
n = Manning’s n value for open channel flow
Manning’s n values for open channel flow can be
obtained from standard hydraulics textbooks, such as
Chow (1959), and Linsley, Kohler, and Paulhus (1982).
Publications dealing specifically with Manning’s n
values are Barnes (1967); Arcement and Schneider
(1989); Phillips and Ingersoll (1998); and Cowen
(1956). For guidance on calculating Manning’s n val-
ues, see NEH630.14, Stage Discharge Relations.
Applications and limitations—The velocity method
of computing time of concentration is hydraulically
sound and provides the opportunity to incorporate
changes in individual flow segments if needed. The ve-
locity method is the best method for calculating time of
concentration for an urbanizing watershed or if hydrau-
lic changes to the watercourse are being considered.
Often, the average velocity and valley length of a reach
are used to compute travel time through the reach
using equation 15–1. If the stream is quite sinuous, the
channel length and valley length may be significantly
different and it is up to the modeler to determine
which is the appropriate length to use for the depth of
flow of the event under consideration.
The role of channel and valley storage is important in
the development and translation of a flood wave and
the estimation of lag. Both the hydraulics and stor-
age may change from storm to storm and the velocity
distribution may vary considerably both horizontally
and vertically. As a result, actual lag for a watershed
may have a large variation. In practice, calculations
are typically based on the 2-year frequency discharge
event since it is normally assumed that the time of
concentration computed using these characteristics
is representative of travel time conditions for a wide
range of storm events. Welle and Woodward’s simplifi-
cation of Manning’s kinematic equation was developed
assuming the 2-year, 24-hour precipitation value.
(210–VI–NEH, May 2010)
Part 630
National Engineering Handbook
630.1503 Other considerations
(a) Field observations
At the time field surveys to obtain channel data are
made, there is a need to observe the channel system
and note items that may affect channel efficiency.
Observations such as the type of soil materials in the
banks and bottoms of the channel; an estimate of Man-
ning’s roughness coefficients; the apparent stability or
lack of stability of channel; indications of debris flows
as evidenced by deposition of coarse sediments adja-
cent to channels, size of deposited materials, etc., may
be significant.
(b) Multiple subarea watersheds
For multiple subarea watersheds, the time of concen-
tration must be computed for each subarea individu-
ally, and consideration must be given to the travel time
through downstream subareas from upstream sub-
areas. Travel time and attenuation of hydrographs in
valley reaches and reservoirs are accounted for using
channel and reservoir routing procedures addressed in
NEH630.17.
(c) Surface flow
Both of the standard methods for estimating time of
concentration, as well as most other methods, as-
sume that flow reaching the channel as surface flow
or quick return flow adds directly to the peak of the
subarea hydrograph. Locally derived procedures might
be developed from data where a major portion of
the contributing flow is other than surface flow. This
is normally determined by making a site visit to the
watershed.
(d) Travel time through bodies of water
The potential for detention is the factor that most
strongly influences travel time through a body of
water. It is best to divide the watershed such that any
potential storage area is modeled as storage.
15–9
Chapter 15 Time of Concentration Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

In many cases, the travel time for a water droplet
through a body of water is assumed to be nearly
instantaneous. An assumption is made that at the
instant the droplet arrives at the upstream end of the
lake, reservoir, or wetland the water level is raised a
small amount and this same amount of water leaves
the water body via the outlet. In such cases, time of
concentration is computed using standard methods to
the upstream end of the water body, and travel time
through the water body is ignored.
passage of the inflow hydrograph through reservoir
storage and spillway outflow. The time required for the
passage of the inflow hydrograph through the reservoir
storage and spillway outflow can be determined using
storage routing procedures described in NEH630.17.
Equation 15–11 can be used for wetlands with much
open water, but where the vegetation or debris is rela-
tively thick (less than about 25 percent open water),
Manning’s equation may be more appropriate.

In other cases, such as with a watershed having a

relatively large body of water in the flow path, time of
concentration is computed to the upstream end of the
water body using standard methods, and velocity for
the flow segment through the water body may be com-
puted using the wave velocity equation coupled with
equation 15–1 to convert the velocity to a travel time
through the water body. The wave equation is:
Vw = gDm (eq. 15–11)
where
Vw = wave velocity, ft/s
g = 32.2 ft/s2
Dm = mean depth of lake or reservoir, ft
Generally, Vw will be high; however, equation 15–11
only provides for estimating travel time through the
water body and for the inflow hydrograph to reach the
outlet. It does not account for the time required for the
(e) Variation in lag and time of concen-
tration
Rao and Delleur (1974) concluded that lag time, and
hence time of concentration, is not a unique watershed
characteristic and varies from storm to storm. Reasons
for the variation in lag time may include amount, dura-
tion and intensity of rainfall; vegetative growth stage
and available temporary storage. However, without fur-
ther examination and study of these characteristics, no
obvious trend may be readily observed to explain the
variation. Table 15–4 illustrates that lag is not a con-
stant for a single watershed, but does vary from storm
to storm. The lag times in table 15–4 were developed by
Thomas, Monde, and Davis (2000) for three watersheds
in Maryland using USGS stream gage data.

Table 15–4 Variation in lag time for selected events for selected streams on three watersheds in Maryland

Stream USGS Area Date Storm Precipitation Lag

number (mi2) duration (in) (h)
(min)
Brien Run 1585400 1.97 8/21/1986 30 1.85 2.35
8/22/1986 45 0.32 1.94
9/8/1987 120 1.03 2.44

Jones Falls 1589440 26.2 8/10/1984 15 1.84 4.16

2/12/1985 285 1.59 6.91
12/24/1986 165 2.47 5.20

Deer Creek 1580000 94.4 9/8/1987 75 2.2 5.06

9/18/1987 15 1.02 7.15
5/6/1989 60 5.00 9.67

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Chapter 15 Time of Concentration Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Folmar and Miller (2008) found that the watershed lag hydraulics textbook contains methods to deter-
method and the velocity method tended to underpre- mine average velocity in pipes for either pres-
dict or underestimate time of concentration. Underes- sure or nonpressure flow.
timation of lag or time of concentration by the velocity
• Slope—Slopes may be increased or decreased
method may be attributed to:
by urbanization, depending on the extent of
• low estimates of stream length from not consid- site grading and the extent to which storm
ering sinuosity sewers and street ditches are used in the de-
sign of the water management system. Slopes
• overestimated flow velocities from not consid-
may increase when channels are straightened
ering pools in the stream
and decrease when overland flow is directed
• underestimated Manning’s n values within the through storm sewers, street gutters, and diver-
reach sions, or when land is graded to develop nearly
level lots.
When used in conjunction with unit hydrograph pro-
cedures (NEH630.16), this results in overestimated
design discharges. It was determined from 52 nonur- (g) Geographic information systems
banized watersheds that both the lag method and the
velocity method may underpredict the time of concen- Geographic information systems (GIS) can be used
tration. to estimate watershed features, such as watershed
boundaries and drainage areas; flow path lengths and
slopes; stream and flood plain reach lengths; average
(f) Effects of urbanization watershed land slopes; land cover; and, in some cases,
stream cross-sectional features. This information can
• Surface roughness—One of the most signifi-
then be imported into a number of hydrology com-
cant effects of urban development on overland
puter programs, which use the data to estimate times
flow is the lowering of retardance to flow caus-
of concentration for watersheds. One example of this
ing higher velocities. Undeveloped areas with
is the NRCS Geo-Hydro program.
very slow and shallow overland flow (sheet
flow and shallow concentrated flow) through
vegetation become modified by urban develop-
ment. Flow is then delivered to streets, gutters,
and storm sewers that transport runoff down-
stream more rapidly. Travel time through the
watershed is generally decreased.
• Channel shape and flow patterns—In small,
nonurban watersheds, much of the travel time
results from overland flow in upstream areas.
Typically, urbanization reduces overland flow
lengths by conveying storm runoff into a chan-
nel as soon as possible. Since constructed
channel designs have efficient hydraulic char-
acteristics, runoff flow velocity increases and
travel time decreases.
• Watersheds with storm sewers—In wa-
tersheds with storm sewers, it is important to
carefully identify the appropriate hydraulic flow
path to estimate time of concentration. Storm
sewers generally handle only a small portion of
a large event. The rest of the peak flow travels
by streets and lawns to the outlet. Any standard

(210–VI–NEH, May 2010) 15–11

Chapter 15 Time of Concentration Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

S is computed using the relationship:

630.1504 Examples
1, 000
S= − 10
cn ′
(a) Example of watershed lag method S=
1, 000
− 10
63
Compute the time of concentration using the water- S = 5.87

shed lag method for Mawney Brook Watershed in Kent
County, Rhode Island. The topographic map for the
Substituting into the time of concentration equation
watershed is shown in figure 15–5. The watershed has
gives:
the following attributes:
Drainage area, A = 0.17 mi2 3, 865 0.8 (5.87 + 1)
0.7

Tc =
Curve number, CN = 63–used as a surrogate 1,140 ( 4.79 )
0.5

for cn′
Tc = 1.14 h
Longest flow path,  = 3,865 ft
Watershed slope, Y = 4.79%
(b) Example of velocity method
Time of concentration is computed using equation 15–4b:
The time of concentration flow path for the watershed
 0.8 (S + 1)
0.7
shown in figure 15–6 is split into three reaches based
Tc =
1,140 Y 0.5 upon similar hydraulic characteristics within the
reaches. Computation of the watershed time of con-
centration follows.

Part A: Travel time through reach 1 (designat-

ed R-1—from the watershed divide to
Figure 15–5 Mawney Brook Watershed, Kent County, RI cross section A-A)

Reach 1 (R–1) consists of sheet flow and shallow

concentrated flow from the watershed divide to cross
section A–A. The flow segments are as follows:
• Flow segment from the watershed divide to the
diversion terrace consists of 100 feet of sheet
flow and 800 feet of shallow concentrated flow
across pasture at a slope of 8 percent.
• The diversion terrace is 2,100 feet long with a
design velocity of 1.5 feet per second.
• The grassed waterway is 2,400 feet long with an
average slope of 4 percent.
• The grassed waterway terminates at a road
crossing and a raw gully extends from the road
crossing to a point where a grade stabiliza-
tion structure (GS–1) is planned (but not yet
installed). The length of the gully is 2,700 feet
with a 3 percent grade.

15–12 (210–VI–NEH, May 2010)

Chapter 15 Time of Concentration Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Sheet flow segment—The travel time for the sheet flow reasonable assumption. For those flow segments for
segment through the short-grass pasture is computed which velocity is not given, velocity is determined us-
using equation 15–8. The 2-year, 24-hour precipitation ing figure 15–4 and converted to a travel time for each
for the watershed is 3.6 inches. The n value for short flow segment using equation 15–1:
grass pasture from table 15–1 is 0.15.
• Short grass pasture:  = 800 feet, V = 2 ft/s
0.007( n )0.8  800
Tt = Tt = = = 0.11 hr
[( P2 )0.5 S 0.4 ] 3, 600 V 3, 600 ( 2)
0.8
0.007[( 0.15)(100)] • Terrace:  = 2,100 ft, V = 1.5 ft/s
=
[( 3.6)0.5 ( 0.08 )0.4 ]
 2,100
= 0.09 h Tt = = = 0.39 h
3, 600 V 3, 600 (1.5 )
Shallow concentrated flow segments—The travel
• Grassed waterway:  = 2,400 ft, V = 3.4 ft/s
times for the remaining portions along the flow path
are based on shallow concentrated flow velocities.  2, 400
Given that the majority of conservation practices are Tt = = = 0.20 h
3, 600 V 3, 600 ( 3.4 )
not intended to handle large flow depths, this is a

Figure 15–6 Sample watershed for velocity method example

R-1

A
A
A1
A2
A3
R-2

A4
B County Road
B A A Surveyed Cross Section
A1 Hand-level Cross Section
C
C R-- 1 Reach Designation
3
D R- Watershed Boundary
Stream Channel
D
Grassed Waterway
Diversion Terrace

(210–VI–NEH, May 2010) 15–13

Chapter 15 Time of Concentration Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

• Gully:  = 2,700, V = 3.5 ft/s Part B: Travel time through Reach 2 (designat-
ed R–2—from cross section A–A to cross
 2,700
Tt = = = 0.21 h section B–B)
3, 600 V 3, 600 ( 3.5 )
Reach 2 (R–2) consists of channel flow from cross
Add the travel times for each flow segment to get the section A–A to cross section B–B and has a total reach
total travel time for Reach 1: length of 6,000 feet.

Tt (R−1) = 0.09 + 0.11 + 0.39 + 0.20 + 0.21 A surveyed cross section was available at A–A, but no
other cross sections were surveyed upstream of B–B.
= 1.00 h
Instead, hand-level sections were made at four inter-
mediate locations in reach 2, and an overall gradient
estimated. These four hand-level sections were taken
at approximately equal intervals through the reach be-
tween cross sections A–A and B–B (and are identified
on figure 15–6 as cross sections A1, A2, A3, and A4).
Table 15–5 summarizes estimated velocity at these
cross sections, including the field data obtained for

Table 15–5 Field data and computed velocities at each cross section in reach R-2

Cross section Bankfull Wetted Hydraulic r2/3 Manning’s n Slope (S) S1/2 Velocity (V)
area (a) perimeter (Pw) radius (r) ft/ft ft/s
ft2 ft ft
A–A 48 22 2.18 1.68 0.040 0.01 0.10 6.3
A1 55 35 1.57 1.35 0.055 0.01 0.10 3.7
A2 55 39 1.41 1.26 0.055 0.01 0.10 3.4
A3 50 26 1.92 1.54 0.040 0.01 0.10 5.7
A4 56 28 2.00 1.59 0.040 0.01 0.10 5.9
B–B Obtained from water surface profiles 6.1

Table 15–6 Travel times for flow segments along reach

R–3

Segment Length Velocity Travel time

Cross section B–B to 2,400 ft 3.6 ft/s 0.19 h
cross section C–C
Cross section C–C to 2,800 ft 3.8 ft/s 0.20 h
cross section D–D
Cross section D–D to 900 ft 6.1 ft/s 0.04 h
watershed outlet
Tt (R–3) 0.43 h

15–14 (210–VI–NEH, May 2010)

Chapter 15 Time of Concentration
estimating mean velocity at each of the hand level sec-
tions. The velocities were computed using Manning’s
equation for open channel flow (eq. 15–10).
Since the hand-level cross sections were taken at ap-
proximately equal intervals through reach 2, the ve-
locities can be averaged without weighting them with
respect to length. The average velocity of all six cross
sections in reach 2 is 5.2 feet per second.
Travel time through reach 2 can then be computed by
applying equation 15–1:
 Cerrelli, G.A. 2009. Changes in predicted peak dis-
Tt(R - 2) =
3, 600 V
6, 000
= trated flow portion in the NRCS velocity based
3, 600 (5.2)
= 0.32 h
Part C: Travel time through Reach 3 (desig-
nated R–3— from cross section B–B to
the watershed outlet)
Reach 3 (R–3) consists of channel flow from cross
section B–B to the watershed outlet and is split into
three flow segments. Mean velocity for each of the flow
segments was determined using a computer program to
develop a water surface profile model (such as HEC–
RAS). Applying equation 15–1 to flow length and veloc-
ity data the travel times were estimated for each of
the flow segments and summed to obtain a travel time
through reach 3 as summarized in table 15–6.
Part D The total travel time for reaches R-1,
R-2 and R-3
Tt for reach R-1 1.00 h
Tt for reach R-2 0.32 h
Tt for reach R-3 0.43 h
Total 1.75 h
The total time of concentration for the watershed is
the sum of the travel times and equals 1.75 hours.
(210–VI–NEH, May 2010)
Part 630
National Engineering Handbook
630.1505 References
Arcement, G.J., and V.R. Schneider. 1989. Guide for
selecting Manning’s roughness coefficients for
natural channel and flood plains. U.S. Geological
Survey Water Supply Paper 2339.
Barnes Jr., H H. 1967. Roughness characteristics of
natural channels. U.S. Geological Survey Water
Supply Paper 1849.
charges in Pennsylvania as a result of using the
proposed Cerrelli curves for the shallow concen-
time of concentration method. Am. Soc. of Ag.
and Biol. Eng. Paper no. 096304, Reno, NV.
Cerrelli, G.A. 1990. Professional notes. Unpublished
data. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural
Resources Conservation Service, Annapolis, MD.
Cerrelli, G.A. 1992. Professional notes. Unpublished
data. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural
Resources Conservation Service, Annapolis, MD.
Chow, V.T. 1959. Open-channel hydraulics. McGraw-
Hill Book. Inc., New York, NY.
Chow, V.T. 1964. Handbook of applied hydrology. Mc-
Graw Hill Book, Inc., New York, NY.
Cowen, W.L. 1956. Estimating hydraulic roughness
coefficients. Agricultural Engineering. Vol. 378,
No. 7. pp. 473–475.
Engman, E.T. 1986. Roughness coefficients for routing
surface runoff. Journal of Irrigation and Drain-
age Engineering 112 (1). Amer. Soc. of Civil Eng.,
New York, NY. pp. 39–53.
Folmar, N.D., and A.C. Miller. 2008. Development of an
empirical lag time equation. Amer. Soc. of Civil
Eng. Journal of Irrigation and Drainage, Vol. 134,
No. 4.
Humpal, A.A., and G. Cerrelli. 2009. A closer look at
unpaved shallow concentrated flow. Am. Soc. of
Ag. and Biol. Eng. Paper no. 095867, Reno, NV.
15–15
Chapter 15 Time of Concentration
Humpal, A.A. 2008. Professional notes. Unpublished
data. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural
Resources Conservation Service Appleton, WI.
Kent, K.M. 1964. Chapter 15 documentation. U.S. Dept.
of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Service, Wash-
ington, DC.
Kerby, W.S. 1959. Time of concentration for overland
flow. Journal of Civil Engineering 26(3). Amer.
Soc. of Civil Eng., Reston, VA. pp. 60.
Kibler, D.F. 1980. Personal communication.
Kibler, D.F., and G. Aron. 1982. Estimating basin lag
and T(c) in small urban watersheds. EOS, Trans-
actions, American Geophysical Union, vol. 63,
no. 18, abstract #H12–8.
Linsley, R.K., M.A. Kohler, and J.L.H. Paulhus. 1982.
Hydrology for engineers. Third edition McGraw-
Hill Book Company, Inc., New York, NY.
Maidment, D.R., ed. 1993. Handbook of hydrology.
McGraw-Hill, Inc., New York, NY.
McCuen, R.H., and J.M. Spiess. 1995. Assessment of
kinematic wave time of concentration. Journal of
Hydraulic Engineering, Amer. Soc. of Civil Eng.,
Reston, VA.
Merkel, W.H. 2001. References on time of concentra-
tion with respect to sheet flow. Unpublished
paper, Beltsville, MD.
Mockus, V. 1961. Watershed lag. U.S. Dept. of Agri-
culture, Soil Conservation Service, ES–1015,
Washington, DC.
Mockus, V. 1957. Use of storm and watershed char-
acteristics in synthetic hydrograph analysis and
application. Paper presented at the annual meet-
ing of AGU Pacific Southwest Region.
Papadakis, C., and N. Kazan. 1986. Time of concentra-
tion in small rural watersheds. Technical report
101/08/86/CEE. College of Engineering, Univer-
sity of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH.
Phillips, J.V., and T.L. Ingersoll. 1998. Verification of
roughness coefficients for selected natural and
15–16 (210–VI–NEH, May 2010)
Part 630
National Engineering Handbook
constructed stream channels in Arizona. U.S.
Geological Survey paper 1584.
Rao A.R., and J.W. Delleur. 1974. Instantaneous unit
hydrographs, peak discharges, and time lags in
urban areas. Hydrologic Sciences Bulletin, Vol.
19, No. 2. pp. 185–198.
Sheridan, J.M. 1994. Hydrograph time parameters for
flatland watersheds. Trans. of Am. Soc. Ag. Eng.,
St. Joseph, MI.
Simas, M. 1996. Lag time characteristics in small
watersheds in the United States. A dissertation
submitted to School of Renewable Natural Re-
sources, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ.
Thomas, W.O. Jr., M.C. Monde, and S.R. Davis. 2000.
Estimation of time of concentration for Mary-
land streams. Transportation Research No.
1720, Transportation Research Board, National
Research Council, National Academy Press,
Washington, DC, pp 95–99.
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research
Service. 1987. Agricultural handbook number
667. Stability design of grass-lined open channels,
Washington, DC.
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources
Conservation Service. 2010. National Engineering
Handbook, Part 630, Chapter 14, Stage discharge
relations (draft), Washington, DC.
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources
Conservation Service. 2007. National Engineering
Handbook, Part 630, Chapter 16, Hydrographs,
Washington, DC.
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources
Conservation Service. 2006a. Project formula-
tion— hydrology (WinTR–20), Version 1.00. User
Guide 210–7–5, Washington, DC.
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources
Conservation Service. 2006b. NRCS Geo-Hydro,
Version 1.0, ArcView Geospatial Information
System (GIS) Interface to WinTR–20. User Guide
210–7–7, Washington, DC.
Chapter 15 Time of Concentration Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources

Conservation Service. 2004. National Engineering
Handbook, Part 630, Chapter 9, Hydrologic soil-
cover complexes, Washington, DC.

U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources

Conservation Service, 2003. Small watershed
hydrology (WinTR–55), Version 1.0. User Guide
210–3–1, Washington, DC.

U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources

Conservation Service. 1992. Technical release
number 20 (TR–20), Computer program for proj-
ect formulation—hydrology, Washington, DC.

U.S. Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Ser-

vice. 1986. Technical release number 55 (TR–55),
Urban hydrology for small watersheds, Washing-
ton, DC.

U.S. Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Ser-

vice. 1973. A method for estimating volume and
rate of runoff in small watersheds (SCS–TP–149),
Washington, DC.

U.S. Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Ser-

vice. 1972. National Engineering Handbook, Part
630, Chapter 17, Flood routing, Washington, DC.

U.S. Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation

Service. 1966. Technical paper 61 (SCS–TP–61).
Handbook of channel design for soil and water
conservation, Washington, DC.

Welle, P.J., and D.E. Woodward. 1986. Time of concen-

tration. Hydrology, Technical Note No. N4. U.S.
Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation
Service, NENTC, Chester, PA.

(210–VI–NEH, May 2010) 15–17

Chapter 15 Time of Concentration Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

15–18 (210–VI–NEH, May 2010)

Appendix 15A Other Methods for Computing Time of
Concentration

This appendix includes regression equations for es-
timating time of concentration developed by various
researchers in different regions of the United States.
These procedures may have an application for NRCS
in limited areas or for special studies. In general, these
equations are for existing conditions and cannot be
adapted to future conditions or urbanization changes
that might occur in a watershed. These methods are
included here for information and to provide a broad
overview of other types of time of concentration calcu-
lation methods that are available.
Whenever possible, an effort was made to maintain the
form of equations as published by the author. There-
fore, the various methods illustrated here may use
different units.
several regression equations for watershed lag. Lag
was defined by Simas as the time between the centroid
of effective rainfall and the centroid of direct runoff.
Equations were modified to time of concentration us-
ing the relationship of lag = 0.6Tc or Tc = 1.67 lag.
The simplest form of the equation Simas developed is:
Tc = 0.0481 A 0.324 (eq. 15A–5)
where:
Tc = time of concentration, h
A = the drainage area, acre
The equation exhibiting the highest degree of correla-
tion (R2) developed by Simas is:

Kirpich equation—The Kirpich equation (Maidment Tc = 0.0085 W 0.5937 S −0.1505 S nat 0.3131 (eq. 15A–6)
1993) was developed using data from seven rural water-
sheds on a farm in Tennessee with well-defined chan- where:
nels and steep slopes. Drainage areas ranged from 1.25 Tc = time of concentration, h
to 112.0 acres. W = watershed width, ft
drainage area ( ft 2 )
Tc = 0.007  0.77
S −0.385 =
(eq. 15A–1) watershed length ( ft )
where: S = average watershed slope, ft/ft
Tc = time of concentration, min Snat = storage coefficient used in the curve number
method
 = length of channel from headwater to outlet, ft
S = slope of the longest hydraulic length, ft/ft where:
Snat = (1,000/CN)–10
Kerby equation—The Kerby (1959) equation was CN = runoff curve number
developed from a very small watershed in which over-
land flow dominated. Some references suggest that it Sheridan equation—Sheridan (1994) performed a
should be used for watersheds having flow lengths less study on nine flatland watersheds located in Georgia
than 1,000 feet. and Florida and ranging in size from 2.62 to 334.34
0.324
 2.2 n 
Tc =  0.5  (eq. 15A–2)
 S 
where:
Tc = time of concentration, min Table 15A–1 SCS Drainage area equations
 = length of channel from headwater to outlet, ft
S = average slope, ft/ft
n = Manning’s channel roughness coefficient Region of applicability Time of concentration equation
Texas
Tc = 2.4 A 0.6 (eq. 15A–3)
Drainage area equations—The drainage area equa-
tions in table 15A–1 were developed by the Soil Con- Ohio
Tc = 0.9 A 0.6 (eq. 15A–4)
servation Service using small watershed data. where:
Tc = time of concentration, h
Simas equations—Simas (1996), in a nationwide anal- A = drainage area, mi2
ysis of 116 small agricultural watersheds, developed

(210–VI–NEH, May 2010) 15A–1

Chapter 15 Time of Concentration
km2. A regression analysis was performed using many
basin characteristics to determine a timing equation.
However, it was found that the main channel length
was the overwhelming characteristic that correlated
with the timing parameter. Therefore, an equation
was developed based solely on main channel length to
estimate the time of concentration. The equation had a
correlation coefficient (R2) of 96 percent.
Tc = 2.20 0.92 (eq. 15A–7)
where:
Tc = time of concentration, h
 = main channel length, km
Folmar and Miller equation—Folmar and Miller
(2008) developed an equation for lag time from 52
agricultural watersheds throughout the country. Lag
was measured from the centroid of excess precipita-
tion to the peak of the hydrograph. Watersheds ranged
in size from approximately 3 acres to 20 square miles.
Similar to what was determined by Sheridan (1994),
it was found that only the longest hydraulic length as
determined by comparing travel times was needed
15A–2 (210–VI–NEH, May 2010)
Part 630
National Engineering Handbook
to determine an estimate of lag time. The developed
equation had an R2 value of 89 percent.
 0.65
Tl =
83.4 (eq. 15A–8)
where:
Tl = lag time, h
 = longest hydraulic length, m
Papadakis and Kazan—Papadakis and Kazan (1986),
from the University of Cincinnati, developed regres-
sion equations using data from 84 small ARS water-
sheds with drainage areas less than 500 acres across
the United States.
Tc = 0.66 L0.5 n 0.52S −0.31 i −.38 (eq. 15A–9)
where:
Tc = time of concentration, min
L = length of the longest waterway, ft
S = slope of the flow path, ft/ft
i = intensity of the rainfall excess, in/h
n = roughness coefficient (Manning’s n value for
channel)
Appendix 15B Shallow Concentrated Flow
Alternatives
Recently there has been much discussion over the
reasonableness of limiting shallow concentrated flow
to only a paved or unpaved condition. The following
provides an alternate methodology for developing
shallow concentrated flow estimates if so desired.
The shallow concentrated flow curves shown in figure
15B–1 correspond to the grassed waterway and paved
area sheet flow curves from figure 15–4. The curves in
figure 15B–1 were developed based upon solutions to
Manning’s equation assuming trapezoidal shaped chan-
nels with n = 0.05 and R = 0.4 foot for the unpaved
condition and n = 0.025 and R = 0.2 foot for the paved
condition. Figure 15B–1 appeared in the 1986 Techni-
cal Release Number 55, Urban Hydrology for Small
Watersheds (TR–55). Because TR–55 was specifically
recommended for use in evaluating urban hydrology, it
was assumed that in a majority of cases, shallow con-
centrated flow would occur either in paved areas or in
grassed areas and there was no need to include the en-
tire range of curves shown in figure 15–4. However, the
velocity method of computing time of concentration is
applicable across a broad range of land uses and the
additional curves in figure 15–4 are quite beneficial.
(210–VI–NEH, May 2010)
G. Cerrelli (Professional notes, 1990) developed a set
of curves to supplement the shallow concentrated flow
curves which appear in figure 15B–1. Cerrelli’s curves
were developed using the concepts in Technical Paper
61, Handbook of Channel Design for Soil and Water
Conservation. Cerrelli used assumptions with regards
to flow shape, width, and depth in conjunction with
the VR versus n curves from TP–61 on a trial and error
basis to determine a relationship of V versus slope.
For paved surfaces and row crops with conventional
tillage, Cerrelli used Manning’s equation with a fixed n
value to determine a V versus slope curve.
A.A. Humpal (Professional notes, 2008) verified Cer-
relli’s curves but used a slightly different set of as-
sumptions with regards to flow shape, width, and
depth. Table 15B–1 and figure 15B–2 are a compilation
of agreed upon values by Humpal and Cerrelli (2009).
A third alternative for estimating shallow concentrated
flow velocities for very unique conditions is to use the
procedures in Agricultural Handbook 667, Stability
Design of Grass-Lined Open Channels.
15B–1
 Chapter 15 Time of Concentration Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Figure 15B–1 TR–55 shallow concentrated flow curves

.50

.20

.10
Watercourse slope (ft/ft)

.06

.04

.02
d
ave
p

ved
Un

Pa

.01

.005
1 2 4 6 10 20
Average velocity (ft/s)

15B–2 (210–VI–NEH, May 2010)

 Chapter 15 Time of Concentration Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Figure 15B–2 Cerrelli’s and Humpal’s shallow concentrated flow curves

Swale—grass/woods
Swale—high grass/brush
Row crops—no till
Row crops—Conv till
Paved1
l
0.1 til
no
s—
op ds
h
Slope (ft/ft)

rus

cr oo
w w
s/
s/b

Ro as
s

gr
gra

till

e—
al
igh

nv

Sw
Co
—h

0.01
s—
ale

ved 1
rop
Sw

wc

Pa
Ro

0.001
0.01 0.1 1 10 100
Average velocity (ft/s)

Table 15B–1 Assumptions used by Cerrelli and Humpal to develop shallow concentrated flow curves

Cover type Flow shape Width (ft) Depth Hydraulic Retardance n

(ft) radius, R (ft) value
Wide swale—lawn/mature woods Parabolic 10 0.4 0.27 D

Wide swale—high grass/brushy Parabolic 10 0.4 0.27 C

Row crops—no till Parabolic 7.5 0.3 0.23 D

Row crops—conventional tillage/bare gully Parabolic 7.5 0.3 0.23 0.035

Paved 1/ Triangular 12 0.4 0.19 0.014

1 The assumptions and limits for the paved condition used to define the paved line in figure 15B–2 are not the same as those used for the
pavement and small upland gullies line shown in figure 15–4. Velocities obtained using figure 15–4 and/or table 15–3 should not be combined
with those obtained from figure 15B–2.

(210–VI–NEH, May 2010) 15B–3

United States
Department of Part 630 Hydrology
Agriculture

Natural
National Engineering Handbook
Resources
Conservation
Service

Chapter 16 Hydrographs

Rain clouds
Cloud formation

Precipitation

tion
Evaporation

ira
n

ean
tio

Transp
oil
ta

from oc
ge

s
ve

from
m

on
fro

ms
ati
n
tio

ir

a
tre
sp
ra
po

an

ms
va

Tr

Surfa E
fro

ce ru
noff

Infiltration

Soil
Percolation

Rock Ocean
Ground water
Deep percolation

(210–VI–NEH, March 2007)

Chapter 16 Hydrographs Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

March 2007

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all

its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, age,
disability, and where applicable, sex, marital status, familial status, parental
status, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, political beliefs, re-
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tact USDA’s TARGET Center at (202) 720–2600 (voice and TDD). To file a
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provider and employer.

(210–VI–NEH, March 2007)

Acknowledgments

Chapter 16 was originally prepared in 1971 by Dean Snider (retired) and

was reprinted with minor revisions in 1972. This version was prepared by
the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) under guidance of
Donald E. Woodward, (retired), and Claudia C. Hoeft, national hydraulic
engineer, Washington, DC. William H. Merkel, hydraulic engineer, pre-
pared the section dealing with unit hydrograph development on gaged wa-
tersheds. Katherine E. Chaison, engineering aide, developed the dimen-
sionless unit hydrograph tables and plots in appendix 16B, and Helen Fox
Moody, hydraulic engineer, edited and reviewed the chapter and developed
the tables and figures for example 16–1.

(210–VI–NEH, March 2007) 16–i

Chapter 16 Hydrographs Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

16–ii (210–VI–NEH, March 2007)

Chapter 16 Hydrographs

Contents: 630.1600 Introduction 16–1

630.1601 Development of hydrograph relations 16–1

(a) Types of hydrographs...................................................................................16–1

630.1602 Unit hydrograph 16–2

630.1603 Application of unit hydrograph 16–4

630.1604 Unit hydrograph development for a gaged watershed 16–14

630.1605 References 16–23

Appendix 16A Elements of a Unit Hydrograph 16A–1

Appendix 16B Dimensionless Unit Hydrographs with Peak Rate 16B–1

Factors from 100 to 600

Tables Table 16–1 Ratios for dimensionless unit hydrograph and 16–4
mass curve

Table 16–2 Computation of coordinates for unit hydrograph 16–9

for use in example 16–1

Table 16–3 Rainfall tabulated in 0.3 hour increments from plot 16–11
of rain gage chart in figure 16–3

Table 16–4 Computation of a flood hydrograph 16–12

Table 16–5 Relationship of m and PRF for DUH developed 16–15

from a Gamma equation

Table 16–6 Storm event of February 2, 1996, at Alligator Creek 16–18

near Clearwater, FL

Table 16–7 Dimensionless unit hydrograph for Alligator Creek 16–20

at Clearwater, FL, used in example 16–2

(210–VI–NEH, March 2007) 16–iii

Chapter 16 Hydrographs Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Table 16B–1 Peak rate factor = 600 16B–1

Table 16B–2 Peak rate factor = 550 16B–2

Table 16B–3 Peak rate factor = 500 16B–3

Table 16B–4 Peak rate factor = 450 16B–4

Table 16B–5 Peak rate factor = 400 16B–5

Table 16B–6 Peak rate factor = 350 16B–6

Table 16B–7 Peak rate factor = 300 16B–7

Table 16B–8 Peak rate factor = 250 16B–8

Table 16B–9 Peak rate factor = 200 16B–9

Table 16B–10 Peak rate factor = 150 16B–10

Table 16B–11 Peak rate factor = 100 16B–12

Figures Figure 16–1 Dimensionless unit hydrograph and mass curve 16–3

Figure 16–2 Effect of watershed shape on the peaks of unit 16–5

hydrographs

Figure 16–3 Accumulated or mass rainfall and runoff curves for 16–7
CN 85 taken from a recording rain gage

Figure 16–4 Unit hydrograph from example 16–1 16–10

Figure 16–5 Composite flood hydrograph from example 16–1 16–13

Figure 16–6 Cumulative rainfall used in example 16–2 16–19

Figure 16–7 Dimensionless unit hydrograph used in example 16–2 16–20

Figure 16–8 Runoff hydrographs for example 16–2 16–21

16–iv (210–VI–NEH, March 2007)

Chapter 16 Hydrographs Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Figure 16A–1 Dimensionless curvilinear unit hydrograph and equiva- 16A–1

lent triangular hydrograph

Figure 16B–1 Peak rate factor = 600 16B–1

Figure 16B–2 Peak rate factor = 550 16B–2

Figure 16B–3 Peak rate factor = 500 16B–3

Figure 16B–4 Peak rate factor = 450 16B–4

Figure 16B–5 Peak rate factor = 400 16B–5

Figure 16B–6 Peak rate factor = 350 16B–6

Figure 16B–7 Peak rate factor = 300 16B–7

Figure 16B–8 Peak rate factor = 250 16B–8

Figure 16B–9 Peak rate factor = 200 16B–9

Figure 16B–10 Peak rate factor = 150 16B–11

Figure 16B–11 Peak rate factor = 100 16B–13

Examples Example 16–1 Composite flood hydrograph 16–7

Example 16–2 Determining the DUH for a gaged watershed 16–17

(210–VI–NEH, March 2007) 16–v

Chapter 16 Hydrographs
630.1600 Introduction
Hydrographs or some elements of them, such as peak
rates, are used in the planning and design of water
control structures. They are also used to show the
hydrologic effects of existing or proposed watershed
projects and land use changes.
(210–VI–NEH, March 2007)
630.1601 Development of
hydrograph relations
Runoff occurring on uplands flows downstream in
various patterns. These patterns of flow are affected
by many factors including:
• spatial and temporal distribution of rainfall
• rate of snowmelt
• hydraulics of streams
• watershed and channel storage
• geology and soil characteristics
• watershed surface and cover conditions
The graph of flow (rate versus time) at a stream sec-
tion is called a hydrograph, of which no two are ex-
actly alike. Computation methods for computing peak
rates of flow are based upon empirical relations, start-
ing with the Rational Method for peak discharge in the
19th century, progressing to the unit hydrograph in the
1930s, and then to more recent use of dimensionless or
index hydrographs. The empirical relations are simple
elements from which a hydrograph may be made as
complex as needed.
Difficulties with hydrograph development lie in the
precise estimation of runoff from rainfall (NEH 630,
chapter 10) and determination of flow paths (NEH 630,
chapter 15).
(a) Types of hydrographs
This classification of hydrographs is a partial list, suit-
able for use in watershed work.
• Natural hydrograph—obtained directly from
the flow records of a gaged stream
• Synthetic hydrograph—obtained by using
watershed parameters and storm characteristics
to simulate a natural hydrograph
• Unit hydrograph—a discharge hydrograph
resulting from 1 inch of direct runoff distributed
uniformly over the watershed resulting from a
rainfall of a specified duration
16–1
Chapter 16 Hydrographs Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

• Dimensionless unit hydrograph (DUH)—a

hydrograph developed to represent several unit
hydrographs; plotted using the ratio of the basic
units time to peak and peak rate; also called an
index hydrograph
630.1602 Unit hydrograph
In the 1930s, L.K. Sherman (Sherman 1932, 1940)
advanced the theory of the unit hydrograph, or unit
graph. The unit hydrograph procedure assumes that
discharge at any time is proportional to the volume
of runoff and that time factors affecting hydrograph
shape are constant.

Field data and laboratory tests have shown that the

assumption of a linear relationship among watershed
components is not strictly true. The nonlinear rela-
tionships have not been investigated sufficiently to
ascertain their effects on a synthetic hydrograph. Until
more information is available, the procedures of this
chapter will be based on the unit hydrograph theory.

The fundamental principles of invariance and superpo-

sition make the unit graph an extremely flexible tool
for developing synthetic hydrographs. These principles
are:
• Principle of Invariance—the hydrograph of
surface runoff from a watershed resulting from a
given pattern of rainfall is constant
• Principle of Superposition—the hydrograph
resulting from a given pattern of rainfall excess
can be built up by superimposing the unit hy-
drographs because of the separate amounts of
rainfall excess occurring in each unit period; in-
cludes the principle of proportionality by which
the ordinates of the hydrograph are proportional
to the volume of rainfall excess

The unit time or unit hydrograph duration is the

duration for occurrence of precipitation excess. The
optimum unit time is less than 20 percent of the time
interval between the beginning of runoff from a short
duration, high‑intensity storm and the peak discharge
of the corresponding runoff.

The storm duration is the actual duration of the

precipitation excess. The duration varies with actual
storms. The dimensionless unit hydrograph used
by the Natural Resources Conservation Service
(NRCS) was developed by Victor Mockus (fig. 16–1)
(Mockus 1957). It was derived from many natural
unit hydrographs from watersheds varying widely in
size and geographical locations. This dimensionless

16–2 (210–VI–NEH, March 2007)

Chapter 16 Hydrographs Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Figure 16–1 Dimensionless unit hydrograph and mass curve

1.0

.9
Mass curve

.8

.7

q=Discharge at time t
.6 qp=Peak discharge
q/qp or Qa/Q

Qa=Accumulated volume at time t

Q=Total volume
.5 t=A selected time
Tp=Time from beginning of rise to the peak

.4

.3

.2

.1
DUH

0
0 1 2 3 4 5
t/Tp

(210–VI–NEH, March 2007) 16–3

Chapter 16 Hydrographs
curvilinear hydrograph, also shown in table 16–1, has
its ordinate values expressed in a dimensionless ratio
q/qp or Qa/Q and its abscissa values as t/TP . This unit
hydrograph has a point of inflection approximately
1.7 times the time to peak (Tp). The unit hydrograph
in table 16–1 has a peak rate factor (PRF) of 484 and
is the default provided in the WinTR–20 program. See
appendix 16A for derivation of the standard NRCS
dimensionless hydrograph.
Table 16–1 Ratios for dimensionless unit hydrograph and
mass curve
Time ratios Discharge ratios Mass curve ratios
(t/Tp) (q/qp) (Qa/Q)
0 .000 .000
.1 .030 .001
.2 .100 .006
.3 .190 .017
.4 .310 .035
.5 .470 .065
.6 .660 .107
.7 .820 .163
.8 .930 .228
.9 .990 .300
1.0 1.000 .375
1.1 .990 .450
1.2 .930 .522
1.3 .860 .589
1.4 .780 .650
1.5 .680 .705
1.6 .560 .751
1.7 .460 .790
1.8 .390 .822
1.9 .330 .849
2.0 .280 .871
2.2 .207 .908
2.4 .147 .934
2.6 .107 .953
2.8 .077 .967
3.0 .055 .977
3.2 .040 .984
3.4 .029 .989
3.6 .021 .993
3.8 .015 .995
4.0 .011 .997
4.5 .005 .999
5.0 .000 1.000
16–4 (210–VI–NEH, March 2007)
Part 630
National Engineering Handbook
630.1603 Application of unit
hydrograph
The unit hydrograph can be constructed for any loca-
tion on a regularly shaped watershed, once the values
of qp and Tp are defined (fig. 16–2, areas A and B).
Area C in figure 16–2 is an irregularly shaped water-
shed having two regularly shaped areas (C2 and C1)
with a large difference in their time of concentration.
This watershed requires the development of two unit
hydrographs that may be added together, forming one
irregularly shaped unit hydrograph. This irregularly
shaped unit hydrograph may be used to develop a
flood hydrograph in the same way as the unit hydro-
graph developed from the dimensionless form (fig.
16–1) is used to develop the flood hydrograph. See
example 16–1 which develops a composite flood
hydrograph for area A shown in figure 16–2. Also, each
of the two unit hydrographs developed for areas C2
and C1 in figure 16–2 may be used to develop flood
hydrographs for the respective areas C2 and C1. The
flood hydrographs from each area are then combined
to form the hydrograph at the outlet of area C.
Many variables are integrated into the shape of a unit
hydrograph. Since a dimensionless unit hydrograph is
used and the only parameters readily available from
field data are drainage area and time of concentra-
tion, consideration should be given to dividing the
watershed into hydrologic units of uniformly shaped
areas. These subareas, if at all possible, should have
a homogeneous drainage pattern, homogeneous land
use and approximately the same size. To assure that
all contributing subareas are adequately represented,
it is suggested that no subarea exceed 20 square miles
in area and that the ratio of the largest to the smallest
drainage area not exceed 10.
Chapter 16 Hydrographs Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Figure 16–2 Effect of watershed shape on the peaks of unit hydrographs (Equations, definitions, and units for variables are
found in appendix 16A.)

(a)

Area A
Area B

D.A.=4.6 mi2
1,500 Tc=2.3 h
∆D=0.3 h
qp=1455 ft3/s
D.A.=4.6 mi2
Tp=1.53 h
Tc=6.0 h
1,000
∆D=0.8 h
q (ft3/s)

Unit hydrograph qp=557 ft3/s

from Area A
Tp=4.0 h
500 500 Unit hydrograph
from Area B
q, ft3/s

zero at 20 hours
0 0
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
Time (h) Time (h)

(210–VI–NEH, March 2007) 16–5

Chapter 16 Hydrographs Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Figure 16–2 Effect of watershed shape on the peaks of unit hydrographs (Equations, definitions, and units for variables are
found in appendix 16A.)—Continued

(b)
1,000
Area C2 Area C1
D.A.=2.0 mi2 D.A.=2.6 mi2
q, ft3/s

Tc=1.5 h Tc=6.0 h
500 Unit hydrograph
from area C2 ∆D=0.2 h ∆D=0.8 h
Unit hydrograph qp=988 ft3/s qp=315 ft3/s
from area C1 Tp=1.0 h Tp=4.0 h
(C1)
0
0 5 10 15 20
Time (h)

(C2)
1,000
q (ft3/s)

500 Combined unit hydrograph

areas C1 and C2

0
0 5 10 15 20
Time (h)

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 Chapter 16 Hydrographs Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Example 16–1 Composite flood hydrograph

Given: Drainage area......................................4.6 square miles

Time of concentration........................2.3 hours
CN.........................................................85
Antecedent runoff condition.............II
Storm duration....................................6 hours

The equations used in this example are found in appendix 16A. It is recommended to read appendix 16A be-
fore reading the example.

Problem: Develop a composite flood hydrograph using the runoff produced by the rainfall taken from a
recording rain gage (fig. 16–3) on watershed (area A) shown in figure 16–2.

Figure 16–3 Accumulated or mass rainfall and runoff curves for CN 85 taken from a recording rain gage

4
Rainfall

3
Volume (in)

Runoff from
2 CN-85

0
0 1 2 3 4 5 6
Time (h)

1.0
0.8
0.6
0.4
0.2
0.0

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Chapter 16 Hydrographs Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Example 16–1 Composite flood hydrograph—Continued

Solution:
  Step 1 Develop and plot unit hydrograph.
Using equation 16A–13 in appendix 16A, compute ∆D:
∆D = 0.133 Tc
∆D = 0.133 × 2.3 = 0.306,use 0.3 hours

Using equation 16A–7 from appendix 16A, compute Tp:
∆D
+L Tp =
  2
.30
Tp = + (.6 × 2.3 ) = 1.53 h
  2

Using equation 16A–6 from the appendix, compute qp for volume of runoff equal to 1 inch:
484 AQ
qp =
Tp
 
484 × 4.6 × 1
qp = = 1, 455 ft 3 / s
  1.53

The coordinates of the curvilinear unit hydrograph are shown in table 16–2, and the plotted
hydrograph is figure 16–4.

  Step 2 Tabulate the ordinates of the unit hydrograph from figure 16–4 in 0.3 hour increments (∆D)
(table 16–4a, column 2).

  Step 3
Check the volume under the unit hydrograph by summing the ordinates (table 16–4a, column 2)
and multiplying by ∆D.
  9,914 × 0.3 = 2,974 (ft3/s)h

Compare this figure with the computed volume under the unit hydrograph:
645.33 ft 3 /s h ( )
 
mi 2 × in
× 4.6 mi 2 × 1 in = 2, 969 ft 3 /s h ( )
The difference between the two volumes in this example is less than 1 percent, and can be con-
sidered negligible.

If the volumes fail to check closely, reread the coordinates from figure 16–4 and adjust if neces-
sary until a reasonable balance in volume is attained.

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Chapter 16 Hydrographs Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Example 16–1 Composite flood hydrograph—Continued

Table 16–2 Computation of coordinates for unit hydrograph for use in example 16–1

Time ratios Time Discharge ratios Discharges Time ratios Time Discharge ratios Discharges
(table 16–1) (col 1 × 1.53) (table 16–1) (col 3 × 1,455) (table 16–1) (col 1 × 1.53) (table 16–1) (col 3 × 1,455)
(t/Tp) (h) (q/qp) (ft3/s) (t/Tp) (h) (q/qp) (ft3/s)

  (1) (2) (3) (4)   (1) (2) (3) (4)

0.000 0.000 0.0000 0 2.600 3.978 0.1070 156

0.100 0.153 0.0300 44
0.200 0.306 0.1000 146
0.300 0.459 0.1900 276
0.400 0.612 0.3100 451
0.500 0.765 0.4700 684
0.600 0.918 0.6600 960
0.700 1.071 0.8200 1193
0.800 1.224 0.9300 1353
0.900 1.377 0.9900 1440
1.000 1.530 1.0000 1455
1.100 1.683 0.9900 1440
1.200 1.836 0.9300 1353
1.300 1.989 0.8600 1251
1.400 2.142 0.7800 1135
1.500 2.295 0.6800 989
1.600 2.448 0.5600 815
1.700 2.601 0.4600 669
1.800 2.754 0.3900 567
1.900 2.907 0.3300 480
2.000 3.060 0.2800 407
2.100 3.213 0.2435 354
2.200 3.366 0.2070 301
2.300 3.519 0.1770 258
2.400 3.672 0.1470 214
2.500 3.825 0.1270 185
2.700 4.131 0.0920 134
2.800 4.284 0.0770 112
2.900 4.437 0.0660 96
3.000 4.590 0.0550 80
3.100 4.743 0.0475 69
3.200 4.896 0.0400 58
3.300 5.049 0.0345 50
3.400 5.202 0.0290 42
3.500 5.355 0.0250 36
3.600 5.508 0.0210 31
3.700 5.661 0.0180 26
3.800 5.814 0.0150 22
3.900 5.967 0.0130 19
4.000 6.120 0.0110 16
4.100 6.273 0.0098 14
4.200 6.426 0.0086 13
4.300 6.579 0.0074 11
4.400 6.732 0.0062 9
4.500 6.885 0.0050 7
4.600 7.038 0.0040 6
4.700 7.191 0.0030 4
4.800 7.344 0.0020 3
4.900 7.497 0.0010 1
5.000 7.650 0.0000 0

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Chapter 16 Hydrographs Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Example 16–1 Composite flood hydrograph—Continued

Figure 16–4 Unit hydrograph from example 16–1

1,500

1,400
Unit hydrograph
1,300

1,200

1,100

1,000
Discharge (ft3/s)

900

800

700

600

500

400

300

200

100

0
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Time (h)

16–10 (210–VI–NEH, March 2007)

Chapter 16 Hydrographs Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Example 16–1 Composite flood hydrograph—Continued

  Step 4 Tabulate the accumulated rainfall in 0.3-hour increments (table 16–3, column 2).

  Step 5 Compute the accumulated runoff (table 16–3, column 3) using CN of 85 and moisture condition
II.

  Step 6 Tabulate the incremental runoff (table 16–3, column 4).

  Step 7 Tabulate the incremental runoff in reverse order (table 16–3, column 5) on a strip of paper hav-
ing the same line spacing as the paper used in step 2. A spreadsheet program may also be used
to develop the composite hydrograph.

  Step 8 Place the strip of paper between column 1 and column 2 of table 16–4(a) and slide down until
the first increment of runoff (0.12) on the strip of paper is opposite the first discharge (140) on
the unit hydrograph (column 2). Multiplying 0.12 × 140 = 16.8 (round to 17). Tabulate in column
3 opposite the arrow on the strip of paper.

  Step 9 Move the strip of paper down one line (table 16–4(b)) and compute (0.12 × 439) + (.27 × 140)
= 90.48 (round to 90). Tabulate in column 3 opposite the arrow on the strip of paper. Continue
moving the strip of paper containing the runoff down one line at a time and accumulatively
multiply each runoff increment by the unit hydrograph discharge opposite the increment.

Table 16–3 Rainfall tabulated in 0.3 hour increments from plot of rain gage chart in figure 16–3

Time Accum. Accum. Incremental Reversed Time Accum. Accum. Incremental Reversed
rainfall runoff 1/ runoff incremental rainfall runoff 1/ runoff incremental
(h) (in) (in) (in) runoff (h) (in) (in) (in) runoff

 (1) (2) (3)   (4) (5) (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)

0.0 0.00
0.3 0.37 0.00 0.00 0.09 3.3 2.71 1.35 0.01 0.00
0.6 0.87 0.12 0.12 0.19 3.6 2.77 1.40 0.05 0.00
0.9 1.40 0.39 0.27 0.24 3.9 2.91 1.51 0.11 0.06
1.2 1.89 0.72 0.33 0.31 4.2 3.20 1.76 0.25 0.12
1.5 2.24 0.98 0.26 0.42 4.5 3.62 2.12 0.36 0.18
1.8 2.48 1.16 0.18 0.36 4.8 4.08 2.54 0.42 0.26
2.1 2.63 1.28 0.12 0.25 5.1 4.43 2.85 0.31 0.33
2.4 2.70 1.34 0.06 0.11 5.4 4.70 3.09 0.24 0.27
2.7 2.70 1.34 0.00 0.05 5.7 4.90 3.28 0.19 0.12
3.0 2.70 1.34 0.00 0.01 6.0 5.00 3.37 0.09 0.00
1/ Runoff computed using CN 85 moisture condition II.

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Chapter 16 Hydrographs Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Example 16–1 Composite flood hydrograph—Continued

Table 16–4 Computation of a flood hydrograph

16–4(a) 16–4(b) 16–4(c) 16–4(d)

Reversed Reversed
incremental incremental
runoff runoff
0.09 0.09
0.19 0.19
0.24 0.24
0.31 0.31
0.42 0.42
0.36 0.36
0.25 0.25
0.11 0.11
0.05 0.05
0.01 0.01
0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00
0.06                0.06                                                                                                                                               
0.12 (1) 0.12 (2) (3)   (1) Reversed (2) (3) (1) Reversed (2) (3)
(1) 0.18 (2) (3) Time 0.18 Unit Flood Time incre. Unit Flood Time incre. Unit Flood
Time 0.26 Unit Flood 0.26    hyd.     hyd.    runoff     hyd.       hyd.       runoff      hyd.       hyd.   
0.33 hyd. hyd.   0.0 0.33 0. 0. 0.0 0. 0. 0.0 0. 0.
0.0 0.27 0. 0. 0.3 0.27 140. 0. 0.3 140. 0. 0.3 140. 0.
0.3 0.12 140. 0. 0.6 0.12 439. 17. 0.6 0.09 439. 17. 0.6 439. 17.
0.6 0.00→ 439. 17. 0.9 0.00→ 923. 90. 0.9 0.19 923. 90. 0.9 923. 90.
0.9 923. 1.2 1,332. 1.2 0.24 1,332. 275. 1.2 1,332. 275.
1.2 1,332. 1.5 1,455. 1.5 0.31 1,455. 590. 1.5 1,455. 590.
1.5 1,455. 1.8 1,378. 1.8 0.42 1,378. 978. 1.8 1,378. 978.
1.8 1,378. 2.1 1,166. 2.1 0.36 1,166. 1,334. 2.1 1,166. 1,334.
2.1 1,166. 2.4 873. 2.4 0.25 873. 1,566. 2.4 873. 1,566.
2.4 873. 2.7 601. 2.7 0.11 601. 1,629. 2.7 601. 1,629.
2.7 601. 3.0 436. 3.0 0.05 436. 1,528. 3.0 436. 1,528.
3.0 436. 3.3 324. 3.3 0.01 324. 1,310. 3.3 324. 1,310.
3.3 324. 3.6 235. 3.6 0.00 235. 1,056. 3.6 235. 1,056.
3.6 235. 3.9 171. 3.9 0.00 171. 842. 3.9 171. 842.
3.9 171. 4.2 124. 4.2 0.06 124. 730. 4.2 124. 730.
4.2 124. 4.5 90. 4.5 0.12 90. 769. 4.5 90. 769.
4.5 90. 4.8 65. 4.8 0.18 65. 989. 4.8 65. 989.
4.8 65. 5.1 47. 5.1 0.26 47. 1,358. 5.1 47. 1,358.
5.1 47. 5.4 35. 5.4 0.33 35. 1,783. 5.4 35. 1,783.
5.4 35. 5.7 25. 5.7 0.27 25. 2,142. 5.7 25. 2,142.
5.7 25. 6.0 18. 6.0 0.12 18. 2,346. 6.0 18. 2,346.
6.0 18. 6.3 14. 6.3 0.00→ 14. 2,356. 6.3 14. 2,356.
6.3 14. 6.6 11. 6.6 11. 6.6 11. 2,179.
6.6 11. 6.9 7. 6.9 7. 6.9 7. 1,863.
6.9 7. 7.2 4. 7.2 4. 7.2 4. 1,494.
7.2 4. 7.5 1. 7.5 1. 7.5 1. 1,144.
7.5 1. 7.8 0. 7.8 0. 7.8 0.09 0. 845.
7.8 0. 8.1 8.1 8.1 0.19 611.
8.1 8.4 8.4 8.4 0.24 441.
8.4 8.7 8.7 8.7 0.31 320.
8.7 9.0 9.0 9.0 0.42 232.
9.0 9.3 9.3 9.3 0.36 168.
9.3 9.6 9.6 9.6 0.25 122.
9.6 9.9 9.9 9.9 0.11 89.
9.9 10.2 10.2 10.2 0.05 65.
10.2 10.5 10.5 10.5 0.01 47.
10.5 10.8 10.8 10.8 0.00 34.
10.8 11.1 11.1 11.1 0.00 25.
11.1 11.4 11.4 11.4 0.06 17.
11.4 11.7 11.7 11.7 0.12 11.
11.7 12.0 12.0 12.0 0.18 7.
12.0 12.3 12.3 12.3 0.26 4.
12.3 12.6 12.6 12.6 0.33 2.
12.6 12.9 12.9 12.9 0.27 1.
12.9 13.2 13.2 13.2 0.12 0.
13.2 13.5 13.5 13.5 0.00→ 0.
13.5 33,409
Total 9,914

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Chapter 16 Hydrographs Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Example 16–1 Composite flood hydrograph—Continued

Table 16–4(c) shows the position of the strip of paper containing the runoff when the peak
discharge of the flood hydrograph (2,356 ft3/s) is reached. If only the peak discharge of the flood
hydrograph is desired, it can be found by making only a few computations, placing the larger
increments of runoff near the peak discharge of the unit hydrograph.

Table 16–4(d) shows the position of the strip of paper containing the runoff at the completion of
the flood hydrograph. The complete flood hydrograph is shown in column 3. These discharges
are plotted at their proper time sequence on figure 16–5, which is the complete flood hydrograph
for example 16–1.

  Step 10 Calculate the volume under the flood hydrograph by summing the ordinates (table 16–4(d), col-
umn 3) and multiplying by ∆D: 33,409 × 0.3 = 10,022.7 ft3/s‑h.

Figure 16–5 Composite flood hydrograph from example 16–1

2,500.000

Composite flood
hydrograph

2,000.000
Discharge (ft3/s)

1,500.000

1,000.000

500.000

0
0 4 7 10 15 18 19 22 25 28 31 34 37 40 43 46

Time (h)

(210–VI–NEH, March 2007) 16–13

Chapter 16 Hydrographs
630.1604 Unit hydrograph de-
velopment for a gaged watershed
The dimensionless unit hydrograph varies from water-
shed to watershed based on a number of factors. Some
of these factors are size of watershed, geomorphic
characteristics, geologic characteristics, watershed
slope, watershed length, amount of storage, degree
of channelization of the stream network, and degree
of urbanization. The dimensionless unit hydrograph
(DUH) used as an NRCS standard for many years
has a peak rate factor of 484 and is described earlier
in this chapter. This DUH was developed by Victor
Mockus (Mockus 1957) from analysis of small water-
sheds where the rainfall and streamflow were gaged.
An alternative to the 484 DUH has been developed for
the Delmarva region (Delaware, Maryland, Virginia
peninsula) based on data from four gaged watersheds
(Welle, Woodward, and Moody 1980).
Many reports have been published concerning devel-
opment of the DUH for gaged watersheds in various
parts of the country including Maryland (McCuen
1989), Georgia, Florida, and Texas (Sheridan and
Merkel 1993). The DUH, as well as time of concentra-
tion, runoff curve number, stream Manning n values,
and other key parameters, may be calibrated to gage
data. Calibration of a hydrologic model may be based
on actual measurements for the watershed or studies
of nearby gaged watersheds, such as regional regres-
sion equations. A regional study of the DUH for gaged
watersheds may reveal insights into what DUH to use
for an ungaged watershed located within the region.
Various engineering textbooks, such as Hydrology
for Engineers (Linsley, Kohler, and Paulhus 1982),
have procedures for developing a unit hydrograph
from gaged rainfall and streamflow data. The method
presented in this chapter is somewhat different. It is a
practical method using the NRCS WinTR–20 computer
program. The primary concept upon which the method
is based is that if the DUH is to be used in WinTR–20
for analysis of hypothetical storms (such as design
storms, 100-year storm, probable maximum flood), the
DUH should be developed by calibrating WinTR–20
for measured rainfall and streamflow data for the
watershed. Furthermore, the WinTR–20 input data
file should be organized in such a way as to represent
the watershed stream network as determined by the
16–14 (210–VI–NEH, March 2007)
Part 630
National Engineering Handbook
project purpose and degree of detail. The DUH is
used in WinTR–20 to develop the incremental runoff
hydrograph for a short duration of rainfall excess
that results from rainfall assumed to be at uniform
intensity. The rainfall distribution for the storm is
divided into several short duration increments each
with assumed uniform rainfall intensity and uniform
depth over a watershed (or subarea). This is consistent
with the assumption of unit hydrograph theory of
spatial and temporal uniformity.
Williams (James, Winsor, and Williams 1987) and
Meadows (Meadows and Ramsey 1991) developed
computer programs that automate this process
through optimization techniques. The only required
data are rainfall distribution and magnitude, measured
hydrograph data, and watershed drainage area. The
output from these programs includes the event run-
off curve number, unit hydrograph, peak rate factor,
plots, and statistical analysis. These programs treat the
watershed as a single unit (division of watershed into
subareas is not simulated) assuming uniform rainfall
and a single runoff curve number. They have been
used to study unit hydrographs at many watersheds
throughout the country (Woodward, Merkel, and Sheri-
dan 1995). If the watershed is divided into subareas,
the procedure above is recommended for developing a
trial and error solution. The more subareas and reach-
es in the WinTR–20 input data, the more complicated
this process becomes. However, if the steps are fol-
lowed, a hydrologic model calibrated in such a manner
will make the best use of limited gage information at
other locations within the watershed.
The shape of the DUH determines the peak rate factor.
The higher the peak rate factor, the higher the peak
discharge will be from the watershed. The 1972 ver-
sion of this chapter stated: “This constant has been
known to vary from about 600 in steep terrain to 300 in
very flat, swampy country.” Recent studies have shown
the peak rate factor has a much wider range: from
below 100 to more than 600. The standard 484 DUH
was developed using graphical techniques and not an
equation. The gamma equation, however, fits the shape
of the 484 DUH fairly well. The gamma equation has
the following form:
[16–1]
 t  m    − m  tt   
 
Q
= e m      e  p   
Qp  t p    
   
Chapter 16 Hydrographs Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

where: DUH determination with WinTR–20

Q Step 1—Derive input to the WinTR–20 model, enter
= ratio of discharge at a certain time to the peak
Qp discharge of the unit hydrograph (UH)
e = constant 2.7183
m = gamma equation shape factor
t = ratio of the time of DUH coordinate to time to
tp
peak of the DUH
Since the equation has only one parameter, m, one
value of m produces a unique DUH, and thus one
unique peak rate factor. The peak rate factor (PRF) is
calculated from the DUH coordinates using the equa-
tion 16–2.
645.33
PRF =
∑ DUH coordinates × ∆TDUH
where:
PRF = peak rate factor
Σ DUH coordinates = summation of the dimensionless
unit hydrograph coordinates
∆TDUH = nondimensional time interval of the DUH
645.33 = unit conversion factor (see eq. 16–5, appen-
dix 16A)
The gamma equation may be used to develop a DUH
with any desired peak rate factor.
The PRF is calculated after the DUH coordinates are
calculated. This means that various values of m must
be tried in the equation until a desired PRF is reached.
Table 16–5 shows the relationship of m and PRF. The
general steps to develop the DUH follow.
Table 16–5 Relationship of m and PRF for DUH devel-
oped from a Gamma equation
m PRF
the data, and make preliminary simulations. If the
stream gage is not at the watershed outlet, defining a
subarea or end of reach at the location of the stream
gage is recommended. The original WinTR–20 input
file should be copied to create a separate file for each
storm event to be analyzed. The object of this analysis
is to model the storm event over the watershed and
adjust parameters, such as runoff curve number, base-
flow, time of concentration, and DUH, to provide the
best match with the measured streamflow hydrograph
at the gage.
Step 2—Examine rainfall and streamflow records to
ensure there are periods of record where both rainfall
[16–2]
and streamflow are measured. At the stream gage loca-
tion, select several flood events to be analyzed repre-
senting a range of magnitudes and for which rainfall
records are available. With respect to the time interval
of the data, generally the smaller the time interval the
better the results. At some point, the modeler needs to
assess the quality of data being used, locations of gag-
es (often a rain gage within the watershed boundary
is not available), and whether the time interval of the
data is satisfactory. For example, if the stream gage is
a crest gage (only peak discharge is recorded) and the
rain gage records daily precipitation, it is unlikely that
a reasonable DUH can be developed. Other commonly
available data are hourly and 15-minute precipitation;
daily, hourly, and peak streamflow; and breakpoint
data (available for many Agricultural Research Service
(ARS) experimental watersheds). The ARS maintains
the Water Data Center, http://hydrolab.arsusda.gov/
wdc/arswater.html with an archive on experimen-
tal watersheds. The National Climatic Data Center
(NOAA), http://www.ncdc.noaa.gov/oa/ncdc.html) has
archived National Weather Service rainfall records,
and the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), http://water.
usgs.gov/) has also archived streamflow records.

0.26 101 Step 3—For storm events with both measured rainfall
and streamflow, develop a cumulative rainfall distribu-
1 238 tion to be entered into the WinTR–20 data file. If the
2 349 watershed is small enough or if rainfall data are lim-
3 433 ited, a single rain gage may be used to represent uni-
3.7 484 form rainfall over the watershed. If more than one rain
gage is available, rainfall isohyets may be drawn over
4 504 the watershed and rainfall varied for each subarea.
5 566

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Step 4—Runoff volume may be determined for the
streamflow hydrograph and is recommended to be
the first parameter calibrated. Runoff volume is the
volume of the hydrograph above the baseflow. Several
baseflow separation methods are described in stan-
dard hydrology texts, but in many small watersheds,
baseflow is relatively small and a constant baseflow
can generally be assumed. The runoff curve number
for the watershed (or its subareas if so divided) should
be adjusted such that the storm event rainfall produc-
es the storm event runoff.
Step 5—If the hydrograph at the gage has significant
baseflow, the value may be entered in the appropri-
ate location in the WinTR–20 input file. Consideration
should also be given to prorating the baseflow value
(based on drainage area) at other locations along the
stream network.
Step 6—Timing of the peak discharge at the gage is
dependent primarily upon the time of concentration
and stream cross section rating tables. The value of
Manning's n used for overland flow, concentrated flow,
and channel flow is not known precisely. Using gage
data may help in refining these estimates. If the times
to peak of the measured and computed hydrographs
are not similar, the timing factors of the watershed
should be adjusted to bring the times to peak into
closer agreement.
Step 7—After the runoff volume and timing have
been adjusted, the DUH may be calibrated by entering
different DUHs in WinTR–20 with various peak rate
factors. The objective is to match the peak discharge
and shape of the measured hydrograph as closely as
possible.
Considerations to be made in selecting events to
analyze should include single versus multiple peak
hydrographs, long versus short duration rainfalls, high
versus low event runoff curve numbers, and large
versus small flood events. Rainfall events separated by
a relatively short time span may not allow the stream-
flow hydrograph to return to baseflow. Use of a com-
plete hydrograph that begins and ends at baseflow is
recommended.
Problems inevitably occur when working with rainfall
and runoff data. Problems indicating that a particu-
lar event should not be included in the analysis may
include:
• a significant flood event with minor rainfall and
vice versa
• more runoff volume than rainfall (such as may
happen with snowmelt events,) see NEH 630,
chapter 11, Snowmelt
• timing of rainfall and runoff measurements may
be out of synchronization (for example, the
hydrograph may begin rising before there is any
rainfall)
If more than one storm event is analyzed, a wide range
of event peak rate factors may result. The causes of
these kinds of problems include:
• poor data quality
• nonuniform rainfall over the watershed
• rainfall (magnitude and/or distribution) at the
gage not representing rainfall over the watershed
• partial area hydrology
• runoff curve number procedure not representing
the distribution of runoff over time
• frozen soil, snowmelt runoff, transmission loss,
or physical changes in the watershed over time
(urbanization, reservoir construction, channel
modification)
• the DUH may even be sensitive to the magnitude
of the storm and resulting flood
If the range of PRFs for the various storm events is
wide, the data and watershed characteristics should be
investigated to determine the reason. Judgment needs
to be exercised in determining what DUH best repre-
sents the watershed. Example 16–2 shows the proce-
dure to determine the dimensionless unit hydrograph
for a gaged watershed.

Consider rain gages close enough to the watershed lo-

cation such that the rainfall measurements accurately
represent the actual rainfall on the watershed.

16–16 (210–VI–NEH, March 2007)

Chapter 16 Hydrographs Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Example 16–2 Determining the DUH for a gaged watershed

Watershed and storm event description: The watershed selected for this example is Alligator Creek
near Clearwater, Florida. Hourly discharge and rainfall data
were provided by the U.S. Geological Survey. The watershed
has a drainage area of 6.73 square miles. For simplicity,
the watershed is treated as a single watershed and is not
divided into subareas. The date of the storm event being
analyzed is February 2, 1996. The storm had a duration of 15
hours and a total rainfall of 3.69 inches. The peak discharge
at the stream gage was 436 cubic feet per second.

Rainfall and runoff data: Columns 1 to 3 in table 16–6 show the time series of
measured rainfall and stream discharge. The rainfall
distribution for the storm event is plotted in figure 16–6.
The baseflow of the hydrograph is 4.7 cubic feet per second.
After subtracting the constant baseflow from the measured
hydrograph, the runoff volume was computed to be 1.45
inches. The runoff curve number corresponding to 3.69
inches of rainfall and 1.45 inches of runoff is 75, which was
used in WinTR–20 for the watershed runoff curve number.

Time of concentration: The time to peak of the measured hydrograph is 12 hours.

Several trials of watershed time of concentration were made
before arriving at the value of 8 hours. This resulted in the
computed hydrograph having a time to peak of 12 hours.

Dimensionless Unit Hydrograph: A DUH for any desired peak rate factor may be developed
from the gamma equation (16–1) described in this section.
Appendix 16B has standard tables that have been developed
for a DUH based on the gamma equation for peak rate fac-
tors ranging from 100 to 600 (at increments of 50). The PRF
for this individual storm event was between 200 and 250.
The sum of the DUH coordinates in table 16–7 is 13.5361.
Using the given nondimensional time step 0.2 and equation
16–2 results in a calculated PRF of 238.37, and is rounded
to 238. The final peak rate factor of 238 was selected (which
gave a good fit of hydrograph shape and peak discharge).
The DUH is listed in table 16–7 and plotted in figure 16–7.
The computed hydrograph for this PRF is in column 4 of
table 16–6. The comparison of the measured and computed
hydrographs is shown in figure 16–8.

(210–VI–NEH, March 2007) 16–17

Chapter 16 Hydrographs Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Example 16–2 Determining the DUH for a gaged watershed—Continued

Table 16–6 Storm event of February 2, 1996, at Alligator Creek near Clearwater, FL

Time Cumulative Measured Computed Time Cumulative Measured Computed

rainfall discharge discharge rainfall discharge discharge
(h) (in) (ft3/s) (ft3/s) (h) (in) (ft3/s) (ft3/s)
(1) (2) (3) (4) (1) (2) (3) (4)

0 0.00 4.7 4.7 28 87.4 92.5

1 0.01 4.7 4.7 29 81.4 81
2 0.06 4.7 4.7 30 76.7 70.9
3 0.14 5.0 4.7 31 71.6 62
4 0.34 5.5 4.7 32 66.6 54.2
5 1.10 7.8 13.9 33 63.4 47.4
6 1.66 24.8 48.5 34 59.2 41.4
7 2.54 98.8 121.1 35 56.2 36.1
8 3.30 199.5 211.2 36 53.2 31.4
9 3.62 292.9 315.3 37 50.8 27.6
10 3.66 362.5 379.6 38 47.5 24.4
11 3.67 416.1 414.1 39 45.7 21.7
12 3.67 436.4 425.9 40 44.3 19.2
13 3.67 424.9 421.6 41 42.5 17.1
14 3.68 395.0 407.2 42 40.8 15.3
15 3.69 357.8 386.2 43 39.1 13.8
16 316.8 360.8 44 37.8 12.4
17 279.1 333 45 36.5 11.3
18 244.6 304.3 46 35.3 10.3
19 215.0 275.9 47 34.5 9.4
20 187.1 248.4 48 33.7 8.7
21 165.9 222.4 49 32.5 8.1
22 146.7 198.2 50 31.8 7.6
23 132.2 175.8 51 31.0 7.1
24 119.9 155.2 52 30.2 6.7
25 110.4 136.6 53 29.5 6.4
26 100.8 120 54 28.8 6.1
27 93.0 105.4 55 27.7 5.8

16–18 (210–VI–NEH, March 2007)

Chapter 16 Hydrographs Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Example 16–2 Determining the DUH for a gaged watershed—Continued

Figure 16–6 Cumulative rainfall used in example 16–2

4.00

3.50 Cumulative rainfall

3.00

2.50
Rainfall (in)

2.00

1.50

1.00

0.50

0.00
0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16

Time (h)

(210–VI–NEH, March 2007) 16–19

Chapter 16 Hydrographs Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Example 16–2 Determining the DUH for a gaged watershed—Continued

Table 16–7 Dimensionless unit hydrograph for Alligator Creek at Clearwater, FL, used in example 16–2

Time Discharge Time Discharge Time Discharge Time Discharge Time Discharge
non-dim non-dim non-dim non-dim non-dim non-dim non-dim non-dim non-dim non-dim
0.0 0 2.0 0.736 4.0 0.199 6.0 0.04 8.0 0.007
0.2 0.445 2.2 0.663 4.2 0.172 6.2 0.034 8.2 0.006
0.4 0.729 2.4 0.592 4.4 0.147 6.4 0.029 8.4 0.005
0.6 0.895 2.6 0.525 4.6 0.126 6.6 0.024 8.6 0.004
0.8 0.977 2.8 0.463 4.8 0.107 6.8 0.021 8.8 0.0036
1.0 1 3.0 0.406 5.0 0.092 7.0 0.017 9.0 0.003
1.2 0.983 3.2 0.355 5.2 0.078 7.2 0.015 9.2 0.0025
1.4 0.938 3.4 0.308 5.4 0.066 7.4 0.012 9.4 0.002
1.6 0.878 3.6 0.267 5.6 0.056 7.6 0.01 9.6 0.001
1.8 0.809 3.8 0.231 5.8 0.048 7.8 0.009 9.8 0

sum DUH coordinates 13.5361

PRF 238.
Figure 16–7 Dimensionless unit hydrograph used in example 16–2

0.9 Dim unit hyd

0.8

0.7
Discharge (non-dim)

0.6

0.5

0.4

0.3

0.2

0.1

0
0.0 1.0 2.0 3.0 4.0 5.0 6.0 7.0 8.0 9.0 10.0

Time (non-dim)

16–20 (210–VI–NEH, March 2007)

Chapter 16 Hydrographs Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Example 16–2 Determining the DUH for a gaged watershed—Continued

Figure 16–8 Runoff hydrographs for example 16–2

450.0

400.0 Measured hydrograph

Computed hydrograph

350.0

300.0
Discharge (ft3/s)

250.0

200.0

150.0

100.0

50.0

0.0
-5 5 15 25 35 45 55
Time (h)

(210–VI–NEH, March 2007) 16–21

Chapter 16 Hydrographs Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Example 16–2 Determining the DUH for a gaged watershed—Continued

Conclusion: This procedure outlines the steps of developing the DUH

by trial-and-error using WinTR–20. The comparison of
the measured and computed hydrographs shows a good
match of the rising hydrograph limb and the peak discharge
and a less accurate fit of the falling limb. The measured
hydrograph shows a slower recession at the tail of the
hydrograph, which may represent delayed release of water
from storage or delayed hydrograph response as a result of
subsurface flow. Representing this in the DUH would re-
quire a more complex mathematical representation, such as
a gamma equation for the majority of the DUH shape and an
exponential recession function to represent the tail of the
DUH. If another shape of DUH is desired, it may be accom-
modated in the steps described above.

16–22 (210–VI–NEH, March 2007)

Chapter 16 Hydrographs Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources

630.1605 References
James, W., P. Winsor, and J. Williams. 1987. Synthetic
unit hydrograph. ASCE Journal of Water Re-
sources Planning and Management, Vol. 113, No.
1, pp. 70–81.
Linsley, R.K., M.A. Kohler, and J.L.H. Paulhus. 1982.
Hydrology for engineers. McGraw-Hill Book Co.,
New York, NY.
McCuen, R. 1989. Calibration of hydrologic models for
Maryland. Maryland Department of Transporta-
tion Report Number FHWA/MD–91/03.
Meadows, M., and E. Ramsey. 1991. User's manual for
a unit hydrograph optimization program Project
Completion Report, Vol. I, U.S. Geological Sur-
vey, Washington, DC.
Conservation Service. 2004. Estimation of direct
runoff from storm rainfall. National Engineering
Handbook, Part 630, Chapter 10. Washington,
DC.
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources
Conservation Service. 1972. Time of concentra-
tion. National Engineering Handbook, Part 630,
Chapter 15. Washington, DC.
Welle, P., D.E. Woodward, and H. Fox Moody. 1980. A
dimensionless unit hydrograph for the Delmarva
Peninsula. American Society of Agricultural Engi-
neers Paper Number 80–2013, St. Joseph, MI.
Woodward, D.E., W.H. Merkel, and J. Sheridan. 1995.
NRCS unit hydrographs. In Water Resources En-
gineering, Vol. 1, W.H. Espey, Jr., and P.G. Combs
(eds.), ASCE, New York, NY, pp. 1693–1697.

Mockus, V. 1957. Use of storm and watershed char-

acteristics in synthetic hydrograph analysis and
application. American Geophysical Union, Pacific
Southwest Region, Sacramento, CA.

Sheridan, J.S., and W.H. Merkel. 1993. Determining

design unit hydrographs for small watersheds. In
Proc. Fed. Interagency Workshop on Hydrologic
Modeling Demands for the 90's, compiled by
J.S. Burton, USGS Water Resourc. Invest. Rep.
93–4018, pp. 8–42–8–49.

Sherman, L.K. 1940. The hydraulics of surface runoff.

Civil Eng. 10:165–166.

Sherman, L.K. 1932. Streamflow from rainfall by the

unit-graph method. Engineering News Record,
vol. 108, pp. 501–505.

U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources

Conservation Service. WinTR–20, Ver. 1.00,
Computer Program for Project Formulation Hy-
drology. Washington, DC.

U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources

Conservation Service. 2004. Snowmelt. National
Engineering Handbook, Part 630, Chapter 11.
Washington, DC.

(210–VI–NEH, March 2007) 16–23

Appendix 16A Elements of a Unit Hydrograph

The dimensionless curvilinear unit hydrograph (fig. These relationships are useful in developing the peak
16–1) has 37.5 percent of the total volume in the rising rate equation for use with the dimensionless unit
side, which is represented by one unit of time and one hydrograph.
unit of discharge. This dimensionless unit hydrograph
also can be represented by an equivalent triangular Peak rate equation
hydrograph having the same units of time and dis-
charge, thus having the same percent of volume in the From figure 16A–1 the total volume under the triangu-
rising side of the triangle (fig. 16A–1). This allows the lar unit hydrograph is:
base of the triangle to be solved in relation to the time
to peak using the geometry of triangles. Solving for the q p Tp q p Tr qp
base length of the triangle, if one unit of time Tp equals Q=
2
+
2
=
2
(Tp + Tr )
[16A–1]
0.375 per cent of volume:
1.00 With Q in inches and T in hours, solve for peak rate qP
Tb = = 2.67 units of time
.375 in inches per hour:

Tr = Tb − Tp = 1.67 units of time or 1.67 Tp 2Q

qp =
where: Tp + Tr
[16A–2]
Tb = time from beginning to end of the triangular
hydrograph
Tr = time from the peak to the end of the triangular
hydrograph
Tp = time from the beginning of the triangular
hydrograph to its peak

Figure 16A–1 Dimensionless curvilinear unit hydrograph and equivalent triangular hydrograph

Excess rainfall
Lag
1.0
∆D
.9
Mass curve
of runoff
.8

.7
q/qp or Qa/Q

.6
qp
.5
Tc Point of inflection
.4

.3

.2

.1

0
0 1 2 3 4 5
Tp Tr
Tb
t/Tp

(210–VI–NEH, March 2007) 16A–1

Chapter 16 Hydrographs Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Let: shape factor associated with the triangular hydrograph

2 and, therefore, a change in the constant 484. This con-
K= stant has been known to vary from about 600 in steep
T
1+ r terrain to 100 or less in flat, swampy country. The na-
Tp
[16A–3] tional hydraulic engineer should concur in the use of a
dimensionless unit hydrograph other than that shown
Therefore: in figure 16A–1. If the dimensionless shape of the
KQ hydrograph needs to vary to perform a special job, the
qp =
Tp ratio of the percent of total volume in the rising side of
[16A–4] the unit hydrograph to the rising side of a triangle is a
useful tool in arriving at the peak rate factor.
In making the conversion from inches per hour to cu-
bic feet per second and putting the equation in terms Figure 16A–1 shows that:
ordinarily used, including drainage area A in square
∆D
miles and time T in hours, equation 16–4 becomes the Tp = +L
general equation: 2 [16A–7]
645.33 × K × A × Q where:
qp = ∆D = duration of unit excess rainfall in hours
Tp
[16A–5] L = watershed lag in hours

where: The lag of a watershed is defined in NEH 630, chapter

qp = peak discharge in cubic feet per second 15 as the time from the center of mass of excess rain-
(ft3/s) fall ( ∆D ) to the time to peak (Tp ) of a unit hydrograph.
2
645.33 = conversion factor for the rate required to Combining equations 16A–6 and 16A–7 results in equa-
discharge 1 inch from 1 square mile in 1 tion 16A–8:
hour, units of 484 AQ
(
ft 3 / s × h ) qp =
∆D
+L
mi 2 × in 2
[16A–8]
K = nondimensional factor
The average relationship of lag to time of concentra-
A = drainage area in square miles (mi2)
tion (Tc) is L = 0.6 Tc (NEH 630, chapter 15). Tc is
Q = runoff in inches (in)
expressed in hours.
Tp = time to peak in hours (h)
Substituting in equation 16A–8, the peak rate equation
The relationship of the triangular unit hydrograph,
becomes:
Tr = 1.67, gives K = 0.75. Then substituting into equa-
tion 16–5 gives: 484 AQ
qp =
484 AQ ∆D
qp = + 0.6Tc
Tp 2 [16A–9]
[16A–6]
The time of concentration is defined in two ways in
The peak rate factor for the triangular dimensionless chapter 15:
unit hydrograph is 484. The curvilinear dimensionless
unit hydrograph of table 16–1 has a peak rate factor • The time for runoff to travel from the hydrauli-
of 483.4 due to rounding of the discharge ratios to cally most distant point in the watershed to the
either two or three decimal places. This discrepancy point in question.
produces a negligible difference in the calculated peak
discharges. • The time from the end of excess rainfall to the
point of inflection on the recedimg limb of the
Any change in the dimensionless unit hydrograph unit hydrograph.
reflecting a change in the percent of volume under the
rising side would cause a corresponding change in the

16A–2 (210–VI–NEH, March 2007)

Chapter 16 Hydrographs Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

These two relationships are important because Tc is

computed under the first definition and ∆D, the unit
storm duration, is used to compute the time to peak
(Tp) of the unit hydrograph. This in turn is applied to
all of the points on the abscissa of the dimensionless
unit hydrograph using the ratio t/Tp as shown in table
16–1.

The dimensionless unit hydrograph shown in figure

16A–1 has a time to peak at one unit of time and point
of inflection at approximately 1.7 units of time. Using
the relationships Lag = 0.6 Tc and the point of inflec-
tion = 1.7 Tp, ∆D will be 0.2 Tp. A small variation in
DD is permissible; however, it should be no greater
than 0.25 Tp. The standard NRCS dimensionless unit
hydrograph is defined at an interval of 0.1 Tp (table
16–1). If ∆D is 0.2 Tp , then during computations, every
second point is used to develop the incremental flood
hydrograph. If ∆D is 0.25 Tp or more, then the shape of
the dimensionless unit hydrograph is not being repre-
sented accurately. Example 16–1 illustrates the devel-
opment of a composite flood hydrograph as shown in
figure 16–5.

Using the relationship shown on the dimensionless

unit hydrograph in figure 16A–1, compute the relation-
ship of ∆D to Tc:
Tc + ∆D = 1.7 Tp
[16A–10]
∆D
+ 0.6 Tc = Tp
2 [16A–11]

Combining these two equations results in a defined

relationship between DD and Tc:

 ∆D 
Tc + ∆D = 1.7  + 0.6 Tc  [16A–12]
 2 
0.15 ∆D = 0.02Tc

∆D = 0.133 Tc [16A–13]

(210–VI–NEH, March 2007) 16A–3

Appendix 16B Dimensionless Unit Hydrographs with
Peak Rate Factors from 100 to 600

This appendix has standard dimensionless unit hydrographs developed using the gamma equation. For each peak
rate factor from 100 to 600, in increments of 50, a table has been prepared in the format for the NRCS WinTR–20
computer program (see tables 16B–1 through 16B–11). A plot of each dimensionless unit hydrograph is included
as figures 16B–1 through 16B–11. Refer to section 630.1604 for information on the development and use of these
standard tables.

Table 16B–1 Peak rate factor = 600

DIMENSIONLESS UNIT HYDROGRAPH:

0.0 0.0004 0.0108 0.0596 0.1703
0.3392 0.5378 0.7282 0.8785 0.9704
1.0 0.9741 0.9058 0.8101 0.7008
0.5891 0.4831 0.3875 0.3049 0.2358
0.1795 0.1348 0.0999 0.0732 0.0531
0.0381 0.0271 0.0191 0.0134 0.0093
0.0064 0.0044 0.003 0.002 0.0014
0.0009 0.0006 0.0004 0.0003 0.0002
0.0001 0.0001 0.0001 0.0

Figure 16B–1 Peak rate factor = 600

1.0

0.9 Dim hyd

0.8

0.7
Discharge (non-dim)

0.6

0.5

0.4

0.3

0.2

0.1

0.0
0 0.2 0.4 0.6 0.8 1 1.2 1.4 1.6 1.8 2 2.2 2.4 2.6 2.8 3 3.2 3.4
Time (non-dim)

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Chapter 16 Hydrographs Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Table 16B–2 Peak rate factor = 550

DIMENSIONLESS UNIT HYDROGRAPH:

0.0 0.0013 0.0218 0.0923 0.2242
0.4012 0.5922 0.7649 0.8964 0.975
1.0 0.9781 0.9198 0.837 0.7405
0.6396 0.5408 0.449 0.3666 0.2951
0.2344 0.184 0.1429 0.1099 0.0837
0.0633 0.0475 0.0354 0.0262 0.0193
0.0141 0.0103 0.0074 0.0054 0.0038
0.0027 0.002 0.0014 0.001 0.0007
0.0005 0.0003 0.0002 0.0002 0.0001
0.0001 0.0001 0.0

Figure 16B–2 Peak rate factor = 550

1.0

0.9
Dim hyd

0.8

0.7
Discharge (non-dim)

0.6

0.5

0.4

0.3

0.2

0.1

0.0
0 0.2 0.4 0.6 0.8 1 1.2 1.4 1.6 1.8 2 2.2 2.4 2.6 2.8 3 3.2 3.4 3.6
Time (non-dim)

16B–2 (210–VI–NEH, March 2007)

Chapter 16 Hydrographs Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Table 16B–3 Peak rate factor = 500

DIMENSIONLESS UNIT HYDROGRAPH:

0.0 0.004 0.0414 0.1376 0.2881
0.4677 0.6466 0.8001 0.913 0.9791
1.0 0.9817 0.9328 0.8623 0.7788
0.6893 0.5996 0.5135 0.4338 0.3621
0.2989 0.2444 0.198 0.1591 0.1269
0.1006 0.0792 0.062 0.0482 0.0374
0.0288 0.0221 0.0169 0.0129 0.0098
0.0074 0.0056 0.0042 0.0031 0.0023
0.0017 0.0013 0.001 0.0007 0.0005
0.0004 0.0003 0.0002 0.0002 0.0001
0.0001 0.0001 0.0

Figure 16B–3 Peak rate factor = 500

1.0

0.9 Dim hyd

0.8

0.7
Discharge (non-dim)

0.6

0.5

0.4

0.3

0.2

0.1

0.0
0 0.2 0.4 0.6 0.8 1 1.2 1.4 1.6 1.8 2 2.2 2.4 2.6 2.8 3 3.2 3.4 3.6 3.8 4
Time (non-dim)

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Chapter 16 Hydrographs Part 630
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Table 16B–4 Peak rate factor = 450

DIMENSIONLESS UNIT HYDROGRAPH:

0.0 0.011 0.0739 0.1975 0.3614
0.5371 0.7 0.8333 0.9282 0.9829
1.0 0.985 0.9447 0.8859 0.8151
0.7377 0.6581 0.5798 0.5051 0.4357
0.3725 0.3159 0.266 0.2224 0.1849
0.1528 0.1257 0.1029 0.0838 0.068
0.055 0.0443 0.0356 0.0285 0.0227
0.0181 0.0143 0.0114 0.009 0.0071
0.0056 0.0044 0.0034 0.0027 0.0021
0.0016 0.0013 0.001 0.0008 0.0006
0.0005 0.0004 0.0003 0.0002 0.0002
0.0001 0.0001 0.0001 0.0001 0.0

Figure 16B–4 Peak rate factor = 450

1.0

0.9 Dim hyd

0.8

0.7
Discharge (non-dim)

0.6

0.5

0.4

0.3

0.2

0.1

0.0
0 0.2 0.4 0.6 0.8 1 1.2 1.4 1.6 1.8 2 2.2 2.4 2.6 2.8 3 3.2 3.4 3.6 3.8 4 4.2 4.4 4.6
Time (non-dim)

16B–4 (210–VI–NEH, March 2007)

Chapter 16 Hydrographs Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Table 16B–5 Peak rate factor = 400

DIMENSIONLESS UNIT HYDROGRAPH:

0.0 0.027 0.1244 0.2732 0.4429
0.6081 0.7517 0.8642 0.9421 0.9863
1.0 0.988 0.9555 0.9076 0.8491
0.7839 0.7155 0.6465 0.579 0.5144
0.4538 0.3977 0.3465 0.3004 0.2591
0.2224 0.1902 0.162 0.1376 0.1164
0.0982 0.0826 0.0693 0.0579 0.0484
0.0403 0.0335 0.0278 0.023 0.019
0.0157 0.0129 0.0106 0.0087 0.0072
0.0059 0.0048 0.0039 0.0032 0.0026
0.0021 0.0017 0.0014 0.0011 0.0009
0.0007 0.0006 0.0005 0.0004 0.0003
0.0003 0.0002 0.0002 0.0001 0.0001
0.0001 0.0001 0.0001 0.0

Figure 16B–5 Peak rate factor = 400

1.0

0.9
Dim hyd

0.8

0.7
Discharge (non-dim)

0.6

0.5

0.4

0.3

0.2

0.1

0.0
0 0.2 0.4 0.6 0.8 1 1.2 1.4 1.6 1.8 2 2.2 2.4 2.6 2.8 3 3.2 3.4 3.6 3.8 4 4.2 4.4 4.6 4.8 5
Time (non-dim)

(210–VI–NEH, March 2007) 16B–5

Chapter 16 Hydrographs Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Table 16B–6 Peak rate factor = 350

DIMENSIONLESS UNIT HYDROGRAPH:

0.0 0.197 0.53 0.8006 0.9546
1.0 0.9651 0.8803 0.7703 0.6532
0.5402 0.4378 0.349 0.2743 0.2131
0.1638 0.1248 0.0944 0.0708 0.0529
0.0392 0.0289 0.0213 0.0156 0.0114
0.0082 0.006 0.0043 0.0031 0.0022
0.0016 0.0011 0.0008 0.0006 0.0004
0.0003 0.0002 0.0001 0.0001 0.0001
0.0001 0.0

Figure 16B–6 Peak rate factor = 350

1.0

0.9
Dim hyd
0.8

0.7
Discharge (non-dim)

0.6

0.5

0.4

0.3

0.2

0.1

0.0
0 0.25 0.5 .075 1 1.25 1.5 1.75 2 2.25 2.5 2.75 3 3.25 3.5 3.75 4 4.25 4.5 4.75 5 5.25 5.5 5.75 6
Time (non-dim)

16B–6 (210–VI–NEH, March 2007)

Chapter 16 Hydrographs Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Table 16B–7 Peak Rate Factor = 300

DIMENSIONLESS UNIT HYDROGRAPH:

0.0 0.2943 0.6201 0.8458 0.9656
1.0 0.9736 0.9085 0.8217 0.7257
0.629 0.5369 0.4527 0.3776 0.3122
0.2561 0.2087 0.1691 0.1363 0.1093
0.0873 0.0695 0.0551 0.0436 0.0343
0.027 0.0212 0.0166 0.0129 0.0101
0.0078 0.0061 0.0047 0.0037 0.0028
0.0022 0.0017 0.0013 0.001 0.0008
0.0006 0.0005 0.0003 0.0003 0.0002
0.0002 0.0001 0.0001 0.0001 0.0001
0.0

Figure 16B–7 Peak rate factor = 300

1.0

0.9
Dim hyd
0.8

0.7
Discharge (non-dim)

0.6

0.5

0.4

0.3

0.2

0.1

0.0
0 0.25 0.5 .075 1 1.25 1.5 1.75 2 2.25 2.5 2.75 3 3.25 3.5 3.75 4 4.25 4.5 4.75 5 5.25 5.5 5.75 6
Time (non-dim)

(210–VI–NEH, March 2007) 16B–7

Chapter 16 Hydrographs Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Table 16B–8 Peak rate factor = 250

DIMENSIONLESS UNIT HYDROGRAPH:

0.0 0.4142 0.7086 0.8863 0.9751
1.0 0.9809 0.9332 0.868 0.7937
0.7159 0.6388 0.5648 0.4957 0.4322
0.3747 0.3233 0.2778 0.2378 0.2028
0.1725 0.1463 0.1238 0.1045 0.088
0.074 0.0621 0.0521 0.0436 0.0364
0.0304 0.0253 0.0211 0.0175 0.0146
0.0121 0.01 0.0083 0.0069 0.0057
0.0047 0.0039 0.0032 0.0027 0.0022
0.0018 0.0015 0.0012 0.001 0.0008
0.0007 0.0006 0.0005 0.0004 0.0003
0.0003 0.0002 0.0002 0.0001 0.0001
0.0001 0.0001 0.0001 0.0001 0.0

Figure 16B–8 Peak rate factor = 250

1.0

0.9
Dim hyd

0.8

0.7
Discharge (non-dim)

0.6

0.5

0.4

0.3

0.2

0.1

0.0
0 0.5 1 1.5 2 2.5 3 3.5 4 4.5 5 5.5 6 6.5 7 7.5
Time (non-dim)

16B–8 (210–VI–NEH, March 2007)

Chapter 16 Hydrographs Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Table 16B–9 Peak rate factor = 200

DIMENSIONLESS UNIT HYDROGRAPH:

0.0 0.5489 0.7911 0.9212 0.983
1.0 0.987 0.954 0.9082 0.8545
0.7966 0.7372 0.6779 0.6203 0.565
0.5128 0.4638 0.4183 0.3763 0.3377
0.3025 0.2704 0.2413 0.2151 0.1914
0.1701 0.151 0.1339 0.1186 0.105
0.0928 0.082 0.0724 0.0638 0.0563
0.0496 0.0437 0.0384 0.0338 0.0297
0.0261 0.0229 0.0201 0.0176 0.0155
0.0136 0.0119 0.0104 0.0091 0.008
0.007 0.0061 0.0054 0.0047 0.0041
0.0036 0.0031 0.0027 0.0024 0.0021
0.0018 0.0016 0.0014 0.0012 0.0011
0.0009 0.0008 0.0007 0.0006 0.0005
0.0005 0.0004 0.0004 0.0003 0.0003
0.0002 0.0002 0.0002 0.0002 0.0001
0.0001 0.0001 0.0001 0.0001 0.0001
0.0001 0.0001 0.0

Figure 16B–9 Peak rate factor = 200

1.0

0.9 Dim hyd

0.8

0.7
Discharge (non-dim)

0.6

0.5

0.4

0.3

0.2

0.1

0.0
0 0.5 1 1.5 2 2.5 3 3.5 4 4.5 5 5.5 6 6.5 7 7.5 8 8.5 9 9.5 10
Time (non-dim)

(210–VI–NEH, March 2007) 16B–9

Chapter 16 Hydrographs Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Table 16B–10 Peak rate factor = 150

DIMENSIONLESS UNIT HYDROGRAPH:

0.0 0.6869 0.8635 0.9499 0.9893
1.0 0.9918 0.971 0.9415 0.9062
0.8673 0.8262 0.784 0.7415 0.6994
0.6582 0.6181 0.5794 0.5422 0.5067
0.4729 0.4409 0.4106 0.382 0.3551
0.3298 0.3061 0.2839 0.2631 0.2438
0.2257 0.2088 0.1931 0.1786 0.165
0.1524 0.1407 0.1299 0.1199 0.1106
0.102 0.094 0.0866 0.0798 0.0735
0.0677 0.0623 0.0574 0.0528 0.0486
0.0447 0.0411 0.0378 0.0348 0.032
0.0294 0.027 0.0248 0.0228 0.0209
0.0192 0.0177 0.0162 0.0149 0.0137
0.0126 0.0115 0.0106 0.0097 0.0089
0.0082 0.0075 0.0069 0.0063 0.0058
0.0053 0.0049 0.0045 0.0041 0.0037
0.0034 0.0031 0.0029 0.0026 0.0024
0.0022 0.002 0.0019 0.0017 0.0016
0.0014 0.0013 0.0012 0.0011 0.001
0.0009 0.0008 0.0008 0.0007 0.0007
0.0006 0.0005 0.0005 0.0005 0.0004
0.0004 0.0004 0.0003 0.0003 0.0003
0.0002 0.0002 0.0002 0.0002 0.0002
0.0002 0.0001 0.0001 0.0001 0.0001
0.0001 0.0001 0.0001 0.0001 0.0001
0.0001 0.0001 0.0001 0.0

16B–10 (210–VI–NEH, March 2007)

Chapter 16 Hydrographs Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Figure 16B–10 Peak rate factor = 150

1.0

0.9
Dim hyd

0.8

0.7
Discharge (non-dim)

0.6

0.5

0.4

0.3

0.2

0.1

0.0
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16
Time (non-dim)

(210–VI–NEH, March 2007) 16B–11

Chapter 16 Hydrographs Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Table 16B–11 Peak rate factor = 100

DIMENSIONLESS UNIT HYDROGRAPH:

0.0 0.8142 0.9228 0.9722 0.9941
1.0 0.9955 0.984 0.9675 0.9475
0.925 0.9007 0.8753 0.849 0.8223
0.7954 0.7685 0.7417 0.7153 0.6893
0.6637 0.6387 0.6143 0.5905 0.5674
0.5449 0.5231 0.5019 0.4815 0.4618
0.4427 0.4243 0.4065 0.3894 0.3729
0.3571 0.3418 0.3272 0.3131 0.2996
0.2866 0.2741 0.2621 0.2506 0.2396
0.229 0.2189 0.2092 0.1999 0.191
0.1825 0.1743 0.1665 0.159 0.1519
0.145 0.1385 0.1322 0.1262 0.1205
0.115 0.1098 0.1048 0.1 0.0954
0.091 0.0869 0.0829 0.0791 0.0754
0.072 0.0686 0.0655 0.0624 0.0596
0.0568 0.0542 0.0517 0.0493 0.047
0.0448 0.0427 0.0407 0.0388 0.037
0.0353 0.0336 0.0321 0.0306 0.0291
0.0278 0.0265 0.0252 0.024 0.0229
0.0218 0.0208 0.0198 0.0189 0.018
0.0172 0.0164 0.0156 0.0148 0.0141
0.0135 0.0128 0.0122 0.0117 0.0111
0.0106 0.0101 0.0096 0.0091 0.0087
0.0083 0.0079 0.0075 0.0072 0.0068
0.0065 0.0062 0.0059 0.0056 0.0054
0.0051 0.0049 0.0046 0.0044 0.0042
0.004 0.0038 0.0036 0.0035 0.0033
0.0031 0.003 0.0028 0.0027 0.0026
0.0025 0.0023 0.0022 0.0021 0.002
0.0019 0.0018 0.0017 0.0017 0.0016
0.0015 0.0

16B–12 (210–VI–NEH, March 2007)

Chapter 16 Hydrographs Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Figure 16B–11 Peak rate factor = 100

1.0

0.9
Dim hyd

0.8

0.7
Discharge (non-dim)

0.6

0.5

0.4

0.3

0.2

0.1

0.0
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24
Time (non-dim)

(210–VI–NEH, March 2007) 16B–13

NATIONAL ENGINEERING IIAI~IBOOK

SECTION 4

HYDROLOGY

CHAPTER 17. FMOD ROUTING

Victor Mockus
Hydraulic Engineer

Revisions by

Wendell Styner

1972

Revised and r e p r i n t e d , 1972

NM Notice 4-102, AUgUSt 1972

 NATIONAL ENGINEERING HANDBOOK

SECTION 4
HYDROLOGY

CHAPTER 17 . FLOOD ROUTING

Contents

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17-1
SCS electronic computer program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17-2
References . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17-2
hmmary of chapter contents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17-3
Elevation-storage and Elevation-discharge relationships . . . . 17-3
Elevation-storage relationships for reservoirs. . . . . . . . 17-3
Elevation-discharge relationships for reservoirs . . . . . . 17-7
Storage-discharge relationships for reservoirs . . . . . . . 17-7
Elevation. stage. storage. discharge relationships
for streams . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17-7
L
Reservoir Routing Methods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
The continuity equation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Methods and examples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Mass curve method: numerical version . . . . . . . . . . .
Example 17-1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Example 17-2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Mass curve method: direct version . . . . . . . . . . . .
Mass curve method: graphical version . . . . . . . . . . .
Example 17-3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Storage indication method . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Example 17-4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Example 17-5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Storage indication method as used in the SCS
electronic computer program . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Culp's method . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Example 17-6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Short cuts for reservoir routings . . . . . . . . . . . .

.....................
Channel Routing Methods
.................
Theory of the convex method
Discussion .........................
..........
Some useful realtionships and procedures
.....................
Determination o f K
....................
Determination of C
...................
Determination of At
L ......
Procedure for routing through any reach length
Variability of routing parameters. selection of velocity V .
NM Notice 4.102. August 1972
 CONTENTS cont'd .

Examples: Convex routing methods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17-53

Example 17-7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17-54
Example 17-8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17-56
Example 17-9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17-57'
Example17-10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17-59
Example 17-11 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17-61
Effects of transmission l o s s e s on routed flows . . . . . . . . 17-66
Routing through a system of channels . . . . . . . . . . . . 17-66
Unit-hydrograph Routing Methods . . . . . . . . . . . . 17-82
Basic equations 17-82
.....
a * . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Effects of storm duration and time of concentration 17-83

Elimination of Tp ...................... 17-84
.............
Working equations f o r s p e c i a l cases 17-85
Examples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17-86
Use of equation 17-40 ................ 17-86
Example 17-12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17-86 17-86
Use of equation 17-43
Example 17-13
.................
. . . . . . . . . . . . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 17-86
Use o f equation 17-43 on l a r g e watersheds 17-86
Use of equations 17.48. 17.50. and 17-52 . . . . . . . . . 17-89
Example 17-14 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17-89
Example 17-15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17-89
Example 17-16 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17-90
Example 17-17 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17-90
Discussion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17-91
Figures
17-1 Elevation. storage. discharge r e l a t i o n s h i p
forareservoir ..em.....d..........
17-2 Storage. Discharge r e l a t i o n s h i p and p l o t t e d mass
inflow curve f o r a r e s e r v o i r .............
17-3 Mass inflow. storage. and mass outflow curves

17-4
f o r Example 17-2 ...................
Graphical version of Mass Curve method of
r e s e r v o i r routing f o r Example 17-3 ..........
17-5 Graphical version f o r Example 17-2. 'Step 4 .......
17-6 Working curve f o r Storage-Indication method of
r e s e r v o i r routing f o r Example 17-4 ..........
17-7 Inflow and outflow hydrograph f o r Example 17-4 .....
17-8 P r i n c i p a l spillway hydrograph and outflow
hydrograph f o r Example 17-5 ..............
17-9 Working curves f o r Storage-Indication method
of r e s e r v o i r routing f o r Example 17-5 .........
17-10 Culp's method of r e s e r v o i r routing f o r Example 17-6 ..
17-11 Typical shortcut method of r e s e r v o i r flood routing ..
17-12 Relationships f o r Convex method of channel routing ...
17-13 Convex routing c o e f f i c i e n t versus v e l o c i t y .......
NM Notice 4.102. August 1972
 CONTENTS cont'd.

Figures
17-14 ES-1025 rev.
Sheetlof2 ......................
S e e t 2 0 f 2 . .....................
17-15 Inflow and routed outflow hydrograph
f o r Example 17-7. . '. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
17-16 Inflow and routed outflow hydrograph f o r
Example 17-8 ........ ............
17-17 Outflow and routed inflow hydrograph f o r
Example 17-9 .. ..................
17-18 Mass inflow, mass outflow and r a t e hydrograph
f o r Example 17-10 .................
17-19 Inflow hydrograph and routed outflow
hydrographs f o r Example 17-11, Method 1 and 2 ...
17-20 !&pica1 schematic diagram f o r routing through
a system of channels . ... . ...........
...
17-21 Q/Q versus A f o r a t y p i c a l physiographic a r e a

Tables
L 17-1 .... ...
Equations f o r conversion of u n i t s
17-2 Elevation-storage r e l a t i o n s h i p f o r a
reservoir ..................
17-3 Elevation-discharge r e l a t i o n s h i p f o r a
..........
2-stage p r i n c i p a l spillway
17-4 Working t a b l e f o r a storage-discharge
relationship ... ........... ...
17-5 Operations t a b l e f o r t h e mass-curve
......
method of routing f o r Example 17-1
17-6 Operations t a b l e f o r determining storage
..
a f t e r 10 days of drawdown f o r Example 17-2
17-7 Working t a b l e f o r t h e graphical version of
....
t h e mass-curve method f o r Example 17-3
17-8 Working t a b l e for preparation of t h e working
............
curve f o r Example 17-4
Operations t a b l e f o r t h e S-I method f o r
17-9
Example 17-4 .................
17-10 Procedure f o r routing by t h e storage-indication
...........
method f o r Example 17-4.
17-11 Working t a b l e f o r preparation of t h e working
...........
curves f o r Example 17-5.
17-12 .......
Operations t a b l e f o r Example 17-5
17-13 Working t a b l e f o r Culp method, step 1 3 of

17-14
Example 17-6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..
Basic operations i n t h e Convex routing method
17-15 .......
Operations t a b l e f o r Example 17-8
L 17-16 .......
Operations t a b l e f o r Example 17-9
17-17 ......
Operations t a b l e f o r Example 17-10.
17-18 ..
Operations t a b l e f o r Example 17-11 Method 1

NM Notice 4-102, August 1972

 CONTENTS c o n t ' d .

Tables
17-19 Operation t a b l e f o r Example 17-11 Method 2 . . . . . . . 17-67
17-20 P o r t i o n of a t y p i c a l o p e r a t i o n s t a b l e f o r
r o u t i n g through a s t r e a m s y s t e m . . . . . . . . . . . . 17-71
17-21 Data and working t a b l e f o r use of Equation
17-43 on a l a r g e watershed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17-88
17-22 Area and s t o r a g e d a t a f o r Example 17-17 . . . . . . . . . 17-92

NEH Notice 4-102, August 1972

 NATIONAL ENGINEERING HANDBOOK

SECTION 4
HYDROLOGY

Introduction

I n t h e Americari Society of C i v i l Engineers' manual, "Nomenclature for

Hydraulics," flood r o u t i n g i s variously defined as follows:

routing (hydraulics) .--

(1)The derivation of an outflow hydro-
graph of a stream from known values of upstream inflow.
The procedure u t i l i z e s wave v e l o c i t y and t h e storage equa-
t i o n ; sometimes both. ( 2 ) Computing t h e flood a t a down-
stream point from t h e flood inflow a t an upstream point, and
taking channel storage i n t o account.
routing. flood.-- The process of determining progressively t h e
timing and shape of a flood wave a t successive points along
a river.
routing, streamflow.--The procedure used t o derive a downstream
hydrograph from an upstream hydrograph, or t r i b u t a r y hydro-
graphs, and from considerations of l o c a l inflow by solving
t h e storage equation.

Routing i s a l s o done with mass curves of runoff o r with merely peak

r a t e s o r peak stages of runoff, as well a s hydrographs. The routing
need not be only downstream because the process can be reversed f o r
upstream routing, which i s often done t o determine upstream hydro-
graphs from hydrographs gaged downstream. Nor i s routing confined t o
streams and r i v e r s ; it i s r e g u l a r l y used i n obtaining inflow o r out-
flow hydrographs, mass curves, o r peak r a t e s i n r e s e r v o i r s , farm ponds,
tanks, swamps, and lakes. And low flows a r e routed, as well as floods.
The term "flood routing" covers all of t h e s e p r a c t i c e s .

The purpose of flood r o u t i n g i n most engineering work i s t o l e a r n what

stages or r a t e s of flow occur, without a c t u a l l y measuring them, a t
s p e c i f i c locations i n streams o r s t r u c t u r e s during passages of floods.
The stages o r r a t e s a r e used i n evaluating o r designing a water-
control s t r u c t u r e o r p r o j e c t . Differences i n stages or r a t e s from
routings made with and without t h e s t r u c t u r e o r p r o j e c t i n place
show i t s e f f e c t s on t h e flood flows. I n evaluations, t h e differences
a r e t r a n s l a t e d i n t o monetary terms t o show b e n e f i t s on an e a s i l y compa-
r a b l e b a s i s ; i n design, t h e differences a r e used d i r e c t l y i n developing
or modifying t h e s t r u c t u r e or p r o j e c t c h a r a c t e r i s t i c s .
L

NM Notice 4-102, AugUSt 1972

The routing process i s based on one of t h e following approaches:

1. Solution of simultaneous p a r t i a l d i f f e r e n t i a l equations of

motion and continuity. Simplified versions of t h e equations a r e
generally used i n e l e c t r o n i c computer routings; even t h e simplifi-
cations a r e t o o laborious f o r manual routings.
2. Solution of the continuity equation alone. A simplified form
of t h e equation i s t h e b a s i s f o r many routing methods.
3. Use of inflow-outflow hydrograph r e l a t i o n s h i p s .
4. Use of u n i t hydrograph theory.
5. Use of empirical r e l a t i o n s h i p s between inflow and outflow pesk
stages or r a t e s . Mostly used f o r l a r g e r i v e r s .
6. Use of hydraulic models.
Methods based on t h e second, t h i r d , and fourth approaches a r e presented
i n t h i s chapter. The routing operations i n t h e methods can be made
numerically by means of an e l e c t r o n i c computer, desk c a l c u l a t o r , s l i d e
.
r u l e , nomograph, network c h a r t , o r by mental calculations; o r graphically
by means of an analog machine, s p e c i a l c h a r t , o r by successive geometri-
c a l drawings. Methods s p e c i f i c a l l y intended f o r e l e c t r o n i c computers
o r analog machines are n e i t h e r presented nor discussed.

A l l methods presented i n t h i s chapter are accurate enough f o r p r a c t i c a l

work i f t h e y a r e applied a s they a r e meant t o be and i f a a t a needed f o r
t h e i r proper application a r e used. Advantages and disadvantages of par-
t i c u l a r methods a r e mentioned and s i t u a t i o n s t h a t l e a d t o g r e a t e r o r
l e s s e r accuracy of a method a r e pointed out, but t h e r e i s no presenta-
t i o n of t e s t s f o r accuracy o r of comparisons between routed and gaged
hydrographs .
SCS e l e c t r o r i c computer program
The e l e c t r o n i c computer program now being used i n SCS watershed evalua-
t i o n s contains two methods of flood routing. The S t o r q e - I n d i c a t i o n
method i s used f o r routing through r e s e r v o i r s and t h e Convex method
f o r routing through stream channels. Manual versions of both methods
a r e described i n t h i s chapter.

References
Each of t h e following references contains general m a t e r i a l on flood
routing and descriptions o f two or more methods. References whose
main subject i s not flood routing but which contain a useful example
of routing are c i t e d i n t h e chapter as necessary.

1. Thomas, H. A . , 1937, The hydraulics of flood movements i n r i v e r s :

Pittsburg, Carnegie I n s t . Tech., Eng. B u l l . Out of p r i n t but it
can be found i n most l i b r a r i e s having c o l l e c t i o n s of engineering
literature.

2. G i l c r e s t , B. R., 1950, Flood routing: Engineering Hydraulics

(H. Rouse, ed. ), New York, John Wiley and Sons, Chapter 10, pp.
635-710.

NEH Notice 6-102, August 1972

 3. U S . Department of t h e Army, Corps of &gineers, 1960, Routing
of floods t h r o u ~ hr i v e r channels: Eng. Manual EM 1110-2-1408.

4. Carter, R.W., and R. G. Godfrey, 1960, Storage and flood

routing: U.S. Geol. Survey Water-Supply Paper 1543-B.

5. Yevdjevich, Vujica M., 1964, Bibliography and discussion of

flood-routing methods and unsteady flow i n channels: U.S. Geol.
Survey Water-Supply Paper 1690. Prepared i n cooperation with t h e
S o i l Conservation Service.

6. Lawler, Edward A., 1964, Flood routing: Handbook of Applied

Hydrology (v.T. Chow, ed. ) , New York, McGraw-Hill Book Co. , sec-
t i o n 25-11, pp. 34-59.

Summary of chapter contents

The remainder of t h i s chapter - i s divided i n t o four p - a r t s : elevation-
storage and elevation-discharge r e l a t i o n s h i p s , r e s e r v o i r routing methods,
channel routing methods, and unit-hydrograph routing methods. I n t h e
first p a r t , some r e l a t i o n s h i p s used i n r e s e r v o i r o r channel routing a r e
discussed and e x h i b i t s of t y p i c a l r e s u l t s a r e given; i n t h e second, t h e
continuity equation i s discussed and methods of using it i n r e s e r v o i r
routings a r e shown i n examples of t y p i c a l a p p l i c a t i o n s ; i n t h e t h i r d ,
t h e theory of t h e Convex method i s presented and examples of t y p i c a l
applications i n channel routings a r e given; and i n t h e fourth, t h e u n i t
hydrograph theory i s discussed and methods of applying it i n systems
analysis a r e shown i n examples using systems of floodwater-retarding
strictures .
Elevation-Storaae and Elevation-Discharge Relationships

In t h e examples of r o u t i n g through r e s e r v o i r s and stream channels it

w i l l be necessary t o use elevation-storage o r elevation-discharge
curves ( o r both) i n making a routing o r as a preliminary t o routing.
Preparation of such curves i s not emphasized i n t h e examples because
t h e i r construction i s described i n other SCS publications. The
r e l a t i o n s h i p s a r e b r i e f l y discussed here as preliminary material;
e x h i b i t s of t a b l e s and curves used i n routings a r e given here and i n
some of t h e examples. Conversion equations used i n preparing t h e t a b l e s
and curves s r e given i n Table 17-1.

Elevation storage r e l a t i o n s h i p s f o r r e s e r v o i r s
Table 17-2 i s a working t a b l e t h a t shows data and computed r e s u l t s f o r
an elevation-storage r e l a t i o n s h i p t o be used i n some of t h e examples
given l a t e r . Columus 1 and 7 o r 1 and 8 give t h e r e l a t i o n s h i p i n
d i f f e r e n t u n i t s of storage.

The r e l a t i o n s h i p i s developed from a contour map ( o r equivalent) of t h e

r e s e r v o i r area and t h e t a b l e i s a record of t h e computations t h a t were
made. Once t h e map i s a v a i l a b l e , t h e work goes as follows: ( 1 ) s e l e c t
contours close enough t o define t h e topography with reasonable accuracy
and t a b u l a t e t h e contour elevations i n column 1; ( 2 ) determine t h e

NEH ~ o i i c e4-102, August 1972

r e s e r v o i r surface a r e a a t each elevation; f o r t h i s t a b l e t h e a r e a s were
determined i n square f e e t as shown i n column 2 and converted t o acres
as shown i n column 3; ( 3 ) compute average surface areas a s shown i n
column 4; ( 4 ) t a b u l a t e t h e increments of depth i n column 5; ( 5 ) compute
the increments of storage f o r column 6 by multiplying an average a r e a
i n column 4 by i t s appropriate depth increment i n column 5; ( 6 ) accmu-
l a t e t h e storage increments of column 6 t o get accumulated storage i n
column 7 f o r each elevation of column 1; ( 7 ) convert storages of col-
umn 7 t o storages i n another u n i t , i f required, and show them i n t h e
next column. The r e l a t i o n s h i p of data i n columns 1 and 8 i s p l o t t e d i n
f i g u r e 17.1 as an elevation-storage curve.

NM Notice 4-102, August 1972

Table 17-1. Equations for conversions of units
- ---

Conversion Equation No.

where A = drainage area in square miles

A, = cross section end-area in square
feet.for discharge x
AF = kcre-feet
L = reach length in feet
= discharge in acre-feet per day

q& = discharge in acre-feet per hour

qcfs = discharge in cfs
qid = discharge in inches per day
qih = discharge in inches per hour
Sx = reach storage in cfs-hours for
a given discharge x
SA = reach storage in acre-feet for a
given discharge x

N&X Notice 4-102, August 1972

17-6

Table 17-2. Elevation-storage relationship for a reservoir.

Ele- Surface Surface Average A A Storage Storage

vat ion area area surface depth storage
area
(feet) (q.ft.1 (acres) (acres) (feet) (AF) (AF) (inches)
Elevation-dischar~e r e l a t i o n s h i p s f o r r e s e r v o i r s
The elevation-discharge r e l a t i o n s h i p f o r a r e s e r v o i r i s made using ele-
vations of t h e reservoir and discharges of t h e spillways t o be used i n a
routing. A t y p i c a l r e l a t i o n s h i p f o r a 2-stage p r i n c i p a l spillway i s
given by columns 1 and 6 of Table 17-3 f o r discharges i n c f s , and i n col-
umns 1 and 7 f o r discharges i n in./day. The procedure f o r developing
t h e r e l a t i o n s h i p w i l l not be given here because s u f f i c i e n t c h a r t s , equa-
t i o n s , and examples f o r p r i n c i p a l spillways a r e given i n NM-5 and i n
ES-150 through 153, and f o r emergency spillways i n ES-98 and ES-124.
Table 17-3 i l l u s t r a t e s a useful way of keeping t h e work i n order: by
t a b u l a t i n g t h e d a t a f o r d i f f e r e n t types of flow i n separate columns,
and by keeping t h e two stages separate, t h e t o t a l discharges a r e more
e a s i l y summed. Note t h a t t h e t o t a l s i n c f s a r e not merely sums of a l l
c f s i n a row; t h e operation of t h e spillway must be understood when se-
l e c t i n g t h e discharges t o be included i n t h e sum. To combine t h e p r i n c i -
p a l spillway flow with emergency spillway flow a column f o r t h e emergency
spillway discharges i s added between columns 5 and 6 , and t o t a l s i n
column 6 must include those discharges where appropriate. Column 7 gives
discharges converted from those i n column 6; it i s shown because t h i s
t a b l e i s used i n examples given l a t e r and t h a t p a r t i c u l a r u n i t of flow
i s required ( s e e Figure 17-1).

Storage-discharge r e l a t i o n s h i p s f o r r e s e r v o i r s
If rhe elevation-storage and elevation-discharge r e l a t i o n s h i p s a r e To be
used f o r many routings it i s more convenient t o use them as a storage-
discharge r e l a t i o n s h i p . The r e l a t i o n s h i p s a r e combined by p l o t t i n g a
graph of storage and elevation, another of discharge and e l e v a t i o n , and,
while r e f e r r i n g t o t h e f i r s t two graphs, making a t h i r d by p l o t t i n g
storage f o r a selected elevation against discharge f o r t h a t elevation;
f o r a t y p i c a l curve see Figure 17-2. The storage-discharge curve can
a l s o be modified f o r ease of operations with a p a r t i c u l a r r o u t i n g method;
f o r a t y p i c a l modification see Figure 17-6 and s t e p 4 of Example 17-4.

Elevation, stage, storage, discharge r e l a t i o n s h i p s f o r streams

It i s common p r a c t i c e t o divide a stream channel i n t o reaches ( s e e Chap-
t e r 6 ) and to develop storage o r discharge r e l a t i o n s h i p s f o r i n d i v i d u a l
reaches r a t h e r than t h e stream as a whole. A stream elevation- o r stage-
discharge curve i s f o r a p a r t i c u l a r cross section. I f a reach has s e v e r a l
cross s e c t i o n s within it they a r e a l l used i n developing t h e working t o o l s
f o r routing. Some routing methods require t h e use of separate discharge
curves f o r t h e head and f o o t of a reach; such methods a r e not presented
i n t h i s chapter.

Elevation- o r stage-discharge curves f o r cross sections o r reaches a r e

prepared a s shown i n Chapter 14. They w i l l not be discussed here.

Elevation- or stage-storage curves f o r a reach can be prepared using t h e

procedure for. r e s e r v o i r s but o r d i n a r i l y a modified approach i s used a n d
t h e storage-discharge curve prepared d i r e c t l y . Table 17-4 i s a working
t a b l e f o r developing such a curve. The work is based on t h e assumption
t h a t steady flow occurs i n t h e reach a t all stages of flow.' The reach
used i n Table 17-4 has four cross s e c t i o n s s o t h a t a weighting method

NEH Notice 4-102, August 1972

Table 17-3 Elevation-discharge r e l a t i o n s h i p f o r a 2-stage p r i n c i p a l
spillway.

Elevation F i r s t stage: Second stage:

Weir Orifice Weir Pipe Total Total
(feet) (cfs) (cfs) (cfs) (cfs) (cfs) (in./day)

XEH Notice 4-102, August 1972

i s needed; with only one o r two sections t h e weighting i s eliminated
but t h e reach storage i s l e s s well defined. Development of t h e
storage-discharge curve goes a s follows: ( 1 ) s e l e c t a s e r i e s of dis-
charges from zero t o a discharge g r e a t e r than any t o be routed and
t a b u l a t e them i n column 1; ( 2 ) enter t h e stage-discharge curve f o r
each cross s e c t i o n with a discharge from column 1 and f i n d t h e s t a g e ;
( 3 ) e n t e r t h e stage-end-area curve f o r t h a t s e c t i o n with t h e stage
from s t e p 2 and f i n d t h e a r e a a t t h a t st&ge, t a b u l a t i n g areas f o r a l l
sections as shown i n columns 2 , 3 , 4, and 5; ( 4 ) determine t h e dis-
tances between cross s e c t i o n s and compute t h e weights a s follows:

From To
cross cross Distance Weight
section section (feet)

with t h e weight f o r sub-reach 1-2 being 1000/10000 = 0.10, and so on;

( 5 ) compute weighted end areas f o r columns 6, 7, and 8; f o r example, a t
a discharge of 3,500 c f s cross s e c t i o n 1 has an end area of 2,500 square
f e e t and section 2 has 640 square f e e t , and t h e weighted end a r e a i s
0.10(2500 + 640)/2 = 157 square f e e t ; ( 6 ) sum t h e weighted areas of
columns 6, 7, and 8 f o r each discharge, t a b u l a t i n g t h e sums i n column
9 ; ( 7 ) compute storages i n column 10 by use of Equation 17-8 or 17-9,
whichever i s required; f o r example, a t a discharge of 3,500 c f s t h e
storage i n cfs-hrs i s s3500= 10000(1189)/3600 = 3300 cfs-hrs, by a
slide-rule computation. The storage-discharge curve i s p l o t t e d using
data from columns 1 and 10. Data of those columns can be used i n
preparing t h e working curve f o r routing. How t h i s i s done depends on
t h e routing method t o be used. For t h e Storage-Indication method t h e
working curve i s prepared as shown i n Example 17-4.

NM Notice 4-102, August 1972

 Table 17-4 Working t a b l e f o r a storage-discharge r e l a t i o n s h i p

Out-
flow
Cross s e c t i o n end-areas Wei~htedend-areas Avg . Stor-
1 2 3 4 1-2 2-3 3-4 end- age
areas
(cfs) (sq.ft) (sq.ft) (sq.ft) (sq.ft) (sq.ft) (sq.ft) (sq.ft) ( s q . f t ) (cfs-hrs)
 Reservoir Routing Methods

Reservoirs have t h e c h a r a c t e r i s t i c t h a t t h e i r storage i s closely re-

l a t e d t o t h e i r outflow r a t e . I n reservoir routing methods t h e storage-
discharge r e l a t i o n i s used f o r repeatedly solving t h e continuity equation,
each s o l u t i o n b e i ~ ga s t e p i n delineating t h e outflow hydrograph. A
r e s e r v o i r method i s s u i t e d f o r channel routings i f t h e channel has t h e
r e s e r v o i r c h a r a c t e r i s t i c . Suitable channels are those w i t h swamps o r
other f l a t areas i n t h e routing reach and with a c o n s t r i c t i o n o r s i m i l a r
c o n t r o l a t t h e foot of t h e reach. There i s an exception t o t h i s : a
r e s e r v o i r method i s a l s o s u i t a b l e f o r routing through any stream reach
i f t h e inflow hydrograph r i s e s and f a l l s so slowly t h a t nearly steady
flow occurs and makes storage i n t h e reach closely r e l a t e d t o t h e out-
flow r a t e . Examples i n t h i s p a r t show t h e use of r e s e r v o i r methods f o r
both r e s e r v o i r s and stream channels.

'I'ne Continuity Equation

The continuity equation used i n r e s e r v o i r routing methods i s concerned

with conservation of mass: For a given time i n t e r v a l , t h e volume of
inflow minus t h e volume of outflow equals t h e change i n volume of
storage. The equation i s o f t e n w r i t t e n i n t h e simple form:

~t (7 - -O ) = AS (EQ. 17-10)
where A t = a time i n t e r v a l
-I = average r a t e of inflow during t h e time i n t e r v a l
-0
= average r a t e of outflow during t h e time i n t e r v a l
AS = change i n volume of storage during t h e time i n t e r v a l

I n most applications of t h e continuity equation t h e flow and storage

v a r i a b l e s a r e expanded as follows:

so t h a t Equation 17-10 becomes:

where A t = t2 - tl = time i n t e r v a l ; tl ts t h e time a t t h e beginning

of t h e i n t e r v a l and t2 t h e tlme a t t h e end of t h e i n t e r v a l

Il = inflow r a t e a t t l

I 2 = inflow r a t e a t t 2

01 = outflow r a t e a t t l

NEH Notice 4-102, August 1972

 02 = outflow r a t e a t t 2

S1 = storage volume a t tl

S2 = storage volume a t t 2

When routing with Equation 17-10 t h e usual objective i s t o f i n d 5, with

Equation 17-11 f i n d 02; t h i s means t h a t t h e equations must be rearranged
i n some more convenient working form. It i s a l s o necessary t o use t h e
r e l a t i o n s h i p of outflow t o storage i n m+king a solution. Most r e s e r v o i r
routing methods now i n use d i f f e r only i n t h e i r arrangement of t h e routing
equation and i n t h e i r form of t h e storage-outflow r e l a t i o n s h i p .

It i s necessary t o use consistent u n i t s with any routing equation. Some

commonly used s e t s of u n i t s are:

Time Rates Volumes

Inflow Outflow Inflow Outflow Storage
Hours cfs cfs cfs-hrs cfs-hrs cf s-hrs
days cfs cfs cfs-days cfs-days cfs-days
days AF'/day M/dw AF AF' AF
hours i n . /hr i n . /hr inches inches inches
days i n . /day i n . /day inches inches inches

Methods and Examples

Two methods of r e s e r v o i r routing based on t h e continuity equation a r e
presented i n t h i s section, a mass-curve method and t h e Storage-Indication
method. The mass-curve nethod i s given because it i s one of t h e most
v e r s a t i l e of a l l r e s e r v o i r methods. It can be applied numerically or
graphically; examples of both versions a r e given. The Storage-Indication
method i s given because it i s t h e method used a t t h e present time i n t h e
SCS e l e c t r o n i c computer program f o r watershed evaluations and because
it i s a widely used method f o r both r e s e r v o i r and channel routings. Ex-
amples of r e s e r v o i r and channel routing a r e given.

Mass-Curve Method: Numerical Version - According t o item 52 i n reference

5 , a mass-curve method of routing through r e s e r v o i r s was already i n use
i n 1883. Many o t h e r mass-curve methods have s i n c e been developed. The
method described here i s similar t o a method given i n King's "Handbook
of Hydraulics," 3rd e d i t i o n , 1939, pages 522-527; another resembling it
i s given i n "Design of Small Dams," U. S. Bureau of Reclamation, 1960,
pages 250-252.

The method requires the use of elevation-storage and elevation-discharge

r e l a t i o n s h i p s e i t h e r separately or i n combination. The i n p u t i s t h e
mass ( o r accumulated) inflow; t h e output i s t h e mass outflow, outflow
hydrograph, and reservoir storage. The routing operation i s a trial-and-
e r r o r process when performed numerically, but it i s simple and e a s i l y
done. Each operation i s a s o l u t i o n of Equation 17-10 r e w r i t t e n i n t h e
form:

NM Notice 4-102, August 1972

 MI2 - (MO1 + 'i;; a t ) = S2

where MI2 = mass inflow a t time 2

M01 = mass outflow a t time 1

-
0 = average discharge during t h e routing i n t e r v a l

At = routing i n t e r v a l = time 2 minus time 1

S2 = storage a t time 2
The routing i n t e r v a l can be e i t h e r v a r i a b l e or constant. Usually it i s
more convenient t o use a variable i n t e r v a l , making it small f o r a l a r g e
change i n mass inflow and l a r g e f o r a s m a l l change. The PSMC of Chapter
21 a r e tabulated i n i n t e r v a l s e s p e c i a l l y s u i t e d f o r t h i s method of rou-
ting.

The following example shows t h e a p p l i c a t i o n of t h e method i n determining

minimum required storage f o r a floodwater-retarding s t r u c t u r e by use of
a PSMC from Chapter 21.

Example 17-1.--Determine t h e minimum required storage, by SCS criteria,

f o r a floodwater-retarding s t r u c t u r e having t h e drainage a r e a use i n
Example 21-2 of Chapter 21. Use t h e data and r e s u l t s of t h a t example
f o r t h i s s t r u c t u r e . Work with volumes i n inches and r a t e s i n inches per
day; round off a l l r e s u l t s t o t h e nearest 0.01 inch.

1. Develop an elevation-discharge curve f o r t h e s t r u c t u r e . A

curve f o r t h e p r i n c i p a l spillway discharges i s needed f o r t h i s
routing. Columns 1 and 7 of Table 17-3 w i l l be used f o r t h i s
s t r u c t u r e . The elevation-discharge curve i s p l o t t e d i n Figure
17-1.

2. Develop an elevation-storage curve f o r t h e s t r u c t u r e .

Columns 1 and 8 of Table 17-2 w i l l be used f o r t h i s s t r u c t u r e . The
elevation-storage curve i s p l o t t e d i n Figure 17-1.

(Note: The curves of s t e p s 1 and 2 can be combined i n t o a storage-

discharge curve as shown by t h e i n s e t of Figure 17-2. This curve i s a
time-saver i f more than one routing i s made.)

3. Develop and p l o t t h e curve of mass inflow (PSMC).

The PSMC developed i n Example 21-2, and given by columns 1 and 7 of
Table 21-7, w i l i be used f i r t h i s example. he- p l o t t e d mass inflow
i s shown i n Figure 17-2. The p l o t t i n g i s used as a guide i n t h e
routing and l a t e r used t o show t h e r e s u l t s but it i s not e s s e n t i a l
t o t h e method.

4. Prepare an operations t a b l e f o r t h e routing.

Suitable headings and arrangement f o r an operations t a b l e a r e shown
i n Table 17-5.

NM Notice 4-102, August 1972

5. Determine t h e r e s e r v o i r storage f o r t h e s t a r t of t h e routing.
If t h e routing i s t o begin with some storage already occupied then
e i t h e r t h e amount i n storage i s entered i n t h e f i r s t l i n e o r column
5 of t h e operations t a b l e ( a s done i n Example 17-2) or t h e elevation-
storage curve i s modified t o give a zero storage f o r t h e f i r s t l i n e .
I n t h i s example t h e sediment o r dead s t o r a g e , which i s n o t t o be
used i n t h e r o u t i n g , occupies t h e r e s e r v o i r t o elevation 580.2 f e e t
as shown i n Figure 17-1. Storage a t t h a t elevation i s 1.00 inches
and because t h i s i s a whole s c a l e u n i t t h e storage curve f o r routing
i s e a s i l y obtained by s h i f t i n g t h e point of o r i g i n as shown i n
Figure 17-1. Ordinarily, if t h e Sediment o r dead storage i s some
f r a c t i o n a l quantity it i s b e t t e r t o re-plot t h e curve t o show zero
storage a t t h e elevation where t h e routing begins.

6. Determine t h e spillway discharge a t t h e start of the routing.

If t h e spillway i s flowing a t t h e s t a r t of t h e routing t h e discharge
r a t e i s entered i n t h e f i r s t l i n e of column 7 of able 17-5 (see
Example 17-2). For t h i s example t h e s t a r t i n g r a t e i s zero.

7. Do t h e routinq.
The trial-and-error procedure goes a s follows:

a. Select a time and t a b u l a t e it i n column 1, Table 17-5. For

This example t h e times used w i l l be those given f o r t h e PSMC
i n Table 21-7, except f o r occasional omissions unimportant f o r
t h i s routing.

- Compute A t and e n t e r t h e r e s u l t i n column 2.

b.

-c. Tabulate i n column 3 t h e mass inflow f o r t h e t i m e i n column

1. The e n t r i e s f o r t h i s example come from'column 7 of Table
21-7.

-d. Assume a m a s s outflow amount and e n t e r , it i n column 4.

-e.column
Compute t h e r e s e r v o i r storage, which i s t h e inflow of
3 minus t h e outflow of column 4, and e n t e r it i n col-
umn 5.

-f . Determine t h e instantaneous discharge r a t e of t h e spillway.

Using t h e elevation-storage curve of Figure 17-1, f i n d the e l e -
vation f o r t h e storage of column 5 ; with t h a t e l e v a t i o n e n t e r
t h e elevation-discharge curve and f i n d t h e discharge, tabulating
it i n column 6. I f a storage-discharge curve i s being used,
simply e n t e r t h e curve with t h e storage and f i n d t h e corres-
ponding discharge.

g. Compute t h e average discharge f o r A t . The average i s

always t h e arithmetic mean o f t h e r a t e determined i n s t e p f
and t h e r a t e f o r t h e previous time. For t h e time 0.5 days t h e
r a t e i n column 6 i s 0.03 i n . /day; f o r t h e previous time t h e
r a t e i s zero; t h e average r a t e i s ( 0 + 0.03)/2 = 0.015, which

NEH n o t i c e 4-102, August 1972

Table 17-5. Operations table for the mass-curve method of routing
for Example 17-1.

Spillway
Acc .
Time
At
Acc. Assumed Res.
inflow acc. volume
discharne Outflow Acc
Inst. A m-. for At outflow
.
outflow
(days) (days) (in.) (in.) (in.) (in./dsy)(in./day)(in.) (in.)

(1)
0
.5
1.0
2.0

3.0

3.5
4.0

4.4
4.8
5.0
5.1

5.2

5.3

5.4

5.6
6.0

6.5

7.0
8.0 -
etc. etc. etc. etc. etc. etc. etc. etc. etc.

Mass outflow is plotted using entries in column 4 or column 9. The out-

flow hydrograph is plotted using column 6, which gives instantaneous
rates at the accumulated times shown in column 1.

NEH Notice 4-102, A~gUst1972

 i s rounded t o 0.02 in./day. For t h e time 1.0 days t h e average
i s (0.03 + 0.08)/2 = 0.055, which i s rounded t o 0.06 in./day;
and so on.

h. Compute the outflow f o r A t . Multiply the A t of column 2

by t h e average r a t e of column 7 and get t h e increment of out-
flow f o r column 8.

-i. Add t h e outflow increment of column 8 t o t h e t o t a l of column

9 f o r t h e previous time and t a b u l a t e t h e sum i n column 9.

.j-. Compare t h e mass outflow of column 9 with t h e assumed mass

outflow of column 4. I f t h e two e n t r i e s agree within t h e spe-
c i f i e d degree of accuracy (0.01 inch, i n t h i s r o u t i n g ) t h e n
t h i s routing operation i s complete and a new one i s begun with
s t e p 5. If the two e n t r i e s do not agree well enough then assume
another mass outflow f o r column 4 and repeat s t e p s 2 through ;L.

8. Determine t h e minimum required s t o r w e .

Examine t h e e n t r i e s i n column 5 and f i n d t h e l a r g e s t e n t r y , which i s
2.82 inches a t 5.3 days. This i s t h e minimum required storage.

The routing gives t h e reservoir storages i n column 5, outflow hydrograph

i n column 6, and mass outflow i n column 9, f o r t h e times of column 1.
Unless t h e r e s u l t s a r e t o be used i n a r e p o r t o r e x h i b i t , t h e routing i s
usually c a r r i e d only f a r enough p a s t t h e time of maximum storage t o
ensure t h a t no l a r g e r storage w i l l occur. The mass inflow and outflow
f o r t h i s example a r e p l o t t e d i n Figure 17-2, with outflow shown only t o
8.0 days. If t h e mass outflow p l o t t i n g i s made during t h e routing t h e
trend of t h e curve i n d i c a t e s t h e b e s t assumption f o r t h e next s t e p i n
column 4.

The next example shows how t h e routing proceeds when it must s t a r t w i t h

t h e r e s e r v o i r containing l i v e storage and t h e spillway discharging.

Example 17-2.--For t h e same r e s e r v o i r used i n Example 17-1, determine

t h e e l e v a t i o n and amount of storage remaining i n t h e r e s e r v o i r a f t e r
10 days of drawdown from the minimum l e v e l allowed by SCS c r i t e r i a .
The base flow used i n developing t h e PSMC ( s e e Example 21-2) i s assumed
t o continue a t t h e same r a t e throughout the routing. Round a l l work
t o the nearest 0.01 inch.

1. Determine t h e storage volume i n t h e r e s e r v o i r and t h e spillway

discharge f o r t h e s t a r t of t h e routing.
SCS c r i t e r i a s e r m i t t h e drawdown r o u t i n a t o start with storage at
t h e maximum eievation a t t a i n e d i n t h e r o u t i n g of t h e PSH o r PSMC
used i n determining t h e minimum required storage, even though t h e
s t r u c t u r e may be designed t o contain more than t h e minimum storage.
For t h i s example t h e s t a r t i n g storage of 2.82 inches i s found i n
column 5 , and t h e associated discharge of 1.69 in./day i n column 6,
of Table 17-5 i n t h e l i n e f o r 5.3 days.

REH Notice 4-102, August 1972

 2. Prepare an operations t a b l e f o r t h e routing.
Ordinarily t h e s u i t a b l e headings and arrangement a r e those of Table
17-5, but- i f base flow, snowmeit, or upstream r e l e a s e s must be
included (base flow i n t h i s routing) then one o r more a d d i t i o n a l
columns a r e needed. Table 17-6 shows headings and arrangement s u i t -
able f o r t h i s example.

3. Do t h e routing.
The procedure of s t e p 7, Example 17-1, i s s l i g h t l y modified f o r t h i s
routing. The f i r s t l i n e of d a t a i n t h e operations t a b l e must con-
t a i n t h e i n i t i a l reservoir volume i n column 4 and t h e i n i t i a 1 , s p i l l -
way discharge i n column 7. Accumulated base flow i s added t o t h e
i n i t i a l value of column 4 t o give t h e "accumulat;d inflow" of t h a t
column. In a l l other respects t h e routing procedure i s t h a t of
s t e p 7, Example 17-1.

4. Determine t h e s t o r w e remaining a f t e r 10 days of drawdown.

The entry i n column 6 a t day 10 shows t h a t t h e remaining storage
i s 0.20 inches, which i s a t elevation 581.1 f e e t .

The routing f o r t h i s example has been c a r r i e d t o 1 4 days t o show t h a t

when t h e inflow r a t e i s steady, as it i s i n t h i s case (0.045 i n . / d a y ) ,
then t h e outflow r a t e eventually a l s o becomes steady a t t h e same r a t e .
The l a r g e r t h e steady r a t e of inflow t h e sooner t h e outflow becomes
steady. Note t h a t if the routing had been done with an accuracy t o t h e
nearest 0.001 inch, t h e outflow r a t e would be 0.045 i n . / d q , t h e base
flow r a t e .

The mass inflow, storage, and mass outflow curves f o r t h i s example a r e

shown i n Figure 17-3. Note t h a t t h e work i s accurate t o t h e nearest
0.01 inch, therefore the curves must follow the p l o t t e d points within
t h a t l i m i t . S l i g h t i r r e g u l a r i t i e s i n the smooth curves a r e due t o slope
changes i n the storage-discharge curve.

Mass-Curve Method: Direct Version.- It is easy enough t o eliminate t h e

trial-and-error process of t h e mass-curve method but t h e r e s u l t i n g
" d i r e c t version" i s much more laborious than t h e trial-and-error version.
To get a d i r e c t version t h e working equation i s obtained from Equation
17-12 a s follows.

The average discharge 5 i n Equation 17-12 la (01 + 02)/2 so t h a t t h e

equation can be w r i t t e n :

Because O2 as well as S2 i s unknown it i s necessary t o make combinations

of S and 0 t o get d i r e c t solutions i n t h e routing operation. A t any time,
mass outflow i s equal t o mass inflow minus storage, or:

NM Notice 4-102, August 1972

 Table 17-6 Operations table f o r determining storage after 1 0 days
of drawdown for Ekample 17-2.

As- Spillvray Out-

Time Acc. Acc. sumed Res. discharge flow Acc.
kc. At base in- acc. vol- Inst. Avg. for out-
flow* flow outflow me At flow
(days) (days) (in.) (in.) ( i n . ) (in;) (in./dqr) ( i n . / d w ) ( i n . ) (in.)
(3) (4)
0 2.82 1.69 0
.01 2.83 1.66 1.67 0.33 .33
.02 2.84 1.35 1.50 .3O .63
-03 2.85 .87 1.n .22 .85
.98 1.16 .23 .86
,04 2.86 .66 .82 .33 1.19
.07 2.89 1.50 1.39 .60 .63 .32 1.51
.o9 2.91 1.80 L . l l .53 .56 .28 1.79
;ll 2.93 2.03 .go .37 .45 .22 2.01
2.01 .92 .38 .46 .23 2.02
.14 2.96 2.23 .73 .27 .32 .16 2.18
2.19 .77 .29 .34 -17 2.19
.16 2.98 3.30 .68 .24 .26 .I3 2.32
2.32 .66 .23 .26 .I3 2.32
.18 3.00 2.42 .58 .20 -22 .11 2.43
.20 3.02 2.52 .5O -17 .18 .09. 2.52
;22 3.04 2-59 .45 .I5 .16 .08 2.60
.27 3.09 2.73 .36 .12 .14 .14 2.74
.32 3.14 2.85 .29 .O9 .10 .10 2.84
-36 3.18 2.94 .24 07 .08 .08 2.92
2.93 .25 .08 .08 .08 2.92
-40 3.22 3.00 .22 -07 .08 .08 3.00
.45 3.27 3.07 .20 .07 .07 .07 3.07
.50 3.32 3.13 -19 -06 .06 .06 3.13
.54 3.36 3.19 -17 .05 .06 .06 3.19
.58 3.40 3.25 .l5 .04 .04 .04 3.23
3.24 .16 05 .05 -05 3.24
14.0 1.0 .63 3.45 3.29 .16 05 .O5 .O5 3.29
etc. etc. .
e t c etc. etc. etc. etc. etc. etc. etc.

* A t a r a t e of 0.045 inches per day.

NELI Notice 4-102, August 1972

Substituting MI1 - S1 for MOl in Equation 17-13 and rearranging gives:
M I 2 - MI1 + (sl - - ol) = S2 " - 02
At At
(Eq. 17-15)
2 2

which is the working equation for the direct version. Working curves of
01 and (Sl - (At 01)/2) and of 02 and (S2 + (At 02)/2) are needed for
routing.
Other arrangements of working equations can also be obtained from Equa-
tion 17-12. Equation 17-15 is the mass-curve version of the Storage-
Indication method, which is described later in this part. Routing by
use of Equation 17-15 takes about twice as much work as routing by the
Storage-Indication method.

Examples of direct versions of the mass-curve method are n.ot given in

this chapter because the trial-and-error version is more efficient in
every respect.

Mass-Curve Method: Graphical Version.- The graphical version of the

mass-curve method is in a sense a direct version because there is no
trial-and-error involved. The graphical version is usually faster than
the trial-and-error version if the routing job is simple. For complex
jobs the trial-and-error version is more efficient and its results more
easily reviewed. For any routing it gives mass outflow, storage, and the
outflow hydrograph; the graphical version gives only the mass outflow
and storage. The following example shows the use of the graphical ver-
sion with the data and problem of Example 17-1.

Example 17-3.--Use the graphical version of the mass-curve method to

determine the minimum required storage for the structure used in
Example 17-1. Use the data of that example.

1. Develop an elevation-discharge curve for the structure.

The curve used in Example 17-1 will be used here.

2. Develop an elevation-storwe curve for the structure.

The curve used in Example 17-1 will be used here.

3. Prepare a working table for the routing.

Using the curves of steps 1 and 2, select enough discharges on the
discharge curve to define the curve accurately and tabulate them in
column 2, Table 17-7. Tabulate the associated elevations in column
1 and storages at those elevations in column 4. Compute average dis-
charges from column 2 for column 3. The designations in column 5
show which line is associated with each pair of storages shown on
Figure 17-4. Thus, line A applies when the storage is between 0
and 0.18 inches; line B when it is between 0.18 and 0.40 inches; and
so on.

4. Plot the mass inflow.

The PSMC used in Example 17-1 is used here. It is plotted in Figure

IiEH Botice 4-102, August 1972

 5. Do t h e routing.
The work i s done on t h e graph of mass inflow, Figure 17-4. Table
17-7 i s used during t h e work. The procedure goes a s follows:

-a. Draw l i n e A with i t s o r i g i n a t t h e beginning of mass inflow

and with i t s slope equal t o t h e associated average discharge
(column 3 of Table 17-7), which i s 0.025 in./day. This i s t h e
f i r s t portion of t h e mass outflow curve.

(Note: Every p a r t of t h e l i n e of mass outflow must f a l l on o r below t h e

mass inflow curve. If some p a r t i s above t h e inflow, determine t h e slope
and storage l i m i t s f o r a l i n e with a f l a t t e r slope and use it i n s t e a d . )

-
b. Determine t h e time a t which t h e difference between mass
inflow and l i n e A i s equal t o t h e l a r g e r of t h e storage l i m i t s
f o r l i n e A, i n t h i s case 0.18 inches, which occurs a t 0.65 days.
This i s t h e p o i n t of o r i g i n f o r l i n e B.

-c.andDraw l i n e B with i t s o r i g i n a t t h e point

with a slope of 0.09 in./day.
found i n s t e p 2

-d. Determine t h e time a t which t h e difference between mass in-

flow and l i n e B i s equal t o t h e l a r g e r of t h e storage limits
f o r l i n e B, i n t h i s case 0.40 inches, which occui-s a t 1.50 days.
This i s t h e point of o r i g i n f o r l i n e C.

-
e. Repeat t h e procedure of s t e p s 5 and d with l i n e s C, I), E,
e t c . , u n t i l t h e storage being used i s s o l a r g e it exceeds t h e
possible difference between mass inflow and mass outflow. For
t h i s example t h i s occurs with l i n e H. The p a r a l l e l l i n e above
it shows t h a t t h e associated storage of 3.44 inches f a l l s above
t h e mass inflow l i n e . When t h i s s t e p i s reached t h e required
storage i s obtained by t a k i n g t h e maximum difference between
l i n e H and the mass inflow curve. The difference occurs a t t h e
point on t h e mass inflow curve where a l i n e p a r a l l e l t o l i n e
H i s tangent t o t h e inflow curve. For t h i s example it i s 2.80
inches a t 5.33 days. This s t e p completes t h e routing.

The graphical method can a l s o be used f o r routings s t a r t i n g with some

storage occupied and with t h e spillway discharging. For t h e problem used
i n Example 17-2 t h e graphical method s t a r t s with l i n e H and continues
with l i n e s G, F, E, D , C, B, and A i n t h a t order. The r e s u l t s a r e
shown i n Figure 17-5. The storage a f t e r 10 days of drawdown i s 0.18
inches, which i s nearly t h e same as found i n Example 17-2. Differences
between r e s u l t s of t h e two methods a r e due mainly t o t h e use of s m a l l -
s c a l e graphs f o r working curves; l a r g e r s c a l e s increase t h e accuracy.
Note t h a t l i n e A i'n Figure 17-5 i s f l a t t e r %ban t h e l i n e of accumulated
base flow. This i n d i c a t e s t h a t t h e flow becomes steady a t o r near 10
days and t h a t t h e dashed l i n e ( p a r a l l e l t o mass inflow) i s t h e a c t u a l
outflow.

NEB Notice 4-102, August 1972

Table 17-7 Working t a b l e f o r t h e graphical version of t h e mass-curve
method f o r Example 17-3.

Spillway discharge Designation

Elevation
Inst. Avg . Storage
on F i g . 17-4
(feet ) (in./day) (in./day) (inches )
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
580.2 0 0
0.025 line A
581.0 .05 .18
.09 line B
582.0 .13 .40
.23 line C
583.5 .33 .80
.42 line D
584.6 52 1.09
.61 line E
587.0 70 1.86
.95 line F
587.8 1.20 2.16
1.42 line G
588.4 1.64 2.38
1.69 line H
591.0 1.74 3.44
1.77 line I
592.5 1.80 4.15

NEH Notice 4-102, A m s t 1972

Storage-Indication Method.- Reservoir routing methods t h a t a r e a l s o used
f o r stream routings a r e generally discharge, not mass, methods because
it i s usually only t h e discharge hydrograph t h a t i s wanted. The Storage-
Indication method, which has been widely used f o r channel and r e s e r v o i r
routings, has discharge r a t e s as input and output. The method was given
i n t h e 1955 e d i t i o n of NEH-4, Supplement A. Example 17-4, below i s t h e
same example used i n t h a t publication except f o r minor changes.

The Storage-Indication method uses Equation 17-11 %n t h e form:

where 7 = (I1 + 1 2 ) / 2 . The values of a r e e i t h e r taken from midpoints

of routing i n t e r v a l s of p l o t t e d inflow hydrographs o r computed from in-
flows tabulated a t regular i n t e r v a l s . A working curve of 02 p l o t t e d
against (s2/At) + (02/2) i s necessary f o r solving t h e equation.

I n channel routing t h e Storage-Indication method has t h e defect t h a t

outflow begins a t the same time inflow begins so t h a t presumably t h e in-
flow a t t h e head of t h e reach passes instantaneously through t h e reach
regardless of i t s length. This defect i s not serious i f t h e r a t i o T t / T p
i s about 1 / 2 or l e s s , where Tp i s t h e inflow hydrograph time t o peak and
T t i s a t r a v e l time defined as:

where Tt = reach t r a v e l time i n hours; t h e time it t a k e s a s e l e c t e d

steady-flow discharge t o pass through t h e reach

L = reach length i n f e e t

A = average end-area f o r discharge q i n square f e e t

q = s e l e c t e d steady-flow discharge i s c f s

V = q/A = average v e l o c i t y of discharge q i n f p s

I n determining T t the discharge q i s usually t h e bank-full discharge

under steady flow conditions ( s e e Chapter 1 5 ) .

Another defect of t h e Storage-Indication method, f o r both channel and

r e s e r v o i r r o u t i n g , i s t h a t t h e r e i s no r u l e f o r s e l e c t i n g t h e proper
s i z e of routing i n t e r v a l . T r i a l routings show t h a t negative outflows
w i l l occur during recession periods of outflow whenever A t i s g r e a t e r
than 2 S2/02 ( o r whenever 02/2 i s g r e a t e r than S2/At). This a l s o means
t h a t r i s i n g portion's of hydrographs a r e being d i s t o r t e d . I n p r a c t i c e ,
t o avoid t h e s e p o s s i b i l i t i e s , t h e working curve can be p l o t t e d a s shown
i n Figure 17-6; i f any p a r t of t h e working curve falls above t h e l i n e of
equal values then t h e e n t i r e curve should be discarded and a new one
made using a smaller value of A t . For channel routing t h e p o s s i b i l i t y
of negative outflows i s usually excluded by t a k i n g A t l e s s than Tt.

Notice 4-102, A u g u s t 1972

The following example shows t h e use of t h e Storage-Indication method i n
channel routing. The example i s t h e one used i n t h e 1955 e d i t i o n of
NEE-4, Supplement A, with some minor changes.

Example 17-4.--Use t h e Storage-Tndication method of r e s e r v o i r

routing t o route the inflow hydrograph of Figure 17-7 through the
stream reach of Table 17-4.

1. Prepare the storage-discharge r e l a t i o n s h i p f o r t h e reach.

This i s done i n Table 17-4 and t h e t e x t accompanying it.

2. Determine t h e reach t r a v e l time.

This i s done using Equation 17-17. Table 17-4 and t h e accompanying
t e x t supply t h e following data: L = 10,000 f e e t and f o r a bank-
f u l l discharge of 800 c f s as q t h e end-area A = 234 square f e e t .
Then by Equation 17-17, T t = 10000(23~)/3600(800)= 0.813 hours.

3. Select the routing i n t e r v a l .

The routing i n t e r v a l f o r t h i s example w i l l be 0.5 hours, which i s
l e s s than t h e t r a v e l time of s t e p 2 and which i s a convenient s i z e
f o r t h e given inflow hydrograph. (See t h e discussion i n t h e t e x t
accompanying Equation 17-30 f o r f u r t h e r information on t h e selec-
t i o n of reach routing i n t e r v a l s . )

4. Prepare the working curve.

Use the storage-discharge r e l a t i o n s h i p of s t e p 1, which i s given i n
columns 1 and-10 of able 17-4. 'Fnese two coiumk a r e reproduced
as columns 1 and 3 of Table 17-8, t h e working t a b l e ; columns 2, 4 ,
and 5 of t h e t a b l e a r e self-explanatory. The working curve i s
p l o t t e d using columns 1 and 5. The f i n i s h e d curve i s shown i n
Figure 17-6.

5. Prepare t h e operations t a b l e .
Suitable headings and arrangement f o r an operations t a b l e a r e shown
i n Table 17-9.

6. Enter times and inflows i n t h e operations t a b l e .

Accumulated time i n s t e p s-of t h e routing i n t e r v a l is shown i n
column 1 of Table 17-9.- I values read From midintervals on t h e
inflow hydrograph of Figure 17-7 a r e shown i n column 2.

7. Do t h e routing.
The procedure i s shown i n Table 17-10. The routing r e s u l t s a r e
shown i n columns 3 and 4 of Table 17-9. The outflow hydrograph
given i n column 4 i s p l o t t e d i n Figure 17-7.

I n routing through channels it i s generally necessary t o add l o c a l inflow

t o t h e routed outflow. The method of doing t h i s i s described l a t e r i n
t h e p a r t on channel routing methods.

NEEf Notice 4-102, August 1972

The Storage-Indication procedure f o r
t h a t f o r channel routing except t h a t
t r a v e l time. The following example
problem and data of Example'l7-1 a r e
of procedures and r e s u l t s .
r e s e r v o i r routing i s i d e n t i c a l with
t h e r e i s no need t o determine a
shows t h e r e s e r v o i r procedure. The
used i n order t o a l l o w a comparison

&ample 17-5.--Use t h e Storage-Indication method t o determine t h e

minimum required storage f o r t h e s t r u c t u r e used i n Example 17-1.
Use t h e d a t a of t h a t example where applicable. Make t h e routing with
discharges i n cfs.

1. Develop an elevation-discharge curve f o r t h e s t r u c t u r e .

The curve used i n Example 17-1 w i l l be used here. That curve i s
f o r discharges i n i n . / h r . Ordinarily when c f s a r e t o be used t h e
curve i s developed i n t h a t u n i t . The conversion t o c f s w i l l be
made i n s t e p 5.

2. Develop an elevation-storage curve f o r t h e structure.

The curve used i n Example
- 17-1 w i l l be used here. That curve i s
f o r storage i n inches. The conversion t o cfs-days w i l l be made i n
step 5.

3. Develop and p l o t t h e inflow hydrograph.

Because of t h e type of problem t h e inflow hydrograph must be a Prin-
c i p a l -Sj?illway Hydrograph (PSH) taken from Chapter-21. The PSH
corresponding t o t h e PSMC of Example 17-1 i s given i n columns 1
m d 4 of Table 21-7. The PSH i s p l o t t e d i n Figure 17-8.

4. Select t h e rout in^ i n t e r v a l .

Examination of t h e PSH i n F i m r e 17-8 shows t h a t two routing i n t e r -
v a l s w i l l be needed, one of 6.5 days f o r small changes i n r&es
and one of 0.1 days f o r l a r g e changes.

5. Prepare t h e working curves..

Data and computations f o r t h e working curves a r e shown i n Table
17-11. Two curves a r e needed because two routing i n t e r v a l s w i l l be
used. The e l e v a t i o n s of column 1 and discharges of column 2 a r e
taken from t h e curve of s t e p 1with t h e discharges being converted
from i n . / h r . t o c f s i n t h e process. The discharges a r e s e l e c t e d so
t h a t they adequately define t h e elevation-dischaxge relationship.
Column 3 of Table 17-11 gives the corresponding storages from t h e
curve of s t e p 2 , converted from inches t o cfs-hrs during t h e tabula-
t i o n . The remaining columns contain self-explanatory computations.
Columns 2 and 6 give t h e f i r s t working curve and columns 2 and 8
t h e second; they a r e p l o t t e d i n Figure 17-9. Note t h a t " l i n e s of
equal values" i f drawn would be w e l l above t h e working curves,
therefore t h e routing i n t e r v a l s a r e adequately small. Also note
t h a t t h e second curve i s shown only f o r t h e higher discharges i n
order t o use a l a r g e r s c a l e ; o r d i n a r i l y t h e e n t i r e curve i s plotted.

NM Notice 4-102, AugUSt 1972

Table 17-8 Working t a b l e f o r preparation of t h e
working curve f o r Example 17-4.

NM Notice 4-102, August 1972

 Table 17-9 Operations table for the S-I method for
Example 17-4.

Time

(2) (3) (4)

0 0 0 0
.5 625" 625 285
1.0 1875 2215 1030
1.5 3125 4310 1880
2.0 4375 6805 2880
2.5 4615 8540 3610
3.0 3865 8795 3710
3.5 3125 8210 3450
4.0 2375 7135 3050
4.5 1635 5720 2440
5.0 900 4180 1810
5.5 265 2635 1210
6.0 O*" 1425 630
6.5 0 795 375
7.0 0 420 160
7.5 0 260 82
8.0 0 178 53
etc. etc. etc. etc.

* 625 cfs is the average discharge for the time from 0 to

0.5 hours, 1875 cfs the average discharge from 0.5 to 1.0
hours, and so on.

** Inflow ceases at 5.33 hours.

NEH Notice 4-102, August 1972

Table 17-10 Procedure f o r routing by t h e Storage-Indication method
f o r Example 17-4.

Remarks

0 Given
Given
o -o + 625 = 625
285 From Figure 17-6
Given
625 - 285 + 1875 = 2215
1030 From Figure 17-6
Given
2215 - 1030 + 3125 = 4310
1880 From Figure 17-6
Given
4310 - 1880 + 4375 = 6805
2880 From Figure 17-6
etc. etc. etc. etc. etc.

NEH Notice 4-102, August 1972

 6. Prepare t h e operations t a b l e .
Suitable headings - and arrangement a r e shown i n Table 17-12. Note
t h a t t h e r e i s a column f o r i n s t g t a n e o u s r a t e s of inflow. These
r a t e s w i l l be used f o r g e t t i n g I values because it i s d i f f i c u l t t o
s e l e c t I values accurately enough from some portions of t h e p l o t t e d
hydrograph.

7. Tabulate times and r a t e s of inflow and compute 7 values.

Accumulated times a r e shown i n column 1 of Table 17-12 a t i n t e r v a l s
of A t = 0.5 days f o r t h e i n i t i a l slow-rising portion of t h e PSH, a t
A t = 0 . 1 days f o r t h e f a s t - r i s i n g and - f a l l i n g portion, and again
a t A t = 0 . 5 days f o r t h e slow recession. Instantaneous r a t e s of
inflow f o r those times a r e taken from t h e PSH of Figure 17-8 ( o r
from column 4 of Table 21-7 i f they are f o r t h e s e l e c t e d times) and
shown i n column 2. The I values of column 3 a r e arithmetic averages
of e n t r i e s i n column 2.

8. Do t h e routin@;.
The procedure i s t h e same a s t h a t given i n Table 17-10 except when
a change i s made from one working curve t o another. The changes a r e
made a s follows. A t time 4.5 days t h e routing i n t e r v a l changes,
therefore, t h e working curve must be changed. The outflow r a t e a t
t h a t time i s 116 cfs. Entering t h e second working curve with t h i s
r a t e gives 2,640 c f s as t h e value of (s2/At) + (0212) i n column 4
f o r t h e same time. Once t h i s value i s entered t h e routing continues
with use of t h e second working curve. A t time 6.0 days t h e routing
i n t e r v a l chknges back t o t h e first one and t h e r e f o r e t h e first
working curve must again be used. The outflow r a t e a t t h a t time i s
357 c f s . Entering t h e f i r s t working curve with t h i s r a t e gives
1,270 c f s as t h e value of (s2/At) + (02/2) i n column 4 f o r t h a t
time. After e n t e r i n g t h i s value t h e routing continues with use of
the first working curve.

9 . Determine t h e maximum storage a t t a i n e d i n t h e routing.

The maximum storage a t t a i n e d i n a r e s e r v o i r during t h e routing of
a single-peaked hydrograph occurs a t t h e time when outflow equals
inflow. The p l o t t i n g i n Figure 17-8 shows t h a t t h i s occurs a t 5.33
days. For t h i s time, Table 17-12 shows t h a t 02 = 364 c f s and
(s2/At) + (02/2) = 6,480 c f s . solving f o r S2 gives S2 = A t 6480 -
(0 1 2 ) . With A t = 0 0 . days and 02 = 364 c f s , S2 = 0.1 6480 -
(3&/2) = 629.8 cfs-days , t h e maximum storage. To convert t o AF
use Equation 17-2, which gives 629.8/0.504 = 1,247 AF as t h e maxi-
mum storage i n AT. To convert AF t o inches use Equation 17-3 and
t h e given drainage area of 8.0 square miles ( s e e Example 17-11,
which give l247/53.3(8.0) = 2.93 inches as t h e maximum storage i n
inches. (Tote: The storage can a l s o be found by use of a storage-
discharge curve o r elevation-discharge and elevation-storage curves
but with t h e Storage-Indication method it i s generally b e s t t o use
t h e above method. )

A comparison of peak r a t e s of outflow shows t h a t t h e mass-curve method

of Example 17-1 gave a peak r a t e of 1.69 in./dsy, which converts t o 363

NEH Notice 4-102, August 1972

Table 17-11 Working t a b l e f o r preparation of the working curves
f o r Example 17-5.

For A t = 0.5 days For A t = 0.1 days

Eleva- Dis-
t ion
Storage O2
- - - - o2
At + -
charge S2 S2 "2 s2 S2
(S2) At 2 At At
+-
2
(02)
(feet) (cfs) (cfs-days) ( c f s ) (cfs) (cfs) (cfs) (cfs)

NM Notice 4-102, August 1972

Table 17-12 Operations t a b l e f o r Example 17-5.

Gut-
f OH

etc. etc. etc. etc. etc.

* From f i r s t working curve.

""From second working curve.

NEH Notice 4-102, August 1972

c f s , and t h e Storage-Indication method gave 364 cfs, which i s excellent
agreement. But a comparison of maximum storage i n inches shows t h a t t h e
mass-curve method of Example 17-1 gave 2.82 inches, t h e graphical mass-
curve method of Example 17-3 gave 2.80 inches, and t h e Storage-Indication
method gave 2.93 inches. The discrepancy i s f o r t h e most p a r t due t o use
of small-scale graphs f o r t h e working curves. Larger graphs would reduce
t h e discrepancy.

St orage-Indication Method as Used i n t h e SCS Electronic Computer Program. -

SCS e l e c t r o n i c computer program f o r watershed evaluations uses t h e
Storage-Indication method only f o r r e s e r v o i r routings. The chief d i f f e r -
ence between t h e manual procedure of Example 17-5 and t h e electronic-
computer procedure i s t h a t i n t h e l a t t e r no working curves a r e used. In-
s t e a d , t h e working equation i s solved during a process i n which interpo-
l a t i o n s a r e made i n t h e elevation-discharge and elevation-storage data
stored i n t h e computer. The process i s repeated during t h e routing j u s t
as t h e working curve i s repeatedly used i n manual routing. The machine
routing has a numerical accuracy g r e a t e r than t h a t of t h e manual routing,
but t h e machine cannot improve t h e accuracy of the input data. D e t a i l s
of t h e machine routing process a r e given i n pages A-61 through A-66 of
t h e r e p o r t t i t l e d "Computer Program f o r Project Formulation -
Hydrology,"
by C-E-I-R, Inc. Arlington, Va., January 1964, which w a s prepared f o r
SCS. Copies of t h i s report a r e a v a i l a b l e from t h e Washington, D. C.
o f f i c e of SCS.

Culp's Method.- Some routing methods a r e developed f o r solving special

problems, f o r which they have a high e f f i c i e n c y . One such method i s
described next.

I n t h e design of an emergency spillway of a dam it i s SCS p r a c t i c e t o

base t h e design on t h e r e s u l t s from a routing of an Bnergency Spillway
Hydrograph. Because all of t h e spillway dimensions cannot be known i n
advance, it i s necessary t o route t h e hydrograph through t h r e e o r four
d i f f e r e n t spillways w i t h assumed dimensions before t h e spillway w i t h
t h e proper dimensions can be found. M. M. Culp's r o u t i n g method elimi-
nates much of t h a t work by giving t h e routed peak discharge without t h e
use of spillway dimensions. The following example shows an a p p l i c a t i o n
of t h e method t o t h e s t r u c t u r e used i n previous examples. The example
i s lengthy because many d e t a i l s a r e given; a f t e r t h e method i s understood
it w i l l be seen t o be f a s t and easy t o apply.

Example 17-6.--Find t h e routed peak discharge t o be used i n design of

an emergency spillway f o r t h e s t r u c t u r e of Example 17-1. The required
difference i n elevation between t h e c r e s t of t h e spillway and t h e reser-
v o i r water surface, H , i s 4.0 f e e t during t h e peak discharge. Water-
shed and s t r u c t u r e dafa a r e given i n examples 17-1 and 17-2.

=
1. Prepare t h e elevation-discharge curve f o r t h e p r i n c i p a l s p i l l -

This curve was prepared f o r Example 17-1 with t h e discharges i n

inches per hour. It w i l l be used here as shown i n Figure 17-10(a)
with discharges i n cfs.

NEII Notice 4-102, August 1972

 2. Prepare t h e elevation-storage curve f o r t h e s t r u c t u r e .
This curve was prepared f o r Example 17-1. Only t h e portion above
t h e sediment storage w i l l b e used here; it is shown i n f i g u r e
17-10(a).

3. Determine t h e elevation of t h e emergency spillway c r e s t .

According t o SCS c r i t e r i a , t h e elevation of t h e emergency - spillway
-
c r e s t can be a t o r above t h e maximum water-surface elevation
a t t a i n e d i n t h e r e s e r v o i r during t h e routing of t h e P r i n c i p a l
Spillway Hydrograph (PSH) o r i t s mass curve (PSMC) The water- .
surface e l e v a t i o n found i n Example 17-1 w i l l be used here as t h e
c r e s t elevation. This elevation i s 589.5 f e e t with floodwater
storage of 2.82 inches.

4. Determine t h e water-surface elevation of t h e floodwater remain-

i n g i n t h e r e s e r v o i r after LO days of drawdown from storage a t t h e
water-surface elevation a t t a i n e d i n routing t h e PSH o r PSMC.
This s t e p i s required by SCS c r i t e r i a . The determination i s made
i n Fxample 17-2 and those r e s u l t s w i l l be used here. The water-
surface elevation a f t e r 10 days of drawdown i s 581.1 f e e t with
floodwater storage a t 0.20 inches.

5. Prepare t h e Emergency Spillway Hydrograph (ESH) and i t s mass

curve (ESMC).
The ESH f o r t h i s example was prepared using t h e method of Example
21-5 and t h e following d a t a : drainage a r e a = 8.0 square miles,
time of concentration = 2.0 hours, runoff curve number = 75, design
storm r a i n f a l l = 9 . 1 inches, storm duration = 6.0 hours, r u n o f f =
6.04 inches, hydrograph family = 2, To = 5.05 hours, i n i t i a l Tp =
1 . 4 hours, To/Tp = 3.61, s e l e c t e d To/Tp = 4, revised Tp = 1.26 hours,
qp = 3,073 c f s , and Q(q ) = 18,560 c f s . The ESMC was prepared using
Table 21-17 and t h e folEowing d a t a : hydrograph family = 2, To/Tp =
4, Tp = 1.26 hours, and Q = 6.04 inches. The hydrograph i s shown
i n Flgure 17-10(b) and t h e mass curve i n Figure 17-10(c).

(Note: The above s t e p s a r e taken, i n much t h e same way, regardless of

which manual method of r o u t i n g i s used f o r t h i s kind of problem. The
following s t e p s apply t o t h e Culp method. )

6. Determine t h e time a t which t h e emergency spillway begins t o

flow during passage of t h e ESH or ESMC.
For t h i s example t h e time was found by routing the ESMC of s t e p 5
by t h e method of Example 17-1, using t h e curves of Figure 17-10(a)
as working c w e s . The routing w a s s t a r t e d with 0.20 inches of
floodwater i n t h e r e s e r v o i r (SCS c r i t e r i a r e q u i r e t h e ESH o r ESMC
routing t o s t a r t a t t h e elevation f o r t h e floodwater remaining
a f t e r the 10-day drawdown period; see s t e p 4). The emergency s p i l l -
way began t o flow a t 2.9 hours, a t which time t h e mass outflow was
0.06 inches. The time and outflow a r e indicated by point c l on
Figure 17-10(c )

iWH Notice 4-102, August 1972

7. Determine the average discharge of t h e p r i n c i p a l s p i l l w q
during, passage of t h e ESH or ESMC through t h e emergency spillway.
The p r i n c i p a l spillway average discharge i s f o r t h e period during
which t h e reservoir storage r i s e s from t h e elevation of t h e emer-
gency spillway c r e s t t o t h e c r e s t elevation plus
2.
vation-discharge curve of Figure 17-10(a) t o f i n d he discharges
a t t h e two elevations. These discharges a r e 361 and 392 c f s res-
the ele-

pectively; t h e i r average i s 376 c f s .

8. Locate a reference point i n t h e ESH f o r use i n l a t e r steps.

The reference point, shown as point b l i n Figure 17-10(b), i s
located a t t h e time determined i n s t e p 6 and a t t h e average dis-
charge determined i n s t e p 7. A second p o i n t , not a c t u a l l y necessary
i n t h e work, i s shown as b2 on t h e recession s i d e . A s t r a i g h t l i n e
connecting points b l and b2 represents the p r i n c i p a l spillway out-
flow r a t e during t h e period used i n s t e p 7.

9. Compute t h e slope of t h e p r i n c i p a l spillway mass outflow l i n e

f o r use on the mass inflow graph.
Tne mass outflow t o be used i s f o r t h e period considered i n s t e p 7.
F u l l pipe flow occurs and t h e mass outflow i s adequately represented
by a s t r a i g h t l i n e . The slope of t h e l i n e f o r t h i s example must be
i n inches per hour because t h e mass inflow s c a l e s a r e f o r inches
and hours. To get t h e slope, convert t h e average discharge of
s t e p 7 by use of Equation 17-5, which gives 376/645(8.0) = 0.073
inches per hour.

10. P l o t a reference l i n e and a working l i n e of p r i n c i p a l spillway

mass outflow on t h e graph f o r mass inflow.
The l i n e s a r e f o r t h e period considered i n s t e p 7 but f o r working
convenience they a r e extended beyond t h e limits of t h e period. To
p l o t t h e reference l i n e , f i r s t l o c a t e point c2 on t h e mass inflow
curve of Figure 17-10(c) a t t h e time determined i n s t e p 6, then
through c2 draw a s t r a i g h t l i n e having t h e slope determined i n
s t e p 9 ; t h i s gives l i n e A as shown. To p l o t t h e working l i n e ,
f i r s t determine t h e storage associated with EIp, which i s 1.84 inches
as shown i n Figure 17-10(a), then draw l i n e B p a r a l l e l t o l i n e A
and 1.84 inches of runoff above it as shown i n Figure 17-10(c).

11. Find t h e period within which t h e emergency spillway peak d i s -

charge w i l l occur.
Point c3 i s a t t h e i n t e r s e c t i o n of t h e mass inflow curve and l i n e B
i n Figure 17-10(c). Locate point b3 on t h e ESH of Figure 17-10(b)
a t t h e time found f o r c3. Points b3 and b2 are t h e end p o i n t s f o r
t h e period within which t h e emergency spillway peak discharge w i l l
occur.

2 . Select s e v e r a l working discharges between p o i n t s b3 and b2.

Four s e l e c t e d working discharges a r e indicated by p o i n t s b4, b5,
b6, and b7 i n Figure-17-10(b); t h e discharges a r e 4,750, 3,500,
2,200, and 920 c f s respectively. These discharges represent t h e
peak discharges of outflow hydrographs.

NEH Notice 4-102, August 1972

( ~ o t e : After some experience with t h i s method, it may be found e a s i e r
t o s e l e c t only two working discharges i n t h i s s t e p , t o work through
s t e p s 1 3 t o 15, and i f t h e r e s u l t s a r e u n s a t i s f a c t o r y t o r e t u r n t o s t e p
12 again by s e l e c t i n g a t h i r d working discharge, working through s t e p s
13 through 1 5 f o r t h a t discharge, and s o on.1

13. Compute a volume-to-peak f o r each working discharge of step 12.

I n the Culp method t h e r i s i n g s i d e of the outflow hydrograph f o r
a trapezoidal spillway i s taken a s being nearly parabolic s o t h a t
the volume from t h e beginning of r i s e t o t h e peak r a t e , o r t h e
volume-to-peak, i s :

where Qe i s t h e volume i n cfs-hrs, qe i s t h e working discharge of

s t e p 12 i n c f s , qps i s t h e p r i n c i p a l spillway r a t e of s t e p 7 i n
c f s , and Te i s t h e time i n hours from point b l t o t h e peak time.
The volume Qe must be converted t o a u n i t usable with t h e mass
inflow curve, i n t h i s case, inches. The summary of work f o r t h i s
s t e p i s given i n Table 17-13. I n t h e columns f o r points b4 through
b7, t h e items i n l i n e 1 a r e from s t e p 12; items i n l i n e 2 a r e from
s t e p 7; items i n l i n e 3 a r e obtained by s u b t r a c t i n g qps from qe;
items .in l i n e 4 a r e obtained by inspection of Figure 17-10(b);
items i n l i n e 5 a r e products of (qe -
qps) x Te; items i n l i n e 6
a r e products of ( ~ e j 0 . 6 2 )x 0.62; items i n l i n e 7 a r e Qe's of l i n e
6 divided by t h e drainage a r e a of 8.0 square miles; items of l i n e
8 a r e Qe' s of l i n e 7 divided by 645. Each Qe of l i n e 8 applies
only at t h e time indicated by i t s point on the ESH.

14. P l o t a curve of mass inflow minus mass outflow.

This i s a working curve, not t h e complete curve of inflow minus
outflow. Subtract each Qe of l i n e 8, Table 17-13, from t h e inflow
amount a t t h e i d e n t i c a l time on t h e mass inflow curve of Figure
17-10(c) and p l o t t h e r e s u l t as shown f o r p o i n t s c4, c5, c6, and
c7. Connect t h e p o i n t s with a curve, l i n e C.

15. Determine t h e time and r a t e f o r the emergency spillway peak

discharge.
The i n t e r s e c t i o n of l i n e s B and C , a t point c8 i n Figure 17-10(c),
gives t h e time a t which t h e emergency spillway peak discharge occurs
The t o t a l discharge r a t e a t t h a t time i s 3,050 c f s a s shown by t h e
corresponding point b8 on t h e ESE of Figure 17-10(b). The emer-
gency spillway discharge r a t e i s 3050 -
376 = 2,674 c f s , which
occurs when t h e r e s e r v o i r water surface i s a t t h e given elevation
of 593.5 f e e t ( c r e s t elevation plus Hp). This s t e p completes t h e
routing. Design of t h e emergency spillway now follows with use of
ES-98, ES-124, and spillway c r i t e r i a .
I f Kp is not known i n advance, t h e Culp method can be used with assumed
values of Hp t o get associated discharges from which t h e s u i t a b l e combi-
nation of Hp and discharge can be s e l e c t e d . For e a r t h spillways % can
be closely approximated from permissible v e l o c i t i e s and t h e appropriate

IiEH Notice 4-102, August 1972

 17-35

Table 17-13 Working t a b l e f o r Culp method s t e p 13 of Example 17-6.

Point :
Line It em Unit b4 b5 b6 b7

qe cfs
¶€'s cfs
qe -
q~s C ~ S
Te hrs
Qel0.62 cfs-hrs
Qe cfs-hrs
Qe csm-hrs
Qe in.

NJB Notice 4-102, August 1972

length and chosen p r o f i l e of t h e i n l e t channel. A close approximation
of t h e emergency spillway discharge r a t e can be obtained i n t h i s way f o r
an ELp ~ a l u enear t h e middle of t h e desired range t o get a " C curve" ( l i n e
C on Flgure 17-10(c)). The average discharge i n t h e conventional drop
i n l e t under f u l l pipe flow conditions v a r i e s only s l i g h t l y as H?, v a r i e s
r e l a t i v e l y g r e a t l y , t h u s t h e discharge through t h e emergency splllway
can be closely approximated from such an average C curve. If refine-
ment i s j u s t i f i e d , then t r i a l adjustments on t h e slope of l i n e B w i l l
give t h e required accuracy. The correction process converges rapidly.
For preliminary layouts or comparative cost s t u d i e s such refinement i s
seldom j u s t i f i e d .

Short-Cuts f o r Reservoir R o u t i n ~ s . - Various equations and c h a r t s have

been developed f o r quickly estimating t h e required storage i n a reser-
v o i r o r t h e required capacity of a spillway, such estimates being used
i n preliminary s t u d i e s of s t r u c t u r e s or p r o j e c t s . The equations and
c h a r t s a r e usually based on t h e r e s u l t s of routings so t h a t using t h e
equation o r c h a r t i s i n e f f e c t a form of routing.

A t y p i c a l short-cut i s t h e graph, Figure 17-11. The curve through t h e

c i r c l e d points i s based on information i n t a b l e 2 on page 39 of "Low
D a m s , " a design manual prepared by the Subcommittee on Small Water
Storage P r o j e c t s , National Resources Committee, Washington, D. C . , 1938
( t h e manual i s out of p r i n t and no longer a v a i l a b l e f o r ~ u r c h a s e ) .
Relationships of t h i s kind a r e developed from routings made through a
p a r t i c u l a r type of spillway and they apply only t o t h a t type. The form
of standard inflow hydrograph used f o r routing a l s o a f f e c t s t h e r e l a t i o n -
s h i p and t h e same form must be applicable when t h e short-cut i s used.
With such a r e l a t i o n s h i p i f any t h r e e of t h e four v a r i a b l e s a r e known
t h e f o u r t h can be estimated. Usually e i t h e r t h e r e s e r v o i r storage or
t h e r e s e r v o i r discharge r a t e i s t h e unknown.

The t r i a n g u l a r point on Figure 17-11 i s f o r t h e routing made i n Example

17-6. For t h a t example t h e outflow/inflow r a t i o i s 3050/10200 = 0.30
and t h e storage/inflow-volume r a t i o i s 2.82/(2.62 + 1.84) = 0.63. Note
t h a t t h e emergency spillway "surcharge" storage is included when com-
puting t h e volume r a t i o . Thi: cross p o i n t s , f o r "miscellaneous routings",
a r e f o r routings of s e v e r a l kinds ofhydrographs through emergency s p i l l -
ways of t h e SCS type. The "Low Dams" curve appears t o be an enveloping
curve f o r t h e points. As such it can be used f o r making conservative
estimates. Thus, i f t h e inflow volume i s 8.15 inches of runoff and t h e
t o t a l a v a i l a b l e storage i s 5.7 inches then the storage r a t i o i s 0.7; a t
t h a t r a t i o t h e discharge r a t i o i s 0.4, which means t h a t t h e peak outflow
r a t e w i l l be not more than 0.4 of t h e peak inflow. Such estimates a r e
often u s e f u l i n preliminary work.

NM Notice 4-102, August 1972

 I
I-w
I DISCHARGE, INCHES PER DAY,
Z(3 OF PRINCIPAL SPILLWAY WITH TWO-STAGE INLET
w a
--zg
gk

1
2 3 4 5 6 7
TOTAL STORAGE- INCHES
0 I 2 3 4 5 6

STORAGE USED IN ROUTING- INCHES

Figure 17-2. Storage, discharge relationship and plotted mass
inflow e w e for a reservoir.

NEB Notice 4-102, August 1972

 PLUS ACCUMULATED BASE

TIME, DAYS
Figure 17-3. Mass inflow, storage, and mass outflow curves for Example 17-2.

NM Notice 4-102, August 1972

 I
MASS INFLOW OR
:ONTENTS PLUS I

O
Y
dFTER 10 DAYS DRAM
I
-INE OF ACTUAL FL(
:LINE IS PARALLEL '
KCUMULATED BASE LOW)

2 4 6 8 10
TIME, DAYS
Figure 17-5. Graphical version for Example 17-2, Step 4.

NEH Notice 4-102, August 1972

Figure 17-6. Working curve for Storage-Indication method of
reservoir routing for Example 17-4.

NEH Notice 4-102, August 1972

 TIME, HOURS
Figure 17-7. Inflow and outflow hydrograph f o r
Example 17-4.

NEH Notice 4-102, August 1972

Figure 17-8. Principal spillway hydrograph and outflow
hydrograph f o r Example 17-5.
mEII Notice 4-102, August 1972
 ,
FOR At = 0.1 DAYS
(SECOND WORKING CURVE)

0
FOR At = 0 . 5 DAYS 0 1000 2000 3000
FOR At = 0. l DAYS 2 0 0 0 3000 4000 5000 6000 7000 8000 9000

Figure 17-9. Working curves for Storage-Indication method of reservoir routing for I
C
Example 17-5. vl
Figure 17-10. Culp's method of reservoir routing for Example 17-6.

NM Notice 4-102, August 1972

 OUTFLOW PEAK RATE
INFLOW PEAK RATE

Figure 17-11. Typical shortcut method of reservoir flood

routing.

NEH Notice 4-102, August 1972

 Channel Routina Methods

The Convex method of routing through stream channels i s presented i n

t h i s p a r t . The method i s derived from inflow-outflow hydrograph r e l a -
tionships and, because of t h i s , t h e method has some f e a t u r e s not pos-
sessed by channel routing methods derived from consideration of t h e
continuity equation. The Storage-Indication method of channel routing,
presented i n Example 17-4, w i l l not be discussed here, but discussions
of procedures f o r adding l o c a l inflows, deducting transmission l o s s e s ,
and routing through stream systems a l s o apply t o t h a t method.

Theory of t h e Convex Method

The Convex method i s based on t h e following p r i n c i p l e : When a n a t u r a l
flood flow passes t h r o u b a n a t u r a l stream channel having n e g l i g i b l e
l o c a l inflows o r transmission l o s s e s , t h e r e i s a reach length L and a
time i n t e r v a l A t such t h a t 02 i s not more than t h e l a r g e r nor l e s s than
t h e smaller of t h e two flows 11 and O1. A t i s considered as both t h e
t r a v e l time of t h e flood wave through t h e reach measured a t t h e beginning
of t h e r i s i n g portion of t h e hydrograph a t both ends of t h e reach; and
t h e required routing time i n t e r v a l .

The p r i n c i p l e requires t h a t :

If I1 2 01, t h e n I1 2 O2 2 O1 (Eq. 17-19)

If 11 5 01, then I1 5 02 5 01 (Eq. 17-20)

I n general, inequality Equation 17-19 a p p l i e s t o r i s i n g portions of hy-

drographs and Equation 17-20 t o f a l l i n g portions. Note t h a t 12 does not
e n t e r i n t o t h e p r i n c i p l e ; t h i s makes t h e Convex method a forecasting
method (see under "Discussion" ) .
The routing p r i n c i p l e can be extended t o include l o c a l inflows and
transmission l o s s e s but t h i s unnecessarily complicates t h e working equa-
t i o n . It i s common p r a c t i c e t o add l o c a l inflows t o t h e routed outflow
hydrographs t o get t h e t o t a l outflows, and t h i s p r a c t i c e w i l l be f o l -
lowed here. There may be s i t u a t i o n s , however, i n which t h e l o c a l inflow
i s added t o t h e inflow hydrograph and t h e n routed. Small transmission
l o s s e s are generally deducted a f t e r t h e routing, l a r g e ones during t h e
routing; f o r a discussion of transmission l o s s e s see t h e heading "Effects
I
of transmission l o s s e s on routed flows."

The routing o r working equation i s formed a f t e r examination of t y p i c a l

inflow and outflow hydrographs such as t h o s e i n Figure 17-12. Typical
flood wave combinations o f 11, O1 and O2 a r e shown on t h e r i s i n g and
f a l l i n g s i d e s of t h e hydrographs. The r o u t i n g p r i n c i p l e s t a t e s t h a t
f o r a properly selected reach l e n g t h L , hence A t , O2 K i l l f a l l some-
where on or between I1 and O1 i n magnitude but not above or below them.
This i s evident on Figure 17-12 d e s p i t e t h e displacement of 02 i n time;
l
it i s t h e magnitudes t h a t a r e of concern here.

R& Notice 4-102, August 1972

L The next s t e p i s t o recognize t h a t 11, 01 and O2.are members of a
Convex s e t i / . For such a s e t , i f p o i n t s A and B a r e i n t h e s e t then
a l l points on a s t r a i g h t l i n e connecting A and B a r e a l s o i n t h e s e t .
Because t h e concern i s with magnitudes and not with time it i s not
necessary f o r O2 t o be physically on the l i n e between 11 and 01. The
routing equation can now be w r i t t e n based on t h e theory of convex s e t s .
For the s i t u a t i o n j u s t described, and using proportions as shown on t h e
i n s e t o f Figure L7-12, t h e routing o r working equation is:

where C i s a parameter with t h e range:

zero < C 5 one ( E ~ 17-22)

.

Given Equation 17-22, Equation 17-21 meets t h e requirements of Equations

17-19 and 17-20 and therefore of t h e routing p r i n c i p l e .

The routing method based on Equation 17-21 i s c a l l e d t h e Convex method

t o c a l l a t t e n t i o n t o t h e equation's background.

It follows from Equation 1 7 - 2 1 t h a t :

I n the i n s e t of Figure 17-12 t h e r e l a t i o n s h i p s between 11, 01, and O2

make similar t r i a n g l e s , so t h a t :

I where K i s considered t h e reach t r a v e l time f o r a s e l e c t e d steady flow

discharge of a water p a r t i c l e through the given reach. From Equation
17-24 it follows t h a t :
I

Combining Equations 17-23 and 17-25 gives:

'/ Enough of t h e theory of convex s e t s f o r t h e purposes of t h i s chap-

t e r i s given i n pages 41-42 of "An Introduction t o Linear Program-
ming," by A. Charnes, W. W. Cooper, and A. Henderson; John Wiley
and Sons, Inc., New York, 1953.

NEH Notice 4-102, August 1972

I from which comes t h e equation t h a t defines A t , t h e wave t r a v e l time and
a l s o t h e required r o u t i n g i n t e r v a l : I i/

Discussion
This much of t h e t h e o m i s enouah
The emphasis i n t h i s chapter i s on working examples, not on theory,
-
- f o r makina- a workable routina method.
t h e r e f o r e t h e a d d i t i o n a l r e s u l t s from t h e theory a r e summarized i n t h e
next section without giving derivations or proofs. Further work can
be done on some aspects qf t h e Convex routing method but even i n i t s
present s t a t e t h e method i s highly useful f o r most types of problems of
r o u t i n g flood flows through stream channels.

The theory a s given s o f a r can be used f o r exploratory routings by

assuming magnitudes f o r any two of t h e v a r i a b l e s i n Equation 17-27 com-
puting the t h i r d , and using Equation 17-21 with various inflow hydro-
graphs. Such routings show t h e features of t h e Convex method. I n
Figure 17-12, f o r example, note t h a t outflow begins a t one routing i n t e r -
v a l , A t , a f t e r inflow begins, which i s t o be expected f o r a stream reach
because it t a k e s water waves time t o t r a v e l through t h e reach. It i s
c h i e f l y t h i s c h a r a c t e r i s t i c t h a t distinguishes t h e Convex method from
channel methods based on the continuity equation. I n Convex routing
t h e peab r a t e of the outflow hydrograph does not f a l l on t h e recession
limb of the inflow hydrograph, as i n r e s e r v o i r methods. But, as i n
all routing methods, t h e maximum storage i n t h e reach i s a t t a i n e d when
outflow equals inflow ( a t point A i n Figure 17-12). The maximum storage
i s represented by t h e a r e a under t h e inflow hydrograph t o t h e l e f t of
point A minus t h e a r e a of t h e outflow hydrograph t o t h e l e f t of point A .
Also note t h a t inflow I 2 does not appear i n t h e working equation though
it does appear i n equations f o r other channel methods. This f e a t u r e
makes the Convex method a forecasting method. For example, i f t h e rou-
t i n g i n t e r v a l i s one day, today's inflow and outflow a r e known and l o c a l
inflow i s k n 0 or ~ n e g l i g i b l e , then tomorrow's outflow can be predicted
accurately without knowing tomorrow's inflow. The p r e d i c t i v e f e a t u r e
i s more important f o r l a r g e r i v e r s than f o r small streams because t h e
r o u t i n g i n t e r v a l f o r reaches of such streams i s usually short.

Some UsefU Relationships and Procedures

Of t h e equations so far given, only Equations 17-21 and 17-27 a r e needed
i n p r a c t i c a l a p p l i c a t i o n s of t h e Convex method. The f i r s t i s t h e working
equation and t h e second an a u x i l i a r y equation used once before a routing
begins. Several other r e l a t i o n s h i p s and procedures a l s o - u s e f u l i n appli-
cations follow .
Determination o f K. - K i s t h e reach t r a v e l time f o r a s e l e c t e d steady-
flow discharge and can be computed using Equation 17-7 s u b s t i t u t i n g K
f o r Tt. Example 17-8 shows a preferred method fok s e l e c t i n g t h e dis-
charge. The K used i n t h e Muskingum routing method ( r e f s . 2 and 3) may
a l s o be used as the K f o r t h e Convex method.

NM Notice 4-102, August 1972

L I Determination of C. - From Equations 17-17 and 17-26 the parameter o r
I routing coefficient C can be derived as t h e r a t i o of two v e l o c i t i e s :
t h a t i s , C = V/U, where V i s t h e steady-flow water v e l o c i t y r e l a t e d t o
i t h e reach t r a v e l time f o r steady flow discharge, K, and U i s considered
I t h e wave v e l o c i t y r e l a t e d t o t h e t r a v e l time of t h e wave through t h e
i reach, A t . For p r a c t i c a l purposes C may be estimated from an empirical
r e l a t i o n s h i p between C and V shown i n Figure 17-13. The dashed l i n e i n
! t h e Figure i s represented by t h e equation:

I n some applications it i s more convenient t o use Equation 17-28 than

Figure 17-13. The "x" used i n t h e Muskingum routing method ( r e f s . 2
and 3 ) may a l s o be used t o approximate C. The approximation i s :

I n t h e Muskingum procedure t h e x i s sometimes determined only t o t h e

nearest t e n t h ; if t h i s i s done then C i s approximated t o t h e nearest two
t e n t h s and accurate routing r e s u l t s should not be expected.

Determination of A t . - I f C and K a r e known, from Equation 17-27, t h e r e

i s only one permissible routing i n t e r v a l . This permissible i n t e n r s l
may be an inconvenient magnitude because it i s e i t h e r an unwieldy frac-
'U , t i o n of an hour o r does not fit t h e given hydrograph. I n s e l e c t i n g a
, s u i t a b l e routing i n t e r v a l keep i n mind t h a t t o o l a r g e an i n t e r v a l w i l l
not accurately define t h e inflow hydrograph and t h a t t o o s m a l l an i n t e r -
v a l w i l l needlessly increase t h e e f f o r t required f o r t h e routing. A
) generally s u i t a b l e r u l e of thumb t o follow i s t h a t t h e s e l e c t e d r o u t i n g
time i n t e r v a l , A t * , should be no g r e a t e r than 115 of t h e time from t h e
beginning of r i s e t o t h e time of t h e peak discharge of t h e inflow hydro-
graph, or:

At* j
T
p
5

'I where
/
Tp i s t h e time t o peak (Chapter 16). I f t h e hydrograph has more
t h a n one peak the i n t e r v a l should be s e l e c t e d using the 3 the ,
s h o r t e s t of t h e r i s e periods of t h e b p o r t a n t peaks. It is important
t h a t an end-point of a time i n t e r v a l f a l l a t o r near t h e inflow peak
/ time and any other l a r g e change i n r a t e .

Procedure f o r routing through any reach length.- The r e l a t i o n s h i p of K,

C, and A t i s v a l i d f o r one and only one routing reach length f o r a given
time i n t e r v a l and inflow hydrograph. I f A t i s t o be changed t o At*
I (desired routing time i n t e r v a l ) it follows from Equation 17-27 t h a t e i t h e r
/ ( 1 ) C or K must be changed (Method 1) o r , ( 2 ) routing through a s e r i e s
/ of subreaches, L*, (Equation 17-32) must be made u n t i l t h e sum of t h e
/ t r a v e l time of t h e A t ' s f o r each subreach, L*, equal t h e desired t r a v e l
L : time, At*, f o r t h e t o t a l reach, L (Method 2). Selection of e i t h e r method

NER Notice 4-102, August 1972

 depends on t h e manner of computation and t h e consistency of the answers
desired. Method 1 may be used when rough approximations of t h e routing
e f f e c t a r e desired and manual computation i s used. Method 2 is used
when consistency of t h e routing i s important o r a computer i s used. Con-
sistency, as used here, r e f e r s t o t h e changes i n t h e outflou hydrograph
(Tp and q ) caused by varying At*. If t h e r e i s l i t t l e change i n t h e
hydrograp8 when A t * i s changed t h e routing i s considered consistent.

In Method 1, t h e reach length i s fixed, hence, K i s f i x e d (Equation

17-17) and C must be modified by t h e empirical r e l a t i o n s h i p :
I

where C* i s t h e modified routing c o e f f i c i e n t required f o r use with A t W ,

C i s the coefficient determined from Figure 17-13 o r computed by Equa-
t i o n 17-28, At* i s t h e desired routing i n t e r v a l , and A t i s t h e r o u t i n g
i n t e r v a l determined from Equation 17-27. After s e l e c t i n g At* t h e coeffi-
c i e n t C* i s found by using e i t h e r Equation 17-31 o r Figure 17-14 (ES-
1025 r e v . )

Method 2 assumes t h a t C and t h e desired routing i n t e r v a l A t * a r e f i x e d

and t h e routing i s made f o r a reach length L*. From Equation 17-27, t h e
' desired t r a v e l time i s :
I

i
From Equation 17-17 t h e proper routing reach l e n g t h t o match C and A t *
, i s then:

I f L* i s l e s s than t h e given reach length, L , t h e inflow hydrograph i s

r e p e t i t i v e l y routed u n t i l t h e difference between t h e sum of t h e L*'s
and L becomes l e s s than t h e next L*. The l a s t r o u t i n g i n t h e reach i s a
f r a c t i o n a l routing using C* computed by Equation 17-31. The A t used i n
Equation 17-31 i s t h e time i n t e r v a l f o r routing through t h e f r a c t i o n a l
length increment of L, L**. (see Example 17-11 Method 2).

If L* i s g r e a t e r than t h e given reach length, L, t h e , i n f l o w hydrograph

is routed once using Method 1. Example 17-11 i l l u s t r a t e s t h e use of
Methods 1 and 2.

V a r i a b i l i t y of routing parameters; s e l e c t i o n of v e l o c i t y , V.
As shown by preceding r e l a t i o n s h i p s , t h e magnitudes of t h e routing para-
meters C and K (and therefore of At) depend on t h e magnitude of t h e
velocity V. For steady flow i n n a t u r a l streams this v e l o c i t y v a r i e s
with stage but t h e v a r i a t i o n i s not t h e same f o r a l l seasons of a y e a r
or f o r a l l reaches of a stream, nor does t h e v e l o c i t y c o n s i s t e n t l y in-
crease o r decrease with stage. For unsteady flow, v e l o c i t y v a r i e s not
only w i t h s t a g e but a l s o with t h e r a t e of change of t h e stream flow.

NM n o t i c e 4-102, A w t 1972
L These f a c t s would appear t o require a change i n routing parameters f o r
each operational s t e p i n a routing. But exploratory routings with t h e
Convex method show t h a t constant parameters must be used t o conserve
mass, t h a t i s , t o make t o t a l outflow equal t o t a l infiow. The necessity
f o r t h e use of constant parameters i s a c h a r a c t e r i s t i c of c o e f f i c i e n t
routing equations, including not only Equation 17-21 but a l s o with t h e
Muskingum routing equation ( r e f s . 2 and 3) and t h e Storage-Indication
equations. Therefore all of t h e examples i n t h i s p a r t show a use of con-
s t a n t parameters. I n p r a c t i c e t h e parameters need not be constant f o r
a l l steps of a routing but t h e more often they a r e changed t h e more l i k e l y
t h a t t h e t o t a l outflow w i l l not equal t o t a l inflow.

The average, dominant, and peak v e l o c i t i e s of one inflow hydrograph w i l l

nearly always d i f f e r from t h e corresponding v e l o c i t i e s of another hydro-
graph. Even though a s i n g l e value of V i s used t o get t h e constant val-
ues of C , K , and A t f o r a routing, t h i s V w i l l nearly always be d i f f e r e n t
f o r d i f f e r e n t inflow hydrographs t o a reach. Each inflow hydrograph w i l l
need i t s own routing parameters determined from i t s own s e l e c t e d velocity.
There are various methods of s e l e c t i n g the v e l o c i t y .

One method, useful when a computer i s used, computes t h e v e l o c i t y as t h e

average of v e l o c i t i e s f o r all given discharges of t h e inflow hydrograph
2 50 percent of t h e peak discharge.

A manual method with t h e same objective as t h e machine method w i l l be

L used i n t h i s chapter t o make manual routings comparable t o machine rou-
t i n g s . I n t h i s method t h e dominant v e l o c i t y of t h e inflow hydrograph i s
used t o determine t h e parameters t o be used i n t h e routing. I f t h e inflow
hydrograph has a s i n g l e peak t h e v e l o c i t y i s f o r a discharge equal t o 314
of t h e peak inflow r a t e . If t h e inflow hydrograph has two o r more peaks
t h e v e l o c i t y i s f o r t h e discharge with t h e l a r g e s t value of Tq, where:

The use of Equation 17-34 i s i l l u s t r a t e d i n Example 17-8. Some a d d i t i o n a l

remarks concerning t h e s e l e c t e d velocity a r e given i n t h e paragraph pre-
ceding Example 17-7.

Examples.- The Convex method i s generally used f o r routing hydrographs

through stream reaches. It can a l s o be used, without any change i n pro-
cedure f o r routing mass curves through reaches. Examples of both uses
w i l l be given. The method can be used f o r routing through r e s e r v o i r s but
f o r t h i s it i s not as e f f i c i e n t as t h e mass-curve method of Example 17-1;
therefore no examples of r e s e r v o i r routing a r e given i n t h i s p a r t . Exam-
p l e s are given showing various aspects of Convex routing.

Example 17-7 - Basic routine using assumed parameters.

Example 17-8 - Routing with parameters determined from reach
d a t a and with l o c a l inflow added a t bottom of
.reach.

NEH Notice 4-102, August 1972

 Example 17-9 - "Reverse Routing" o r determining t h e inflow
hydrograph f o r a given outflow hydrograph.
Example 17-10 - Routing of Mass Curve and method of g e t t i n g
t h e outflow hydrograph.
Example 17-11 - Routing any hydrograph through any reach.
Method 1 and Method 2 are. compared.

For the following examples it i s assumed t h a t stage-discharge and

stage-end-area curves a r e a v a i l a b l e for t h e routing reach. These curves
a r e used f o r determining t h e v e l o c i t y , V, a f t e r t h e dominant discharge
of t h e inflow hydrograph i s obtained. I n preliminary work such curves
may not be a v a i l a b l e , i n which case the v e l o c i t y can be estimated during
a f i e l d t r i p t o t h e stream area, o r a s u i t a b l e v e l o c i t y assumed, and t h e
routing made as a t e n t a t i v e study; such routings need v e r i f i c a t i o n by
routings based on reach d a t a before making firm decisions about a p r o j e c t .

I n t h e f i r s t example'the values o f C and A t are assumed; t h e r e f o r e t h e

reach length and K do not d i r e c t l y e n t e r i n t o t h e work:

Example 17-7.--Route the t r i a n g u l a r inflow hydrograph of Figure 17-15 by

t h e Convex computational method. Use assumed values of C = 0.4 and A t =
0.3 hours. There i s no l o c a l inflow i n t o t h e reach.

1. Prepare t h e operations t a b l e .
Suitable headings and &rangement a r e shown f o r t h e f i r s t t h r e e col-
umns i n Table 17-14. The "remarks" column i s used here t o e m l a i n d
t h e s t e p s ; it i s not needed i n routine work.

2. Tabulate t h e inflow r a t e s a t accumulated times, using i n t e r v a l s

-
of A t .
The accumulated times a t i n t e r v a l s of A t = 0.3 hours a r e shown i n
column 1 of Table 17-14. The inflow r a t e s a t these times a r e taken
from t h e inflow hydrograph of Figure 17-15 and shown i n column 2.

3. Prepare t h e working equation.

Since C = 0.4 then (1- C ) = 0.6 and t h e working- eauation
- is
-
o2 = ( 1 C ) 0 1 t C 11 = 0.6 o1 + 0.4 11. When inflow ceases
t h e working equation i s 02 = 0.6 01.

4. Do t h e routing.
Follow t h e s t e p s shown i n t h e remarks column of Table 17-14.

The computational work i n s t e p 4 can usually be done on most desk- -

calculators by using a system of making t h e two m u l t i p l i c a t i o n s and t h e
addition i n one machine operation.

The outflow hydrograph of Table 17-14 i s p l o t t e d on Figure 17-15. The

c i r c l e d points a r e the outflow discharges obtained i n t h e routing. D i s -
charges between t h e points a r e found by connecting t h e points with a
smooth curve. Sometimes t h e routing p o i n t s do not define t h e peak region
3
NEH Notice 4-102, A u g u s t 1972
 17-55

L. Table 17-14 Basic operations in the Convex routing method.

Time Inflow, I Outflow, 0 Remarks

(hrs) (cfs) (cfs

Given.
Oe = 0.6(0) + 0.4(0) = zero
O2 = 0.6(0) + 0.4(800) = 320
0, = 0.6(320) + 0.4(1600) = 832
O2 = 0.6(832) + 0.4(2400) = 1459
0, = 0.6(1459) + 0.4(3200) = 2155
02 = 0.6(2155) + 0.4(4000) = 2893
02 = 0.6(2893) + 0.4(3520) = 3144
02 = 0.6(3144) + 0.4(3040) = 3102
0, = 0.6(3102) + 0.4(2560) = 2885
02 = 0.6(2885) + 0.4(2080) = 2563
O2 = 0.6(2563) + 0.4(1600) = 2178
02 = 0.6(2178) + 0.4(1120) = 1755
0, = 0.6(1755) + 0.4(640) = 1309
0, = 0.6(1309) + 0.4(160)= 849
0 2 = 0.6(849) = 509 I 1 = zero.
PI tt 11
0, = 0.6(509) = 305
II TI 11
0, = 0.6(305) = 183
0, = 0.6(183) = 110
" " "
etc . etc. etc. etc.

-1/ Outflow starts at At = 0.3 hrs.

-2/ Inflow ceases at 4.0 hrs.

NEH Notice 4-102, August 1972

well enough; t h i s usually happens when t h e routing i n t e r v a l i s l a r g e .
I n such cases t h e peak i s estimated by use of a smooth curve o r t h e
routing i s repeated using smaller i n t e r v a l s [see Example 17-11 f o r use
of At*).

The recession curve o r t a i l of t h e outflow hydrograph continues t o i n f i n -

i t y , t h e discharges g e t t i n g smaller with every s t e p but'never becoming
zero. This i s a c h a r a c t e r i s t i c of most routing methods. I n p r a c t i c e
the recession curve i s e i t h e r a r b i t r a r i l y brought t o zero a t some con-
venient low discharge o r the routing i s stopped a t some low discharge a s
shown i n Figure 17-15.

The next example i s t y p i c a l of t h e routine used i n p r a c t i c e . Routing

parameters a r e obtained from reach data and l o c a l inflow i s added i n
t h e conventional manner. Local inflow i s t h e ( u s u a l l y ) small flow
from the contributing area between t h e head and foot of a reach. Local
inflow and t h e inflow i n t o t h e head of t h e reach together make up t h e
t o t a l flow from t h e drainage a r e a above t h e foot of t h e reach. The
l o c a l inflow i s generally given as a hydrograph made with reference t o
the foot of t h e routing reach. When it i s added t o t h e routed outflow
the sum i s t h e total. outflow hydrograph.

Example 17-8.--The inflow hydrograph i n Figure 17-16 i s t o be routed

tbrough a reach having a low-flow channel length of 14,900 f e e t and a
valley length of 12,400 f e e t . Stage-discharge and stage-end-area curves
f o r t h e reach a r e available (not i l l u s t r a t e d ) . A hydrograph of l o c a l
inflow i s given i n Figure 17-16. Obtain t h e t o t a l outflow hydrograph
f o r t h e reach.

1. Determine t h e discharge t o be used f o r g e t t i n g t h e v e l o c i t y V.

The inflow hydrograph has two peaks and it i s not r e a d i l y appar-
ent which peak i s the dominant-one, t h e r e f o r e t h e r u l e expressed
by Equation 17-34 w i l l be used. The 3/4-discharge f o r t h e f i r s t
peak i s 3,750 c f s w i t h a duration of 2.63 hours; f o r t h e second,
2,680 c f s with a duration of 5.35 hours, Then Tq = 3750(2.63) =
9,850 cfs-hrs f o r t h e f i r s t peak and Tq = 2680(5.35) = 14,320 cfs-
h r s f o r t h e second, therefore t h e second discharge w i l l be used.

2. Determine t h e v e l o c i t y , V.
Enter t h e stage-discharge curve f o r t h e reach with t h e s e l e c t e d 3/4-
discharge from s t e p 1 a& f i n d t h e stage f o r t h a t flow. Then
e n t e r the stage-end-area curve with t h a t stage and get t h e end-
a r e a i n square f e e t . The v e l o c i t y i s t h e discharge divided by t h e
end area. For t h i s example V w i l l be taken as 3.0 fps.

3. Determine K.
The reach has two lengths, one f o r t h e low-flow channel, t h e o t h e r
f o r t h e valley. From an examination of t h e stage-discharge curve
and t h e inflow hydrograph it i s evident t h a t most of t h e f l o w w i l l
exceed t h e capacity of t h e low-flow channel, t h e r e f o r e use t h e
v a l l e y length. This i s given as 12,400 f e e t . By Equation 17-17,
using T t = K, t h e value of K = 12400/3600(3.0) = 1.15 hours by a ii
slide-rule computation.

NEH Notice 4-102, August 1972

 4. Determine C.
Enter Figure 17-13 with V = 3.0 fps and f i n d C = 0.65.

5. Compute A t .
Using r e s u l t s from s t e p s 3 and 4, and by Equation 17-27, A t = 0.65
(1.15) = 0.745 hours. Round t o 0.75 hours.

6. Prepare an operations t a b l e f o r t h e routing.

Suitable headings and arrangement a r e shown i n Table 17-15.

7. Tabulate accumulated time a t i n t e r v a l s of A t and t h e discharges

f o r inflow and l o c a l inflow a t those times.
The times a r e given i n column 1 of Table 17-15, inflows i n column
2, and l o c a l inflows i n column 4. Inflows and l o c a l inflows a r e
taken from t h e given hydrographs, which a r e shown i n Figure 17-16.

8. Prepare t h e working equation.

From s t e p 4, C = 0.65 so t h a t (1- C ) = 0.35. The working equation
i s O2 = 0.35 O1 + 0.65 I1.

9. Do t h e routing.
Follow t h e routine used i n Table 17-14 t o -
a e t t h e outflows f o r col-
umn 3 of Table 17-15.

10. Get t h e t o t a l outflow hydrograph.

Add t h e Local inflows of column 4, Table 17-15, t o t h e routed out-
flows of column 3 t o get t h e t o t a l outflows f o r Column 5. This
s t e p completes t h e example. The t o t a l outflow hydrograph i s shown
i n Figure 17-16.

Note i n Figure 17-16 t h a t t h e routed outflow peaks are not much small-
e r than the inflow peaks. The f i r s t routed outflow peak i s 93.0 per-
cent of i t s respective inflow peak, and t h e second 97.7 percent of i t s
inflow peak. The reach has r e l a t i v e l y small storage when compared with
t h e inflow volumes; t h e f i r s t inflow peak has l e s s volume associated
with it than t h e second and it i s reduced more than t h e second.

The next example i l l u s t r a t e s a routine sometimes needed t o g e t t h e up-

stream hydrograph when t h e downstream one i s given. The uorking equa-
t i o n f o r t h i s routine i s a rearranged form of Equation 17-21:

Example 17-9.--Obtain t h e inflow hydrograph of a reach from t h e t o t a l

outflow hydrograph by use of reverse routing. The t o t a l outflow hydro-
graph and l o c a l inflow a r e given i n Table 17-16.

1. Determine t h e routing c o e f f i c i e n t C and t h e routing; i n t e r v a l

-
At.
Follow t h e procedure of s t e p s 1 through 5 of Example 17-8. For t h i s
example C = 0.44 and A t = 0.5 h r s .
NEH Notice 4-102, August 1972
Table 17-15 Operations t a b l e f o r Example 17-8.

Local Tot a1
Time Inflow Out flow Inflow Outflow
(hrs. ) (cfs) (cfs (cfs) (cfs)

(2)

0
380
1400
3000
4450
5000
4600
3750
2800
2100
1600
1280
1150
1210
1480
1880
2360
2880
3250
3500
3580
3480
3240
2930
2600
2280
i.980
1730
21.00 1480 230 2105
21.75 1280 190 1808
27.50 1130 150 1548
23.25 980 120 1344
24.00 850 100 1165
24.75 720 90 1015
25.50 620 80 872
26.25 530 70 750
27.00 450 60 642
27.75 400 50 546
28.50 350 Lo 47 4
29.25 310 30 383
30.00 270 20 345
etc. etc. etc. etc. etc.

Outflow s t a r t s a t A t = 0.75 hrs.

NEH Notice 4-102, August 1972
 2. Prepare t h e operations t a b l e f o r t h e routing.
Suitable headings and arrangements a r e shown i n Table 17-16.

3. Tabulate accumulated time a t i n t e r v a l s of A" and t h e dis-

charges f o r t o t a l outflow and l o c a l inflow a t those times.
The times a r e given i n column 1 of Table 27-16, t o t a l outflows
i n column 2, and l o c a l inflows i n column 3 . The t o t a l outflow
(but not t h e l o c a l inflow) i s shown i n Figure 17-17.

4. Determine t h e outflows t o be routed uustream.

A value i n column 2, Table 17-16, minus t h e corresponding value
i n column 3 gives t h e outflow f o r column 4, which contains t h e
outflows t o be routed upstream.

5. Prepare t h e working equation.

C i s given i n s t e p 1 as 0.44. By Equation 17-35, 11 = 2.27 O2 -
1.27 O1.

6. Do t h e routing.
The routine i s s l i g h t l y d i f f e r e n t from t h a t i n Table 17-14. Using
values from Table 17-16, the sequence i s : f o r outflow time 0.5
h r s , Il = 2.27(0) - 1.27(0) = 0 , which i s recorded f o r inflow
time zero; a t outflow time 1 . 0 h r s , 11 = 2.27(163) - 1.27(0) =
370, recorded f o r inflow time 0.5 h r s ; f o r outflow 1.5, I1 =
2.27(478) - 1.27(163) = 878, recorded f o r inflow time 1.0 h r s ;
and so on. The work i s e a s i l y done by accumulative p o s i t i v e
and negative m u l t i p l i c a t i o n on a desk c a l c u l a t o r . The inflow
hydrograph t o time 7,5 hours i s p l o t t e d on Figure 17-17.

It w i l l sometimes happen i n reverse routing t h a t t h e working equation

gives negative values f o r t h e inflow. This occurs when t h e t o t a l
outflow hydrograph o r t h e l o c a l inflow i s i n e r r o r .

The next example shows t h e downstream routing of a mass curve of inflow.

The routine i s t h e same as t h a t f o r Example 17-7. The outflow hydro-
graph can be obtained from t h e mass outflow curve by a s e r i e s of simple
calculations; t h e s e outflows must be p l o t t e d a t midpoints of time incre-
ments, not a t end points.

Example 17-10.--Route t h e mass curve of inflow of Figure 17-18 by t h e

Convex method. There i s no l o c a l inflow.

1. Determine t h e routing coefficient C and t h e routing i n t e r v a l

-
At.
Follow t h e procedure of s t e p s 1 through 5 of Example 17-8. For
t h i s example C = 0.40 and A t = 0.3 h r s .

2. Prepare t h e operations t a b l e f o r t h e routing.

Suitable headings and arrangement are shown i n Table 17-17.

NM Nbtice 4-102, August 1972

Table 17-16 Operations t a b l e f o r Example L7-9
- pp - - - -- --

Outflou
Time Tot a 1 Local t o be Inflow
Outflow Inflow routed
(hrs) (cfs) (cfs) (cfs) (cfs)

(1)
0 0 0
120 O0-1 /
.5 370
1.0 310 163 878
155 680 478 1508
2.0 1250 932 2278
2.5 1850 1525 2978
3.0 2490 2165 3398
3.5 3030 2708 3648
4.0 3440 3122 3793
4.5 3700 3420 3899
5.0 3900 3631 3819
5.5 3940 3714 3539
6.0 3840 3637 2972
6.5 3500 3344 2370
7.0 3000 2915 1800
7.5 2485 2424 1300
8.0 1960 31 1929 etc.
etc. etc. etc. etc.

-1/ Outflow starts a t A t = 0.5 hours.

NEH Notice 4-102, A u g u s t 1972

 3. Tabulate accumulated time a t i n t e r v a l s of A t and t h e mass
inflows a t those times.
The times are given i n column 1 of Table 17-17 and mass inflows
i n column 2.

4. Prepare t h e working, equation.

C i s given i n s t e p 1 as 0.40. By Equation 17-21, O2 = 0.6 O1 + 0.4

5. Do t h e routing.
Tne routine i s exactly t h e same as t h a t i n Table 17-14. For exam-
p l e , a t inflow time 2.7 h r s , O2 i s computed using inflow and out-
flow f o r t h e previous time or O2 = 0.6(3707) + 0.4(5952) = 4605 cfs-
hrs.

(Note: I f only t h e mass outflow i s needed t h e work stops with s t e p 5.

I f t h e outflow hydrograph i s a l s o needed, t h e following s t e p s are a l s o
taken. )

6. Compute increments of outflow.

These a r e the differences shown i n column 4, Table 17-17.

7. Compute average r a t e s of outflow.

Dividing the increment of outflow of column 4 , Table 17-17, by
t h e increment of time ( i n t h i s case, 0.3 h r s ) gives t h e average
r a t e of outflow f o r the time increment. For example, between 1.8
and 2.1 hours i n Table 17-17, t h e time increment i s 0.3 hrs and
t h e outflow increment i s 906 cfs-hrs; then t h e average r a t e i s 9061
0.3 = 3,020 c f s . The average r a t e s must be p l o t t e d as midpoints
between t h e two accumulated times involved; f o r t h i s case, 3020
c f s i s p l o t t e d a t a time of (1.8 + 2.1112 = 1.95 hours.

The mass inflow, mass outflow, and r a t e hydrograph a r e p l o t t e d i n

Figure 17-18.

The next example shows how t o route any hydrograph through any reach
length. Methods 1 and 2 are compared.

Example 17-11.--Route t h e inflow hydrograph of Figure 17-19 through

I
a reach 30,000 f e e t long. Assume no l o c a l inflow.

I 1. Determine desired routing time i n t e r v a l , A t x .

Following t h e r u l e expressed i n Equation 17-30, At* w i l l be 0.4 hrs.

I 2. Determine routing c o e f f i c i e n t , C, and routing i n t e r v a l A t .

If a stage-discharge-velocity t a b l e f o r a t y p i c a l s e c t i o n i n
t h e reach i s used, t h e average v e l o c i t y V i s determined using
t h e method from page 17-54, and C i s computed using Equation 17-28.
I f a r a t i n g t a b l e i s not used t h e C or V must be assumed; i n t h i s
case, l e t C = 0.72. Rearranging Eq. 17-28 gives V = 1 . 7 ~ / ( 1 - C )=

NEH Notice 4-102, August 1972

Table 17-17 Operations t a b l e f o r Example 17-10.

Incre-
Time Mass Mass ment of Outflow
Inflow Outflow Outflow Rate
(hrs. 1 (cfs-hrs) (cfs-hrs) (cfs-hrs) (cfs)

- .
5.2 7992 7817
70 233
5.5 7992 7887 etc. etc.
etc. etc. etc.

-1/ Outflow starts a t A t = 0.3 hours

iTBl Notice 4-102, August 1972

 ( 1 . 7 ) ( .72)/0.28 = 4.37 fps. Combining Equations 17-17 and 17-27,
At
= - or A t =
CL
- = (.72)(30000)1(3600)(4.37) =
K = 3600V C 3600V
1.37 h r s . Use 1 . 4 h r s . A t i s a l s o t h e wave t r a v e l time through
t h e e n t i r e reach.

3. Determine C*
Using Equation 17-31 with A t = 1 . 4 h r s , At* = 0.4 h r s , and C = 0.72
0.4+0.5(1.4) 1.1
( 1.j ( 1 . 4 ) 1 (3.T)
-
C* = 1 (1-.72) = 1-(.28) = 1-(.28) 0.524 =

4. Prepare an operations t a b l e f o r t h e routing.

Suitable headings and arrangement a r e shown i n Table 17-18.

5. Tabulate accumulated time i n t e r v a l s of At* and t h e inflow

discharges f o r those times.
The times a r e given i n column 1 Table 17-18, t h e inflows
taken from Figure 17-19 i n column 2.

6. Prepare t h e working equation.

From s t e p 3 , C* = 0.49. Using Equation 17-21 O? = ( 1 -
C*) O1 +
C X I l o r O2 = 0.51 O1 + 0.49 I1. Solutions of t h r s equation can
e a s i l y be made by accumulative m u l t i p l i c a t i o n or a desk c a l c u l a t o r .

7. Do t h e routing.
Follow t h e routine o f . Table 17-14. The outflows a r e shown i n col-
umn 3 of Table 17-18.

8. Determine t h e times f o r t h e outflow.

Outflow begins a t t h e end of t h e f i r s t A t (not A t * ) interval.

J i t h A t = 1 . 4 h r s , show t h i s time i n column 4 of Table 17-18 i n t h e

?ow where outflow begins. Get succeeding times by adding A t * i n t e r -
r a l s , 0.4 hours i n t h i s case, a s shown i n column 4. I n p l o t t i n g o r
~ t h e r w i s edisplaying t h e inflow and outflow hydrographs they a r e put
in t h e i r proper time o r d e r , using columns 1 and 4 , as shown i n f i g u r e
L7-19.

1. Determine desired routing time i n t e r v a l , At*.

Same as Method 1, At* = 0.4 hr.

2. Determine r o u t i n 4 coefficient C.
The routing c o e f f i c i e n t YC" f o r each subreach i s computed from
t h e outflow hydrograph of t h e preceding subreach a s done i n Step
2, Method 1. A constant C may be used f o r t h e e n t i r e reach but
t h e r e s u l t a n t hydrograph w i l l vary from one produced by recornputin@
C f o r each subreach. For s i m p l i c i t y i n t h i s example, a constant
C = 0.72 i s assumed. V = 4.37 f p s .

NM Notice 4-102, August 1972

Table 17-18 Operations t a b l e f o r Example 17-11 Method 1.
Time Time
Inflow Inflow Outflow Outflow
(hrs) (cfs) (cfs) (hrs)
(1) (2) (3) (4)
0 0 0
.4 260 0-1/ 1.4
.8 980 127 1.8
1.2 2100 545 2.2
1.6 3120 1307 2.6
2.0 3500 2195 3.0
2.4 3220 2834 3.4
2.8 2630 3023 3.8
3.2 1960 2830 4.2
3.6 1470 2404 4.6
4.0 1120 1946 5.0
4.4 840 1541 5.4
4.8 630 1198 5.8
5.2 455 920 6.2
5.6 345 692 6.6
6.0 265 522 7.0
6.4 180 396 7.4
6.8 130 290 7.8
7.2 100 212 8.2
7.6 75 157 8.6
8.0 60 117 9.0
8.4 45 89 9.4
8.8 35 67 9.8
9.2 20 51 10.2
9.6 10 36 10.6
10.0 0 23 11.0
etc. etc. 12 11.4
6 11.8
3 12.2
2 12.6
1 13.0
etc. etc.

-1/ Outflow starts a t A t = 1 . 4 hours

NEH Notice 4-102, August 1972

3. Determine length of subreach L*.
This i s t h e length of reach required t o s a t i s f y t h e r e l a t i o n s h i p
of Equation 17-26 with C = 0.72 and A t * = 0.4 h r s . Combining Equa-
) e have L* = (at)(v)( ~ ~ o o ) =/ c
t i o n s 17-26 and 17-17 ( l e t K = T ~ w
(0.4)(4.37)(3600)/0.72 = 8740 f t ;

4. Compare t h e t o t a l of subreach lengths, CL* with t h e given

reach length, L.
For ELX<L -
- 80 t o s t e o -5
For EL*>L go t o s t e p 7

I n t h i s example CL*n=l = 8740

= 17480
CL*,=~ = 26220
XL*,4 = 34960

Therefore, t h e f i r s t t h r e e rout.ings a r e ma t o s t e p 5 and

t h e l a s t routing by going t o s t e p 7.

5. Prepare working equation and do t h e routing.

Using Equation 17-21 and t h e routing c o e f f i c i e n t computed i n s t e p
-
2, O2 = (1 C)O1 + C I 1 = 0.28 O1 + 0.7211. The outflows f o r each
subreach a r e shown i n Table 17-19.

6. Go . t o s t e p 2 .

7. Determine t h e length of t h e reinaining subreach t o be routed.

Subtract t h e EL* of t h e 3 completed routings, i . e , , 26220 f t from
t h e t o t a l reach length t o get t h e remaining reach length t o be routed
L** = 30000 - 26220 = 3780 ft.

8. Determine t h e A t time i n t e r v a l f o r t h e remaining subreach.

The time i n t e r v a l used here i s t h e same as t h e wave t r a v e l time
through t h e remaining subreach. Combining Equations 17-17 and 17-27
-
as i n s t e p 2 Method 1 At** = CL** = (0.72)(3780)/(3600)(4.37) =
0.173 h r s . 3600~

9. Determine t h e modified routing c o e f f i c i e n t C*.

Usinn Eouation 17-31 with At** = 0.173. A t * = 0.4 and C = 0.72,

10. Prepare working equation.

Following Method 1 O2 = (1-C*)O1 + C*Il = (1- .91) O1 + 0.9111 =
.09 O1 + 0.91 11.

NEH Notice 4-102, August 1972

 11. Do t h e routinq.
The outflow f o r t h e f r a c t i o n a l r o u t i n g a r e shown i n column 6
Table 17-19.

12. Determine t h e time f o r the routing.

The hydrograph f o r each subreach routing i s s e t back one A t time
i n t e r v a l . I n t h i s example t h e f i r s t t h r e e routings a r e s e t back
0.4 h r s each and t h e l a s t ( f r a c t i o n a l ) routing i s s e t back 0.173
h r s (round t o 0.2 h r s ) . See column 7 Table 17-19 and Figure 17-19.

When C* and At* a r e used and l o c a l inflow i s t o be added, t h e

l o c a l inflow must be used i n i t s a c t u a l time p o s i t i o n regardless
of A t and At*. That i s , t h e l o c a l inflow i s not s h i f t e d back o r
f o r t h because i t i s not affected by t h e use of C* and A t * .
* *
Effects of transmission l o s s e s on routed flows
A flood hydrograph i s a l t e r e d by transmission l o s s e s occurring during
passage of t h e flow through a reach. The amount of l o s s depends on t h e
percolation r a t e of t h e channel, t h e wetted perimeter of channel during
flow, and t h e duration of flow f o r a p a r t i c u l a r wetted perimeter (Chap-
t e r 1 9 ) . Transmission l o s s v a r i e s with t h e mount of flow i n t h e
channel which means t h a t t h e most accurate method of deducting t h e t r a n s -
mission l o s s from t h e routed flow w i l l be on an incremental flow b a s i s .
It i s seldom worthwhile t o handle it i n t h i s manner unless t h e t r a n s -
mission l o s s i s very l a r g e .

An acceptable p r a c t i c e f o r handling transmission l o s s e s i s t o r o u t e t h e

inflow hydrograph i n t h e usual manner and afterwards deduct a s u i t a b l e
quantity of flow from t h e outflow hydrograph (mainly from t h e r i s i n g
limb). If t h a t outflow i s t o be routed downstream again, t h e manner of
flow deduction w i l l not be c r i t i c a l , I n some cases it may be reasonable
t o assume t h a t l o c a l inflow w i l l be completely absorbed by transmission
l o s s e s , thus no l o c a l inflow i s added t o t h e unmodified outflow hydro-
graph. I n other cases l o c a l r a i q f a l l may completely s a t i s f y transmission
l o s s e s , requiring unmodified l o c a l inflow t o be added t o t h e unmodified
outflow hydrograph. The use of d e t a i l e d procedures outlined i n Chapter
1 9 , "Transmission Losses", may be necessary f o r more complex S i t u a t i o n s .
Routing thro* a system of channels
The methods of channel routing given i n Examples 17-7 throuah - 17-11 a r e
used f o r individual reaches 02 a, stream. 0 r k n a r i l y a routing progres-
s e s from reach through reach u n t i l t h e s t a g e s , r a t e s , o r amounts of flow
a r e known f o r s e l e c t e d p o i n t s i n t h e e n t i r e stream system of a watershed.
The method of progression w i l l be i l l u s t r a t e d using a schematic diagram
o r " t r e e grapht' of a stream system. A t y p i c a l graph i s given i n Figure
17-20. It does not need t o be drawn t o s c a l e . The main purpose of t h e
graph i s t o show t h e reaches i n t h e i r proper r e l a t i o n s h i p t o each other,
but various kinds of d a t a can be w r i t t e n down a t t h e i r respective p o i n t s
of application t o make t h e graph a complete reference during t h e routing.

Routing through a stream system begins a t t h e head of t h e uppermost reach.

I f t h e r e i s more than one possible s t a r t i n g p l a c e , a s i n Figure 17-20,
t h e most convenient should be chosen.

NEH Notice 4-102, A u g u s t 1972

Table 17-19 Operation t a b l e f o r Example 17-11 Method 2

Time Outflow Outflow Outflow Outflow Outflow

Inflow Inflow C~*=8740 ZL*=17480 ~ ~ * = 2 6 2 2 0 CL*=30000 Time
lhrs) (cfs) (cfs) (cfs) (cfs) (cfs) (hrs )

(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6)

0 0
.4 260 0-1 1
.8 980 187 0
1.2 2100 758 135 0
1.6 3120 1724 584 97 0-21
2.0 3500 2729 1405 447 88
2.4 3220 32e4 2358 1137 415
2.8 2630 3238 3025 2016 1072
3.2 1960 2800 3178 2743 1931
3.6 1470 2195 2906 3056 2670
4.0 1120 1673 2394 2948 3021
4.4 840 1275 1875 2549 2955
4.8 630 962 1442 2064 2586
5.2 455 723 1096 1617 2111
5.6 345 530 827 1242 1661
6.0 265 397 613 944 1280
6.4 180 302 457 706 974
6.8 130 214 345 527 730
7.2 100 154 251 396 545
7.6 75 115 181 292 409
8.0 60 86 133 212 303
8.4 45 67 99 155 220
8.8 35 51 76 115 161
9.2 20 40 58 87 119
9.6 10 25 45 66 90
10.0 0 14 31 51 68
etc. etc. 4 19 36 53
1 8 24 38
0 3 13 25
etc. 1 6 14
0 2 7
etc. 1 2
0 1
etc. 0
etc.

-1/ Outflow from subreach 1, 2 , & 3 starts A t * = 0.4 hours a f t e r i n f l o w

starts i n t o each subreach.

-2/ Outflow from subreach 4 starts A t = 0.2 hours (rounded from 0.17
h o u r s ) a f t e r inflow starts i n t o subreach 4.

NEE Notice 4-102, August 1972

m e f i r s t major s t e p i n routing through a stream system i s t o develop
t h e routing parameters, C and A t , f o r each reach. Many times it i s
necessary t o use At* t o make t h e routing i n t e r v a l uniform through t h e
stream system; these parameters should be obtained before t h e routing
begins. The method of developing t h e parameters C, K , and A t i s given
i n s t e p s 1 through 5 of Example 17-8. The method of determining C*
and At* i s given i n s t e p s 1 through 3 of Example 17-11.

The second major s t e p i s t h e development of t h e inflow hydrographs

a t heads of uppermost reaches and of l o c a l inflow hydrographs f o r a l l
reaches. The methods of Chapter 16 a r e used.

The t h i r d major s t e p i s t h e routing. For routing any p a r t i c u l a r flood

on t h e stream system pictured i n Figure 17-23 a s u i t a b l e sequence i s as
follows :

1. Route t h e inflow hydrograph a t ( a ) through reach ( a , b ) .

2 . Add l o c a l inflow of reach ( a , b ) t o t h e routed outflow t o get
t h e t o t a l outflow hydrograph, which becomes t h e inflow hydrograph f o r
reach ( b , c ) . It should be noted here t h a t l o c a l inflow f o r a reach
i s usually added a t t h e foot of t h e reach. These may be circumstances,
however, i n which t h e l o c a l inflow should be added a t t h e beginning of
t h e reach. The proper sequence f o r adding l o c a l inflow can be determined
only by evaluating each reach.

3. Route t h e t o t a l outflow from reach ( a , b ) through reach ( b , c ) .

4. Add l o c a l inflow of reach ( b , c ) t o t h e routed outflow t o get

the t o t a l outflow hydrograph f o r t h a t t r i b u t a r y .

5. Route t h e inflow hydrograph a t ( d ) through reach ( d , c )

6. Add l o c a l inflow of reach ( d , c ) t o t h e routed outflow t o get

t h e t o t a l outflow hydrograph a t point ( c ) .

7. Add t h e t o t a l outflow hydrographs from. reaches ( b , c ) and (d,c) ,

steps 4 and 6, t o get t h e t o t a l outflow hydrograph a t point ( c ) .

8. Route t h e t o t a l hydrograph a t p o i n t ( c ) through reach ( c , f ) .

9 . Add l o c a l inflow of reach ( c , f ) t o t h e routed outflow t o get

t h e t o t a l outflow hydrograph a t point (f) .
10. Route t h e inflow hydrograph a t point ( e ) through reach ( e , f ) .

11. Add l o c a l inflow of reach ( e , f ) t o t h e routed outflow t o get

t h e t o t a l outflow hydrograph f o r t h a t t r i b u t a r y .

12. Route t h e inflow hydrograph a t p o i n t ( g ) through reach ( g , f ) .

13. Add l o c a l inflow of reach ( g , f ) t o t h e routed outflow t o get

t h e t o t a l outflow f o r t h a t t r i b u t a r y a t p o i n t ( f ) .

NM Notice 4-102, August 1972

 14. Add t h e t o t a l outflow hydrographs from reaches ( c , f ) , ( e , f ) ,
and ( g , f ) , s t e p s 9, 11, and 1 3 t o get t h e t o t a l outflow hydrograph a t
point ( f ) .

15. Route -the t o t a l hydrograph a t point ( f ) through reach ( f , h ) .

16. Add l o c a l inflow of reach (f ,h) t o t h e routed outflow t o

get t h e t o t a l outflow hydrograph f o r reach ( f , h ) .

17. Route t h e t o t a l hydrograph a t point ( h ) through reach ( h , i ) .

18. Add l o c a l .inflow of reach ( h , i ) t o the routed outflow t o get

t h e t o t a l outflow hydrograph f o r reach ( h , i ) .

19. Route t h e inflow hydrograph a t point ( j) through reach ( 3 ,k) .

20. Add l o c a l inflow of reach ( j , k ) t o t h e routed outflow t o get
t h e t o t a l outflow hydrograph f o r reach ( j ,LC).

21. Route t h e hydrograph a t point (k) through reach ( k , i )

22. Add l o c a l inflow of reach ( k , i ) t o t h e routed outflow t o get

t h e t o t a l outflow hydrograph f o r t h i s t r i b u t a r y .

23. ~ d tdh e t o t a l outflow hydrographs from reaches ( h , i ) and ( k , i ) ,

s t e p s 18 snd 22, t o get the t o t a l outflow hydrograph f o r point ( i ) .

24. Route t h e hydrograph a t point ( i ) through reach ( i ,I).

25. Add l o c a l inflow of reach (i,l?) t o t h e routed outflow t o get

t h e t o t a l outflow hydrograph a t p o i n t (l?). This completes t h e routing
f o r a p a r t i c u l a r flood on t h i s stream system.

When manual computations a r e used, an operations t a b l e with times, inflow

hydrographs and l o c a l inflows tabulated i n t h e i r proper sequence i s use-
f u l . Blank columns a r e l e f t f o r t h e routed outflows and t o t a l outflows,
which a r e t a b u l a t e d as routing progresses. Above t h e appropriate columns
t h e required data and routing parameters a r e tabulated so t h a t t h e t a b l e
becomes a complete reference f o r t h e routing. A sample operations t a b l e
f o r routing by Method 2 i s shown a s Table 17-20. After t h e inflow hydro-
graph and l o c a l inflows are t a b u l a t e d t h e sequence of t h e work i s as
follows :

Tabulate the reach numbers i n t h e order i n which t h e routing w i l l

progress; p e r f o m t h e routings as shown i n Example 17-11 and continue
i n t h i s manner through t h e stream system. Note t h e routed outflow a t
1.17 h r s which i s rounded t o 1.0 h r s . Theoretically, the outflow hydro-
graph should be i n t e r p o l a t e d on a multiple of A t t o properly position
t h e hydrograph i n r e l a t i o n t o time. The l i n e a r i n t e r p o l a t i o n equation i s :

9.I. = 9 i + -
( ~ i ~ qi)
+ ~x
At* - At
At*

NEX Notice 4-102, August 1972

where: qi and qi+i a r e consecutive discharges, A t * i s t h e desired time
i n t e r v a l and A t 1 s t h e required time i n t e r v a l of the p a r t i a l routing.
When using Method 2, A t i s always l e s s than At*.

If t h e i n t e r p o l a t i o n s t e p i s omitted and t h e s t a r t i n g times rounded as

i n Table 17-20 it i s recognized an e r r o r i s introduced, t h e magnitude
of which depends on t h e r e l a t i v e values of A t and At*.

NEH Notice 4-102, August 1972

Table 17-20. Portion of a t y p i c a l o p e r a t i o n s t a b l e f o r r o u t i n g through a stream system.

REACH 16 15 14
L(ft) 19300. 4000. 37000.
V(fps) 2.9 4.8 3.2
.63 .63 .74 .65 .65
Atx(hrs)l.OO 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00
LX(ft)16541. 2759. 4000. 17486. 17486. 2028.
A t (hrs) .17 .12
C* .986 1.00 .998

Time Inflow Outflow Outflow Local Total Outflow Local Total Outflow Outflow Outflow Lacal Total

0 031
97 97
498 498

1371 1371
2560 2560
3887 3887
5007 5007
5588 5588

5525 5525
4963 4963
4173 4173
3365 3365
2640 2640

15 450 735 739 5 744 794 35 779 1279 2034 2037 80 2117
etc. etc. etc. etc. etc. etc. etc. etc. etc. etc. etc. etc. etc. etc.

Outflow begins a t 1 . 0 0 h r s . , rounded from 1.17 h r s .

'1 Outflow begins a t 0.00 h r s . , rounded from 0.17 h r s .
Outflow begins a t 2.00 h r s . , rounded from 2.12 h r s .
NEH Notice 4-10?, August 1972
Figure 17-13. Convex routing coefficient versus velocity.

NM Notice 4-102, August 1972

 r

I
P

~fA t * >KO or A t > 6.0

then d i v i d a both by 2 to
t i c Eaampl. : Ata=3.0
ond A t =8.2. Use Ata:l.s
andAf=+.t.

Th. A t and At* must

ba in identical units
of time (minutes or
hours or days. etc.)

SYMBOLS
K - raach t r a w l tima
C - rou!inq co.fiici.nt
I
At - complied routing intonol
At' - desired routinq iekrval
-

/'
C* required m u l l n ~c a r t t i c i ~ n l

/ EXAMPLE

/ Giwn
I.
2.
C = 0.8, Kz3.0, and A1':l.o
Compute A t = C K = 0.8(3.0) = 2.4
U n A t ond A t o f o r mova I.
3. U n C in mova 2 ond rood :0.628

-REFERENCE
At
U. 8. mARl%ENT OP ADRlCUL'IVILE STANDARD D M . NO.
Equat~onby W. A. Styner
Nomoqraph by Glenn 0. Commons
-
D l m O l i m1Y)m DATE 6 . 71

Figure 17-14. ES-1025 rev. sheet 1 of 2.

NEX Notice 4-102,August 1972
 at*+At
HYDROLOGY: NOMOGRAPH FOR SOLUTION OF c*=I-(I-C) 1.5At

tEFERENCE I U. S. DEP- OF AOBICULTURE I STANDARD DWG. NO.

Equation by W.A. Stynar SOIL CONSERVATION SERVICE
Nomograph by Glenn G. Commons
R I G M W M O DnmnON .RmROIDCY aa*llCn

gure 17-14. ES-1025 rev. sheet 2 of 2.

NEH Notice 4-102, August 1972
 2 3 4
TIME, HOURS

Figure 17-15. Inflow and routed outflow hydrograph f o r Example 17-7

X!i Nctice 4-102, August 1972

0 5 10 15 20 25 30 7
-4
TIME, HOURS -4
 4000
TOTAL OUTFLOW --\

ROUTED INFLOW
3
51
w
0
ct
P.
0
m
C
I (TOTAL OUTFLOW MINUS LOCAL
N
"

C
10
ct
I-'
\O
-4
N

0 I 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
TIME, HOURS
 I 2 3 4 5
TIME, HOURS
Figure 17-18. Mass inflow, mass outflow and r a t e hydrograph f o r
Eiample 17-10.

NM Notice 4-102, August 1972

 4
TIME, HOURS
Figure 17-20. Typical Schematic diagram for routing through a
system of channels.

NEH Notice 4-102, August 1972

 Unit-Hydrograph Routing Methods

Principles of the u n i t hydrograph theory a r e given i n Chapter 16. They

apply t o single-peaked hydrographs o r i g i n a t i n g from uniform runoff on
t h e contributing a r e a b u t t h e y can be extended t o apply t o more complex
runoff conditions. Despite t h e l i m i t a t i o n s of t h e theory it has f e a t u r e s
t h a t can be used i n determining peak r a t e s i n stream reaches not only
when the watershed i s i n a "present" unreservoired condition but a l s o
when it i s controlled by many r e s e r v o i r s . It i s t h e ease w i t h which
complex systems of c o n t r o l s t r u c t u r e s a r e evaluated t h a t has made t h e
unit-hydrograph type of routing a popular method f o r many years. If
s u i t a b l e d a t a a r e used t h e r e s u l t s a r e usually as good a s those obtained
by more d e t a i l e d methods of routing.

I n t h i s p a r t of t h e chapter t h e basic equations f o r unit-hydrograph

routing w i l l be given and discussed ana some of t h e i r uses explained by
means of examples. The unit-hydrograph method of r o u t i n g gives only
t h e peak r a t e s of runoff. The peak-producing hydrograph, i f it i s needed,
must be obtained i n some other way.

Basic Equations
A l l of the unit-hydrograph working equations are derived from t h e r e l a -
tionship f o r the peak r a t e of a u n i t hydrograph:

where qp = peak r a t e i n c f s

K = a constant (not t h e routing parameter used i n the Convex

method)
A = drainage a r e a contributing runoff; i n square miles

Q = average depth of runoff, i n inches, from t h e contributing

area
Tp = time t o peak, i n hours

By l e t t i n g q
P' K, A, Q, and T stand
and using prmed symbols q;, %,
f o r a watershed i n one condition
A ' , & I , and T' f o r t h e same watershed
i n a condition being studied, then by use of &tion 17-37 it i s evi-
dent t h a t :
A' Q' Tp
(Eq. 17-38)

which i s a t y p i c a l working equation of t h e u n i t hydrograph method. It

can be used, f o r example, i n determining t h e peak r a t e s a f t e r establishment
of land use and treatment measures on a watershed. I n such work t h e pre-
s e n t peaks, areas, runoff amounts, and peak times a r e known and it i s
only a matter of f i n d i n g t h e change i n runoff by use of Chapter 10 methods.
The areas and peak times a r e assumed t o remain constant.
d
NM Notice 4-102, August 1972
i When a floodwater retarding s t r u c t u r e , o r other s t r u c t u r e c o n t r o l l i n g a
p a r t of the watershed, i s being used i n t h e "future" condition then t h e
value of A' i s reduced. And i f t h e r e a r e r e l e a s e s from t h e s t r u c t u r e
then they must a l s o be taken i n t o account. For a project having struc-
t u r e s controlling a t o t a l of A* square miles and having an average r e l e a s e
r a t e of q* csm, t h e peak r a t e equation becomes:

When using Equation 17-39 t o f i n d t h e reduced peak r a t e t h e major assump-

t i o n i s t h a t t h e s t r u c t u r e s a r e about uniformly d i s t r i b u t e d over t h e
watershed. Another assumption i s t h a t all s t r u c t u r e s contribute t o q*,
but t h i s i s sometimes too conservative an assumption (see t h e section
t i t l e d "Use of Equation 17-43 on l a r g e watersheds").

When A' = A and T ' = T , which i s t h e usual case when evaluating land
use and treatment Peffects, Equation 17-38 becomes:

which i s one of t h e basic expressions of t h e u n i t hydrograph theory. I f

t h e same s i m p l i f i c a t i o n applies when evaluating s t r u c t u r e s then Equation
17-39 becomes:

Equation 17-41 can be f u r t h e r s i m p l i f i e d by using:

(Eq. 17-42)

where r i s t h e f r a c t i o n of drainage a r e a under control or t h e percent of

control divided by 100. Using Equation 17-42 i n Equation 17-41 gives:

Effects of storm duration and time of concentration

When the e f f e c t s of a change i n e i t h e r t h e storm duration o r t h e time of
concentration must be taken i n t o account, one way t o do it i s t o use t h e
following r e l a t i o n from Chapter 16:

where Tp = time t o peak, i n hours

a = a constant
D = storm duration, i n hours, during which runoff i s
generated; it i s u s u a l l y - l e s s than t h e t o t a l storm dura-
tion.

NFX Notice 4-102, August 1972

 b = a constant
T, = time of concentration, i n hours

As shown i n Chapter 16, t h e constants a and b can be taken a s 0.5 and

0.6 respectively, f o r most problems, i n which case Equation 17-44
becomes :

Using Equation 17-45 i n equations 17-37. 17-38, and 17-39 produces work-
ing equations i n which e i t h e r t h e storm duration or t h e time of concen-
t r a t i o n can be changed and t h e e f f e c t of t h e change determined. Such
equations a r e not often used because t h e main comparison i s usually
between present and f u t u r e conditions i n which only runoff amount and
drainage area w i l l change. I n s p e c i a l problems where storm duration
must be taken i n t o account t h e r e a r e other approaches t h a t a r e more
applicable ( s e e t h e s e c t i o n t i t l e d "Use of Equation 17-43 on l a r g e
watersheds").

Elimination of Tp
I n many physiographic a r e a s t h e r e i s a consistent r e l a t i o n between Tp
and A because t h e r e i s a t y p i c a l storm condition o r pattern. The r e l a -
t i o n s h i p i s usually expressed as:

i/
where c i s a constant m u l t i p l i e r and d i s a constant exponent. Sub-
s t i t u t i n g C A ~f o r Tp i n Equation 17-37 gives:

q p = k A (1- d) (Eq. 17-47)

where k = K/c. Letting (1 - d ) = h, Equation 17-47 becomes:

qp = k Ah Q (Eq. 17-48)

which i s the working equation i n p r a c t i c e . The parameters k and h are

obtained from d a t a f o r a l a r g e storm over t h e watershed o r region being
studied. Values of q a t s e v e r a l l o c a t i o n s a r e obtained e i t h e r from
streamflow s t a t i o n s or P by means of slope-area measurements (Chapter 14):
values of Q associated with each qp are obtained f r o m t h e s t a t i o n d a t a
o r by use of r a i n f a l l and watershed data and methods of chapter 10; and
drainage areas a t each l o c a t i o n a r e determined. A p l o t t i n g of q /Q
against A i s made on log paper and a l i n e of best f i t i s drawn t rough %
t h e p l o t t i n g . The m u l t i p l i e r k i s the i n t e r c e p t of t h e l i n e where A = 1
square mile and t h e exponent h is t h e slope of t h e l i n e . See t h e s e c t i o n
t i t l e d "Use .of Equations 17-48, 17-50, and 17-52" f o r an a p p l i c a t i o n of
t h i s procedure.

After h i s known, t h e equivalent of Equation 17-38 i s :

NEH Notice 4-102, August 1972

 The k ' s cancel out i n making t h i s change.

In t h e "Concordant Flow" method of peak determination, Equation 17-48 i s

modified t o take i n t o account t h e e f f e c t s of control s t r u c t u r e s and t h e i r
r e l e a s e r a t e s , with t h e working equation being:

which i s t h e same as Equation 17-43 i n form but where qp i s now determined

from Equation 17-48.

Equations 17-39, 17-41, 17-43, 17-50, and 17-51 should be used only when
t h e storm runoff volume does not exceed t h e storage capacity of t h e s t r u c -
t u r e with t h e smallest capacity. If t h e runoff does exceed t h a t capacity
these equations must be modified further. Equation 17-50, f o r example,
becomes:

C
where Qs i s the average storage capacity of t h e s t r u c t u r e s . It i s shown
i n Example 17-20 how Equation 17-51 and similar equations can be used
even when t h e capacity v a r i e s from s t r u c t u r e t o s t r u c t u r e .

Working equations f o r s p e c i a l cases

Additional equations can be developed from those given i f a s p e c i a l pro-
blem a r i s e s i n watershed evaluation. For an example, suppose t h a t Equa-
t i o n 17-43 i s t o be used f o r determining the e f f e c t s of a proposed system
of floodwater r e t a r d i n g s t r u c t u r e s i n a watershed, and t h a t the evaluation
reaches a r e so long t h a t t h e percent of area reservoired v a r i e s s i g n i f i -
cantly from the head t o t h e foot of the reach. To modify Equation 17-43
f o r t h i s case, l e t A* be t h e a r e a reservoired, A t h e t o t a l area, and r =
A*/A f o r t h e head of t h e reach; and l e t B* be the t o t a l a r e a reservoired
(including A*), B t h e t o t a l area (including A ) , and r" = BY/B f o r t h e
foot of t h e reach. For evaluations t o be made a t t h e foot of t h e reach,
Equation 17-43 then becomes:

After f i r s t computing ( 2 - r - r 1 ' ) / 2 = C ' and (A* + B*)/2 = C" f o r t h e

reach, t h e working equation becomes:

q;, = 9p C' + q* C" (Eq. 17-54)

NEH Notice 4-102, August 1972

where C' and C" are t h e computed coefficients. Each evaluation reach
requires i t s own s e t of c o e f f i c i e n t s .

Examples
The problems i n the following examples range from t h e very simple t o
t h e complex, t h e l a t t e r being given t o show t h a t unit-hydrograph methods
have wide application. For some complex problems, however., it w i l l
generally be more e f f i c i e n t t o use t h e SCS electronic-computer evaluation
program.

Use of Equation 17-40. -This b a s i c expression of t h e u n i t hydrograph

theory has many uses. The major l i m i t a t i o n i n i t s use i s t h a t Q and
Q' must be about uniformly d i s t r i b u t e d over t h e watershed being studied.
The following i s a t y p i c a l but simple problem.

&ample 17-12.--A watershed has a peak discharge of 46,300 c f s from a

storm t h a t produced 2.54 inches of runoff. What would t h e peak r a t e
have been f o r a runoff of 1.68 inches?

1. Apply Equation 17-40.

For t h i s problem q = 46,300 c f s , Q = 2.54 inches, and Q' = 1.68
inches. By Equation P
17-40 q; = 46300(1.68/2.54) = 30,604 c f s , rihich
i s roun'ded t o 30,600 c f s .

Use of Equation 17-43 - The major l i m i t a t i o n s i n t h e use of t h i s equation

a r e t h a t both t h e runoffs and t h e s t r u c t u r e s must be about uniformly dis-
t r i b u t e d over t h e watershed and t h a t t h e stream t r a v e l times f o r the d
1,
future" condition must be about t h e same as f o r t h e "present." The
following i s a t y p i c a l but simple problem.

Example 17-13.--A watershed of 183 square miles has a flood peak of 37,800
c f s . I f 42 square miles of t h i s watershed were controlled by floodwater
r e t a r d i n g s t r u c t u r e s having a n average r e l e a s e r a t e of 15 csm, what would
t h e reduced peak be?

1. Computer.
By Equation 17-42 r = 42/183 = 0.230 because A* = 42 and A = 183
square miles.

2. Apply Equation 17-43.

For t h i s problem, q, = 37,800 c f s , r = 0.230 from s t e -p 1,
. q-* = 15
csm, and A* = 42 s & r e miles. ~y Equation 17-43 q' = 37800(1 -
0.230) + 15(42) = 29,736 c f s , which i s rounded t o 25,700 c f s . This
i s t h e reduced peak.

Use of Equation 17-43 on l a r g e watersheds.- I f Equation 17-43 i s used f o r

evaluating t h e e f f e c t s of s t r u c t u r e s i n a l a r n-e watershed or r i v e r basin
t h e releases from s t r u c t u r e s far upstream may not add t o t h e peak r a t e s
i n t h e lower reaches of t h e main stem. And i f r e l e a s e s from c e r t a i n up-
stream s t r u c t u r e s do not a f f e c t peaks f a r downstream then those s t r u c t u r e s
a l s o a r e not reducing t h e peak r a t e s , t h e r e f o r e t h e i r drainage areas
should not be used i n t h e equation. L/

NM Notice 4-102, August 1972

L I n problems of t h i s kind t h e approach t o be taken i s r e l a t i v e l y simple
though there a r e supplementary computations t o be made before t h e equa-
t i o n i s used. The key s t e p i n t h e approach i s finding the Tp f o r an
evaluation flood and using only those areas and s t r u c t u r e s close enough
t o t h e sub-basin o u t l e t t o a f f e c t t h e peak r a t e of t h a t flood. How t h i s
i s done w i l l be i l l u s t r a t e d using the data and computations of Table
17-21. The data a r e f o r a sub-basin of 620 square miles, with a time of
concentration of 48 hours. Storm durations f o r t h e floods t o be evalu-
ated w i l l vary from 1 t o over 72 hours, which means t h a t t h e sub-basin
Tp w i l l a l s o vary considerably.

Table 17-21 i s developed as follows:

Column 1 l i s t s t h e t r a v e l times on t h e sub-basin main stem from t h e

o u t l e t point t o selected points upstream, which a r e mainly junctions
with major t r i b u t a r i e s . The f i r s t entry i s f o r t h e o u t l e t p o i n t .

Column 2 gives t h e t o t a l drainage a r e a above each s e l e c t e d p o i n t .

Column 3 gives t h e increments of area.

Column 4 gives t h e accumulated a r e a s , going upstream. These a r e

the contributing areas when t h e flood's Tp i s within t h e l i m i t s shown i n
column 1. For example, when Tp i s between 3.5 and 9 . 1 hours, t h e con-
t r i b u t i n g drainage a r e a i s 74 square miles. Tp must be a t l e a s t 48 hours
before the e n t i r e watershed contributes t o t h e peak r a t e .
L
Column 5 shows t h e t o t a l areas controlled by s t r u c t u r e s .

Column 6 gives t h e increments of controlled area.

Column 7 gives t h e accumulated controlled a r e a s , going upstream.

Column 8 gives values of r , which a r e computed using e n t r i e s of

columns 7 and 4.

Column 9 gives values of (1 - r ) , which a r e computed using e n t r i e s

of column 8.

Column 10 gives t h e t o t d l average r e l e a s e r a t e i n c f s f o r t h e con-

t r o l l e d areas of column 7. For t h i s t a b l e t h e average r e l e a s e r a t e q*
i s 7 csm. Therefore t h e q*(A*) entry f o r a p a r t i c u l a r row i s t h e column
7 a r e a of t h a t row multiplied by t h e average r a t e i n csm.

Only columns 1, 9, and 10 are used i n t h e remaining work. To determine

t h e e f f e c t of t h e s t r u c t u r e s t h e qp and T of t h e evaluation flood must
be known, t h e proper e n t r i e s taken from t g e t a b l e , and Equation 17-43
applied. For example, i f qp = 87,000 cfs and Tp = 24 hours f o r a p a r t i -
c u l a r flood, f i r s t e n t e r column 1 with Tp = 24 hours and f i n d t h e row t o
be used, i n t h i s case it i s between Tt values of 21.1 and 28.0 hours;
-
next s e l e c t ( 1 r ) = 0.459 from column 9 of t h a t row and q * ( A W ) = 1,491
Ll c f s from column 10; f i n a l l y , use Equation 17-43 which gives q i = 87000
(0.459) + 1491 = 41,424 c f s , which i s rounded t o 41,400 c f s .

NM Notice 4-102, August 1972

 Table 17-21 D a t a and working t a b l e f o r use of Equation 17-43 on a l a r g e watershed

Tt A AA AU A* AA* 4: r (1 - r ) q*(~*p'
(hrs) (sq.mi.) (sq.mi.) (sq.mi.) ( s q . m i . ) (sq.mi.) ( s q . m i . ) (cfs)
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9) (lo)
o 620 359
8 8 0 0 0 1.000 0
2.0 612 359
6 14 3 3 .214 .786 21
3.5 606 356
60 74 24 27 .365 .635 189
9.1 546 332
90 164 43 70 .426 .574 490
15.3 456 289
80 244 56 126 517 .483 882
21.1 376 233
150 87 213 .541 .459 1491
28.0 226 394 146
101 495 '77 290 .586 .414 2030
31.0 125 69
98 593 48 338 5'70 .430 2366
42.0 27 21
27 620 21 359 .580 .420 2513
'48.0 0 o
--

-1/ Using an average rate of q* = 7 c s m .

'..- If any o t h e r p o i n t i n t h e sub-basin i s a l s o t o be used f o r evaluation of
s t r u c t u r e e f f e c t s t h e n a s e p a r a t e t a b l e i s needed f o r t h a t p o i n t .

Use of Equations 17-48, 17-50, and 17-52.- When streamflow d a t a o r slope-

a r e a measurements and Q e s t i m a t e s a r e a v a i l a b l e f o r a watershed and i t s
v i c i n i t y , t h e information can be used t o c o n s t r u c t a graph of qp/Q and A
as shown i n Figure 17-21. This i s t h e g r a p h i c a l form of Equation 17-48.
If a l i n e with an i n t e r c e p t of 484 c f s / i n . and slope of 0 . 4 can be reason-
ably w e l l f i t t e d t o t h e d a t a , as i n t h i s case, it means t h a t t h e hydro-
graph shapes of t h e s e watersheds c l o s e l y resemble t h e shape of t h e u n i t
hydrograph of Figure 16-1 ( s e e Chapter 1 6 ) . Usually t h e slope w i l l be
0.4 f o r o t h e r shapes of hydrographs ( t h e reason f o r t h i s i s discussed
i n Chapter 1 5 ) but t h e i n t e r c e p t w i l l vary. kor t h e l i n e of Figure 17-21,
Equation 17-48 can be w r i t t e n :

The following examples show some t y p i c a l uses of t h e graph o r i t s equa-

tion.

Example 17-14.--For a watershed i n t h e region t o which Figure 17-21

a p p l i e s , A = 234 square miles and Q = 3.15 inches f o r a storm event.
What i s q 7
P'
1. Find qp/Q f o r t h e given A.
Enter t h e graph with A = 234 square miles and a t t h e l i n e of r e l a -
t i o n f i n d qp/Q = 4,290 c f s / i n .

2. Compute q,.
Multiplying %/Q by Q g i v e s qp, t h e r e f o r e , qp = 3.15(4290) = 13,500
c f s by a s l i d e - r u l e computation.

If p a r t of a watershed i s c o n t r o l l e d by floodwater r e t a r d i n g s t r u c t u r e s
t h e graph can be used t o g e t h e r with equation 17-50, as follows:

Example 17-15.--A watershed o f 234 square miles has a system of flood-

water r e t a r d i n g s t r u c t u r e s on it c o n t r o l l i n g a t o t a l of 103 square
miles. Each s t r u c t u r e has a s t o r a g e c a p a c i t y of 4.5 inches b e f o r e
discharge begins through t h e emergency spillway. Each s t r u c t u r e has an
average r e l e a s e r a t e of 1 5 csm. When t h e storm runoff Q i s 4 . 1 inches
what i s t h e pea& r a t e with ( a ) s t r u c t u r e s not i n p l a c e , and ( b ) s t r u c -
t u r e i n place?

1. Determine t h e f l o o d peak f o r t h e watershed with s t r u c t u r e s not

i n place.
Use t h e method of Example 17-14. Enter Figure 17-21 with A = 234
square miles and f i n d qp/Q = 4,290 c f s / i n . Multiplying t h a t r e s u l t
by Q = 4.1 inches gives qp = 4.1(4290) = i 7 , 6 0 0 c f s by a s l i d e -
r u l e computation. This discharge i s (k A Q ) i n Equation 17-50.

NEH Notice 4-102, A u g u s t 1972

 2. Determine (1 r ) . -
From Equation 17-42 r = A*/A = 1031234 = 0.440. Then ( 1 - r) =
1 - 0.440 = 0.560.

3. Determine t h e flood peak f o r t h e watershed with s t r u c t u r e s i n

place.
Use Equation 17-50 with t h e r e s u l t s of s t e p s 1 and 2 and t h e given
data f o r controlled a r e a and r e l e a s e r a t e : q$ = 17600(0.560) +
15(103) =. 11,410 c f s , using a s l i d e - r u l e f o r t h e m u l t i p l i c a t i o n s .
Round t h e discharge t o 11,400 c f s .

If t h e storm runoff exceeds t h e storage c a p a c i t i e s of t h e s t r u c t u r e s but

t h e capacities a r e t h e same f o r a l l s t r u c t u r e s then Equation 17-52 can
be applied as shown i n t h e following example.

Example.17-16.--For the same watershed and s t r u c t u r e s used i n Example

17-18 find t h e peak r a t e s without and with s t r u c t u r e s i n place when t h e
storm runoff i s 6.21 inches.

1. Determine t h e flood peak f o r t h e watershed with s t r u c t u r e s not

i n place.
Use t h e method of Example 17-14. h t e r Figure 17-21 with A = 234
square miles and f i n d q p / ~= 4,290 c f s / i n . This i s (k ~ h i)n Equa-
t i o n 17-52. Multiplying t h a t r e s u l t by Q = 6.21 inches gives q =
6.21 (4290) = 26,700 c f s by a s l i d e - r u l e computation. This i s ?he
peak r a t e without s t r u c t u r e s i n place.

2. Determine r.
From Equation 17-42 r = AY/A = 1031234 = 0.440

3. Determine t h e flood peak f o r t h e watershed with s t r u c t u r e s i n

place.
Use Equation 17-52 with (k A ~ =) 4,290 c f s / i n . from s t e p 1; Q =
6.21 inches, as given; r = 0.440, from s t e p 2; and Qs = 4.5 inches,
q* = 15 csrn, and A* = 103 square miles as given i n Example 17-17.
Then q$ = 4290(6.21 -
O.bkO(4.5)) + 15(103) = 18160 + 1540 =
19,700 cfs.

Note t h a t t h e e f f e c t of t h e r e l e a s e r a t e on reducing t h e storm runoff

amount i s not taken i n t o account i n t h i s example. This means t h a t t h e
peak of 19,700 c f s i s s l i g h t l y too l a r g e and t h a t t h i s approach gives a
conservatively high answer.

I f t h e storage c a p a c i t i e s of t h e s t r u c t u r e s vary then Equation 17-52 i s

used with ( Q - r Q s ) computed by a more d e t a i l e d method, as shown i n
t h e following example.

Example 17-17.--A watershed of 311 square miles has a system of flood-

water retarding s t r u c t u r e s c o n t r o l l i n g a t o t a l of 187 square miles and
having average r e l e a s e r a t e s of 8 csm. Storage c a p a c i t i e s of t h e s t r u c -
t u r e s are shown i n column 3 of Table 17-22; t h e s e a r e t h e c a p a c i t i e s
before emergency spillway discharge begins. When t h e storm runoff i s

NEH Notice 4-102, August 1972

 uniformly 7.5 inches over the watershed, what i s t h e peak r a t e of flow
L with ( a ) no s t r u c t u r e s i n place and ( b ) s t r u c t u r e s i n place?

1. Determine the flood peak f o r t h e watershed with s t r u c t u r e s not

i n place.
Use t h e method of Example 17-14. Enter Figure 17-21 with A = 311
square miles and f i n d q p / 4 = 4,800 c f s / i n . This . i s ( k A ~ i) n Equa-
t i o n 17-52. Multiplying t h a t r e s u l t by Q = 7.5 inches gives qp =
36,000 cfs by a slide-rule computation. This i s t h e peak r a t e with-
out s t r u c t u r e s i n place.

2. Compute the equivalent of ( r QS) i n Equation 17-52.

The f a c t o r ( r Qs) can a l s o be expressed a s :

where Ax i s t h e drainage a r e a i n square miles of t h e x-th s t r u c t u r e

and Qsx i s t h e reservoir capacity i n inches f o r t h a t s t r u c t u r e . In
Table 17-22 each drainage a r e a of column 2 i s multiplied by t h e res-
pective storage of column 3 t o get t h e entry f o r column 4. But note
t h a t when t h e storage exceeds t h e storm runoff it i s t h e storm runoff
amount, i n t h i s case 7.5 inches, which i s used t o get t h e e n t r y f o r
column 4. Equation 17-56 i s solved f o r ( r Q s ) by dividing t h e sum
of column 4 by the t o t a l watershed area:

967.26
( r Qs)= = 3.11 inches
311
(Note: Column 4 is not needed if the c a l c u l a t i o n s a r e made by
accumulative multiplication on a desk-calculator. )

3. Determine the flood peak f o r t h e watershed with s t r u c t u r e s i n

place.
Use Equation 17-52 with (k A ~ =) 4,800 c f s / i n . from s t e p 1; Q = 7.5
inches, as given; ( r QS) = 3.11 inches as computed i n s t e p 2; and
q* = 8 csm and A* = 187 square miles, a s given. This gives: q i =
4800(7.5 - 3.11) + 8(187) = 21100 + 1495 = 22,595 c f s , which i s
rounded t o 22,600 c f s . This i s t h e peak r a t e with s t r u c t u r e s i n
place.

DISCUSSION. These examples are a sample of t h e many ways i n which t h e

unit-hydrograph methoa of routing can be used. Accuracy of t h e method
depends on what has been ignored, such as v a r i a b l e r e l e a s e r a t e , surcharge
s t o r a g e , and so on. In general, t h e method gives conservative results--
t h a t i s , t h e e f f e c t s of s t r u c t u r e s , f o r example, a r e usually underesti-
mated so t h a t t h e peak r a t e i s s l i g h t l y too high.

The examples a l s o show t h a t as t h e problem contains more d e t a i l s t h e pro-

cedure g e t s more complex. It i s e a s i l y possible t o make t h i s "short-cut"
method so complicated it becomes d i f f i c u l t t o get t h e solution. For t h i s
L reason, and f o r reasons of accuracy, it i s b e t t e r t o use t h e SCS e l e e t r o n i c -
computer program f o r complex routing problems.

NHI Notice 4-102, August 1972

Table 17-22 Area and storage data f o r Example 17-17

Floodwater Gontribut ing

retarding drainage Storage Ax X Qsx
structure area
( s q . mi.) (in.) ( s q . mi. x i n . )

* This i s (drainage a r e a ) x (storm runoff of 7.5 inches)

because t h e storage g r e a t e r than t h e runoff i s ineffec-
t i v e and should not be used i n the computation.

NEB ~ o t ' i c e4-102, August 1972

 Part 630 Hydrology
National Engineering Handbook

Chapter 18 Selected Statistical

Methods

Rain clouds
Cloud formation

Precipitation

n
iratio
Evaporation
n

ean
io

Transp
t

s o il
ta

from oc
ge
ve

fr o m
m

n
fro

ti o

s
am
n

ir a
ti o

tr e
sp
ra
po

an

ms
va

Tr

Surfa E
ce ru
fr o

noff

Infiltration

Soil
Percolation

Rock Ocean
Groundwater
Deep percolation

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012)

Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Issued April 2012

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all

of its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin,
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an equal opportunity provider and employer.

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012)

Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Acknowledgments
Originally published in 1963, Chapter 18 was revised in 1976 by Roger
Cronshey, Jerry Edwards, Wendell Styner, Charles Wilson, and Don-
ald E. Woodward, all retired; and revised in 2000 by Roger Cronshey,
retired, under the guidance of Donald E. Woodward.

Helen Fox Moody, hydraulic engineer; William H. Merkel, hydrology

team leader; Quan D. Quan, hydraulic engineer, all with the National Water
Quality and Quantity Development Team, Beltsville, Maryland; and Karl
Visser, hydraulic engineer, National Design, Construction, and Soil Mechan-
ics Center, Fort Worth, Texas, provided reviews and edited content material
for this revision, under the guidance of Claudia C. Hoeft, national hydrau-
lic engineer.

Desktop publishing, editing, and illustrations were provided by Lynn Ow-

ens, editor; Wendy Pierce, illustrator; and Suzi Self, editorial assistant,
Technical Publications Team, NGMC, NRCS, Fort Worth, Texas.

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012) 18–i

Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

18–ii (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012)

Chapter 18 Selected Statistical
Methods
Contents: 630.1800 Introduction 18–1

630.1801 Basic data requirements 18–1

(a) Basic concepts................................................................................................ 18–1
(b) Types of data................................................................................................... 18–2
(c) Data errors...................................................................................................... 18–2
(d) Types of series................................................................................................ 18–3
(e) Data transformation....................................................................................... 18–5
(f) Distribution parameters and moments........................................................ 18–5

630.1802 Frequency analysis 18–6

(a) Basic concepts................................................................................................ 18–6
(b) Plotting positions and probability paper..................................................... 18–6
(c) Probability distribution functions................................................................ 18–7
(d) Cumulative distribution curve ..................................................................... 18–8
(e) Data considerations in analysis.................................................................... 18–9
(f) Frequency analysis procedures.................................................................. 18–21

630.1803 Flow duration 18–33

630.1804 Correlation and regression 18–33

(a) Correlation analysis..................................................................................... 18–33
(b) Regression..................................................................................................... 18–34
(c) Evaluating regression equations................................................................ 18–36
(d) Outline of procedures.................................................................................. 18–39

630.1805 Analysis based on regionalization 18–46

(a) Purpose.......................................................................................................... 18–46
(b) Direct estimation.......................................................................................... 18–46
(c) Indirect estimation....................................................................................... 18–53
(d) Discussion..................................................................................................... 18–59

630.1806 Risk 18–59

630.1807 Metric conversion factors 18–62

630.1808 References 18–62

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012) 18–iii

Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Tables Table 18–1 Sources of basic hydrologic data collected by 18–3

Federal agencies

Table 18–2 Flood peaks for East Fork Big Creek near Bethany, 18–4
Missouri

Table 18–3 Basic statistics data for example 18–1 18–11

Table 18–4 Frequency curve solutions for example 18–1 18–13

Table 18–5 Basic statistics data for example 18–2 18–16

Table 18–6 Solution of frequency curve for example 18–2 18–16

Table 18–7 Annual maximum peak discharge data for 18–22

example 18–3

Table 18–8 Annual maximum rainfall/snowmelt peak discharge 18–24

for example 18–3

Table 18–9 Frequency curve solutions for example 18–3 18–27

Table 18–10 Combination of frequency curves for example 18–3 18–28

Table 18–11 Data and normal Kn values for example 18–3 18–31

Table 18–12 Basic correlation data for example 18–4 18–42

Table 18–13 Residual data for example 18–4 18–44

Table 18–14 Basic data for example 18–5 18–48

Table 18–15 Correlation matrix of logarithms for example 18–5 18–49

Table 18–16 Stepwise regression coefficients for example 18–5 18–49

Table 18–17 Regression equation evaluation data for example 18–5 18–52

Table 18–18 Residuals for example 18–5 18–52

Table 18–19 Frequency curve solutions for example 18–6 18–54

18–iv (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012)

Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Figures Figure 18–1 Data and frequency curves for example 18–1 18–12

Figure 18–2 Data and frequency curve for example 18–2 18–18

Figure 18–3 Annual maximum peak discharge data for 18–23

example 18–3

Figure 18–4 Data and frequency curve for rainfall annual 18–25
maximum peaks in example 18–3

Figure 18–5 Data and frequency curve for snowmelt annual 18–26
maximum peaks in example 18–3

Figure 18–6 Combination of annual maximum rainfall and 18–29

annual maximum snowmelt frequency curves
for example 18–3

Figure 18–7 Data and top half frequency curve for example 18–3 18–32

Figure 18–8 Linear correlation values 18–35

Figure 18–9 Sample plots of residuals 18–37

Figure 18–10 Variable plot for example 18–4 18–43

Figure 18–11 Residual plot for example 18–4 18–45

Figure 18–12 Residual plot for example 18–5 18–50

Figure 18–13 Estimate smoothing for example 18–5 18–51

Figure 18–14 Drainage area and mean annual precipitation for 18–55
1-day mean flow for example 18–6

Figure 18–15 One-day mean flow and standard deviation for 18–56
example 18–6

Figure 18–16 Drainage area and mean annual precipitation for 18–57
15-day mean flow for example 18–6

Figure 18–17 Fifteen-day mean flow and standard deviation for 18–58
example 18–6

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012) 18–v

Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Examples Example 18–1 Development of log-normal and log-Pearson III 18–10

frequency curves

Example 18–2 Development of a two-parameter gamma 18–15

frequency curve

Example 18–3 Development of a mixed distribution frequency 18–22

curve by separating the data by cause and by using at
least the upper half of the data

Example 18–4 Development of a multiple regres­sion equation 18–40

Example 18–5 Development of a direct probability estimate by 18–47

use of stepwise regression

Example 18–6 Development of indirect probability estimates 18–53

Example 18–7 Risk of future nonoccurrence 18–60

Example 18–8 Risk of multiple occurrence 18–60

Example 18–9 Risk of a selected exceedance probability 18–61

Example 18–10 Exceedance probability of a selected risk 18–61

Exhibits Exhibit 18–1 Five Percent Two‑sided Critical Values for 18–65
Outlier Detection

Exhibit 18–2 Expected Values of Normal Order Statistics, Kn 18–66

Exhibit 18–3 Tables of Percentage Points of the Pearson Type 18–77

III Distribution

18–vi (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012)

Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods
630.1800 Introduction
Chapter 18 is a guide for applying selected statistical
methods to solve hydrologic problems. The chapter in-
cludes a review of basic statistical concepts, a descrip-
tion of selected statistical procedures, and references
to procedures in other available documents. Examples
illustrate how statistical procedures apply to typical
problems in hydrology.
In project evaluation and design, the hydrologist and/
or engineer must estimate the frequency of individual
hydrologic events. This is necessary when making
economic evaluations of flood protection projects; de-
termining floodways; and designing irrigation systems,
reservoirs, and channels. Frequency studies are based
on past records and, where records are insufficient, on
simulated data.
Meaningful relationships sometimes exist between
hydrologic and other types of data. The ability to gen-
eralize about these relationships may allow data to be
transferred from one location to another. Some proce-
dures used to perform such transfers, called regional-
ization, are covered in this chapter.
The examples in this chapter contain many computer-
generated tables. Some table values (especially loga-
rithmic transformations) may not be as accurate as
values calculated by other methods. Numerical accura-
cy is a function of the number of significant digits and
the algorithms used in data processing, so some slight
differences in numbers may be found if examples are
checked by other means.
(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012)
630.1801 Basic data require‑
ments
(a) Basic concepts
To analyze hydrologic data statistically, the user must
know basic definitions and understand the intent and
limitations of statistical analysis. Because collection of
all data or the entire population from a physical sys-
tem generally is not feasible and recorded data from
the system may be limited, observations must be based
on a sample that is representative of the population.
Statistical methods are based on the assumption of
randomness, which implies an event cannot be pre-
dicted with certainty. By definition, probability is an
indicator for the likelihood of an event’s occurrence
and is measured on a scale from zero to one, with zero
indicating no chance of occurrence and one indicating
certainty of occurrence.
An event or value that does not occur with certainty is
often called a random variable. The two types of ran-
dom variables are discrete and continuous. A discrete
random variable is one that can only take on values
that are whole numbers. For example, the outcome of
a toss of a die is a discrete random variable because it
can only take on the integer values 1 to 6. The concept
of risk as it is applied in frequency analysis is also
based on a discrete probability distribution. A con-
tinuous random variable can take on values defined
over a continuum; for example, peak discharge takes
on values other than discrete integers.
A function that defines the probability that a random
value will occur is called a probability distribution
function. For example, the log‑Pearson Type III distri-
bution, often used in frequency analyses, is a probabil-
ity distribution function. A probability mass function
is used for discrete random variables, while a density
function is used for continuous random variables. If
values of a distribution function are added (discrete)
or integrated (continuous), then a cumulative distri-
bution function is formed. Usually, hydrologic data
that are analyzed by frequency analysis are presented
as a cumulative distribution function.
18–1
Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods
(b) Types of data
The application of statistical methods in hydrologic
studies requires measurement of physical phenomena.
The user should understand how the data are collected
and processed before they are published. This knowl-
edge helps the user assess the accuracy of the data.
Some types of data used in hydrologic studies include
rainfall, snowmelt, stage, streamflow, temperature,
evaporation, and watershed characteristics.
Rainfall is generally measured as an accumulated
depth over time. Measurements represent the amount
caught by the gage opening and are valid only for the
gage location. The amount collected may be affected
by gage location and physical factors near the gage.
Application over large areas requires a study of adja-
cent gages and determinations of a weighted rainfall
amount. More complete descriptions of rainfall collec-
tion and evaluation procedures are in National Engi-
neering Handbook (NEH) 630.04.
Snowfall is measured as depth or as water equivalent
on the ground. As with rainfall, the measurement
represents only the depth at the measurement point.
The specific gravity of the snow times the depth of the
snow determines the water equivalent of the snow-
pack, which is the depth of water that would result
from melting the snow. To use snow information for
such things as predicting water yield, the user should
thoroughly know snowfall, its physical characteristics,
and its measurement. NEH, Section 22, Snow Survey
and Water Supply Forecasting (1972) further describes
these subjects.
Stages are measurements of the elevation of the water
surface as related to an established datum, either the
channel bottom or mean sea level, called the National
Geodetic Vertical Datum (NGVD). Peak stages are
measured by nonrecording gages, crest‑stage gages, or
recording gages. Peak stages from nonrecording gages
may be missed because continuous visual observa-
tions are not available. Crest‑stage gages record only
the maximum gage height and recording gages provide
a continuous chart or record of stage.
Streamflow or discharge rates are extensions of the
stage measurements that have been converted using
rating curves. Discharge rates indicate the runoff from
the drainage area above the gaging station and are
expressed in cubic feet per second (ft3/s). Volume of
18–2 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012)
Part 630
National Engineering Handbook
flow past a gage, expressed as a mean daily or hourly
flow in cubic feet per second per day or cubic feet per
second per hour (ft3/s-d or ft3/s-h), can be calculated if
the record is continuous. Accuracy of streamflow data
depends largely on physical features at the gaging site,
frequency of observation, and the type and adequacy
of the equipment used. Flows can be affected by up-
stream diversion and storage. U.S. Geological Survey
(USGS) Water Supply Paper 888 (Corbett 1962) gives
further details on streamflow data collection.
Daily temperature data are usually available, with
readings published as maximum, minimum, and mean
measurements for the day. Temperatures are recorded
in degrees Fahrenheit or degrees Celsius. National
Weather Service, Observing Handbook No. 2, Substa-
tion Observations (1972), describes techniques used to
collect meteorological data.
Evaporation data are generally published as pan
evaporation in inches per month. Pan evaporation is
often adjusted to estimate gross lake evaporation. The
National Weather Service has published pan evapora-
tion values in “Evaporation Atlas for the Contiguous
48 United States” (Farnsworth, Thompson, and Peck
1982).
Watershed characteristics used in hydrologic studies
include drainage area, channel slope, geology, type
and condition of vegetation, and other features. Maps,
field surveys, and studies are used to obtain this infor-
mation. Often data on these physical factors are not
published, but the USGS maintains a file on watershed
characteristics for most streamgage sites. Many Feder-
al and State agencies collect and publish hydrometeo-
rological data (table 18–1). Many other organizations
collect hydrologic data that are not published, but may
be available upon request.
(c) Data errors
The possibility of instrumental and human error is in-
herent in data collection and publication for hydrolog-
ic studies. Instrumental errors are caused by the type
of equipment used, its location, and conditions at the
time measurements are taken. Instrumental errors can
be accidental if they are not constant or do not create
a trend, but they may also be systematic if they occur
regularly and introduce a bias into the record. Human
errors by the observer or by others who process or
Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

publish the information can also be accidental or sys-
tematic. Examples of human errors include improper
operation or observation of equipment, misinterpreta-
tion of data, and errors in transcribing and publishing.
The user of the hydrologic data should be aware of
the possibility of errors in observations and should
recognize observations that are outside the expected
range of values. Knowledge of the procedures used in
collecting the data is helpful in recognizing and resolv-
ing any questionable observations, but the user should
consult the collection agency when data seem to be in
error.
The partial-duration series includes all events in
the complete‑duration series with a magnitude above
a selected base for high events or below a selected
base for low events. Unfortunately, independence of
events that occur in a short period is hard to establish
because long-lasting watershed effects from one event
can influence the magnitude of succeeding events.
Also, in many areas the extreme events occur during a
relatively short period during the year. Partial-duration
frequency curves are developed either by graphically
fitting the plotted sample data or by using empirical
coefficients to convert the partial-duration series to
another series.

The extreme-event series includes the largest (or

(d) Types of series
Hydrologic data are generally presented in chrono-
logical order. If all the data for a certain increment
of observation (for example, daily readings) are
presented for the entire period of record, this is a
complete-duration series. Many of these data do not
have significance and can be excluded from hydrologic
studies. The complete-duration series is only used for
duration curves or mass curves. From the complete-
duration series, two types of series are selected: the
partial-duration series and the extreme-event series.
smallest) values from the complete-duration series,
with each value selected from an equal time interval in
the period of record. If the time interval is taken as 1
year, then the series is an annual series; for example,
a tabulation of the largest peak flows in each year
through the period of record is an annual peak flow
series at the location. Several high peak flows may
occur within the same year, but the annual peak series
includes only the largest peak flow per year. Table
18–2 illustrates a partial‑duration and annual peak flow
series.

Table 18–1 Sources of basic hydrologic data collected by Federal agencies

Agency - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Data - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Rainfall Snow Streamflow Evaporation Air temp. Water stage
USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS) X X X X X X
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) X X X X X
USDA Forest Service (FS) X X X X X
U.S. Geological Survey, National Water Information X X X X X
Service (NWIS)
International Boundary and Water Commission X X X X X
River Basin Commissions X X X
DOI Bureau of Reclamation X X X X X X
USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) X X X X X
Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) X X X X X
National Climatic Data Center, National Oceanic and X X X X X
Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012) 18–3

Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Table 18–2 Flood peaks for East Fork Big Creek near Bethany, Missouri (06897000) 1/

Year Peaks above base Year Peaks above base Year Peaks above base Year Peaks above base
(ft3/s) (ft3/s) (ft3/s) (ft3/s)

1940 1,780 * 1947 2,240 1959 3,800 1969 2,990

1,120 8,120 * 3,000 3,110 *
2,970 1,500 1,730
1941 2,770 3,700 2,660 2,910
2,950 * 4,920 5,100 * 2,270
3,660 2,060
1942 1,190 1948 1,260 2,280
1,400 2,310 * 1,890 1970 2,090
925 3,070 *
925 1949 2,000 * 1960 2,280 2,060
1,330 4,650
1,330 1950 1,160 1,960 1971 2,000 *
5,320 1,300 * 1,680
6,600 * 4,740 * 1972 3,190 *
1951 1,090 2,040
1943 958 2,920 *
1,680 1,090 1961 1,760
2,000 1,720 1,520
3,110 * 2,030 3,100
925 1,060 5,700 *
2,470 1,000 2,300
1,330
1,190 1952 1,440 1962 2,630
2,240 1,610 2,750
3,070 1,090 1,760
1,230 1,820
1944 1,120 2,970 * 3,880 *
3,210 * 2,280
2,620 1963 2,100 *
2,170 1953 925 *
1964 1,880
1945 3,490 1954 1,330 * 1,910 *
4,120 *
2,310 1965 1,730
2,350 1955 1,500 3,480 *
2,240 *
1946 4,400 1,500 1966 2,430 *
1,520
1,720 1956 1,560 1967 1,640
6,770 * 2,500 * 3,350 *
1,960 1,640
1957 1,620 *
1968 3,150 *
1958 1,780 *
1,780

1/ Partial‑duration base is 925 ft3/s, the lowest annual flood for this series.
* Annual series values. Data from USGS Water Supply Papers.

18–4 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012)

Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods
Some data indicate seasonal variation, monthly varia-
tion, or causative variation. Major storms or floods
may occur consistently during the same season of the
year or may be caused by more than one factor; for
example, by rainfall and snowmelt. Such data may
require the development of a series based on a separa-
tion by causative factors or a particular timeframe.
(e) Data transformation
In many instances, complex data relationships require
that variables be transformed to approximate linear re-
lationships or other relationships with known shapes.
Types of data transformation include:
• Linear transformation, which involves addition,
subtraction, multiplication, or division by a
constant
• Inverted transformation by use of the recipro-
cal of the data variables
• Logarithmic transformation by use of the loga-
rithms of the data variables
• Exponential transformation, which includes
raising the data variables to a power
• Any combination of the above
The appropriate transformation may be based on a
physical system or may be entirely empirical. All data
transformations have limitations. For example, the re-
ciprocal of data greater than +1 yields values between
zero and +1. Logarithms commonly used in hydrologic
data can only be derived from positive data.
(f) Distribution parameters and mo‑
ments
A probability distribution function, as previously
defined, is represented by a mathematical formula that
includes one or more of the following parameters:
• Location—provides reference values for the
random variable
• Scale—characterizes the relative dispersion of
the distribution
• Shape—describes the outline or form of a dis-
tribution
(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012)
Part 630
National Engineering Handbook
A parameter is unbiased if the average of estimates
taken from repeated samples of the same size con-
verges to the average population value. A parameter
is biased if the average estimate does not converge to
the average population value.
A probability density function can be characterized
by its moments, which are also used in characterizing
data samples. In hydrology, three moments of special
interest are mean, variance, and skew.
The first moment about the origin is the mean, a loca-
tion parameter that measures the central tendency of
the data and is computed by:
1 N 
X= ∑ X i (18–1)
N  i =1 
where:
X = sample arithmetic mean having N observations
Xi = the ith observation of the sample data
N = number of observations
The first moment about the mean is always zero. The
remaining two moments of interest are taken about
the mean instead of the origin.
The variance, a scale parameter and the second mo-
ment about the mean, measures the dispersion of the
sample elements about the mean. The unbiased esti-
mate of the variance (S2) is given by:
 1 N 2
S X2 =  ∑ ( X i − X )  (18–2)
 N − 1 i =1 
A biased estimate of the variance results when the di-
visor (N – 1) is replaced by N. An alternative form for
computing the unbiased sample variance is given by:
1 N 2 1 N  
2
S 2X =  ∑ X i −  ∑ X i   (18–3)
N − 1  i =1 N  i =1  
This equation is often used for computer applications
because it does not require prior computation of the
mean. However, because of the sensitivity of equation
18–3 to the number of significant digits carried through
the computation, equation 18–2 is often preferred.
18–5
Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

The standard deviation of X (SX) is the square root

of the variance and is used more frequently than the
variance because its units are the same as those of the
630.1802 Frequency analysis
mean.
0.5
 1 N 2 (a) Basic concepts
SX =  ∑ ( X i − X )  (18–4)
 N − 1 i =1 
Frequency analysis is a statistical method commonly
The skew, a shape parameter and the third moment used to analyze a single random variable. Even when
about the mean, measures the symmetry of a distribu- the population distribution is known, uncertainty is
tion. The sample skew (G) can be computed by: associated with the occurrence of the random vari-
able. When the population is unknown, there are two
sources of uncertainty: randomness of future events
N N 3
3 ∑ ( i
G= X − X )  (18–5) and accuracy of estimation of the relative frequency
( N − 1) ( N − 2 ) S  i =1  of occurrence. The cumulative density function is
estimated by fitting a frequency distribution to the
Although the range of the skew is theoretically unlim- sample data. A frequency distribution is a generalized
ited, a mathematical limit based on sample size limits cumulative density function of known shape and range
the possible skew (Kirby 1974). A skew of zero indi- of values.
cates a symmetrical distribution. Another equation for
computing skew that does not require prior computa- The probability scale of the frequency distribution
tion of the mean is: differs from the probability scale of the cumulative
density function by the relation (1–p) where:
3
 N   N  N   N 
N 2  ∑ X 3i  − 3N  ∑ X i   ∑ X 2i  + 2  ∑ X i  p + q = 1 (18–7)
G=  i =1   i =1   i =1   i =1  (18–6)
N ( N − 1) ( N − 2 ) S 3 The variables p and q represent the accumulation of
the density function for all values less than and greater
This equation is extremely sensitive to the number of
than, respectively, the value of the random variable.
significant digits used during computation and may not
The accumulation is made from the right end of the
give an accurate estimate of the sample skew.
probability density function curve when one consid-
ers high values, such as peak discharge. Exhibit 18–3
presents the accumulation of the Pearson III density
function for both p and q for a range of skew values.

When minimum values (p) such as low flows are con-

sidered, the accumulation of the probability density
function is from the left end of the curve. The resulting
curve represents values less than the random variable.

(b) Plotting positions and probability

paper
Statistical computations of frequency curves are
independent of how the sample data are plotted.
Therefore, the data should be plotted along with the
calculated frequency curve to verify that the general
trend of the data reasonably agrees with the frequency
distribution curve. Various plotting formulas are used;
many are of the general form:

18–6 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012)

Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods
100 ( M − a )
PP = (18–8)
N − a − b +1
where:
PP = plotting position for a value in percent
chance
M = ordered data (largest to smallest for maxi-
mum values and smallest to largest for
minimum values)
N = size of the data sample
a and b = constants
Some commonly used constants for plot-
ting position formulas are:
Name a b
Weibull 0 0
Hazen –M+1 –N+M
California 0 1
Blom 3/8 3/8
The Weibull plotting position is used to plot the sam-
ple data in the chapter examples:
100 ( M ) (18–9)
PP =
N +1
Each probability distribution has its own probability
paper for plotting. The probability scale is defined
by transferring a linear scale of standard deviates (K
values) into probabilities for that distribution. The fre-
quency curve for a distribution will be a straight line
on paper specifically designed for that distribution.
Probability paper for logarithmic normal and extreme
value distributions is readily available. Distributions
with a varying shape statistic (log‑Pearson III and gam-
ma) require paper with a different probability scale
for each value of the shape statistic. For these distri-
butions, a special plotting paper is not practical. The
log‑Pearson III and gamma distributions are generally
plotted on logarithmic normal probability paper. The
plotted frequency line may be curved, but this is more
desirable than developing a new probability scale each
time these distributions are plotted.
(c) Probability distribution functions
(1) Normal
The normal distribution, used to evaluate continuous
random variables, is symmetrical and bell-shaped.
(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012)
Part 630
National Engineering Handbook
The range of the random variable is –X to +X. Two
parameters (location and scale) are required to fit the
distribution. These parameters are approximated by
the sample mean and standard deviation. The normal
distribution is the basis for much of statistical theory,
but generally does not fit hydrologic data.
The log-normal distribution (normal distribution with
logarithmically transformed data) is often used in hy-
drology to fit high or low discharge data or in regional-
ization analysis. Its range is zero to +X. Example 18–1
illustrates the development of a log-normal distribu-
tion curve.
(2) Pearson III
Karl Pearson developed a system of 12 distributions
that can approximate all forms of single-peak statis-
tical distributions. The system includes three main
distributions and nine transition distributions, all of
which were developed from a single differential equa-
tion. The distributions are continuous, but can be
fitted to various forms of discrete data sets (Chisman
1968).
The type III (negative exponential) is the distribution
frequently used in hydrologic analysis. It is nonsym-
metrical and is used with continuous random vari-
ables. The probability density function can take on
many shapes. Depending on the shape parameter, the
random variable range can be limited on the lower
end, the upper end, or both. Three parameters are
required to fit the Pearson type III distribution. The
location and scale parameters (mean and standard de-
viation) are the same as those for the normal distribu-
tion. The shape (or third) parameter is approximated
by the sample skew.
When a logarithmic transformation is used, a lower
bound of zero exists for all shape parameters. The log-
Pearson type III is used to fit high and low discharge
values, snow, and volume duration data.
(3) Two-parameter gamma
The two-parameter gamma distribution is nonsymme-
trical and is used with continuous random variables to
fit high and low volume duration, stage, and discharge
data. Its probability density function has a lower limit
of zero and a defined upper limit of infinity (∞). Two
parameters are required to fit the distribution: ß, a
scale parameter, and γ, a shape parameter. A detailed
description of how to fit the distribution with the two
18–7
Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

parameters and incomplete gamma function tables is
in Technical Publication (TP)–148 (Sammons 1966).
As a close approximation of this solution, a three-
parameter Pearson type III fit can be made and exhibit
18–3 tables used. The mean and γ must be computed
and converted to standard deviation and skewness
parameters. Greenwood and Durand (1960) provide
a method to calculate an approximation for γ that is a
function of the relationship (R) between the arithmetic
mean and geometric mean (Gm) of the sample data:
1 or unsuccessful, flood or no flood).
G m =  X1 ( X 2 ) ( X 3 )…( X N ) N (18–10)
 X 
R = ln   (18–11)
 Gm 
where:
ln = natural logarithm
If 0 ≤ R ≤ 0.5772 which is described later in the chapter.
(a)
by the National Weather Service in some precipita-
tion analysis. Other Federal, State, local, and private
organizations also have publications based on extreme
value theory.
(5) Binomial
The binomial distribution, used with discrete random
variables, is based on four assumptions:
• The random variable may have only one of two
responses (for example, yes or no, successful
• There will be n trials in the sample.
• Each trial will be independent.
• The probability of a response will be constant
from one trial to the next.
The binomial distribution is used in assessing risk,

γ = R −1 ( 0.5000876 + 0.1648852R − 0.0544274 R 2 ) (d) Cumulative distribution curve

(18–12)
(b) If 0.5772 < R ≤ 17.0 tion curve for normal, Pearson III, or gamma distribu-
8.898919 + 9.059950R + 0.9775373R 2
γ= (18–13)
R (17.79728 + 11.968477 R + R 2 )
(c) If R > 17.0 the shape approaches a log-normal dis-
tribution, and a log-normal solution may be used.
The standard deviation and skewness can now be
computed from γ and the mean:
Selected percentage points on the cumulative distribu-
tions can be computed with the sample mean, stan-
dard deviation, and skewness. Exhibit 18–2 contains
standard deviate (Kn) values for the normal probability
distribution. Exhibit 18–3 contains standard deviate
(Kp) values for various values of skewness and prob-
abilities for the Pearson III distribution. The equation
used to compute points along the cumulative distribu-
tion curve is:
Q = X + KS (18–16)

X
S= (18–14) where:
γ Q = random variable value at a selected ex­
ceedance probability
2 X = sample mean
G= (18–15)
γ S = sample standard deviation
K = standard deviate, which is designated Kn or
(4) Extreme value Kp (for normal or Pearson) depending on the
The extreme value distribution, another nonsymmetri- exhibit used
cal distribution used with continuous random vari-
ables, has three main types. Type I is unbounded, type If a logarithmic transformation has been applied to the
II is bounded on the lower end, and type III is bounded data, then the equation becomes:
on the upper end. The type I (Fisher-Tippett) is used log Q = X + K pS (18–17)

18–8 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012)

Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods
where:
X and S are based on the moments of the logarithmi-
cally transformed sample data.
With the mean, standard deviation, and skew com-
puted, a combination of Kp values from exhibit 18–3
and either equation 18–16 or 18–17 is used to calculate
specified points along the cumulative distribution
curve.
(e) Data considerations in analysis
(1) Outliers
If the population model is correct, outliers are popula-
tion elements that occur, but are highly unlikely to oc-
cur in a sample of a given size. Therefore, outliers can
result from sampling variation or from using the incor-
rect probability model. After the most likely probabil-
ity model is selected, outlier tests can be performed
for evaluating extreme events.
Outliers can be detected by use of test criteria in
exhibit 18–1. Critical standard deviates (Kn values) for
the normal distribution can be taken from the exhibit.
Critical K values for other distributions are computed
from the probability levels listed in the exhibit. Critical
K values are used in either equation 18–16 or 18–17,
along with sample mean and standard deviation, to de-
termine an allowable range of sample element values.
The detection process is iterative:
Step 1 Use sample statistics, X and S, and K,
with equation 18–16 or 18–17 to detect a single
outlier.
Step 2 Delete detected outliers from the sample.
Step 3 Recompute sample statistics without the
outliers.
Step 4 Begin again at step 1.
Continue the process until no outliers are detected.
High and low outliers can exist in a sample data set.
(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012)
Part 630
National Engineering Handbook
Two extreme values of about the same magnitude are
not likely to be detected by this outlier detection pro-
cedure. In these cases, delete one value and check to
see if the remaining value is an outlier. If the remaining
value is an outlier, then both values should be called
outliers or neither value should be called an outlier.
The detection process depends on the distribution of
the data. A positive skewness indicates the possibility
of high outliers, and a negative skewness indicates the
possibility of low outliers. Thus, samples with a posi-
tive skew should be tested first for high outliers, and
samples with negative skew should be tested first for
low outliers.
If one or more outliers are detected, another frequency
distribution should be considered. If a frequency distri-
bution is found that appears to have fewer outliers,
repeat the outlier detection process. If no better model
is found, treat the outliers in the following order of
preference:
Step 1 Reduce their weight or impact on the
frequency curve.
Step 2 Eliminate the outliers from the sample.
Step 3 Retain the outliers in the sample.
When historic data are available, high outlier weight-
ing can be reduced using appendix 6 of Water Resourc-
es Council (WRC) Bulletin #17B (1982). If such data
are not available, decide whether to retain or delete
the high outliers. This decision involves judgment
concerning the impact of the outliers on the frequency
curve and its intended use. Low outliers can be given
reduced weighting by treating them as missing data as
outlined in appendix 5 of WRC Bulletin #17B.
Although WRC Bulletin #17B was developed for peak
flow frequency analysis, many of the methods are ap-
plicable to other types of data.
Example 18–1 illustrates the development of a log-
Pearson type III distribution curve. Example 18–2
shows the development of a two-parameter gamma
frequency curve.
18–9
Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Example 18–1 Development of log-normal and log-Pearson III frequency curves

Given: Annual maximum peak discharge data for East Fork San Juan River near Pagosa Springs, Colo-
rado, (Station 09340000) are analyzed. Table 18–3 shows the water year (column 1) and annual
maximum peak values (column 2). Other columns in the table are referenced by number in paren-
theses in the following steps:

Solution: Step 1—Plot the data. Before plotting the data, arrange them in descending order (column 6).
Compute Weibull plotting positions, based on a sample size of 44, from equation 18–9 (column 7),
and then plot the data on logarithmic normal probability paper (fig. 18–1).

Step 2—Examine the trend of plotted data. The plotted data follow a single trend that is nearly a
straight line, so a log-normal distribution should provide an adequate fit. The log-Pearson type III
distribution is also included because it is computational, like the log normal.

Step 3—Compute the required statistics. Use common logarithms to transform the data (column
3). Compute the sample mean by using the summation of sample data logarithms and equation
18–1:

130.1245
X= = 2.957376
44

Compute differences between each sample logarithm and the mean logarithm. Use the sum of
the squares and cubes of the differences (columns 4 and 5) in computing the standard devia-
tion and skew. Compute the standard deviation of logarithms by using the sum of squares of
the differences and the square root of equation 18–2:

0.5
 1.659318 
S=  = 0.1964403
 ( 44 − 1) 

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Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Example 18–1 Development of log-normal and log-Pearson III frequency curves—Continued

Table 18–3 Basic statistics data for example 18–1 (Station 09340000 E. Fork San Juan River near Pagosa Springs, CO;
Drainage area = 86.9 mi2, Elevation = 7,597.63 feet)

Water Annual X = log (peak) (X - X )2 (X - X )3 Ordered peak Weibull plot position

year maximum (ft3/s) 100 M/ (N+1)
peak
(ft3/s)
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7)

1935 1,480 3.170260 0.0453200 0.0096479 2,460 2.2

1936 931 2.968948 0.0001339 0.0000015 2,070 4.4
1937 1,120 3.049216 0.0084347 0.0007747 1,850 6.7
1938 1,670 3.222715 0.0704052 0.0186813 1,670 8.9
1939 580 2.763427 0.0376161 –0.0072956 1,550 11.1
1940 606 2.782472 0.0305914 –0.0053505 1,510 13.3
1941 2,070 3.315969 0.1285889 0.0461111 1,480 15.6
1942 1,330 3.123850 0.0277137 0.0046136 1,410 17.8
1943 830 2.919077 0.0014668 –0.0000562 1,340 20.0
1944 1,410 3.149218 0.0368034 0.0070604 1,330 22.2
1945 1,140 3.056904 0.0099059 0.0009859 1,320 24.4
1946 590 2.770850 0.0347917 –0.0064895 1,270 26.7
1947 724 2.859737 0.0095332 –0.0009308 1,270 28.9
1948 1,510 3.178975 0.0491064 0.0108819 1,170 31.1
1949 1,270 3.103803 0.0214409 0.0031395 1,140 33.3
1950 463 2.665580 0.0851447 –0.0248449 1,120 35.6
1951 709 2.850645 0.0113914 –0.0012158 1,070 37.8
1952 1,850 3.267170 0.0959725 0.0297318 1,050 40.0
1953 1,050 3.021188 0.0040720 0.0002598 1,030 42.2
1954 550 2.740361 0.0470952 –0.0102203 934 44.4
1955 557 2.745853 0.0447416 –0.0094638 931 46.7
1956 1,170 3.068185 0.0122787 0.0013606 923 48.9
1957 1,550 3.190331 0.0542680 0.0126420 880 51.1
1958 1,030 3.012836 0.0030758 0.0001706 865 53.3
1959 388 2.588830 0.1358257 –0.0500580 856 55.6
1960 865 2.937015 0.0004146 –0.0000084 856 57.8
1961 610 2.785329 0.0296001 –0.0050926 830 60.0
1962 880 2.944481 0.0001663 –0.0000021 820 62.2
1963 490 2.690195 0.0713854 –0.0190728 776 64.4
1964 820 2.913813 0.0018977 –0.0000827 724 66.7
1965 1,270 3.103803 0.0214409 0.0031395 709 68.9
1966 856 2.932472 0.0006202 –0.0000154 610 71.1
1967 1,070 3.029383 0.0051850 0.0003734 606 73.3
1968 934 2.970345 0.0001682 0.0000022 600 75.6
1969 856 2.932472 0.0006202 –0.0000154 590 77.8
1970 2,460 3.390934 0.1879728 0.0814972 580 80.0
1971 515 2.711805 0.0603047 –0.0148090 557 82.2
1972 422 2.625311 0.1102667 –0.0366157 550 84.4
1973 1,340 3.127104 0.0288077 0.0048895 515 86.7
1974 490 2.690195 0.0713854 –0.0190728 490 88.9
1975 1,320 3.120572 0.0266331 0.0043464 490 91.1
1976 923 2.965200 0.0000612 0.0000005 463 93.3
1977 600 2.778150 0.0321219 –0.0057571 422 95.6
1978 776 2.889860 0.0045583 –0.0003078 388 97.8
Summation 130.1245 1.659318 0.0235340

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Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
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Example 18–1 Development of log-normal and log-Pearson III frequency curves—Continued

Figure 18–1 Data and frequency curves for example 18–1

4,000

3,000

2,000
Annual maximum peak discharge (ft3/s)

1,000
900

800

700

600

500

400
09340000
1935−1978
Annual maximum peak
300 discharge
Log-normal distribution
Log-Pearson III
Arrows show values for outliers check

200
99.9 99.5 99 98 96 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 4 2 1 0.5 0.1
Percent chance (100 × probability)

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Example 18–1 Development of log-normal and log-Pearson III frequency curves—Continued

Compute the skew by using the sum of cubes of the differences (column 5) and equation 18–5:

44
G= × 0.023534 = 0.0756
(44 − 1) (44 − 2) (0.1964403 )3

For ease of use in the next step, round skew value to the nearest tenth (G = 0.1).
Step 4—Verify selection of distributions. Use exhibit 18–3 to obtain Kp values for required skew at
sufficient exceedance probabilities to define the frequency curve. Use the mean, standard deviation,
skew, and equation 18–17 to compute discharges at the selected exceedance probabilities. Exhibit
18–3 Kp values and discharge computations are shown in table 18–4. Plot the frequency curves on
the same graph as the sample data (fig. 18–1). A comparison between the plotted frequency curve
and the sample data verifies the selection of the distributions. Other distributions can be tested the
same way.

Table 18–4 Frequency curve solutions for example 18–1

Exceed. Exhibit 18–3 Log Q= Log‑ Exhibit 18–3 Log Q = Log­-

prob. Kp value X + K pS normal Kp value X + K pS Pearson III
(q) (G = 0.0) discharges (G = 0.1) discharges
(ft3/s) (ft3/s)

0.999 –3.09023 2.35033 224 –2.94834 2.37820 239

0.998 –2.87816 2.39199 247 –2.75706 2.41578 260
0.995 –2.57583 2.45138 283 –2.48187 2.46984 295
0.990 –2.32635 2.50039 317 –2.25258 2.51488 327
0.980 –2.05375 2.55394 358 –1.99973 2.56455 367
0.960 –1.75069 2.61347 411 –1.71580 2.62032 417
0.900 –1.28155 2.70563 508 –1.27037 2.70782 510
0.800 –0.84162 2.79205 620 –0.84611 2.79117 618
0.700 –0.52440 2.85436 715 –0.53624 2.85204 711
0.600 –0.25335 2.90761 808 –0.26882 2.90457 803
0.500 0.00000 2.95738 907 ‑0.01662 2.95411 900
0.400 0.25335 3.00714 1,017 0.23763 3.00406 1,009
0.300 0.52440 3.06039 1,149 0.51207 3.05797 1,143
0.200 0.84162 3.12270 1,326 0.83639 3.12168 1,323
0.100 1.28155 3.20912 1,619 1.29178 3.21113 1,626
0.040 1.75069 3.30128 2,001 1.78462 3.30795 2,032
0.020 2.05375 3.36082 2,295 2.10697 3.37127 2,351
0.010 2.32635 3.41436 2,596 2.39961 3.42876 2,684
0.005 2.57583 3.46337 2,907 2.66965 3.48180 3,033
0.002 2.87816 3.52276 3,332 2.99978 3.54665 3,521
0.001 3.09023 3.56442 3,668 3.23322 3.59251 3,913

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Example 18–1 Development of log-normal and log-Pearson III frequency curves—Continued

Step 5—Check the sample for outliers. Kn values, based on sample size, are obtained from exhibit
18–1. The Kn value for a sample of 44 is 2.945. Compute the log-normal high outlier criteria from the
mean, the standard deviation, the outlier Kn value, and equation 18–17 (using Kn instead of Kp):

log Q HI = 2.957376 + ( 2.945 )(0.1964403 )

= 3.5359

Q HI = 3, 435 ft 3 /s

Use the negative of the outlier Kn value in equation 18–17 to compute the low outlier criteria:

log Q LO = 2.957376 + ( −2.945 )(0.1964403 )

= 2.37886

Q LO = 239 ft 3 /s

Because all of the sample data used in example 18–1 are between QHI and QLO, there are no outliers
for the log-normal distribution.

High and low outlier criteria values for skewed distributions can be found by use of the high and
low probability levels from exhibit 18–1. Read discharge values from the plotted log-Pearson III fre-
quency curve at the probability levels listed for the sample size (in this case, 44). The high and low
outlier criteria values are 3,700 and 250 cubic feet per second. Because all sample data are between
these values, there are no outliers for the log-Pearson III distribution.

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Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Example 18–2 Development of a two-parameter gamma frequency curve

Given: Table 18–5 contains 7-day mean low flow data for the Patapsco River at Hollifield, Maryland,
(Station 01589000) including the water year (column 1) and 7-day mean low flow values (column
2). The remaining columns are referenced in the following steps.

Solution: Step 1—Plot the data. Before plotting, arrange the data in ascending order (column 3). Weibull
plotting positions are computed based on the sample size of 34 from equation 18–9 (column 4).
Ordered data are plotted at the computed plotting positions on logarithmic-normal probability
paper (fig. 18–2).

Step 2—Examine the trends of the plotted data. The data plot as a single trend with a slightly
concave downward shape.

Step 3—Compute the required statistics. Compute the gamma shape parameter, γ, from the
sample data (column 3), equations 18–1, 18–10, and 18–11, and either equation 18–12 or 18–13.

1876
X= = 55.17647
34
1
G m = ( 3.308266 × 10 55 ) 34 = 42.94666

 55.17647 
R = ln   = 0.25058
 42.9466 
Because R <0.5772 use equation 18–12 to compute γ.

γ=
 1 
{
 0.5000876 + ( 0.1648852 )( 0.25058 ) − ( 0.0544274 ) ( 0.25058 )
 0.25058 
2
}
γ = 2.14697

Using the mean and γ, compute the standard deviation and skew from equations 18–14 and
18–15:
55.17647
S= = 37.65658
2.14697

2
G= = 1.36495
2.14697

For ease of use in next step, round skew value to the nearest tenth (G = 1.4).

Step 4—Compute the frequency curve. Use exhibit 18–3 to obtain Kp values for the required
skew at sufficient probability levels to define the frequency curve. Compute discharges at the se-
lected probability levels (p) by equation 18–16. Exhibit 18–3 Kp values and computed discharges
are shown in table 18–6. Then plot the frequency curve on the same graph as the sample data
(fig. 18–2). Compare the plotted data and the frequency curve to verify the selection of the two-
parameter gamma distribution.

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Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
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Example 18–2 Development of a two-parameter gamma frequency curve—Continued

Table 18–5 Basic statistics data for example 18–2 Table 18–6 Solution of frequency curve for example
18–2

Water 7‑Day Ordered Weibull Prob. (p) Exhibit 18–3 Kp Q = X + KpS

year mean low data plot position value
flow (ft3/s) (ft3/s) 100 M/(N + 1) (G = 1.4)
  (1) (2) (3) (4)

0.999 5.09505 247.0

1946 107 11 2.9
1947 127 15 5.7 0.998 4.55304 227.0
1948 79 16 8.6 0.995 3.82798 199.0
1949 145 17 11.4 0.990 3.27134 178.0
1950 110 19 14.3
0.980 2.70556 157.0
1951 98 20 17.1
1952 99 22 20.0 0.960 2.12768 135.0
1953 168 23 22.9 0.900 1.33665 106.0
1954 60 23 25.7 0.800 0.70512 82.0
1955 20 25 28.6
0.700 0.31307 67.0
1956 23 25 31.4
1957 51 25 34.3 0.600 0.01824 56.0
1958 17 27 37.1 0.500 – 0.22535 47.0
1959 52 32 40.0 0.400 – 0.43949 39.0
1960 25 40 42.9
0.300 – 0.63779 31.0
1961 43 43 45.7
1962 27 44 48.6 0.200 – 0.83223 24.0
1963 16 47 51.4 0.100 – 1.04144 16.0
1964 11 48 54.3 0.040 – 1.19842 10.0
1965 19 50 57.1
0.020 – 1.26999 7.4
1966 22 51 60.0
1967 15 52 62.9 0.010 – 1.31815 5.5
1968 47 59 65.7 0.005 – 1.35114 4.3
1969 32 60 68.6 0.002 – 1.37981 3.2
1970 25 69 71.4
0.001 – 1.39408 2.7
1971 25 79 74.3
1972 59 80 77.1
1973 69 98 80.0
1974 50 99 82.9
1975 44 107 85.7
1976 80 110 88.6
1977 40 127 91.4
1978 23 145 94.3
1979 48 168 97.1

Sum 1,876
Product 3.308266 × 1055

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Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Example 18–2 Development of a two-parameter gamma frequency curve—Continued

Step 5—Check the sample for outliers. Obtain outlier probability levels from exhibit 18–1 for
a sample size of 34. The probability levels are 0.9977863 and 0.0022137. From figure 18–2, read
the discharge rates associated with these probability levels. The outlier criteria values are 220
and 3.3 cubic feet per second. Because all sample data are between these values, there are no
outliers.

Step 6—Estimate discharges. Use the frequency curve to estimate discharges at desired prob-
ability levels.

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Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Example 18–2 Development of a two-parameter gamma frequency curve—Continued

Figure 18–2 Data and frequency curve for example 18–2

400

300 01589000
1946−1979
7-day mean
200 low flow

100

80

60
50
7-day mean low flow (ft /s)

40
3

30

20

10
8

6
5
4

1
99.9 99.5 99 98 96 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 4 2 1 0.5 0.1
Percent chance (100 × probability)

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Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

(2) Mixed distributions
A mixed distribution occurs when at least two events
in the population result from different causes. In
flow frequency analysis, a sample of annual peak
discharges at a given site can be drawn from a single
distribution or mixture of distributions. A mixture
occurs when the series of peak discharges are caused
by various types of runoff-producing events, such as
generalized rainfall, local thunderstorms, hurricanes,
snowmelt, or any combination of these.
Previously discussed frequency analysis techniques
may be valid for mixed distributions. If the mixture
is caused by a single or small group of values, these
values may appear as outliers. After these values are
identified as outliers, the sample can then be analyzed.
However, if the number of values departing from the
trend of the data becomes significant, a second trend
may be evident. Two or more trends may be evident
when the data are plotted on probability paper.
Populations with multiple trends cause problems in
analysis. The skewness of the entire sample is greater
than the skewness of samples that are separated by
cause. The larger skewness causes the computed fre-
quency curve to differ from the sample data plot in the
region common to both trends.
The two methods that can be used to develop a mixed
distribution frequency curve are illustrated in example
18–3. The preferred method (method 1) involves sepa-
rating the sample data by cause, analyzing the sepa-
rated data, and combining the frequency curves. The
detailed procedure is as follows:
data for any series are a problem, then the method
needs a truncated series with conditional proba-
bility adjustment. See appendix 5 of WRC Bulletin
#17B.
Step 4 Compute the statistics and frequency
curve for each annual series separately.
Step 5 Use the addition rule of probability to
combine the computed frequency curves.
P {A ∪ B} = P {A} + P {B} −  P {A} × P {B} (18–18)
where:
P{A ∪ B} = probability of an event of given
magnitude occurring from either or
both series
P{A} and P{B} = probabilities of an event of given
magnitude occurring from each
series
P{A} × P{B} = probability of an event from each
series occurring in a single year
An alternative method (method 2) that requires only
the sample data may be useful in estimating the fre-
quency curve for q < 0.5. This method is less reliable
than method 1 and requires that at least the upper
half of the data be generally normal or log-normal if
log-transformed data are used. A straight line is fitted
to at least the upper half of the frequency range of the
series. The standard deviation and mean are developed
by use of the expected values of normal order statis-
tics. The equations are:

0.5
 N  
2

 N  ∑ i  
X
Step 1 Determine the cause for each annual  2 
  ∑ X i  −
i =1

event. If a specific cause cannot be found for each N 

i =1
event, method 1 cannot be used. S= 2
 (18­–19)
  n  
Step 2 Separate the data into individual series  N  ∑Ki  
  K 2  −  i =1  
for each cause in step 1. Some events may be   ∑
i =1
i
 N 
common to more than one series and, therefore,
belong to more than one series. For example,
snowmelt and generalized rainfall could form an 1  N   N 
X=  ∑ i X − S  ∑ Ki   (18­–20)
event that would belong to both series. N   i =1   i =1  
Step 3 Collect the necessary data to form an
annual series for each cause. Some series will not where:
have an event for each year. An example of this N = number of elements in the truncated series
is a hurricane series in an area where hurricanes Ki = expected value of normal order statistics (Kn)
occur about once every 10 years. If insufficient for the ith element of the complete sample

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012) 18–19

Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods
Expected values of normal order statistics are shown
in exhibit 18–2 at the back of this chapter.
(3) Incomplete record and zero flow years
An incomplete record refers to a sample in which some
data are missing either because they were too low or
too high to record or because the measuring device
was out of operation. In most instances, the agency
collecting the data provides estimates for missing high
flows. When the missing high values are estimated by
someone other than the collecting agency, it should be
documented and the data collection agency advised.
Most agencies do not routinely provide estimates of
low flow values. The procedure that accounts for miss-
ing low values is a conditional probability adjustment
explained in appendix 5 of WRC Bulletin #17B.
Data sets containing zero values present a problem
when one uses logarithmic transformations. The
logarithm of zero is undefined and cannot be included.
When a logarithmic transformation is desired, zeros
should be treated as missing low data.
(4) Historic data
At many locations, information is available about
major hydrologic occurrences either before or after
the period of systematic data collection. Such informa-
tion, called historic data, can be used to adjust the
frequency curve. The historic data define an extended
time period during which rare events, either recorded
or historic, have occurred. Historic data may be ob-
tained from other agencies, from newspapers, or by
interviews. A procedure for incorporating historic data
into the frequency analysis is in appendix 6 of WRC
Bulletin #17B.
(5) Frequency analysis reliability
(The information in this section originally appeared
in U.S. Corps of Engineers, Hydrologic Engineering
Methods, Volume 3, Hydrologic Frequency Analysis
(1975). This information concisely covers the main
points of frequency reliability, including examples
based on flood frequencies.)
The reliability of frequency estimates is influenced by:
• amount of information available
• variability of the events
• accuracy with which the data were measured
18–20 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012)
Part 630
National Engineering Handbook
Amount of information available—Generally,
errors of estimate are inversely proportional to the
square root of the number of independent items in the
frequency array. Therefore, errors of estimates based
on 40 years of record would normally be half as large
as errors of estimates based on 10 years of record,
other conditions being the same.
Variability of events—The variability of events in a
record is generally the most important factor affecting
the reliability of frequency estimates. For example,
the ratio of the largest to the smallest annual flood of
record on the Mississippi River at Red River Landing,
Louisiana, is about 2.7, whereas the ratio of the larg-
est to the smallest annual flood of record on the Kings
River at Piedra, California, is about 100, or 35 times as
great. Statistical studies show that as a consequence of
this factor, a flow corresponding to a given frequency
can be estimated within 10 percent on the Mississippi
River, but can be estimated only within 40 percent on
the Kings River.
Accuracy with which the data were measured—
The accuracy of data measurement normally has a rel-
atively small influence on the reliability of a frequency
estimate. This is true because such errors ordinarily
are not systematic and tend to cancel and because
the influence of chance events is great in comparison
with that of measurement errors. For this reason, it is
usually better to include an estimated magnitude for
a major flood; for example, one that was not recorded
because of gage failure, rather than to omit it from the
frequency array even though its magnitude can only
be estimated approximately. However, it is advisable
always to use the most reliable sources of data and,
in particular, to guard against systematic errors that
result from using an unreliable rating curve.
The possible errors in estimating flood frequencies are
very large principally because of the chance of having
a nonrepresentative sample. Sometimes the occur-
rence of one or two abnormal floods can change the
apparent exceedance frequency of a given magnitude
from once in 1,000 years to once in 200 years. Never-
theless, the frequency curve technique is considerably
better than any other tool available for some purposes
and represents a substantial improvement over using
an array restricted to observed flows only.
Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

(6) Effects of watershed modification Detect outliers:

The analysis of streamflow data is complicated by the
• Check for outliers according to the value of
fact that watershed conditions are rarely constant
skewness, high first for positive skewness and
during the period of record. Fire, floods, changing land
low first for negative skewness.
use, channel modification, reservoir construction, and
land treatment all contribute to changes in the hy- • Delete outliers and recompute sample statis-
drologic responses of a watershed. If the changes are tics.
significant, then standard statistical procedures cannot
• Continue the process until no outliers remain
be used to develop the frequency curve.
in sample.

(f) Frequency analysis procedures
Obtain site information, historic data, and systematic
data:
• Examine record period for changes in physical
conditions. Use only data that are from peri-
ods of constant physical conditions (homoge-
neous).
• Estimate missing high data. The effort expend-
ed in estimating data depends on the use of the
final frequency analysis.
• Obtain historic information.
Plot sample data:
• Use normal (logarithmic normal) probability paper.
• Observe general trend of plotted data.
Treat outliers and missing, low, and zero data.
• Check another frequency distribution model.
• For high outliers:
— If historical data are available, use appen-
dix 6 of WRC Bulletin #17B.
— If historic data are not available, decide
whether outliers should be retained in the
sample.
• For low outliers and missing, low, and zero
data, use appendix 5 of WRC Bulletin #17B.
Check reliability of results:
• Frequency curve estimates are based on prior
experience and should be used with caution.
• Uncertainty of estimates increases as estimated
values depart from the mean.

• Select distribution:
— For single‑trend data, select the distribu-
tion that best defines the population from
which the sample is drawn.
— For multiple‑trend data, use one of the
mixed distribution techniques.
Compute frequency curve:
• The procedure in WRC Bulletin #17B should be
used.
• Use station statistics including skew and distri-
bution tables (such as exhibit 18–3). There are
many computer programs available including
USGS program PeakFQ.
• Plot curve on the paper with sample data.
• Compare general shape of curve with sample
data. If the computed curve does not fit the
data, check for outliers or for another distribu-
tion that may fit the population.

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Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
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Example 18–3 Development of a mixed distribution frequency curve by separating the data by cause and by using at least
the upper half of the data

Method 1 The Causative Factor Method

Given: Annual maximum peak discharge data for Carson River near Carson City, Nevada, (Station
10311000) are given in table 18–7. Column 1 contains the water year, and column 2 contains
annual maximum peak discharge. The Weibull plotting position in column 4 of table 18–7
(100 M/(N+1)) is expressed in percent. The other columns will be referenced in the following
steps:

Table 18–7 Annual maximum peak discharge data for example 18–3

Water Annual Ordered Weibull Water Annual Ordered Weibull

year maximum annual plotting year maximum annual plotting
peak maximum position peak maximum position
discharge peaks 100 M/(N + 1) discharge peaks 100 M/(N + 1)
3 3
(ft /s) (ft /s) (ft /s) (ft3/s)
3

  (1) (2) (3) (4) (1) (2) (3) (4)

1939 541 30,000 2.6 1958 3,100 2,160 52.6

1940 2,300 21,900 5.3 1959 1,690 1,990 55.3
1941 2,430 15,500 7.9 1960 1,100 1,970 57.9
1942 5,300 8,740 10.5 1961 808 1,950 60.5
1943 8,500 8,500 13.2 1962 1,950 1,950 63.2
1944 1,530 5,300 15.8 1963 21,900 1,930 65.8
1945 3,860 4,430 18.4 1964 1,160 1,900 68.4
1946 1,930 4,190 21.1 1965 8,740 1,870 71.1
1947 1,950 3,860 23.7 1966 1,280 1,690 73.7
1948 1,870 3,750 26.3 1967 4,430 1,530 76.3
1949 2,420 3,480 28.9 1968 1,390 1,410 78.9
1950 2,160 3,480 31.6 1969 4,190 1,390 81.6
1951 15,500 3,330 34.2 1970 3,480 1,330 84.2
1952 3,750 3,180 36.8 1971 2,260 1,280 86.8
1953 1,990 3,100 39.5 1972 1,330 1,160 89.5
1954 1,970 2,430 42.1 1973 3,330 1,100 92.1
1955 1,410 2,420 44.7 1974 3,180 808 94.7
1956 30,000 2,300 47.4 1975 3,480 541 97.4
1957 1,900 2,260 50.0

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Example 18–3 Development of a mixed distribution frequency curve by separating the data by cause and by using at least
the upper half of the data—Continued

Procedure: Step 1—Plot the data. Before plotting, order the data in table 18–7 from high to low
(column 3). Compute plotting positions using sample size of 37 and equation 18–9
(column 4). Then plot ordered data at the computed plotting positions on logarith-
mic-normal probability paper (fig. 18–3).

Step 2—Examine the plotted data. The data plot in an S‑shape with a major trend
break at 20 percent chance.

Figure 18–3 Annual maximum peak discharge data for example 18–3

Normal standard deviates (Kn)

-3 -2 -1 0 1 2 3
40,000

30,000

20,000
Annual maximum peak discharge (ft3/s)

10,000

8,000

6,000

5,000

4,000

3,000

2,000

1,000

800 10311000
1939−1975
Annual maximum peak
600 discharges
500

400
99.9 99.5 99 98 96 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 4 2 1 0.5 0.1
Percent chance (100 × probability)

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Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
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Example 18–3 Development of a mixed distribution frequency curve by separating the data by cause and by using at least
the upper half of the data—Continued

Step 3—Determine what caused the maximum peak discharge. Based on streamgage and
weather records, two causative factors were rainfall and snowmelt. Annual maximum peak
discharge series for each cause are tabulated in table 18–8.
Step 4—Plot each annual maximum series. As in step 1, arrange the data in descending order
(rainfall, column 4; snowmelt, column 5) and compute plotting positions (column 6). Rainfall
data are plotted in figure 18–4, and snowmelt data are plotted in figure 18–5.

Table 18–8 Annual maximum rainfall/snowmelt peak discharge for example 18–3

Water Annual Annual Ordered Ordered Weibull

year maximum maximum rainfall snowmelt plot
rainfall snowmelt maximum maximum position
peak peak peak peak 100 M/(N + 1)
discharge discharge discharge discharge
(ft /s) (ft /s) (ft3/s)
3 3
(ft3/s)
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6)

1939 541 355 30,000 4,290 2.6

1940 1,770 2,300 21,900 4,190 5.3
1941 1,015 2,434 15,500 3,480 7.9
1942 5,298 2,536 8,740 3,330 10.5
1943 8,500 2,340 8,500 3,220 13.2
1944 995 1,530 5,298 3,100 15.8
1945 3,860 1,420 4,430 2,980 18.4
1946 1,257 1,930 3,860 2,759 21.1
1947 1,950 1,680 3,750 2,536 23.7
1948 755 1,870 3,560 2,460 26.3
1949 2,420 1,680 3,480 2,434 28.9
1950 1,760 2,158 3,172 2,417 31.6
1951 15,500 1,750 2,946 2,340 34.2
1952 3,750 2,980 2,590 2,300 36.8
1953 1,990 972 2,420 2,158 39.5
1954 1,970 1,640 2,260 2,010 42.1
1955 1,410 1,360 2,120 1,930 44.7
1956 30,000 3,220 1,990 1,900 47.4
1957 1,860 1,900 1,970 1,900 50.0
1958 2,120 3,100 1,950 1,870 52.6
1959 1,690 698 1,950 1,750 55.3
1960 1,090 895 1,860 1,680 57.9
1961 814 620 1,770 1,680 60.5
1962 1,950 1,900 1,760 1,640 63.2
1963 21,900 2,417 1,690 1,530 65.8
1964 1,160 800 1,410 1,420 68.4
1965 8,740 2,460 1,257 1,360 71.1
1966 920 1,280 1,160 1,360 73.7
1967 4,430 4,290 1,090 1,309 76.3
1968 936 1,360 1,015 1,280 78.9
1969 3,560 4,190 995 972 81.6
1970 3,480 2,010 975 895 84.2
1971 2,260 837 936 837 86.8
1972 975 1,309 920 800 89.5
1973 2,946 3,330 814 698 92.1
1974 3,172 2,759 755 620 94.7
1975 2,590 3,480 541 355 97.4

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Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Example 18–3 Development of a mixed distribution frequency curve by separating the data by cause and by using at least
the upper half of the data—Continued

Figure 18–4 Data and frequency curve for rainfall annual maximum peaks in example 18–3

100,000
80,000

60,000
50,000
40,000

30,000

20,000
Annual maximum peak discharge (ft3/s)

10,000
8,000
6,000
5,000
4,000

3,000

2,000

1,000
800
600
500
400

300
10311000
200 1939−1975
Rainfall
annual maximum peaks

100
99.9 99.5 99 98 96 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 4 2 1 0.5 0.1
Percent chance (100 × probability)

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Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Example 18–3 Development of a mixed distribution frequency curve by separating the data by cause and by using at least
the upper half of the data—Continued

Figure 18–5 Data and frequency curve for snowmelt annual maximum peaks in example 18–3

10,000

8,000

6,000
5,000

4,000

3,000
Annual maximum peak discharge (ft3/s)

2,000

1,000

800
700
600
500

400

300

200
10311000
1939−1975
Snowmelt
annual maximum peaks

100
99.9 99.5 99 98 96 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 4 2 1 0.5 0.1
Percent chance (100 × probability)

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Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Example 18–3 Development of a mixed distribution frequency curve by separating the data by cause and by using at least
the upper half of the data—Continued

Step 5—Compute the required statistics. Using the procedure in step 3 of example
18–1, compute the sample mean, standard deviation, and skewness for each series. The
results of these computations follow:

Series X S G Use G

Rainfall 3.37611 0.40385 1.03 1.0

Snowmelt 3.24241 0.24176 –0.77 –0.8

Step 6—Compute the log‑Pearson III frequency curve for each series. The frequency
curve solution for each series, as computed in step 4 of example 18–1, is listed in table
18–9. Log‑Pearson frequency curves are plotted for the rainfall and the snowmelt series
in figures 18–4 and 18–5, respectively.

Table 18–9 Frequency curve solutions for example 18–3

Exceed - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Rainfall - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Snowmelt - - - - - - - - - - - - -

prob. Exhibit 18–3 Log Q = Log- Exhibit 18–3 Log Q = Log-
Kp value X + K pS Pearson III Kp value X + K pS Pearson III
discharges discharges
   (q) (G = 1.0) (ft3/s) (G = – 0.8) (ft3/s)

0.999 – 1.78572 2.65495 452 – 4.24439 2.21629 165

.998 – 1.74062 2.67316 471 – 3.84981 2.31168 205
.995 – 1.66390 2.70414 506 – 3.31243 2.44160 276
.99 – 1.53838 2.73464 543 – 2.89101 2.54348 350
.98 – 1.49188 2.77361 594 – 2.45298 2.64938 446
.96 – 1.36584 2.82452 668 – 1.99311 2.76056 576
.90 – 1.12762 2.92072 833 – 1.33640 2.91932 830
.80 – 0.85161 3.03219 1,077 – 0.77986 3.05387 1,132
.70 – 0.61815 3.12816 1,343 – 0.41309 3.14254 1,388
.60 – 0.39434 3.21686 1,648 – 0.12199 3.21292 1,633
.50 – 0.16397 3.30989 2,041 0.13199 3.27432 1,881
.40 0.08763 3.41150 2,579 0.36889 3.33159 2,146
.30 0.38111 3.53002 3,389 0.60412 3.38846 2,446
.20 0.75752 3.68203 4,809 0.85607 3.44937 2,814
.10 1.34039 3.91743 8,268 1.16574 3.52424 3,344
.04 2.04269 4.20105 15,887 1.44813 3.59251 3,913
.02 2.54206 4.40272 25,277 1.60604 3.63069 4,273
.01 3.02256 4.59677 39,516 1.73271 3.66131 4,585
.005 3.48874 4.78504 60,959 1.83660 3.68643 4,858
.002 4.08802 5.02706 106,428 1.94806 3.71337 5,169
.001 4.53112 5.20600 160,695 2.01739 3.73013 5,372

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Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Example 18–3 Development of a mixed distribution frequency curve by separating the data by cause and by using at least
the upper half of the data—Continued

Step 7—Check each sample for outliers. Read high and low outlier criterion values from the
frequency curve plots (figures 18–4 and 18–5) at the probability levels given in exhibit 18–1
for the sample size of 37. The high and low probability levels from exhibit 18–1 are 0.9980116
(99.8 percent) and 0.0019884 (0.2 percent). Outlier criterion values read from the plots are:

Series High outlier Low outlier
(ft3/ s) criterion (ft3/s) criterion (ft3/s)

Rainfall 106,000 470

Snowmelt 5,200 200

All of the rainfall and snowmelt data are between the outlier criterion values, so there are no
outliers.

Step 8—Combine the rainfall and snowmelt series frequency curves. For selected discharge
values, read the rainfall and snowmelt frequency curve probability levels from figures 18–4
and 18–5. Using equation 18–18, combine the probabilities for the two series. Table 18–10
contains the individual and combined probabilities of selected discharges. The snowmelt
frequency curve approaches an upper bound of 5,400 cubic feet per second; therefore, only
the rainfall curve is used above this value.

Step 9—Plot the combined series frequency curve. Figure 18–6 shows the combined and
annual fre­quency curves plotted on the same sheet as the annual series. The combined series
frequency curve will not necessarily fit the annual series, as additional data were used to
develop it, but the curve does represent the combined effect of the two causes.

Table 18–10 Combination of frequency curves for example 18–3

Peak PR = P (rain) PS = P (snow) P = PR + PS –PRPS

discharge
(ft3/s)
(1) (2) (3) (4)

600 0.98 0.955 0.999

830 .90 .90 .990
1,640 .60 .60 .840
2,450 .42 .30 .594
3,360 .30 .10 .370
4,840 .20 .005 .204
8,268 .10 –1/ .100
15,887 .04 – .040
39,516 .01 – .010
160,695 .001 – .001
1/ Probability is too small to be considered.

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Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Example 18–3 Development of a mixed distribution frequency curve by separating the data by cause and by using at least
the upper half of the data—Continued

Figure 18–6 Combination of annual maximum rainfall and annual maximum snowmelt frequency curves for example 18–3

100,000
80,000

60,000
50,000
40,000
Annual maximum peak discharge (ft3/s)

30,000

20,000

10,000
8,000

6,000
5,000
4,000

3,000

2,000

1,000
800
10311000
1939−1975
600
Combination
500
400
99.9 99.5 99 98 96 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 4 2 1 0.5 0.1
Percent chance (100 × probability)
Note 1: Combination curve is plot of columns 1 and 4 of table 18−10.
Note 2: X’s represent plot of columns 1 and 4 of table 18−7.

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Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Example 18–3 Development of a mixed distribution frequency curve by separating the data by cause and by using at least
the upper half of the data—Continued

Method 2—Truncated Series

An alternative method of mixed distribution analysis is to fit a log-normal distribution to only part of the
data. At least the upper half of the data must be included and must be basically log-normal (i.e., approximate
a straight line when plotted on logarithmic-normal paper). Steps 1 and 2 of method 1 help to determine that
the data are mixed and that the major trend break occurs at 20 percent. While the upper half of the data
include data from both major trends, a log-normal fit is used as an illustration of the procedure.

Procedure: Steps 1 and 2—See method 1.

Step 3—Select Kn values. Select the normal Kn values for a sample size of 37 from exhibit
18–2. A tabulation of these values along with the ordered annual maximum peaks and their
logarithms is in table 18–11.

Step 4—Plot the ordered annual maximum peaks at the normal Kn values tabulated in table
18–11. These are plotted in figure 18–7. For plotting the data, use the normal Kn-value scale
at the top of the figure.

Step 5—Compute the statistics based on the upper half of data. Use equations 18–19 and
18–20 to compute the standard deviation and mean from the sums given in table 18–11.
0.5

 260.757 −
(70.11699 )
2


S= 19  = 0.56475

 17.25002 −
(14.44423 )
2


 19 

(70.11699 ) − (0.56475 )(14.44423 )

X=  = 3.26103
19

Step 6—Compute the log-normal frequency curve for the data. Use the same procedure as
explained in step 4 of example 18–1. As a log-normal curve is to be fit, it will be a straight
line on logarithmic-normal paper, and solution of only two points is required.

Exceedance Kn normal Log Q = X + K nS Q

probability
level
0.50 0.0 3.26103 1,824
0.01 2.32635 4.57484 37,570

Step 7—Plot the computed frequency curve. The curve is plotted on the same page as the
sample data, figure 18–7.

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Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Example 18–3 Development of a mixed distribution frequency curve by separating the data by cause and by using at least
the upper half of the data—Continued

Table 18–11 Data and normal Kn values for example 18–3

Ordered Logarithm of Expected Expected

annual ordered normal normal
maximum annual Kn value Kn value
peaks maximum
3
(ft /s) peaks
(1) (2) (3) (4)

30,000 4.47712 2.12928

21,900 4.34044 1.71659
15,500 4.19033 1.47676
8,740 3.94151 1.30016
8,500 3.92942 1.15677
5,300 3.72428 1.03390
4,430 3.64640 0.92496
4,190 3.62221 0.82605
3,860 3.58659 0.73465
3,750 3.57403 0.64902
3,480 3.54158 0.56793
3,480 3.54158 0.49042
3,330 3.52244 0.41576
3,180 3.50243 0.34336
3,100 3.49136 0.27272
2,430 3.38561 0.20342
2,420 3.38382 0.13509
2,300 3.36173 0.06739
2,260 3.35411 0.00000
2,160 –0.06739
1,990 –0.13509
1,970 –0.20342
1,950 –0.27272
1,950 –0.34336
1,930 –0.41576
1,900 –0.49042
1,870 –0.56793
1,690 –0.64902
1,530 –0.73465
1,410 –0.82605
1,390 –0.92496
1,330 –1.03390
1,280 –1.15677
1,160 –1.30016
1,100 –1.47676
808 –1.71659
541 –2.12928
Sum (values) 70.11699 14.44423
Sum (values2) 260.75700 17.25002

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Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Example 18–3 Development of a mixed distribution frequency curve by separating the data by cause and by using at least
the upper half of the data—Continued

Figure 18–7 Data and top half frequency curve for example 18–3

Normal standard deviates (Kn)

–3 –2 –1 0 1 2 3
100,000
80,000

60,000
50,000
40,000

30,000

20,000
Annual maximum peak discharge (ft3/s)

10,000
8,000

6,000
5,000
4,000

3,000

2,000

1,000
800

600
500
400

300

10311000
200 1939−1975
Annual maximum peak
discharges

100
99.5 99 98 96 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 4 2 1 0.5 0.1
-1 0 1
Percent chance (100 × probability)

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Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods
630.1803 Flow duration
A flow duration curve indicates the percentage of time
a streamflow was greater than or less than a specific
discharge during a period of record. A flow duration
curve does not show the chronological sequence of
flows. Because daily flows are nonrandom and nonho-
mogeneous, a flow duration curve cannot be consid-
ered a frequency or probability curve. Duration curves
are normally constructed from mean daily flows.
Although a flow duration curve indicates only the dis-
tribution of mean daily flows that have been recorded,
it can be used as an estimate of the flow duration dis-
tribution expected. Flow duration curves help deter-
mine availability of streamflow for beneficial uses.
USGS Water Supply Paper 1542–A (Searcy 1959) gives
procedures for preparing and using flow duration
curves. Many flow duration curves are available in
USGS publications. Unpublished curves may be avail-
able at USGS district offices.
(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012)
Part 630
National Engineering Handbook
630.1804 Correlation and
regression
(a) Correlation analysis
Correlation is an index that measures the linear varia-
tion between variables. While several correlation coef-
ficients exist, the most frequently used is the Pearson
product‑moment correlation coefficient (r):
N
∑ (X i − X ) ( Yi − Y )
(18–21)
r= i =1
0.5
 N N
2
 ∑ ( X i − X ) ∑ ( Yi − Y ) 
2
 i =1 i =1 
where:
Xi and Yi = values of the ith observation of the two
variables X and Y, respectively
X and Y = means of the two samples
N = number of common elements in the
samples.
Equation 18–21 is used to measure the relationship
between two variables. As an example, one may be
interested in examining whether there is a significant
linear relationship between the T-year peak discharge
(Y) and the fraction of the drainage area in impervious
land cover (X). To examine this relationship, values
for X and Y must be obtained from N watersheds with
widely different values of the X variable, and then a
quantitative index of the relation is determined using
equation 18–21.
Values of r range between +1 and –1. A correlation
of +1 indicates a perfect direct relationship between
variables X and Y, while a correlation of –1 indicates a
perfect inverse relationship. Zero correlation indicates
no linear relationship between the variables. Correla-
tion values between 0 and ±1 indicate the degree of
relationship between the variables. Figure 18–8 illus-
trates various linear correlation values between two
variables.
Because correlation coefficient values can be mislead-
ing at times, the sample data should be plotted and
examined. Some situations that may cause low corre-
lation values are:
18–33
Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

• No relation exists between variables—random regression in that correlation is only a standardized

variation.
• A relation exists, but is nonlinear, such as a
parabolic or circular relation.
• Data values can depart significantly from the
linear trend of the remaining data. The extreme
values not only can change the correlation
coefficient, but also can change the sign of the
correlation coefficient.
High correlation can be attributed to:
• Significant relation between variables.
• Small sample size—For example, two points
defining a straight line will result in a cor-
relation coefficient of r = 1 or –1. Other small
samples are influenced by this effect and may
also have high correlation values.
• Data clustering—Two data clusters, each with
low correlation, can exhibit high correlation
values. Each cluster acting as a unit value may
act as a small sample size.
The correlation between two variables will change if
either of the variables is transformed nonlinearly. A
new correlation coefficient should be developed for
the transformed variables and will apply only to the
variables in their transformed state.
(b) Regression
Regression is a method of developing a relation be-
tween a criterion variable (Y) and one or more pre-
dictor variables (X), with the objective of predicting
the criterion variable for given values of the predictor
variables.
index of the degree of a linear relation.
Wang and Huber (1967) list additional assumptions
that form the basis for regression as:
• The predictor variables are statistically inde-
pendent.
• The variance of the criterion variable does not
change with changes in magnitude of the pre-
dictor variables.
• The observed values of the criterion variable
are uncorrelated events.
• The population of the criterion variable is nor-
mally distributed about the regression line for
any fixed level of the predictor variables under
consideration.
Generally, hydrologic data do not meet all of the as-
sumptions of regression analysis, but regression is still
used because it provides an easy method for analyzing
many factors simultaneously. The error caused by fail-
ure to meet all of the assumptions is generally minor.
Forms of regression analysis include linear bivariate,
linear multiple, and curvilinear. The linear bivariate
regression relates a criterion variable (Y) and a single
predictor variable (X) by using:
Y = a + bX (18–22)
where:
a and b = intercept and slope regression
coefficients, respectively
Linear multiple regression relates a criterion variable
(Y) and p predictor variables (Xj where j = 1, 2, …, p):

Correlation analysis is quite different from regression Y = b0 + b1 X1 + b 2 X 2 + … b p X p (18–23)

analysis, although they are frequently used together.
Regression is a predictive technique that distinguishes where:
between the predictor and criterion variables. A re- bj(j = 0, 1,. . ., p) = partial regression coefficients
gression equation that is developed to predict Y should
not be transformed to predict the X variable for a The curvilinear regression technique is used when
given value of Y. Regression is based on an assumption powers of the predictor variable(s) are included in the
that no error exists in the independent variable; errors
occur only in the dependent variable. Thus, regression
is directional. Correlation is not directional in that
the correlation between Y and X is the same as that
between X and Y. Also, correlation is different from

18–34 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012)

Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

equation. For a single variable, the following regres- square of the differences between the sample criterion
sion equation can be used: values and the estimated criterion values.

Y = b0 + b1 X + b 2 X 2 + …b q X q (18–24) A cause-and-effect relation is implied between the pre-

dictor and the criterion variables. If there is no physi-
where: cal relation between a predictor and the criterion, do
q = order of the polynomial not use the predictor. Always carefully examine the
sign of the coefficients for rationality. Do not use any
This equation can be expanded to include other pre- equation outside the range of the sample data that
dictor variables. were used to derive the coefficients.

More than one regression equation can be derived to A detailed procedure of how to develop regression
fit data, so some technique must be selected to evalu- equations is not given in this chapter. Regression
ate the “best fit” line. The method of least squares is analysis is usually performed by use of programmed
generally used because it minimizes the sum of the

Figure 18–8 Linear correlation values

Y Y

X X
a. r~0.8 b. r~−0.8

Y Y

X X
c. r~−0.2 d. r~0

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012) 18–35

Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods
procedures on a calculator or computer. The following
section highlights the basic concepts and terminology
of regression analysis.
(c) Evaluating regression equations
After the regression coefficients are developed, it is
necessary to examine the quality of a regression equa-
tion. The following means of evaluating the quality are
described:
• analysis of the residuals
• standard error of estimate
• coefficient of determination
• analysis of the rationality of the sign and mag-
nitude of the regression coefficients
• analysis of the relative importance of the pre-
dictor variables, as measured by the standard-
ized partial regression coefficients
A residual is the difference between the value pre-
dicted with the regression equation and the criterion
variable. A residual measures the amount of criterion
variation left unexplained by the regression equation.
The least squares concept assumes that the residual
should exhibit the following properties:
• mean value equals zero
• independent of criterion and predictor vari-
ables
• variance is constant
• have a normal distribution
The mean of zero is easily verified by simply summing
the residuals; a nonzero mean may result if not enough
digits are used in the partial regression coefficients.
Their independence and constant variance can be
checked by plotting the residuals against the criterion
and each predictor. Such plots should not exhibit any
noticeable trends. Figure 18–9 illustrates some general
trends that might occur when residuals are plotted.
Nonconstant variance generally indicates an incorrect
model form.
In theory, the residuals are normally distributed.
The distribution can often be identified by use of a
frequency analysis. However, if the sample is small,
conclusive statements are difficult to make about the
18–36 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012)
Part 630
National Engineering Handbook
distribution of the residuals. Frequently, the model can
be improved if a cause for a residual or trend in residu-
als is found.
Just as the individual residuals are of interest, the mo-
ments of the residuals are also worth examining. While
the mean of the residuals is zero, the standard devia-
tion of the residuals is called the standard error of
estimate, which is denoted by Se and is computed by:
0.5
 N ˆ
( ) 
2
 ∑ Yi − Yi
S e =  i =1  (18–25)
 df 
 
 
where:
Ŷ i = predicted value
Yi = observed value of the ith observation on the
criterion variable
df = degrees of freedom
The degrees of freedom equal the number of inde-
pendent pieces of information required to form the
estimate. For a regression equation, this equals the
number of observations in the data sample N minus
the number of unknowns estimated from the data. A
regression equation with p predictor variables and
an intercept coefficient would have N–p–1 degrees of
freedom.
Compare Se with the standard deviation of the criteri-
on variable (Sy) as a measure of the quality of a regres-
sion equation. Both Se and Sy have the same units as
the criterion variable. If the regression equation does
not provide a good fit to the observed values of the
criterion variable, then Se should approach Sy, with
allowance being made for the differences in degrees
of freedom (Se has N–p–1 while Sy has N–1). However,
if the regression provides a good fit, Se will approach
zero. Thus, Se can be compared with the two extremes,
zero and Sy, to assess the quality of the regression.
The part of the total variation in the criterion variable
that is explained by the regression equation should be
considered. This part is called the coefficient of deter-
mination and can be computed by:
Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

An inverse relation between r2 and Se is:

∑( )
N 2
Yˆ i − Y
r2 = i =1
N (18–26) Se = S 1 − r 2 (18–27)
∑(Y − Y)
2
i
i =1
While this relation may be acceptable for large sam-
The value of r2 ranges from zero to one, with a value of ples, it should not be used for small samples because
zero indicating no relationship between the criterion Se is based on N–p–1 degrees of freedom, while S is
and predictor variables and a value of one indicating based on N–1 degrees of freedom and r2 is based on N
a perfect fit of the sample data to the regression line. degrees of freedom. Therefore, equations 18–25 and
The value of r2 is a decimal percentage of the variation 18–26 should be used to compute Se and r2.
in Y explained by the regression equation.

Figure 18–9 Sample plots of residuals

Residual

Residual

Variable Variable

a. Constant variance b. Increasing variance

Residual

Residual

Variable Variable

c. Linear dependence d. Nonlinear dependence

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012) 18–37

Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods
A regression equation describes the relation that ex-
ists between the variables, with a partial regression
coefficient reflecting the effect of the corresponding
predictor variable on the criterion variable. As such,
the magnitude and sign of each coefficient should be
checked for rationality. While the rationality of the
magnitude of a coefficient is sometimes difficult to
assess, the rationality of the sign of the coefficient is
generally easy to assess. Irrationality of either sign or
magnitude often results from significant correlations
between predictor variables. Thus, the use of highly
correlated predictor variables should be avoided. The
potential accuracy of estimates is rarely increased
significantly by including a predictor variable that is
highly correlated with one or more other predictor
variables in the equation.
Regression equations can be developed for any num-
ber of predictor variables, but selecting the proper
number is important. Having too few predictor vari-
ables may reduce the accuracy of the criterion es-
timate. Having too many makes the equation more
complex than necessary and wastes time and money
in collecting and processing unneeded data that do not
significantly improve accuracy.
Step-type regressions can be used to evaluate the
importance or significance of individual predictor
variables in a regression equation. A step consists of
adding or deleting a predictor variable from the regres-
sion equation and measuring the increase or decrease
in the ability of the equation to predict the criterion
variable.
The significance of predictor variables and the total
equation are evaluated by using F-tests. Two F-tests
are used. The partial F-test (Fp) checks the signifi-
cance of predictor variables that are added or de-
leted from a regression equation. The total F-test (Ft)
checks the significance of the entire regression equa-
tion. The partial F-test is computed by:
Fp =
(r − r ) (18–28)
2
p
2
p −1
(1 − r )
2
p partial F test of all predictors in the equation after
( N − p − 1)
where:
rp and rp–1 = coefficients of determination for the p
and p–1 predictor models
18–38 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012)
Part 630
National Engineering Handbook
The equation is significant if the computed F is greater
than the value found in an F distribution table. The
degrees of freedom needed for use of the F table are
1(df 1) and N–p–1 (df  2). F distribution tables for 0.05
and 0.01 levels of significance are in most standard
statistics texts. The 0.05 probability table is generally
used.
Ft is computed by:
rp2
p
Ft = (18–29)
(1 − r ) 2
p
( N − p − 1)
where:
p = number of predictors in the equation
rp2 = coefficient of determination for the p predictor
equation
The degrees of freedom required to use the tables are
p(df 1) and N–p–1(df  2).
Step backward regression starts with all predictors in
the regression equation. The least important predictor
is deleted and the Fp computed. If the predictor is not
significant, the next least important of the remaining
predictors is deleted and the process repeated. When
a significant predictor is found, the previous equation
that includes that predictor should be used.
Step forward regression starts with the most impor-
tant predictor as the only variable in the equation. The
most important of the remaining predictors is added
and the Fp computed. If this predictor is significant,
the next most important of the remaining predictors
is added and the process repeated. When a nonsig-
nificant predictor is found, the previous equation that
does not include that predictor should be used.
Stepwise regression combines features of both step
backward and step forward regression. Stepwise is ba-
sically a step forward regression with a step backward
each step. When predictors are added to an equation,
two or more may combine their prediction ability to
make previously included predictors insignificant. As
these “older” predictors are no longer needed in the
equation, they are deleted.
Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

(d) Outline of procedures • Standard error of estimate has the bounds

0 ≤ Se ≤ Sy; as Se —> 0 more of the variance
(1) Correlation is explained by the regression.
The procedure for correlation is: • Coefficient of determination has the bounds
Step 1 Determine that a cause-and-effect rela- 0 ≤ r2 ≤ 1; as r2 —> 1 the better the “fit” is of
tion exists for all variable pairs to be tested. the regression line to the data.
Step 2 Plot every combination of one variable • Partial and total F-tests are used to evaluate
versus another to examine data trends. each predictor and total equation signifi-
cance.
Step 3 Make adjustments, such as transforma-
tion of data, if required. This step is optional. • The sign of each regression coefficient
should be compared to the correlation coef-
Step 4 Compute linear correlation coefficients ficient for the appropriate predictor crite-
between each pair of variables. rion. The signs should be the same.
(2) Regression • Examine the residuals to identify deficien-
The procedure for regression is: cies in the regression equation and check the
assumptions of the model.
Step 1 Compile a list of predictor variables that
are related to the criterion variable by some physi- Step 8 If regression equation accuracy is not
cal relation and for which data are available. acceptable, reformulate the regression equation or
transform some of the variables. A satisfactory so-
Step 2 Plot each predictor variable versus the lution is not always possible from data available.
criterion variable.
Example 18–4 illustrates the development of a mul-
Step 3 Determine the form of the desired equa- tiple regression equation.
tion; i.e., linear or curvilinear.
Step 4 Compute the correlation matrix; i.e., the
correlation coefficient between each pair of vari-
ables.
Step 5 Compute the regression coefficients for
the predictor variable(s) that have high correlation
coefficients with the criterion variable and low
correlation coefficients with any other included
predictor variables.
Step 6 Compute standard error of estimate, Se;
standard deviation of the criterion variable, Sy;
and the coefficient of determination, r2.
Step 7 Evaluate the regression equation by the
following methods:

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Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Example 18–4 Development of a multiple regres­sion equation

Given: Peak flow data for watershed W-11, Hastings, Nebraska, are used. Table 18–12 contains basic
data for peak flow and three other variables.

Solution: Step 1—Plot one variable versus another to establish that a linear or nonlinear data trend ex-
ists. Figure 18–10 is a plot of peak flow (Y) versus maximum average 1-day flow (Xi). Similar
plots are done for all combinations of variable pairs. The plot indicates a linear trend exists
between peak flow and maximum average 1-day flow.

Step 2—Determine the linear correlation coefficients between each pair of variables. Table
18–12 contains the product of differences required for the computation. Use equation 18–21 to
compute the linear correlation. The array of the computed linear correlations follows:
               Linear Correlation Matrix


q = Y Q = X1 Qm = X2 Pm = X3

Y 1.0000 0.9230 0.7973 0.5748

X1 1.0000 0.9148 0.7442
X2 1.0000 0.8611

X3 1.0000

Step 3—Develop a multiple regression equation based on maximum 1-day flow (X1) and maxi-
mum monthly rainfall (X3). Maximum monthly runoff (X2) is not included as a predictor because
it is highly correlated (0.9148) with maximum average 1-day flow (X1). Predictor variables should
be correlated with the criterion, but not highly correlated with the other predictors. Two highly
correlated predictors will explain basically the same part of the criterion variation. The predictor
with the highest criterion correlation is retained. High correlation between predictor variables
may cause irrational regression coefficients. The following regression coefficients were devel-
oped from a locally available multiple linear regression computer program (Dixon 1975):
b0 = 0.0569
b1 = 0.1867
b2 = –0.0140
The regression equation is:
Y = 0.0569 + 0.1867X1 – 0.0140X3

In the equation, peak flow varies directly with the maximum average 1-day flow and inversely
with maximum monthly rain. The inverse relation between Y and X3 is not rational and should
be included only if the increased significance is meaningful.

Step 4—Analyze the residuals. Compute the standard deviation of the criterion variable
(square root of equation 18–2), standard error of estimate (equation 18–25), and coefficient of
determination (equation 18–26). Table 18–13 contains the data needed for this step.
d f = 29 − 2 − 1 = 26

18–40 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012)

Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Example 18–4 Development of a multiple regres­sion equation—Continued

0.5
 ( Y − Y )2 
Sy = 
∑ i 0.5
 =  0.4343  = 0.1245
 N −1   28 
 

0.5
 Yˆ i − Yi  ( )
2

Se = 
∑ 0.5
 =  0.0508  = 0.044
 df   26 
 

∑ ( Yˆ − Y ) =  0.3822  = 0.880
2
i i
r = 
2

∑ ( Y − Y )  0.4343 
2

The regression equation is a good predictor of the peak flow. The equation explains 88
percent of the variation in Y, and the standard error of estimate is much smaller than the
standard deviation of the criterion variable, Sy.

Maximum monthly rainfall is not really needed in the equation, but is included to illustrate
a multiple predictor model. The correlation coefficient between peak flow and maximum
1-day flow, from the correlation matrix, indicates that the maximum 1-day flow will explain
85 percent of the variation in peak flow; i.e., r2= (0.9230)2= 0.85.

The sum of residuals from table 18–13 is –0.0020. The number of significant digits was not
sufficient to produce truly accurate regression coefficients. More significant digits would
improve the accuracy of the coefficients.

Step 5—Plot the residuals as shown in figure 18–11. Similar plots can be made for the pre-
dictor variables and residuals. The greatest amount of underprediction (negative residual)
occurs near a peak flow of 0.3 ft3/s. Two data points (1952 and 1954) in the region account
for 46 percent of the sum of residuals squared. The greatest amount of over­prediction
(positive residuals) occurs at the maximum peak flow value. Large residual values (positive
or negative) may be a problem when the regression equation is used in the upper range of
peak flow values.

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 Example 18–4 Development of a multiple regres­sion equation—Continued

18–42
Table 18–12 Basic correlation data for example 18–4 (linear correlation coefficient computation)
Chapter 18

Water Y = X1 = X2 = X3 = – – – – – – – – – (X – X ) for – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –– – – Product of differences for – – – – – – – – – – –

year peak max. max. max.
flow avg. monthly monthly
1-day runoff rainfall Y X1 X2 X3 Y, X1 Y, X2 Y, X3 X1, X2 X1, X3 X2, X3
flow
(in/h)  (in)   (in)  (in)

1939 0.01 0.08 0.12 3.57 –0.1141 –0.7393 –1.1852 –2.5583 0.0844 0.1352 0.2919 0.8762 1.8913 3.0321
1940 0.00 0.00 0.02 2.00 –0.1241 –0.8193 –1.2852 –4.1283 0.1017 0.1595 0.5123 1.0530 3.3823 5.3057
1941 0.04 0.56 1.41 8.31 –0.0841 –0.2593 0.1048 2.1817 0.0218 –0.0088 –0.1835 –0.0272 –0.5657 0.2286
1942 0.05 0.55 2.31 8.39 –0.0741 –0.2693 1.0048 2.2617 0.0200 –0.0745 –0.1676 –0.2706 –0.6091 2.2726
1943 0.08 0.57 1.58 5.95 –0.0441 –0.2493 0.2748 –0.1783 0.0110 –0.0121 0.0079 –0.0685 0.0445 –0.0490
1944 0.11 1.05 1.74 8.14 –0.0141 0.2307 0.4348 2.0117 –0.0033 –0.0061 –0.0284 0.1003 0.4641 0.8747
1945 0.09 0.66 0.67 3.82 –0.0341 –0.1593 –0.6352 –2.3083 0.0054 0.0217 0.0787 0.1012 0.3677 1.4662
1946 0.02 0.31 0.83 5.34 –0.1041 –0.5093 –0.4752 –0.7883 0.0530 0.0495 0.0821 0.2420 0.4015 0.3746
1947 0.04 0.31 0.75 5.46 –0.0841 –0.5093 –0.5552 –0.6683 0.0428 0.0467 0.0562 0.2828 0.3404 0.3710
1948 0.02 0.17 0.33 4.38 –0.1041 –0.6493 –0.9752 –1.7483 0.0676 0.1015 0.1820 0.6332 1.1352 1.7049
1949 0.11 0.86 1.60 7.21 –0.0141 0.0407 0.2948 1.0817 –0.0006 –0.0042 –0.0153 0.0120 0.0440 0.3189
1950 0.21 1.33 1.37 5.69 0.0859 0.5107 0.0648 –0.4383 0.0439 0.0056 –0.0376 0.0331 –0.2238 –0.0284
1951 0.33 1.83 3.04 10.27 0.2059 1.0107 1.7348 4.1417 0.2081 0.3572 0.8528 1.7534 4.1860 7.1850
Selected Statistical Methods

1952 0.30 1.17 1.59 5.76 0.1759 0.3507 0.2848 –0.3683 0.0617 0.0501 –0.0648 0.0999 –0.1292 –0.1049
1953 0.19 0.84 0.85 3.28 0.0659 0.0207 –0.4552 –2.8483 0.0014 –0.0300 –0.1877 –0.0094 –0.0590 1.2965
1954 0.28 1.07 1.55 6.35 0.1559 0.2507 0.2448 0.2217 0.0391 0.0382 0.0346 0.0614 0.0556 0.0543
1955 0.05 0.43 0.90 5.18 –0.0741 –0.3893 –0.4052 –0.9483 0.0288 0.0300 0.0703 0.1577 0.3692 0.3843

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012)

1956 0.03 0.23 0.39 3.61 –0.0941 –0.5893 –0.9152 –2.5183 0.0555 0.0861 0.2370 0.5393 1.4840 2.3047
1957 0.41 3.27 5.22 11.77 0.2859 2.4507 3.9148 5.6417 0.7007 1.1192 1.6130 9.5940 13.8261 22.0861
1958 0.03 0.33 0.38 4.80 –0.0941 –0.4893 –0.9252 –1.3283 0.0460 0.0871 0.1250 0.4527 0.6499 1.2289
1959 0.24 1.25 1.26 6.49 0.1159 0.4307 –0.0452 0.3617 0.0499 –0.0052 0.0419 –0.0195 0.1558 –0.0163
1960 0.23 1.03 1.73 5.70 0.1059 0.2107 0.4248 –0.4283 0.0223 0.0450 –0.0454 0.0895 –0.0902 –0.1819
Part 630

1961 0.10 0.92 0.86 7.09 –0.0241 0.1007 –0.4452 0.9617 –0.0024 0.0107 –0.0232 –0.0448 0.0968 –0.4281
1962 0.07 0.70 0.81 5.10 –0.0541 –0.1193 –0.4952 –1.0283 0.0065 0.0268 0.0556 0.0591 0.1227 0.5092
1963 0.04 0.61 1.08 8.93 –0.0841 –0.2093 –0.2252 2.8017 0.0176 0.0189 –0.2356 0.0471 –0.5864 –0.6309
1964 0.05 0.42 0.93 5.76 –0.0741 –0.3993 –0.3752 –0.3683 0.0296 0.0278 0.0273 0.1498 0.1471 0.1382
1965 0.42 2.72 3.33 9.38 0.2959 1.9007 2.0248 3.2517 0.5624 0.5991 0.9622 3.8485 6.1805 6.5840
1966 0.01 0.13 0.24 3.86 –0.1141 –0.6893 –1.0652 –2.2683 0.0786 0.1215 0.2588 0.7342 1.5635 2.4162
1967 0.04 0.36 0.96 6.13 –0.0841 –0.4593 –0.3452 0.0017 0.0386 0.0290 –0.0001 0.1586 –0.0008 –0.0006
National Engineering Handbook

____ _____ _____ _____ ________ ________ ________ _______ _______ _______ _______ _______ _______ _______
Sum 3.60 23.76 37.85 177.72 2.3921 3.0255 4.5004 20.639 34.644 58.6966
Mean 0.1241 0.8193 1.3052 6.1283
                   Squared sum 0.4359 15.4095 33.0335 140.6424
Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Example 18–4 Development of a multiple regres­sion equation—Continued

Figure 18–10 Variable plot for example 18–4

0.5

0.4

0.3
Peak flow (in/h)

0.2

0.1

0
0 0.5 1 1.5 2 2.5 3 3.5

Maximum average 1-day flow (in)

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Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
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Example 18–4 Development of a multiple regres­sion equation—Continued

Table 18–13 Residual data for example 18–4 (analysis of residuals for Ŷ = 0.0569 + 0.1867X1 –0.0140X3)

Water Y = X1= X3= Ŷ (Ŷ − Y ) (Ŷ − Y ) 2

(Ŷ − Y ) 2
( Y − Y )2
year peak max. avg. max.
flow 1-day monthly
flow rainfall
(in/h) (in) (in)

1939 0.01 0.08 3.57 0.0219 0.0119 0.0001 0.0104 0.0130

1940 0.00 0.00 2.00 0.0289 0.0289 0.0008 0.0090 0.0154
1941 0.04 0.56 8.31 0.0451 0.0051 0.0000 0.0062 0.0070
1942 0.05 0.55 8.39 0.0421 –0.0079 0.0000 0.0067 0.0054
1943 0.08 0.57 5.95 0.0800 –0.0000 0.0000 0.0019 0.0019
1944 0.11 1.05 8.14 0.1390 0.0290 0.0008 0.0002 0.0001
1945 0.09 0.66 3.82 0.1266 0.0366 0.0013 0.0000 0.0011
1946 0.02 0.31 5.34 0.0400 0.0200 0.0003 0.0070 0.0108
1947 0.04 0.31 5.46 0.0383 –0.0017 0.0000 0.0073 0.0070
1948 0.02 0.17 4.38 0.0273 0.0073 0.0000 0.0093 0.0108
1949 0.11 0.86 7.21 0.1165 0.0065 0.0000 0.0000 0.0001
1950 0.21 1.33 5.69 0.2256 0.0156 0.0002 0.0103 0.0073
1951 0.33 1.83 10.27 0.2548 ‑0.0752 0.0056 0.0170 0.0423
1952 0.30 1.17 5.76 0.1947 –0.1053 0.0110 0.0049 0.0309
1953 0.19 0.84 3.28 0.1678 –0.0222 0.0004 0.0019 0.0043
1954 0.28 1.07 6.35 0.1678 –0.1122 0.0125 0.0019 0.0243
1955 0.05 0.43 5.18 0.0647 0.0147 0.0002 0.0035 0.0054
1956 0.03 0.23 3.61 0.0493 0.0193 0.0003 0.0055 0.0088
1957 0.41 3.27 11.77 0.5026 0.0926 0.0085 0.1432 0.0817
1958 0.03 0.33 4.80 0.0513 0.0213 0.0004 0.0052 0.0088
1959 0.24 1.25 6.49 0.1994 –0.0406 0.0016 0.0056 0.0134
1960 0.23 1.03 5.70 0.1694 –0.0606 0.0036 0.0020 0.0112
1961 0.10 0.92 7.09 0.1294 0.0294 0.0008 0.0000 0.0005
1962 0.07 0.70 5.10 0.1162 0.0462 0.0021 0.0000 0.0029
1963 0.04 0.61 8.93 0.0458 0.0058 0.0000 0.0061 0.0070
1964 0.05 0.42 5.76 0.0547 0.0047 0.0000 0.0048 0.0054
1965 0.42 2.72 9.38 0.4334 0.0134 0.0001 0.0956 0.0875
1966 0.01 0.13 3.86 0.0271 0.0171 0.0002 0.0094 0.0130
1967 0.04 0.36 6.13 0.0383 –0.0017 0.0000 0.0073 0.0070
________ _______ _______ ________

Sum –0.0020 0.0508 0.3822 0.4343

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Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Example 18–4 Development of a multiple regres­sion equation—Continued

Figure 18–11 Residual plot for example 18–4

0.1

0.05

0
Residual

−0.05

−0.1

−0.15
0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5
Peak flow (in/h)

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012) 18–45

Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

The USGS uses stepwise multiple regression to devel-

630.1805 Analysis based on op predictive equations for selected flow values. The
results are published in open file reports that generally
regionalization include predictive equations for major river basins,
physiographic regions, or States. Meteorological and
physical characteristics listed in the reports can be
(a) Purpose used to develop applicable predictive equations for
NRCS hydrologic studies.
Many watersheds analyzed by NRCS are in locations
for which few data are available, so techniques have Example 18–5 illustrates the development of a direct
been developed to transfer or regionalize available probability estimate using stepwise regression.
data to other locations.

One purpose of regionalization is to synthesize a

frequency curve at an ungaged location or at a loca-
tion where data are inadequate for developing a fre-
quency curve by using the methods in NEH 630.1802,
Frequency analysis. The most common forms of re-
gionalization use watershed and hydrometeorological
characteristics as predictor variables. Data may be
regionalized by either direct or indirect estimation.

(b) Direct estimation

The most commonly used technique is to relate se-

lected values at various exceedance frequencies to
the physical characteristics of the watershed. For
example, the 10-year, 7-day mean flow may be related
to drainage area and percentage of forest cover. The
predictor variables can include both physical and
hydrometeorological characteristics.

Previous studies have included the following as pre-

dictors: drainage area, mean watershed slope, mean
basin elevation, length and slope of the main water-
course, the weighted runoff curve number, percent-
age of watershed in lakes or various cover types, and
geological characteristics.

Meteorological characteristics include: mean annual

precipitation, mean annual snowfall, mean annual tem-
perature, mean monthly temperature, mean monthly
precipitation, and the 24-hour duration precipitation
for various frequencies. Latitude, longitude, and water-
shed orientation have been included as location pa-
rameters. This list of various predictor variables is not
complete, but has been included to give some concept
of the characteristics that can be used.

18–46 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012)

Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Example 18–5 Development of a direct probability estimate by use of stepwise regression

A sample power form prediction equation is:

Ŷ = bo X1b1 X 2b2 X 3b3 … X bnn

where:
Ŷ = estimated criterion variable
X1, X2, X3 … Xn = predictor variables
b0, bl, b2 … bn = regression coefficients

Given: The regression coefficients are developed from a multiple linear regression of the logarithms
of the data. When the variables are transformed back to original units, the regression coef-
ficients become powers.

Table 18–14 includes 9 variables for 18 north coastal California watersheds used to develop
a power equation for estimating the 1 percent maximum 7-day mean runoff (V0.0l). A locally
available stepwise regression computer program (Dixon 1975) is used in the analysis.

The correlation matrix of the logarithms of the data is in table 18–15. The highest correla-
tions of logarithms between runoff volume and the other variables are between channel
length (–0.62) and drainage area (–0.53). These two variables are highly correlated (0.96)
themselves, so only one would be expected to be used in the final equation. Rainfall intensity
(0.48) and annual precipitation (0.45) are the variables with the next highest correlations to
V0.01. One or both of these variables may appear in the final regression equation.

The results of the stepwise regression analysis are in tables 18–16 and 18–17. Table 18–16 has
the regression coefficients for each step of the regression, and table 18–17 shows the regres-
sion equation data for each step. Equation 5 in table 18–17 was selected as the best because
the regression coefficients are rational and including additional variables does not signifi-
cantly decrease the standard error of estimate.

All equations are significant based on the total F-test at the 1 percent level. The least sig-
nificant variable is slope (S) based on a 1 percent level F with 4 and 13 degrees of freedom.
From a standard F table, for these degrees of freedom, F0.01 = 3.18. The partial F value re-
quired to enter the slope variable is 5.3. Equation 5 in table 18–17 explains 83.6 percent of the
variation (r2) in the logarithm of V0.01, and addition of all remaining variables only raises this
to 87.3 percent.

Procedure: Examine the residuals to evaluate the quality of the selected regression equation. Table
18–18 has the predicted and observed V0.01 logarithms as well as the residuals and their
sum. A plot of the residuals with the predicted values in figure 18–12 shows no correlation
between V0.01 logarithms and the residuals. The residual variation is also constant over the
range of the V0.01 logarithms.

The final power equation is:

( ) ( ) ( ) ( )
V0.01 = 4.7337 L −0.4650 P 0.6735 F 0.1432 S −0.1608

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Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
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Example 18–5 Development of a direct probability estimate by use of stepwise regression—Continued

For data from station 11372000 (table 18–14), the estimated V0.01 is:

( −0.4650 )
V0.01 = ( 4.7337 )( 48.7 ) (56 )(0.6735) (99 )(0.1432) (63 )(−00.1608)
V0.01 = 11.60 watershed inches

Similar procedures can be used to develop regression equations for 0.50, 0.20, 0.10, 0.04, and 0.02 exceed-
ance probabilities. Because each equation may not contain the same predictor variables, inconsistencies may
develop from one exceedance probability to another. A method of eliminating inconstancies is to smooth
estimated values over the range of exceedance probabilities. Figure 18–13 illustrates the smoothing for sta-
tion 11372000.

Table 18–14 Basic data for example 18–5

Station Drainage Mean 2-year, Evapora- Channel Channel Altitude Percent Runoff
number area annual 24-hour tion slope length forest volume
precipitation rainfall
intensity
(A) (P) (I) (E) (S) (L) (Al) (F) (V0.01)
mi2 - - - - - - - - -inches - - - - - - - ft/mi mi 1,000 ft % + 1 inches

11372000 228.00 56 3.5 48 63 48.7 2.1 99 11.1966

11374400 249.00 41 2.8 48 58 43.5 1.6 53 7.6804
11379500 92.90 36 2.8 51 170 19.6 2.0 92 10.3144
11380500 126.00 28 2.7 51 93 42.7 1.8 84 6.6278
11382000 194.00 35 2.8 49 126 36.5 2.7 98 11.5990
11448500 6.36 41 4.5 46 374 4.2 2.1 95 18.9540
11448900 11.90 37 4.0 45 125 5.3 1.9 85 20.8693
11451500 197.00 39 3.0 52 40 34.0 1.7 96 10.1729
11451720 100.00 30 3.8 51 17 38.0 1.3 90 8.8838
11453500 113.00 52 3.5 49 55 21.6 1.4 89 18.8469
11453600 78.30 35 4.0 49 30 18.0 0.8 60 17.7086
11456000 81.40 48 3.3 49 46 19.4 0.5 79 16.2089
11456500 52.10 35 3.3 49 140 14.3 1.0 87 11.1178
11457000 17.40 35 3.3 49 72 10.8 1.2 29 13.1009
11458200 9.79 30 2.4 45 258 8.9 1.1 98 14.6669
11458500 58.40 35 3.0 46 82 17.3 0.3 72 15.9474
11459000 30.90 28 3.0 43 95 10.3 0.4 1 7.3099
11460000 18.10 42 3.0 42 125 7.5 0.5 50 19.0027

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Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
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Example 18–5 Development of a direct probability estimate by use of stepwise regression—Continued

Table 18–15 Correlation matrix of logarithms for example 18–5

Variable Drainage Mean 2-year, Evapora- Channel Channel Altitude Percent Runoff
area annual 24-hour tion slope length forest volume
precipitation rainfall
intensity
(A) (P) (I) (E) (S) (L) (Al) (F) (V0.01)
mi2 - - - - - - - - - -inches - - - - - - - - - ft/mi mi 1,000 ft % + 1 inches
Area 1.00
Precipitation 0.23 1.00
Intensity –0.25 0.32 1.00
Evaporation 0.63 0.01 –0.03 1.00
Slope –0.60 –0.10 –0.19 –0.44 1.00
Length 0.96 0.11 –0.32 0.68 –0.61 1.00
Altitude 0.22 0.14 0.11 0.50 0.16 0.27 1.00
Forest 0.19 0.36 0.11 0.49 0.01 0.22 0.49 1.00
Runoff volume –0.53 0.45 0.48 –0.37 0.22 –0.62 –0.17 0.34 1.00

Table 18–16 Stepwise regression coefficients for example 18–5

Equation Constant L P F S Al A E I
number

1 1.0997
2 1.4745 –0.3010
3 –0.0022 –0.3281 0.9615
4 0.1739 –0.3605 0.7380 0.1210
5 0.6752 –0.4650 0.6735 0.1432 –0.1608
6 0.5178 –0.4257 0.6731 0.1675 –0.1231 –0.1046
7 0.6604 –0.5722 0.5803 0.1756 –0.1242 –0.1012 0.0985
8 2.6010 –0.5796 0.4824 0.1980 –0.1509 –0.0681 0.1233 –1.0785
9 2.6392 –0.5971 0.4949 0.1983 –0.1623 –0.0608 0.1257 –1.0705 –0.0637

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012) 18–49

Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Example 18–5 Development of a direct probability estimate by use of stepwise regression—Continued

Figure 18–12 Residual plot for example 18–5

0.3

0.2

0.1
Residual

–0.1

–0.2

–0.3
0.8 0.9 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4
Logarithm of predicted runoff volume (in)

18–50 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012)

Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Example 18–5 Development of a direct probability estimate by use of stepwise regression—Continued

Figure 18–13 Estimate smoothing for example 18–5

12

11

10

8
Runoff volume (in)

4 Probability Variable Runoff

0.50 L,P 3.03
0.20 L,P,F 5.39
0.10 L,P 7.56
0.04 L,P,F 9.35
3
0.02 L,P,F,S 10.21
0.01 L,P,F,S 11.60

2
50 40 30 20 10 4 2 1 0.5 0.1

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Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
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Example 18–5 Development of a direct probability estimate by use of stepwise regression—Continued

Table 18–17 Regression equation evaluation data for example 18–5

Equation Predictor r2 ∆r2 Se SS/df SS/df Ft Fp

no. variables regression residuals ratio ratio

1 ‑‑‑ 0.1566*
2 L 0.390 0.390 0.1260 0.1627/1 0.2542/16 10.2 10.2
3 L,P 0.661 0.271 0.0971 0.2754/2 0.1415/15 14.6 11.9
4 L,P,F 0.769 0.108 0.0830 0.3204/3 0.0964/14 15.5 6.5
5 L,P,F,S 0.836 0.067 0.0725 0.3485/4 0.0684/13 16.6 5.3
6 L,P,F,S,Al 0.858 0.022 0.0703 0.3575/5 0.0593/12 14.5 1.8
7 L,P,F,S,Al,A 0.864 0.006 0.0718 0.3601/6 0.0567/11 11.6 0.5
8 L,P,F,S,Al,A,E 0.873 0.009 0.0728 0.3639/7 0.0530/10 9.8 0.7

9 L,P,F,S,Al,A,E,I 0.873 0.000 0.0766 0.3640/8 0.0529/9 7.7 0.2

r2 Coefficient of determination
∆r2 Change in r2
Se Standard error of estimate
SS/df Sum of squares to degrees of freedom ratio for regression or residuals
Ft Total F-test value
Fp Partial F-test value
*Sy of criterion variable, V0.0l

Table 18–18 Residuals for example 18–5

Station no. Predicted Observed Residual Station no. Predicted Observed Residual
runoff runoff runoff runoff
volume volume volume volume
(logs) (logs) (logs) (logs)

11372000 1.0646 1.0491 –0.0155 11453500 1.2099 1.2752 0.0653

11374400 0.9631 0.8854 –0.0777 11453600 1.1487 1.2482 0.0995
11379500 1.0453 1.0137 –0.0316 11456000 1.2133 1.2098 –0.0035
11380500 0.8510 0.8214 –0.0296 11456500 1.1108 1.0460 –0.0648
11382000 0.9363 1.0644 0.1281 11457000 1.1455 1.1173 –0.0282
11448500 1.3413 1.2777 –0.0636 11458200 1.1261 1.1663 0.0402
11448900 1.3339 1.3195 –0.0144 11458500 1.0979 1.2027 0.1048
11451500 1.0611 1.0074 –0.0537 11459000 0.8610 0.8639 0.0029
11451720 1.0177 0.9486 –0.0691 11460000 1.2679 1.2788 0.0109
Sum 0.0000

18–52 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012)

Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

(c) Indirect estimation basin characteristics. The probability level estimates

are then derived from the frequency curve, based on
The second technique for regionalization of water- the predicted statistical characteristics. Example 18–6
shed data is to use regression equations to relate the illustrates this technique.
statistical characteristics of selected values to various

Example 18–6 Development of indirect probability estimates

Given: The mean and standard deviations of the 1-day and 15-day high flow frequency curves were
related to basin characteristics for 25 sites in the north coastal region of California, using the
units cubic feet per second per day or days (ft3/s-d), that is, the volume of water represented by
a flow of 1 cubic foot per second for a period of 1 day or 15 days. Figures 18–14 through 18–17
show the relationships of the 25 stations used. The relationships of drainage area, mean an-
nual precipitation, 1-day and 15-day high flow means and standard deviations were developed
by regression. The predictor variables were selected because of availability of data. Tests were
performed on each regression equation to verify that the mean of residuals is zero, the residu-
als are independent of each variable, the variance is constant, and that Se is smaller than Sy the
standard deviation of the criterion.

Activity: Develop 1- and 15-day high flow frequency curves for a 50‑square‑mile drainage area in the north
coastal region of California with a mean annual precipitation of 60 inches.

X1 = 3,100 ft 3 /s-d from figure 18–14

S1 = 1, 600 ft 3 /s-d from figure 18–15

(X ) 2

γ1 = 2 solution of equation 18–14 for γ

S

γ1 =
( 3,100)2 = 3.75
(1, 600)2

2
G1 =
3.75
from equation 18–15
= 1.03

use 1.0

X15 = 900 ft 3 /s-d from figure 18–16

S15 = 360 ft /s-d 3

from figure 18–17
(900 ) 2

γ 15 = = 6.25
(360 )2

2
G15 =
6.25
= 0.8
use 0.8

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Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Example 18–6 Development of indirect probability estimates—Continued

Using equation 18–16 as shown in table 18–19, determine the 1-day and 15-day high flow values
for selected exceedance frequencies using the Pearson III probability distribution.

where:

X1 = 3,100 ft 3 /s-d X 15 = 900 ft 3 /s-d

S = 1, 600 ft 3 /s-d S15 = 360 ft 3 /s-d
1

Table 18–19 Frequency curve solutions for example 18–6

Exceed Exhibit 18–3 V1 = X1 + K pS1 Exhibit 18–3 V15 = X15 + K pS15

prob. Kp value (ft3/s-d) Kp value (ft3/s-d)
(q) (G = 1.0) (G = 0.8)

99 –1.58838 559 –1.73271 276

95 –1.31684 993 –1.38855 400
80 –0.85161 1,737 –0.85607 592
50 –0.16397 2,838 –0.13199 852

20 0.75752 4,312 0.77986 1,181

10 1.34039 5,245 1.33640 1,381

4 2.04269 6,368 1.99311 1,618

2 2.54206 7,167 2.45298 1,783

1 3.02256 7,936 2.89101 1,941

18–54 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012)

Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Example 18–6 Development of indirect probability estimates—Continued

Figure 18–14 Drainage area and mean annual precipitation for 1-day mean flow for example 18–6

200,000

100,000

80,000

60,000
50,000

40,000

30,000
1-day mean flow (ft3/s−d)

)
(in
n
tio
ita

20,000
ip
ec
Pr

10,000

8,000

6,000
5,000
100
4,000
80
3,000 70

60
50 California
2,000
40 North Coastal
Region
Stream Study

1,000
30 40 50 60 80 100 200 300 400 500 600 800 1,000 2,000
Drainage area (mi2)

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012) 18–55

Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Example 18–6 Development of indirect probability estimates—Continued

Figure 18–15 One-day mean flow and standard deviation for example 18–6

100,000
80,000

60,000
50,000
40,000

30,000

20,000

10,000
Srandard deviation (ft3/s−d)

8,000

6,000
5,000
4,000

3,000

2,000

1,000
800

600
500
400 California
North Coastal
300
Region
Stream Study
200 S=.3391 × X−1.042

100
200 400 1,000 2,000 4,000 10,000 20,000 40,000 100,000 200,000
800 8,000 80,000
1–day mean flow (ft3/s−d)

18–56 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012)

Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Example 18–6 Development of indirect probability estimates—Continued

Figure 18–16 Drainage area and mean annual precipitation for 15-day mean flow for example 18–6

60,000
50,000

40,000

30,000

20,000

10,000

8,000 )
(in
n
15-day mean flow (ft3/s−d)

6,000 tio
ita
5,000 cip
P re
4,000

3,000

2,000

100

1,000
80
800
60
600
500 California
40
North Coastal
400 Region
Stream Study
300

200
30 40 50 60 80 100 200 300 400 500 600 800 1,000 2,000
Drainage area (mi2)

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012) 18–57

Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
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Example 18–6 Development of indirect probability estimates—Continued

Figure 18–17 Fifteen-day mean flow and standard deviation for example 18–6

30,000

20,000

10,000
8,000
6,000
5,000
4,000
3,000

2,000
Standard deviation (ft3/s−d)

1,000
800

600
500
400
300

200

100
80
60
50 California
40 North Coastal
Region
30 Stream Study

20 S=.2250 × X−1.078

10
100 200 400 800 1,000 2,000 4,000 8,000 10,000 20,000 40,000 80,000
15-day mean flow (ft3/s−d)

18–58 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012)

Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods
(d) Discussion
The basic uses of regionalization are to transfer data
from gaged watersheds either to ungaged watersheds
or to locations within gaged watersheds, and to cali-
brate water resource models. In using regionalization,
however, certain basic limitations must be understood.
The prediction equation generally should be used only
within the range of the predictor variables used to de-
velop the equation. The prediction equation represents
the “average” condition for the data. If the ungaged
watershed varies significantly from the average condi-
tion, then the variation must be explained by one or
more of the variables in the prediction equation. If the
variation is not explained, the equation should not be
used.
When the prediction equation is used to calibrate a
watershed model, values estimated by the regression
equation should deviate from the values computed by
the model. The magnitude of this deviation is a func-
tion of how much the ungaged watershed differs from
the average condition. For example, if most of the
watersheds used to develop the prediction equation
are flat and long and the ungaged watershed is steep
and short, the peak flow computed with the watershed
model could differ significantly from that estimated
by the prediction equation. The prediction equation
should not be used when the watershed characteris-
tics are outside the range of those used to develop the
equa­tion.
The coefficients of the prediction equation must be ra-
tional. For example, peak flow is inversely proportion-
al to the length of the main watercourse, if all other
variables are constant. This means that when a loga-
rithmic transformation is used, the power of the length
variable should be negative. If a predictor variable has
an irrational relationship in the equation, the correla-
tion coefficients of all the predictor variables should
be examined before the equation is used. A high cor-
relation coefficient between two predictor variables
means that one of the variables can be used to explain
how the criterion variable varies with both predictor
variables. The accuracy of the prediction equation is
not improved by adding the second predictor variable;
the equation merely becomes more complicated.
(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012)
Part 630
National Engineering Handbook
630.1806 Risk
Flood frequency analysis identifies the population
from a sample of data. The population cannot be
identified exactly when only a sample is available, and
this represents an important element of uncertainty. A
second source of uncertainty is that even if the popula-
tion was known exactly, there is a finite chance that an
event of a certain size will be exceeded.
The measurement of such uncertainty is called risk.
Typical questions include:
• A channel is designed with a capacity of a 0.02
exceedance probability. Is it unreasonable to
expect its capacity will be exceeded once or
more in the next 10 years?
• What is the risk that an emergency spillway
designed to pass a 2 percent chance flow will
experience this flow twice or more in the next
10 years?
• Throughout the United States, the NRCS has
built many flood‑control structures. What per-
cent will experience a 1 percent chance flood in
the next 5 years? The next 10 years?
These problems can be solved by means of the bino-
mial distribution. Basic assumptions in the use of the
binomial distribution are given in the general discus-
sion on distributions. These assumptions are generally
valid for assessing risk in hydrology. The binomial
expression for risk is:
N! (N−I )
RI = q I (1 − q ) (18–30)
I ! (N − I )!
where:
RI = estimated risk of obtaining in N time periods
exactly I number of events with an exceedance
probability q.
Examples 18–7 through 18–10 show the methods used
to measure risk.
18–59
Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Example 18–7 Risk of future nonoccurrence

Problem: What is the probability that a 10 percent chance flood (q = 0.10) will not be exceeded in the next
5 years?

Solution: From equation 18–30, for N = 5, q = 0.10, and I = 0:

( 5 ) ! 0.100 1 − .10 (5−0)

R0 = ( )
0 ! (5 )!

The probability of nonoccurrence is 0.59 or 59 percent; the probability of occurrence is 1 – R0 or

0.41.

Example 18–8 Risk of multiple occurrence

Problem: What is the probability that a 2 percent chance peak flow (q = 0.02) will be exceeded twice or
more in the next 10 years?

Solution: For nonexceedance of the 2 percent chance event:

N = 10, q = 0.02, I = 0
(10 ) !
R0 = (0.02)0 (1 − 0.02)10
0 ! (10 ) !
= 0.817

For only one exceedance of the 2 percent chance event:

N = 10, q = 0.02, I = 1
(10 ) !
R1 = (0.02)1 (1 − 0.02)9
1 ! (9 ) !
= 0.167

For two or more exceedances of the 2 percent chance event:

R ( 2 or more) = 1 − ( R 0 + R1 )
R ( 2 or more) = 1 − ( 0.817 + 0.167 )
= 0.016

In other words, there is a 1.6 percent chance of experiencing two or more peaks equal to or
greater than the 2 percent chance peak flow within any 10-year period. If flood events are not
related, probably no more than 16 locations in a thousand will, on the average, experience two
or more floods equal to or greater than the 2 percent chance flood within the next 10 years.

18–60 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012)

Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Example 18–9 Risk of a selected exceedance probability

Given: 20-year record on a small creek.

Problem: What is the probability that the greatest flood of record is not a 5 percent chance event (q =
0.05)?

Solution: For nonoccurrence of the 5 percent chance event:

N = 20, q = 0.05, I = 0

20 !
( 0.05 ) (1 − 0.05 )
0 20
R0 =
0 ! 20 !
=
.358
0

Therefore, there is a 36 percent chance of the 5 percent chance event not occurring and, con-
versely, a 64 percent chance that one or more will occur.

Example 18–10 Exceedance probability of a selected risk

Problem: What exceedance probability has a 50 percent chance of occurrence in a 20-year period?

Solution: For 50 percent occurrence in 20 years:

N = 20, q = ?, I = 0, R 0 = 0.5

20 ! ( )
0.5 = ( q )0 (1 − q ) 20 −0
0 ! 20 !
( 20 )
0.5 = (1 − q )
1
1 − q = ( 0.5 ) 20 = 0.966

q = 0.034

Or, there is a 50 percent chance that a 3 percent chance event will occur within the 20-year
period.

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012) 18–61

Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

630.1807 Metric conversion 630.1808 References

factors
Beard, L.R., and A.J. Fredrich. 1975. Hydrologic fre-
The English system of units is used in this report. To quency analysis. Vol. 3, Hydrologic engineering
convert to the International System of units (metric), methods for water resources development. U.S.
use the following factors: Army Corps of Engineers, Davis, CA, 134 p.

To convert To metric units Multiply
by English
units
acres (acre) hectares (ha) 0.405
square miles (mi2) square kilometers 2.59
 (km2)
cubic feet per cubic meters per 0.0283
  second (ft3/s) 1/  second (m3/s)
cubic feet per cubic meters per 2,450
  second per day second per day
 ft3/s−d m3/s−d
inches (in) millimeters (mm) 25.4
1/ In converting stream discharge values, which are recorded in
English units with only three significant digits, do not imply a
greater precision than is present.
Benson, M.A. 1965. Spurious correlation in hydraulics
and hydrology. Am. Soc. Civ. Engr. J. Hyd. Div.
91(HY4):35‑42.
Chisman, J.A. 1968. The Pearson generalized statistical
distribution. Bull. III. Eng. Exp. Stn., Coll. Eng.
Clemson Univ., SC.
Chow, V.T. 1964. Statistical and probability analysis of
hydrologic data. In Handbook of applied hydrol-
ogy, Section 8 (V.T. Chow, ed.) McGraw‑Hill, Inc.,
NY.
Corbett, D.M., et al. 1962. Streamgaging procedure-A
manual describing methods and practices of the
Geological Survey. U.S. Geol. Surv., Water Supply
Paper 888, 245 p.

Crippin, V.A. 1978. Composite log-type III frequency-

magnitude curve of annual floods. U.S. Geol.
Surv., Open File Rep. 78–352, 5 p.

Dixon, W.J. 1975. BMDP biomedical computer pro-

grams. Univ. Calif. Press, Berkeley, CA. 791 p.

Draper, N.R., and H. Smith. 1966. Applied regression

analysis. John Wiley & Sons, Inc., New York, NY.
407 p.

Elderton, W.P. 1953. Frequency curves and correlation,

fourth ed. Harren Press, Washington, DC. 272 p.

Elderton, W.P., and N.L. Johnson. 1969. Systems of

frequency curves. Cambridge Univ. Press, New
York, NY. 216 p.

Farnsworth, R.K., E.S. Thompson, and E.L. Peck. 1982.

Evaporation atlas for the contiguous 48 United
States. Natl. Weather Serv. Tech. Rep. NWS 33,
26 p.

18–62 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012)

Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods
Greenwood, J.A., and D. Durand. 1960. Aids for fitting
the gamma distribution by maximum likelihood.
Technometrics 2(1):55–65.
Grubbs, F.E. 1950. Sample criteria for testing outlying
observations. An. Math. Statis. 1(21):27–58.
Gumbel, E.J. 1958. Statistics of extremes. Columbia
Univ. Press, New York, NY. 375 p.
Haan, C.T. 1977. Statistical methods in hydrology. Iowa
State Univ. Press., Ames, IA. 378 p.
Harter, H.L. 1969a. Order statistics and their use in
testing and estimation, vol. 2. U.S. Air Force,
Aerospace Res. Lab. 805 p.
Harter, H.L. 1969b. A new table of percentage points of
the Pearson type III distribution Technometrics,
Vol. 11, No. 1, pp 177–187.
Harter, H.L. 1971. More percentage points of the Pear-
son distribution, Technometrics, Vol. 13, No. 1,
pp. 203–204.
Hastings, N.A.J., and J.B. Peacock. 1975. Statistical
distribution. John Wiley & Sons, Inc., New York,
NY. 130 p.
Hayslett, H.T., Jr. 1968. Statistics made simple. Double-
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Hoel, P.G. 1971. Introduction to mathematical statis-
tics, fourth ed. John Wiley & Sons, Inc., New
York, NY. 409 p.
Kirby, William. 1974. Algebraic boundedness of sample
statistics. Water Resour. Res. 10(2):220–222.
Kite, G.W. 1977. Frequency and risk analysis in hydrol-
ogy. Water Resour. Publ., Fort Collins, CO. 224 p.
Markowitz, M. 1971. The chance a flood will be ex-
ceeded in a period of years. Water Resour. Bull.
7(1):40–53.
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National Research Council of Canada. 1967. Statistical
methods in hydrology. Proc. Hydrol. Symp. #5,
McGill Univ., Ottawa, Canada. 315 p.
National Weather Service. 1972. Observing handbook
no. 2, substation observations. 77 p.
Pacific Southwest Inter‑Agency Committee. 1966.
Limitation in hydrologic data as applied to stud-
ies of water control and water management. San
Francisco, CA. 129 p.
Riggs, H.C. 1968a. Some statistical tools in hydrology.
In Techniques of water resources investigations
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Riggs, H.C. 1968b. Frequency curves. In Techniques of
water resources investigations of the U.S. Geol.
Survey, Chap. A2, Book 4, 15 p.
Riggs, H.C. 1973. Regional analyses of streamflow
characteristics. In Techniques of water resources
investigations of the U.S. Geol. Survey, Chap. B,
Book 4, 14 p.
Sammons, W.H. 1966. Hydrology study—A multipur-
pose program for selected cumulative probability
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serv. Serv., Tech. Paper 148, Suppl. 1, 105 p.
Searcy, J.K. 1959. Low flow techniques, flow-duration
curves. Manual of Hydrology, Pt. 2, U.S. Geol.
Surv. Water Supply Paper 1542–A, 33 p.
Snedecor, G.W., and W.G. Cochran.1957. Statistical
methods. IA State Univ. Press, Ames, IA. 534 p.
Spiegel, M.R. 1961. Schaum’s outline of theory and
problems of statistics. Shaum Pub. Co., New York,
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U.S. Weather Bur. Mon. Weather Rev.
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U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources

Conservation Sevice. 1993. National Engineering
Handbook, Part 630, Chapter 4, Storm rainfall
depth. Washington, DC.

U.S. Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation

Service. 1976. New tables of percentage points
of the Pearson type III distribution. Tech. Rel. 38,
Washington, DC. 18 p.

U.S. Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation

Service. 1972. Snow survey and water supply
forecasting. National Engineering Handbook,
Sec. 22. Washington, DC.

U.S. Geological Survey. 2007. PeakFQ version 5.2.

U.S. Geological Survey. 2006. User’s manual for pro-

gram PeakFQ, annual flood frequency analysis
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Survey Techniques and Methods, book 4, chapter
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Wang, L., and A.L. Huber. 1967. Estimating water yields

in Utah by principal component analysis, PrWg
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Water Resources Council. 1982. Guidelines for deter-
mining flood flow frequency. Bull. No. 17B, 28 p.

18–64 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012)

Exhibit 18–1 Five Percent Two‑sided Critical
Values for Outlier Detection

N Kn Low prob. High prob. N Kn Low prob. High prob.

10 2.294 0.9891048 0.0108952

11 2.343 0.9904353 0.0095647 56 3.032 0.9987853 0.0012147
12 2.387 0.9915068 0.0084932 57 3.040 0.9988171 0.0011829
13 2.426 0.9923669 0.0076331 58 3.046 0.9988404 0.0011596
14 2.461 0.9930725 0.0069275 59 3.051 0.9988596 0.0011404
15 2.493 0.9936665 0.0063335 60 3.058 0.9988859 0.0011141
16 2.523 0.9941821 0.0058179 61 3.063 0.9989043 0.0010957
17 2.551 0.9946293 0.0053707 62 3.070 0.9989297 0.0010703
18 2.577 0.9950169 0.0049831 63 3.075 0.9989474 0.0010526
19 2.600 0.9953388 0.0046612 64 3.082 0.9989719 0.0010281
20 2.623 0.9956420 0.0043580 65 3.086 0.9989856 0.0010144
21 2.644 0.9959034 0.0040966 66 3.090 0.9989992 0.0010008
22 2.664 0.9961391 0.0038609 67 3.096 0.9990192 0.0009808
23 2.683 0.9963517 0.0036483 68 3.101 0.9990356 0.0009644
24 2.701 0.9965434 0.0034566 69 3.105 0.9990486 0.0009514
25 2.717 0.9967061 0.0032939 70 3.110 0.9990645 0.0009355
26 2.734 0.9968715 0.0031285 71 3.115 0.9990802 0.0009198
27 2.751 0.9970293 0.0029707 72 3.121 0.9990988 0.0009012
28 2.768 0.9971799 0.0028201 73 3.125 0.9991109 0.0008891
29 2.781 0.9972904 0.0027096 74 3.130 0.9991260 0.0008740
30 2.794 0.9973969 0.0026031 75 3.134 0.9991378 0.0008622
31 2.808 0.9975075 0.0024925 76 3.138 0.9991494 0.0008506
32 2.819 0.9975913 0.0024087 77 3.142 0.9991609 0.0008391
33 2.833 0.9976943 0.0023057 78 3.148 0.9991780 0.0008220
34 2.846 0.9977863 0.0022137 79 3.152 0.9991892 0.0008108
35 2.858 0.9978684 0.0021316 80 3.157 0.9992030 0.0007970
36 2.869 0.9979411 0.0020589 81 3.161 0.9992138 0.0007862
37 2.880 0.9980116 0.0019884 82 3.164 0.9992219 0.0007781
38 2.890 0.9980738 0.0019262 83 3.168 0.9992325 0.0007675
39 2.900 0.9981341 0.0018659 84 3.172 0.9992430 0.0007570
40 2.910 0.9981928 0.0018072 85 3.176 0.9992533 0.0007467
41 2.919 0.9982442 0.0017558 86 3.180 0.9992636 0.0007364
42 2.925 0.9982777 0.0017223 87 3.184 0.9992737 0.0007263
43 2.937 0.9983429 0.0016571 88 3.188 0.9992837 0.0007163
44 2.945 0.9983852 0.0016148 89 3.191 0.9992911 0.0007089
45 2.954 0.9984316 0.0015684 90 3.194 0.9992984 0.0007016
46 2.960 0.9984618 0.0015382 91 3.198 0.9993080 0.0006920
47 2.970 0.9985110 0.0014890 92 3.202 0.9993176 0.0006824
48 2.978 0.9985493 0.0014507 93 3.205 0.9993247 0.0006753
49 2.985 0.9985821 0.0014179 94 3.208 0.9993317 0.0006683
50 2.993 0.9986187 0.0013813 95 3.211 0.9993386 0.0006614
51 3.000 0.9986501 0.0013499 96 3.214 0.9993455 0.0006545
52 3.007 0.9986808 0.0013192 97 3.217 0.9993523 0.0006477
53 3.013 0.9987066 0.0012934 98 3.220 0.9993590 0.0006410
54 3.020 0.9987361 0.0012639 99 3.224 0.9993679 0.0006321
55 3.025 0.9987568 0.0012432 100 3.228 0.9993767 0.0006233

Note: Kn values are positive for high outliers and negative for low outliers.

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012) 18–65

Exhibit 18–2 Expected Values of Normal Order
Statistics, Kn

N 10 11 12 13 14 15 16

1 1.53875 1.58644 1.62923 1.66799 1.70338 1.73591 1.76599

2 1.00136 1.06192 1.11573 1.16408 1.20790 1.24794 1.28474
3 0.65606 0.72884 0.79284 0.84983 0.90113 0.94769 0.99027
4 0.37576 0.46198 0.53684 0.60285 0.66176 0.71488 0.76317
5 0.12267 0.22489 0.31225 0.38833 0.45557 0.51570 0.57001

6 0.00000 0.10259 0.19052 0.26730 0.33530 0.39622

7 0.00000 0.08816 0.16530 0.23375
8 0.00000 0.07729

N 17 18 19 20 21 22 23

1 1.79394 1.82003 1.84448 1.86748 1.88917 1.90969 1.92916

2 1.31878 1.35041 1.37994 1.40760 1.43362 1.45816 1.48137
3 1.02946 1.06573 1.09945 1.13095 1.16047 1.18824 1.21445
4 0.80738 0.84812 0.88586 0.92098 0.95380 0.98459 1.01356
5 0.61946 0.66479 0.70661 0.74538 0.78150 0.81527 0.84697

6 0.45133 0.50158 0.54771 0.59030 0.62982 0.66667 0.70115

7 0.29519 0.35084 0.40164 0.44833 0.49148 0.53157 0.56896
8 0.14599 0.20774 0.26374 0.31493 0.36203 0.40559 0.44609
9 0.00000 0.06880 0.13072 0.18696 0.23841 0.28579 0.32965
10 0.00000 0.06200 0.11836 0.16997 0.21755

11 0.00000 0.05642 0.10813

12 0.00000

N 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

1 1.94767 1.96531 1.98216 1.99827 2.01371 2.02852 2.04276

2 1.50338 1.52430 1.54423 1.56326 1.58145 1.59888 1.61560
3 1.23924 1.26275 1.28511 1.30641 1.32674 1.34619 1.36481
4 1.04091 1.06679 1.09135 1.1147l 1.13697 1.15822 1.17855
5 0.87682 0.90501 0.93171 0.95705 0.98115 1.00414 1.02609

6 0.73354 0.76405 0.79289 0.82021 0.84615 0.87084 0.89439

7 0.60399 0.63690 0.66794 0.69727 0.72508 0.75150 0.77666
8 0.48391 0.51935 0.55267 0.58411 0.61385 0.64205 0.66885
9 0.37047 0.40860 0.44436 0.47801 0.50977 0.53982 0.56834
10 0.26163 0.30268 0.34105 0.37706 0.41096 0.44298 0.47329

11 0.15583 0.20006 0.24128 0.27983 0.31603 0.35013 0.38235

12 0.05176 0.09953 0.14387 0.18520 0.22389 0.26023 0.29449
13 0.00000 0.04781 0.09220 0.13361 0.17240 0.20885
14 0.00000 0.04442 0.08588 0.12473
15 0.00000 0.04148

18–66 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012)

Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Exhibit 18–2 Expected values of normal order statistics, Kn—Continued

N 31 32 33 34 35 36 37

1 2.05646 2.06967 2.08241 2.09471 2.10661 2.11812 2.12928

2 1.63166 1.64712 1.66200 1.67636 1.69023 1.70362 1.71659
3 1.38268 1.39985 1.41637 1.43228 1.44762 1.46244 1.47676
4 1.19803 1.21672 1.23468 1.25196 1.26860 1.28466 1.30016
5 1.04709 1.06721 1.08652 1.10509 1.12295 1.14016 1.15677

6 0.91688 0.93841 0.95905 0.97886 0.99790 1.01624 1.03390

7 0.80066 0.82359 0.84555 0.86660 0.88681 0.90625 0.92496
8 0.69438 0.71875 0.74204 0.76435 0.78574 0.80629 0.82605
9 0.59545 0.62129 0.64596 0.66954 0.69214 0.71382 0.73465
10 0.50206 0.52943 0.55552 0.58043 0.60427 0.62710 0.64902

11 0.41287 0.44185 0.46942 0.49572 0.52084 0.54488 0.56793

12 0.32686 0.35755 0.38669 0.41444 0.44091 0.46620 0.49042
13 0.24322 0.27573 0.30654 0.33582 0.36371 0.39032 0.41576
14 0.16126 0.19572 0.22832 0.25924 0.28863 0.31663 0.34336
15 0.08037 0.11695 0.15147 0.18415 0.21515 0.24463 0.27272

16 0.00000 0.03890 0.07552 0.11009 0.14282 0.17388 0.20342

17 0.00000 0.03663 0.07123 0.10399 0.13509
18 0.00000 0.03461 0.06739
19 0.00000

N 38 39 40 41 42 43 44

1 2.14009 2.15059 2.16078 2.17068 2.18032 2.18969 2.19882

2 1.72914 1.74131 1.75312 1.76458 1.77571 1.78654 1.79707
3 1.49061 1.50402 1.51702 1.52964 1.54188 1.55377 1.56533
4 1.31514 1.32964 1.34368 1.35728 1.37048 1.38329 1.39574
5 1.17280 1.18830 1.20330 1.21782 1.23190 1.24556 1.25881

6 1.05095 1.06741 1.08332 1.09872 1.11364 1.12810 1.14213
7 0.94300 0.96041 0.97722 0.99348 1.00922 1.02446 1.03924
8 0.84508 0.86343 0.88114 0.89825 0.91480 0.93082 0.94634
9 0.75468 0.77398 0.79259 0.81056 0.82792 0.84472 0.86097
10 0.67009 0.69035 0.70988 0.72871 0.74690 0.76448 0.78148

11 0.59005 0.61131 0.63177 0.65149 0.67052 0.68889 0.70666
12 0.51363 0.53592 0.55736 0.57799 0.59788 0.61707 0.63561
13 0.44012 0.46348 0.48591 0.50749 0.52827 0.54830 0.56763
14 0.36892 0.39340 0.41688 0.43944 0.46114 0.48204 0.50220
15 0.29954 0.32520 0.34978 0.37337 0.39604 0.41784 0.43885

16 0.23159 0.25849 0.28423 0.30890 0.33257 0.35533 0.37723

17 0.16469 0.19292 0.21988 0.24569 0.27043 0.29418 0.31701
18 0.09853 0.12817 0.15644 0.18345 0.20931 0.23411 0.25792
19 0.03280 0.06395 0.09362 0.12192 0.14897 0.17488 0.19972
20 0.00000 0.03117 0.06085 0.08917 0.11625 0.14219

21 0.00000 0.02969 0.05803 0.08513

22 0.00000 0.02835

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012) 18–67

Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Exhibit 18–2 Expected values of normal order statistics, Kn—Continued

N 45 46 47 48 49 50 51

1 2.20772 2.21639 2.22486 2.23312 2.24119 2.24907 2.25678

2 1.80733 1.81732 1.82706 1.83655 1.84582 1.85487 1.86371
3 1.57658 1.58754 1.59820 1.60860 1.61874 1.62863 1.63829
4 1.40784 1.41962 1.43108 1.44224 1.45312 1.46374 1.47409
5 1.27170 1.28422 1.29641 1.30827 1.31983 1.33109 1.34207

6 1.15576 1.16899 1.18186 1.19439 1.20658 1.21846 1.23003

7 1.05358 1.06751 1.08104 1.09420 1.10701 1.11948 1.13162
8 0.96139 0.97599 0.99018 1.00396 1.01737 1.03042 1.04312
9 0.87673 0.89201 0.90684 0.92125 0.93525 0.94887 0.96213
10 0.79795 0.81391 0.82939 0.84442 0.85902 0.87321 0.88701

11 0.72385 0.74049 0.75663 0.77228 0.78748 0.80225 0.81661

12 0.65353 0.67088 0.68768 0.70397 0.71978 0.73513 0.75004
13 0.58631 0.60438 0.62186 0.63881 0.65523 0.67117 0.68666
14 0.52166 0.54046 0.55865 0.57625 0.59331 0.60986 0.62592
15 0.45912 0.47868 0.49759 0.51588 0.53360 0.55077 0.56742

16 0.39833 0.41868 0.43834 0.45734 0.47573 0.49354 0.51080

17 0.33898 0.36016 0.38060 0.40034 0.41942 0.43789 0.45578
18 0.28081 0.30285 0.32410 0.34460 0.36441 0.38357 0.40211
19 0.22358 0.24652 0.26862 0.28992 0.31049 0.33036 0.34957
20 0.16707 0.19097 0.21396 0.23610 0.25746 0.27807 0.29799

21 0.11109 0.13600 0.15993 0.18296 0.20514 0.22653 0.24719

22 0.05546 0.08144 0.10637 0.13033 0.15338 0.17559 0.19702
23 0.00000 0.02712 0.05311 0.07805 0.10203 0.12511 0.14735
24 0.00000 0.02599 0.05095 0.07494 0.09803
25 0.00000 0.02496 0.04896

26 0.00000

N 52 53 54 55 56 57 58

1 2.26432 2.27169 2.27891 2.28598 2.29291 2.29970 2.30635

2 1.87235 1.88080 1.88906 1.89715 1.90506 1.91282 1.92041
3 1.64773 1.65695 1.66596 1.67478 1.68340 1.69185 1.70012
4 1.48420 1.49407 1.50372 1.51315 1.52237 1.53140 1.54024
5 1.35279 1.36326 1.37348 1.38346 1.39323 1.40278 1.41212

6 1.24132 1.25234 1.26310 1.27361 1.28387 1.29391 1.30373

7 1.14347 1.15502 1.16629 1.17729 1.18804 1.19855 1.20882
8 1.05550 1.06757 1.07934 1.09083 1.10205 1.11300 1.12371
9 0.97504 0.98762 0.99988 1.01185 1.02352 1.03493 1.04607
10 0.90045 0.91354 0.92629 0.93873 0.95086 0.96271 0.97427

18–68 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012)

Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Exhibit 18–2 Expected values of normal order statistics, Kn—Continued

N 52 53 54 55 56 57 58

11 0.83058 0.84417 0.85742 0.87033 0.88292 0.89520 0.90719

12 0.76455 0.77866 0.79240 0.80578 0.81883 0.83155 0.84397
13 0.70170 0.71633 0.73057 0.74444 0.75794 0.77111 0.78396
14 0.64152 0.65668 0.67143 0.68578 0.69976 0.71337 0.72665
15 0.58358 0.59928 0.61455 0.62940 0.64385 0.65793 0.67164

16 0.52755 0.54380 0.55960 0.57495 0.58989 0.60444 0.61860

17 0.47312 0.48995 0.50629 0.52217 0.53761 0.55263 0.56725
18 0.42007 0.43749 0.45439 0.47080 0.48675 0.50226 0.51736
19 0.36818 0.38621 0.40369 0.42065 0.43713 0.45314 0.46872
20 0.31726 0.33592 0.35400 0.37154 0.38856 0.40510 0.42117

21 0.26716 0.28648 0.30518 0.32331 0.34090 0.35797 0.37456

22 0.21772 0.23772 0.25708 0.27583 0.29400 0.31163 0.32875
23 0.16880 0.18953 0.20957 0.22896 0.24774 0.26595 0.28362
24 0.12029 0.14177 0.16252 0.18259 0.20201 0.22082 0.23906
25 0.07206 0.09434 0.11584 0.13661 0.15669 0.17614 0.19498

26 0.02400 0.04712 0.06940 0.09091 0.11170 0.13180 0.15127

27 0.00000 0.02312 0.04541 0.06693 0.08773 0.10785
28 0.00000 0.02229 0.04382 0.06463
29 0.00000 0.02153

N 59 60 61 62 63 64 65

1 2.31288 2.31928 2.32556 2.33173 2.33778 2.34373 2.34958

2 1.92786 1.93516 1.94232 1.94934 1.95624 1.96301 1.96965
3 1.70822 1.71616 1.72394 1.73158 1.73906 1.74641 1.75363
4 1.54889 1.55736 1.56567 1.57381 1.58180 1.58963 1.59732
5 1.42127 1.43023 1.43900 1.44760 1.45603 1.46430 1.47241

6 1.31334 1.32274 1.33195 1.34097 1.34982 1.35848 1.36698

7 1.21886 1.22869 1.23832 1.24774 1.25698 1.26603 1.27490
8 1.13419 1.14443 1.15445 1.16427 1.17388 1.18329 1.19252
9 1.05695 1.06760 1.07802 1.08821 1.09819 1.10797 1.11754
10 0.98557 0.99662 1.00742 1.01799 1.02833 1.03846 1.04838

11 0.91890 0.93034 0.94153 0.95247 0.96317 0.97365 0.98391

12 0.85609 0.86793 0.87950 0.89081 0.90187 0.91270 0.92329
13 0.79649 0.80873 0.82068 0.83237 0.84379 0.85496 0.86590
14 0.73960 0.75224 0.76459 0.77665 0.78843 0.79996 0.81123
15 0.68502 0.69807 0.71081 0.72324 0.73540 0.74727 0.75889

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012) 18–69

Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Exhibit 18–2 Expected values of normal order statistics, Kn—Continued

N 59 60 61 62 63 64 65

16 0.63241 0.64587 0.65901 0.67183 0.68436 0.69659 0.70856

17 0.58150 0.59538 0.60893 0.62214 0.63504 0.64764 0.65996
18 0.53205 0.54637 0.56033 0.57395 0.58723 0.60020 0.61288
19 0.48388 0.49864 0.51303 0.52705 0.54073 0.55408 0.56712
20 0.43681 0.45202 0.46685 0.48129 0.49537 0.50911 0.52252

21 0.39068 0.40637 0.42164 0.43652 0.45101 0.46515 0.47894

22 0.34538 0.36155 0.37729 0.39260 0.40752 0.42207 0.43625
23 0.30078 0.31745 0.33366 0.34944 0.36480 0.37976 0.39435
24 0.25677 0.27396 0.29066 0.30691 0.32272 0.33812 0.35312
25 0.21325 0.23098 0.24820 0.26494 0.28122 0.29706 0.31249

26 0.17013 0.18842 0.20618 0.22343 0.24019 0.25650 0.27237

27 0.12733 0.14621 0.16452 0.18230 0.19957 0.21636 0.23269
28 0.08476 0.10425 0.12315 0.14148 0.15927 0.17656 0.19337
29 0.04234 0.06248 0.08198 0.10089 0.11923 0.13704 0.15435
30 0.00000 0.02081 0.04096 0.06047 0.07938 0.09774 0.11556

31 0.00000 0.02014 0.03966 0.05858 0.07694

32 0.00000 0.01952 0.03844
33 0.00000

N 66 67 68 69 70 71 72

1 2.35532 2.36097 2.36652 2.37199 2.37736 2.38265 2.38785

2 1.97618 1.98260 1.98891 1.99510 2.00120 2.00720 2.01310
3 1.76071 1.76767 1.77451 1.78122 1.78783 1.79432 1.80071
4 1.60487 1.61228 1.61955 1.62670 1.63373 1.64063 1.64742
5 1.48036 1.48817 1.49584 1.50338 1.51078 1.51805 1.52520

6 1.37532 1.38351 1.39154 1.39942 1.40717 1.41478 1.42226

7 1.28360 1.29213 1.30051 1.30873 1.31680 1.32473 1.33252
8 1.20157 1.21044 1.21915 1.22769 1.23608 1.24431 1.25240
9 1.12693 1.13613 1.14516 1.15401 1.16270 1.17123 1.17961
10 1.05810 1.06762 1.07696 1.08612 1.09511 1.10393 1.11259

11 0.99395 1.00380 1.01345 1.02291 1.03220 1.04130 1.05024

12 0.93367 0.94383 0.95379 0.96355 0.97313 0.98252 0.99173
13 0.87660 0.88708 0.89735 0.90741 0.91728 0.92695 0.93644
14 0.82226 0.83306 0.84364 0.85400 0.86416 0.87412 0.88388
15 0.77025 0.78138 0.79226 0.80293 0.81338 0.82362 0.83366

18–70 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012)

Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Exhibit 18–2 Expected values of normal order statistics, Kn—Continued

N 66 67 68 69 70 71 72

16 0.72025 0.73170 0.74290 0.75387 0.76462 0.77514 0.78546

17 0.67200 0.68377 0.69529 0.70657 0.71761 0.72843 0.73903
18 0.62526 0.63737 0.64921 0.66080 0.67214 0.68325 0.69413
19 0.57985 0.59230 0.60447 0.61638 0.62803 0.63943 0.65060
20 0.53561 0.54841 0.56091 0.57314 0.58510 0.59681 0.60827

21 0.49240 0.50555 0.51839 0.53095 0.54323 0.55525 0.56701

22 0.45009 0.46360 0.47680 0.48969 0.50230 0.51463 0.52669
23 0.40857 0.42245 0.43601 0.44925 0.46219 0.47484 0.48721
24 0.36775 0.38201 0.39594 0.40953 0.42281 0.43579 0.44848
25 0.32753 0.34219 0.35649 0.37045 0.38408 0.39739 0.41041

26 0.28784 0.30290 0.31759 0.33192 0.34591 0.35958 0.37292

27 0.24859 0.26408 0.27917 0.29389 0.30825 0.32227 0.33596
28 0.20973 0.22565 0.24116 0.25627 0.27102 0.28540 0.29945
29 0.17118 0.18755 0.20349 0.21902 0.23416 0.24893 0.26333
30 0.13288 0.14972 0.16611 0.18207 0.19762 0.21277 0.22756

31 0.09478 0.11211 0.12896 0.14536 0.16134 0.17690 0.19208

32 0.05681 0.07465 0.09199 0.10885 0.12527 0.14125 0.15683
33 0.01893 0.03730 0.05514 0.07249 0.08936 0.10579 0.12178
34 0.00000 0.01837 0.03622 0.05357 0.07045 0.08688
35 0.00000 0.01785 0.03520 0.05209

36 0.00000 0.01736

N 73 74 75 76 77 78 79

1 2.39298 2.39802 2.40299 2.40789 2.41271 2.41747 2.42215

2 2.01890 2.02462 2.03024 2.03578 2.04124 2.04662 2.05191
3 1.80699 1.81317 1.81926 1.82525 1.83115 1.83696 1.84268
4 1.65410 1.66067 1.66714 1.67350 1.67976 1.68592 1.69200
5 1.53223 1.53914 1.54594 1.55263 1.55921 1.56569 1.57207

6 1.42961 1.43684 1.44395 1.45094 1.45782 1.46459 1.47125

7 1.34017 1.34770 1.35510 1.36237 1.36953 1.37657 1.38350
8 1.26034 1.26815 1.27583 1.28338 1.29080 1.29810 1.30529
9 1.18784 1.19592 1.20387 1.21168 1.21936 1.22691 1.23434
10 1.12110 1.12945 1.13766 1.14572 1.15365 1.16145 1.16912

11 1.05902 1.06764 1.07610 1.08442 1.09260 1.10063 1.10854

12 1.00078 1.00966 1.01838 1.02695 1.03537 1.04364 1.05178
13 0.94576 0.95490 0.96387 0.97269 0.98135 0.98986 0.99822
14 0.89346 0.90286 0.91209 0.92115 0.93005 0.93880 0.94739
15 0.84351 0.85317 0.86265 0.87196 0.88110 0.89008 0.89890

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012) 18–71

Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Exhibit 18–2 Expected values of normal order statistics, Kn—Continued

N 73 74 75 76 77 78 79

16 0.79558 0.80550 0.81524 0.82480 0.83418 0.84339 0.85244

17 0.74942 0.75960 0.76960 0.77940 0.78903 0.79848 0.80776
18 0.70480 0.71526 0.72551 0.73557 0.74544 0.75512 0.76463
19 0.66155 0.67227 0.68279 0.69310 0.70322 0.71314 0.72289
20 0.61950 0.63050 0.64128 0.65185 0.66222 0.67239 0.68237

21 0.57852 0.58980 0.60085 0.61168 0.62230 0.63272 0.64294

22 0.53850 0.55006 0.56138 0.57248 0.58336 0.59403 0.60449
23 0.49932 0.51117 0.52277 0.53414 0.54528 0.55621 0.56692
24 0.46089 0.47304 0.48493 0.49657 0.50798 0.51917 0.53013
25 0.42313 0.43558 0.44777 0.45970 0.47138 0.48283 0.49404

26 0.38597 0.39873 0.41122 0.42343 0.43540 0.44711 0.45859

27 0.34934 0.36242 0.37521 0.38772 0.39997 0.41196 0.42371
28 0.31317 0.32657 0.33968 0.35250 0.36504 0.37731 0.38934
29 0.27740 0.29114 0.30457 0.31770 0.33055 0.34311 0.35542
30 0.24199 0.25608 0.26984 0.28329 0.29645 0.30931 0.32190

31 0.20688 0.22133 0.23543 0.24922 0.26269 0.27586 0.28875

32 0.17202 0.18684 0.20130 0.21543 0.22923 0.24272 0.25591
33 0.13737 0.15257 0.16740 0.18188 0.19602 0.20983 0.22334
34 0.10289 0.11848 0.13370 0.14854 0.16303 0.17718 0.19101
35 0.06852 0.08453 0.10014 0.11536 0.13021 0.14471 0.15888

36 0.03424 0.05068 0.06670 0.08231 0.09754 0.11240 0.12691

37 0.00000 0.01689 0.03333 0.04935 0.06497 0.08020 0.09507
38 0.00000 0.01644 0.03247 0.04809 0.06333
39 0.00000 0.01602 0.03165
40 0.00000

N 80 81 82 83 84 85 86

1 2.42677 2.43133 2.43582 2.44026 2.44463 2.44894 2.45320

2 2.05714 2.06228 2.06735 2.07236 2.07729 2.08216 2.08696
3 1.84832 1.85387 1.85935 1.86475 1.87007 1.87532 1.88049
4 1.69798 1.70387 1.70968 1.71540 1.72104 1.72660 1.73209
5 1.57836 1.58455 1.59065 1.59665 1.60258 1.60841 1.61417

6 1.47781 1.48428 1.49064 1.49691 1.50309 1.50918 1.51518

7 1.39032 1.39704 1.40366 1.41017 1.41659 1.42292 1.42915
8 1.31236 1.31932 1.32617 1.33292 1.33957 1.34611 1.35257
9 1.24165 1.24884 1.25593 1.26290 1.26977 1.27653 1.28320
10 1.17666 1.18409 1.19139 1.19859 1.20567 1.21264 1.21951

18–72 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012)

Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Exhibit 18–2 Expected values of normal order statistics, Kn—Continued

N 80 81 82 83 84 85 86

11 1.11631 1.12396 1.13148 1.13889 1.14618 1.15336 1.16043

12 1.05978 1.06764 1.07539 1.08300 1.09050 1.09788 1.10515
13 1.00644 1.01453 1.02249 1.03031 1.03802 1.04560 1.05306
14 0.95584 0.96414 0.97231 0.98034 0.98825 0.99603 1.00369
15 0.90757 0.91609 0.92447 0.93271 0.94082 0.94880 0.95665

16 0.86134 0.87007 0.87867 0.88711 0.89542 0.90360 0.91164

17 0.81687 0.82583 0.83464 0.84329 0.85180 0.86017 0.86841
18 0.77398 0.78315 0.79217 0.80103 0.80975 0.81832 0.82675
19 0.73246 0.74186 0.75109 0.76016 0.76908 0.77785 0.78647
20 0.69217 0.70179 0.71124 0.72053 0.72965 0.73862 0.74744

21 0.65297 0.66282 0.67249 0.68199 0.69133 0.70050 0.70952

22 0.61476 0.62484 0.63473 0.64445 0.65399 0.66337 0.67259
23 0.57742 0.58773 0.59785 0.60779 0.61755 0.62714 0.63656
24 0.54088 0.55143 0.56178 0.57193 0.58191 0.59171 0.60133
25 0.50504 0.51583 0.52641 0.53680 0.54700 0.55701 0.56684

26 0.46985 0.48088 0.49170 0.50232 0.51274 0.52297 0.53301

27 0.43522 0.44651 0.45757 0.46842 0.47907 0.48952 0.49979
28 0.40111 0.41265 0.42397 0.43506 0.44594 0.45662 0.46710
29 0.36747 0.37927 0.39084 0.40218 0.41330 0.42421 0.43491
30 0.33423 0.34630 0.35813 0.36972 0.38108 0.39223 0.40316

31 0.30136 0.31371 0.32580 0.33765 0.34926 0.36065 0.37182

32 0.26881 0.28144 0.29381 0.30592 0.31779 0.32943 0.34084
33 0.23655 0.24947 0.26212 0.27450 0.28664 0.29852 0.31018
34 0.20453 0.21775 0.23069 0.24335 0.25576 0.26790 0.27981
35 0.17272 0.18625 0.19949 0.21244 0.22512 0.23753 0.24970

36 0.14108 0.15493 0.16848 0.18172 0.19469 0.20738 0.21981

37 0.10959 0.12377 0.13763 0.15118 0.16444 0.17741 0.19012
38 0.07820 0.09272 0.10691 0.12078 0.13434 0.14761 0.16059
39 0.04689 0.06177 0.07629 0.09049 0.10436 0.11793 0.13121
40 0.01562 0.03087 0.04575 0.06028 0.07448 0.08836 0.10193

41 0.00000 0.01524 0.03013 0.04466 0.05886 0.07275

42 0.00000 0.01488 0.02942 0.04362
43 0.00000 0.01454

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012) 18–73

Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Exhibit 18–2 Expected values of normal order statistics, Kn—Continued

N 87 88 89 90 91 92 93

1 2.45741 2.46156 2.46565 2.46970 2.47370 2.47764 2.48154

2 2.09170 2.09637 2.10099 2.10554 2.11004 2.11448 2.11887
3 1.88560 1.89064 1.89561 1.90052 1.90536 1.91015 1.91487
4 1.73750 1.74283 1.74810 1.75329 1.75842 1.76348 1.76848
5 1.61984 1.62544 1.63096 1.63641 1.64178 1.64709 1.65232

6 1.52110 1.52693 1.53269 1.53836 1.54396 1.54949 1.55494

7 1.43529 1.44135 1.44732 1.45321 1.45903 1.46476 1.47042
8 1.35893 1.36520 1.37138 1.37747 1.38348 1.38941 1.39526
9 1.28976 1.29624 1.30262 1.30891 1.31511 1.32123 1.32726
10 1.22628 1.23295 1.23952 1.24600 1.25239 1.25869 1.26491

11 1.16740 1.17426 1.18102 1.18769 1.19426 1.20073 1.20712

12 1.11231 1.11936 1.12631 1.13316 1.13990 1.14656 1.15311
13 1.06041 1.06765 1.07478 1.08181 1.08873 1.09555 1.10228
14 1.01122 1.01865 1.02596 1.03316 1.04026 1.04726 1.05415
15 0.96437 0.97198 0.97948 0.98686 0.99413 1.00129 1.00835

16 0.91956 0.92735 0.93502 0.94258 0.95002 0.95735 0.96458

17 0.87651 0.88449 0.89234 0.90007 0.90769 0.91519 0.92258
18 0.83504 0.84320 0.85123 0.85914 0.86693 0.87460 0.88215
19 0.79496 0.80330 0.81152 0.81960 0.82756 0.83540 0.84312
20 0.75611 0.76465 0.77304 0.78131 0.78944 0.79745 0.80533

21 0.71838 0.72710 0.73568 0.74412 0.75243 0.76061 0.76866

22 0.68165 0.69056 0.69932 0.70795 0.71643 0.72478 0.73300
23 0.64581 0.65492 0.66387 0.67267 0.68134 0.68986 0.69825
24 0.61079 0.62009 0.62923 0.63822 0.64706 0.65576 0.66432
25 0.57650 0.58600 0.59533 0.60451 0.61353 0.62241 0.63115

26 0.54288 0.55258 0.56210 0.57147 0.58068 0.58974 0.59865

27 0.50986 0.51976 0.52949 0.53905 0.54845 0.55769 0.56678
28 0.47739 0.48750 0.49743 0.50718 0.51677 0.52620 0.53547
29 0.44542 0.45574 0.46587 0.47582 0.48561 0.49522 0.50468
30 0.41389 0.42443 0.43477 0.44493 0.45491 0.46472 0.47436

31 0.38278 0.39353 0.40409 0.41445 0.42463 0.43464 0.44447

32 0.35203 0.36300 0.37378 0.38436 0.39474 0.40495 0.41498
33 0.32161 0.33281 0.34381 0.35461 0.36520 0.37561 0.38584
34 0.29148 0.30292 0.31415 0.32517 0.33598 0.34660 0.35702
35 0.26162 0.27330 0.28476 0.29601 0.30704 0.31787 0.32850

18–74 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012)

Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Exhibit 18–2 Expected values of normal order statistics, Kn—Continued

N 87 88 89 90 91 92 93

36 0.23199 0.24392 0.25562 0.26710 0.27835 0.28940 0.30025

37 0.20256 0.21475 0.22669 0.23841 0.24990 0.26117 0.27223
38 0.17330 0.18576 0.19796 0.20991 0.22164 0.23314 0.24443
39 0.14420 0.15692 0.16938 0.18159 0.19356 0.20530 0.21681
40 0.11521 0.12821 0.14094 0.15341 0.16563 0.17761 0.18936

41 0.08633 0.09961 0.11262 0.12536 0.13783 0.15006 0.16205

42 0.05751 0.07110 0.08439 0.09740 0.11014 0.12262 0.13486
43 0.02874 0.04263 0.05622 0.06952 0.08253 0.09528 0.10777
44 0.00000 0.01421 0.02810 0.04169 0.05499 0.06801 0.08076
45 0.00000 0.01389 0.02748 0.04078 0.05381

46 0.00000 0.01359 0.02689

47 0.00000

N 94 95 96 97 98 99 100

1 2.48540 2.48920 2.49297 2.49669 2.50036 2.50400 2.50759

2 2.12321 2.12749 2.13172 2.13590 2.14003 2.14411 2.14814
3 1.91953 1.92414 1.92869 1.93318 1.93763 1.94201 1.94635­
4 1.77341 1.77828 1.78309 1.78784 1.79254 1.79718 1.80176
5 1.65749 1.66259 1.66763 1.67261 1.67752 1.68238 1.68718

6 1.56033 1.56564 1.57089 1.57607 1.58118 1.58624 1.59123

7 1.47600 1.48151 1.48695 1.49232 1.49762 1.50286 1.50803
8 1.40103 1.40673 1.41235 1.41790 1.42338 1.42879 1.43414
9 1.33321 1.33909 1.34489 1.35061 1.35626 1.36183 1.36734
10 1.27104 1.27708 1.28305 1.28894 1.29475 1.30049 1.30615

11 1.21342 1.21964 1.22577 1.23182 1.23779 1.24368 1.24950

12 1.15958 1.16596 1.17226 1.17847 1.18459 1.19064 1.19661
13 1.10891 1.11546 1.12191 1.12827 1.13455 1.14075 1.14687
14 1.06095 1.06765 1.07426 1.08078 1.08721 1.09356 1.09982
15 1.01531 1.02217 1.02894 1.03561 1.04219 1.04868 1.05509

16 0.97170 0.97872 0.98564 0.99246 0.99919 1.00583 1.01238

17 0.92986 0.93704 0.94411 0.95109 0.95797 0.96475 0.97145
18 0.88959 0.89693 0.90416 0.91129 0.91831 0.92524 0.93208
19 0.85072 0.85822 0.86560 0.87288 0.88006 0.88713 0.89411
20 0.81310 0.82075 0.82829 0.83572 0.84305 0.85027 0.85739

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012) 18–75

Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Exhibit 18–2 Expected values of normal order statistics, Kn—Continued

N 94 95 96 97 98 99 100

21 0.77659 0.78441 0.79210 0.79968 0.80716 0.81452 0.82179

22 0.74110 0.74907 0.75692 0.76466 0.77228 0.77980 0.78720
23 0.70651 0.71464 0.72266 0.73055 0.73832 0.74598 0.75353
24 0.67275 0.68105 0.68922 0.69727 0.70519 0.71301 0.72070
25 0.63974 0.64821 0.65654 0.66474 0.67282 0.68079 0.68863

26 0.60742 0.61605 0.62454 0.63291 0.64115 0.64926 0.65725

27 0.57572 0.58452 0.59318 0.60170 0.61010 0.61837 0.62651
28 0.54459 0.55356 0.56239 0.57108 0.57963 0.58805 0.59635
29 0.51398 0.52312 0.53212 0.54097 0.54969 0.55827 0.56672
30 0.48384 0.49316 0.50233 0.51136 0.52024 0.52898 0.53758

31 0.45414 0.46364 0.47299 0.48218 0.49123 0.50013 0.50890

32 0.42483 0.43452 0.44404 0.45341 0.46263 0.47170 0.48062
33 0.39588 0.40576 0.41547 0.42501 0.43440 0.44364 0.45273
34 0.36727 0.37733 0.38722 0.39695 0.40652 0.41593 0.42518
35 0.33895 0.34921 0.35929 0.36920 0.37895 0.38853 0.39796

36 0.31090 0.32136 0.33163 0.34173 0.35166 0.36142 0.37102

37 0.28309 0.29375 0.30423 0.31452 0.32464 0.33458 0.34436
38 0.25550 0.26637 0.27705 0.28754 0.29785 0.30797 0.31793
39 0.22810 0.23919 0.25008 0.26077 0.27127 0.28159 0.29173
40 0.20088 0.21219 0.22328 0.23418 0.24488 0.25539 0.26572

41 0.17380 0.18533 0.19665 0.20776 0.21866 0.22937 0.23990

42 0.14685 0.15861 0.17015 0.18148 0.19259 0.20351 0.21423
43 0.12001 0.13201 0.14378 0.15533 0.16666 0.17778 0.18870
44 0.09325 0.10550 0.11750 0.12928 0.14083 0.15217 0.16330
45 0.06656 0.07906 0.09131 0.10332 0.11510 0.12666 0.13800

46 0.03992 0.05267 0.06518 0.07743 0.08944 0.10123 0.11279

47 0.01330 0.02633 0.03909 0.05159 0.06385 0.07586 0.08765
48 0.00000 0.01303 0.02579 0.03829 0.05055 0.06257
49 0.00000 0.01276 0.02527 0.03753
50 0.00000 0.01251

18–76 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012)

Exhibit 18–3 Tables of Percentage Points of the
Pearson Type III Distribution

(Exhibit 18–3 is a reprint of the March 1976 revi- Warning

sion of Technical Release 38, Tables of Percentage
Points of the Pearson Type III Distribution.)
Introduction
Table 1 in exhibit 18–3 was computed on the IBM
1
7094 by Dr. H. Leon Harter, senior scientist (math-
ematical statistician), Applied Mathematics Research
Laboratory, Wright–Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio
45433. Table 2 was com­puted from table 1 on the IBM
360/40 by the Central Technical Unit of the Soil Con-
servation Service (now the Natural Resources Con-
servation Service). Tables 1 and 2 as published in “A
Uniform Technique for Determining Flood Flow Fre-
quencies,” Bulletin No. 15, Water Resources Council,
Wash­ington, DC, December 1967, are an abbreviated
form of the new tables. Bulletin No. 17B, “Guidelines
for Determining Flood Flow Frequencies,” Water
Resources Council, Washington, DC, 1982, includes
Appendix 3, “Tables of K Values” for skewness of 0 to
+9.0 and 31 levels of probability.
The presence of high outliers may cause the coeffi-
cient of skewness to be close to zero or positive when
a plot of the raw data indicates a negative skewness.
These are special cases of the log–Pearson Type III dis-
tribution for which it may be desirable to submit a plot
of the raw data and the calculations of the statistics
to the state hydrologist for interpretation and should
be reported to the West National Technology Sup-
port Center, Water Quality and Quantity Technology
Development Team. The variation alone in some data
may be responsible for positive skewness, too, when
the full period of record without outliers is negatively
skewed. (See Bulletins 15 and 17B, pages 12 and 13
and pages 16 and 17, respectively).

Purpose of these tables

Tables 1 and 2 are intended for use in computer ap-

plications where 3– or 4–point Lagrangian (parabolic)
interpolation will be sufficiently accurate in any case,
while linear interpolation is good enough if the value
of the coefficient of skewness (G1) is near one of the
tabular values or if only three–decimal place accuracy
is required.

Manual computations, using tables 1 and 2 of Bulletins

15 and 17B (WRC) with linear interpolation2 and 4 or
5 place log tables, should in most cases be suitable for
preliminary estimates in the field. However, sta­tistics
computed in this manner may not be sufficiently ac-
curate for regional studies, etc.

1 Trade names mentioned are for specific information and do not constitute a guarantee or warranty of the product by the
Department of Agriculture or an endorsement by the Department over other products not mentioned.
2 Since G1 is an inefficient estimator of the skewness, rounding up of G1 to the next tabulated value will usually be sufficient

for manual computations.

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012) 18–77

Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

1/
Table l Percentage Points of Pearson Type III Distribution, P(Kp, G1) ­

For Positive Skewness

G1 = 0.0 to 9.0

The values in the body of the table are the values of Kp, standardized units, that correspond to these values of Gl
for P = 0.0001, 0.0005, 0.0010, 0.0020, 0.0050, 0.0100, 0.0200, 0.0250, 0.0400, 0.0500, 0.1000, 0.2000, 0.3000, 0.4000,
0.429624, 0.5000, 0.570376, 0.6000, 0.7000, 0.8000, 0.9000, 0.9500, 0.9600, 0.9750, 0.9800, 0.9900, 0.9950, 0.9980,
0.9990, 0.9995, and 0.9999 cumulative probability equal to or less than a particular discharge in ft3/s, or other vari-
able being analyzed. Five decimals have been retained. The Return Period (T) is defined as 1/Q, and P + Q = 1.0.

Example: Given G1= +1.0 Find Kp for P = 0.9900 and Q = .0100 or T = 100

G1 = +1.0 Kp = +3.02256

Find Kp for P = Q = 0.5000 or T = 2

G1 = +1.0 Kp = –0.16397

where:
G1 = the coefficient of skewness
P = the cumulative probability equal to or less than a particular discharge in ft3/s, or other variable being
analyzed
Q = the cumulative probability equal to or greater than a particular discharge in ft3/s, or other variable
being analyzed
T = the return period and/or recurrence interval
Kp = the K–value for selected percentage points and skewness

1/ This table was computed on the IBM 7094 by Dr. H. Leon Harter, senior scientist (mathematical statisti­cian), Ap-
plied Mathematics Research Laboratory, Wright–Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, 45433, by special arrangements
for the Soil Conservation Service, USDA, Central Technical Unit, 269 Federal Building, Hyattsville, Maryland
20782. This table was published in Technometrics, Vol. 11, No. 1, Feb. 1969, pp 177–187, and Vol. 13, No. 1, Feb.
1971, pp 203–204, “A new table of percentage points of the Pearson type III distribution” and “More percentage
points of the Pearson distribution,” respectively.

18–78 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012)

Table 1 Percentage points of Pearson Type III distribution (positive skewness)

P G1=0.0 G1=0.1 G1=0.2 G1=0.3 G1=0.4 G1=0.5 G1=0.6 Q T

0.000100 –3.71902 –3.50703 –3.29921 –3.09631 –2.89907 –2.70836 –2.52507 0.9999 1.0001
0.000500 –3.29053 –3.12767 –2.96698 –2.80889 –2.65390 –2.50257 –2.35549 0.9995 1.0005
0.001000 –3.09023 –2.94834 –2.80786 –2.66915 –2.53261 –2.39867 –2.26780 0.9990 1.0010
0.002000 –2.87816 –2.75706 –2.63672 –2.51741 –2.39942 –2.28311 –2.16884 0.9980 1.0020
0.005000 –2.57583 –2.48187 –2.38795 –2.29423 –2.20092 –2.10825 –2.01644 0.9950 1.0050
0.010000 –2.32635 –2.25258 –2.17840 –2.10394 –2.02933 –1.95472 –1.88029 0.9900 1.0101
0.020000 –2.05375 –1.99973 –1.94499 –1.88959 –1.83361 –1.77716 –1.72033 0.9800 1.0204
0.025000 –1.95996 –1.91219 –1.86360 –1.81427 –1.76427 –1.71366 –1.66253 0.9750 1.0256
0.040000 –1.75069 –1.71580 –1.67999 –1.64329 –1.60574 –1.56740 –1.52830 0.9600 1.0417
0.050000 –1.64485 –1.61594 –1.58607 –1.55527 –1.52357 –1.49101 –1.45762 0.9500 1.0526
0.100000 –1.28155 –1.27037 –1.25824 –1.24516 –1.23114 –1.21618 –1.20028 0.9000 1.1111
0.200000 –0.84162 –0.84611 –0.84986 –0.85285 –0.85508 –0.85653 –0.85718 0.8000 1.2500
0.300000 –0.52440 –0.53624 –0.54757 –0.55839 –0.56867 –0.57840 –0.58757 0.7000 1.4286
0.400000 –0.25335 –0.26882 –0.28403 –0.29897 –0.31362 –0.32796 –0.34198 0.6000 1.6667
0.429624 –0.17733 –0.19339 –0.20925 –0.22492 –0.24037 –0.25558 –0.27047 0.5704 1.7532
0.500000 0.00000 –0.01662 –0.03325 –0.04993 –0.06651 –0.08302 –0.09945 0.5000 2.0000
0.570376 0.17733 0.16111 0.14472 0.12820 0.11154 0.09478 0.07791 0.4296 2.3276
0.600000 0.25335 0.23763 0.22168 0.20552 0.18916 0.17261 0.15589 0.4000 2.5000
0.700000 0.52440 0.51207 0.49927 0.48600 0.47228 0.45812 0.44352 0.3000 3.3333
0.800000 0.84162 0.83639 0.83044 0.82377 0.81638 0.80829 0.79950 0.2000 5.0000
0.900000 1.28155 1.29178 1.30105 1.30936 1.31671 1.32309 1.32850 0.1000 10.000
0.950000 1.64485 1.67279 1.69971 1.72562 1.75048 1.77428 1.79701 0.0500 20.000
0.960000 1.75069 1.78462 1.81756 1.84949 1.88039 1.91022 1.93896 0.0400 25.000
0.975000 1.95996 2.00688 2.05290 2.09795 2.14202 2.18505 2.22702 0.0250 40.000
0.980000 2.05375 2.10697 2.15935 2.21081 2.26133 2.31084 2.35931 0.0200 50.000
0.990000 2.32635 2.39961 2.47226 2.54421 2.61539 2.68572 2.75514 0.0100 100.00
0.995000 2.57583 2.66965 2.76321 2.85636 2.94900 3.04102 3.13232 0.0050 200.00
0.998000 2.87816 2.99978 3.12169 3.24371 3.36566 3.48737 3.60872 0.0020 500.00
0.999000 3.09023 3.23322 3.37703 3.52139 3.66608 3.81090 3.95567 0.0010 1000.0
0.999500 3.29053 3.45513 3.62113 3.78820 3.95605 4.12443 4.29311 0.0005 2000.0
0.999900 3.71902 3.93453 4.15301 4.37394 4.59687 4.82141 5.04718 0.0001 10000.

P G1=0.7 G1=0.8 G1=0.9 G1=1.0 G1=1.1 G1=1.2 G1=1.3 Q T

0.000100 –2.35015 –2.18448 –2.02891 –1.88410 –1.75053 –1.62838 –1.51752 0.9999 1.0001
0.000500 –2.21328 –2.07661 –1.94611 –1.82241 –1.70603 –1.59738 –1.49673 0.9995 1.0005
0.001000 –2.14053 –2.01739 –1.89894 –1.78572 –1.67825 –1.57695 –1.48216 0.9990 1.0010
0.002000 –2.05701 –1.94806 –1.84244 –1.74062 –1.64305 –1.55016 –1.46232 0.9980 1.0020
0.005000 –1.92580 –1.83660 –1.74919 –1.66390 –1.58110 –1.50114 –1.42439 0.9950 1.0050
0.010000 –1.80621 –1.73271 –1.66001 –1.58838 –1.51808 –1.44942 –1.38267 0.9900 1.0101
0.020000 –1.66325 –1.60604 –1.54886 –1.49188 –1.43529 –1.37929 –1.32412 0.9800 1.0204
0.025000 –1.61099 –1.55914 –1.50712 –1.45507 –1.40314 –1.35153 –1.30042 0.9750 1.0256
0.040000 –1.48852 –1.44813 –1.40720 –1.36584 –1.32414 –1.28225 –1.24028 0.9600 1.0417
0.050000 –1.42345 –1.38855 –1.35299 –1.31684 –1.28019 –1.24313 –1.20578 0.9500 1.0526
0.100000 –1.18347 –1.16574 –1.14712 –1.12762 –1.10726 –1.08608 –1.06413 0.9000 1.1111
0.200000 –0.85703 –0.85607 –0.85426 –0.85161 –0.84809 –0.84369 –0.83841 0.8000 1.2500
0.300000 –0.59615 –0.60412 –0.61146 –0.61815 –0.62415 –0.62944 –0.63400 0.7000 1.4286
0.400000 –0.35565 –0.36889 –0.38186 –0.39434 –0.40638 –0.41794 –0.42899 0.6000 1.6667
0.429624 –0.28516 –0.29961 –0.31368 –0.32740 –0.34075 –0.35370 –0.36620 0.5704 1.7532
0.500000 –0.11578 –0.13199 –0.14807 –0.16397 –0.17968 –0.19517 –0.21040 0.5000 2.0000
0.570376 0.06097 0.04397 0.02693 0.00987 –0.00719 –0.02421 –0.04116 0.4296 2.3276
0.600000 0.13901 0.12199 0.10486 0.08763 0.07032 0.05297 0.03560 0.4000 2.5000
0.700000 0.42851 0.41309 0.39729 0.38111 0.36458 0.34772 0.33054 0.3000 3.3333
0.800000 0.79002 0.77986 0.76902 0.75752 0.74537 0.73257 0.71915 0.2000 5.0000
0.900000 1.33294 1.33640 1.33889 1.34039 1.34092 1.34047 1.33904 0.1000 10.000
0.950000 1.81864 1.83916 1.85856 1.87683 1.89395 1.90992 1.92472 0.0500 20.000
0.960000 1.96660 1.99311 2.01848 2.04269 2.06573 2.08758 2.10823 0.0400 25.000
0.975000 2.26790 2.30764 2.34623 2.38364 2.41984 2.45482 2.48855 0.0250 40.000
0.980000 2.40670 2.45298 2.49811 2.54206 2.58480 2.62631 2.66657 0.0200 50.000
0.990000 2.82359 2.89101 2.95735 3.02256 3.08660 3.14944 3.21103 0.0100 100.00
0.995000 3.22281 3.31243 3.40109 3.48874 3.57530 3.66073 3.74497 0.0050 200.00
0.998000 3.72957 3.84981 3.96932 4.08802 4.20582 4.32263 4.43839 0.0020 500.00
0.999000 4.10022 4.24439 4.38807 4.53112 4.67344 4.81492 4.95549 0.0010 1000.0
0.999500 4.46189 4.63057 4.79899 4.96701 5.13449 5.30130 5.46735 0.0005 2000.0
0.999900 5.27389 5.50124 5.72899 5.95691 6.18480 6.41249 6.63980 0.0001 10000.

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012) 18–79

Table 1 Percentage points of Pearson Type III distribution (positive skewness)—Continued

P G1=1.4 G1=1.5 G1=1.6 G1=1.7 G1=1.8 G1=1.9 G1=2.0 Q T

0.000100 –1.41753 –1.32774 –1.24728 –1.17520 –1.11054 –1.05239 –0.99990 0.9999 1.0001
0.000500 –1.40413 –1.31944 –1.24235 –1.17240 –1.10901 –1.05159 –0.99950 0.9995 1.0005
0.001000 –1.39408 –1.31275 –1.23805 –1.16974 –1.10743 –1.05068 –0.99900 0.9990 1.0010
0.002000 –1.37981 –1.30279 –1.23132 –1.16534 –1.10465 –1.04898 –0.99800 0.9980 1.0020
0.005000 –1.35114 –1.28167 –1.21618 –1.15477 –1.09749 –1.04427 –0.99499 0.9950 1.0050
0.010000 –1.31815 –1.25611 –1.19680 –1.14042 –1.08711 –1.03695 –0.98995 0.9900 1.0101
0.020000 –1.26999 –1.21716 –1.16584 –1.11628 –1.06864 –1.02311 –0.97980 0.9800 1.0204
0.025000 –1.25004 –1.20059 –1.15229 –1.10537 –1.06001 –1.01640 –0.97468 0.9750 1.0256
0.040000 –1.19842 –1.15682 –1.11566 –1.07513 –1.03543 –0.99672 –0.95918 0.9600 1.0417
0.050000 –1.16827 –1.13075 –1.09338 –1.05631 –1.01973 –0.98381 –0.94871 0.9500 1.0526
0.100000 –1.04144 –1.01810 –0.99418 –0.96977 –0.94496 –0.91988 –0.89464 0.9000 1.1111
0.200000 –0.83223 –0.82516 –0.81720 –0.80837 –0.79868 –0.78816 –0.77686 0.8000 1.2500
0.300000 –0.63779 –0.64080 –0.64300 –0.64436 –0.64488 –0.64453 –0.64333 0.7000 1.4286
0.400000 –0.43949 –0.44942 –0.45873 –0.46739 –0.47538 –0.48265 –0.48917 0.6000 1.6667
0.429624 –0.37824 –0.38977 –0.40075 –0.41116 –0.42095 –0.43008 –0.43854 0.5704 1.7532
0.500000 –0.22535 –0.23996 –0.25422 –0.26808 –0.28150 –0.29443 –0.30685 0.5000 2.0000
0.570376 –0.05803 –0.07476 –0.09132 –0.10769 –0.12381 –0.13964 –0.15516 0.4296 2.3276
0.600000 0.01824 0.00092 –0.01631 –0.03344 –0.05040 –0.06718 –0.08371 0.4000 2.5000
0.700000 0.31307 0.29535 0.27740 0.25925 0.24094 0.22250 0.20397 0.3000 3.3333
0.800000 0.70512 0.69050 0.67532 0.65959 0.64335 0.62662 0.60944 0.2000 5.0000
0.900000 1.33665 1.33330 1.32900 1.32376 1.31760 1.31054 1.30259 0.1000 10.000
0.950000 1.93836 1.95083 1.96213 1.97227 1.98124 1.98906 1.99573 0.0500 20.000
0.960000 2.12768 2.14591 2.16293 2.17873 2.19332 2.20670 2.21888 0.0400 25.000
0.975000 2.52102 2.55222 2.58214 2.61076 2.63810 2.66413 2.68888 0.0250 40.000
0.980000 2.70556 2.74325 2.77964 2.81472 2.84848 2.88091 2.91202 0.0200 50.000
0.990000 3.27134 3.33035 3.38804 3.44438 3.49935 3.55295 3.60517 0.0100 100.00
0.995000 3.82798 3.90973 3.99016 4.06926 4.14700 4.22336 4.29832 0.0050 200.00
0.998000 4.55304 4.66651 4.77875 4.88971 4.99937 5.10768 5.21461 0.0020 500.00
0.999000 5.09505 5.23353 5.37087 5.50701 5.64190 5.77549 5.90776 0.0010 1000.0
0.999500 5.63252 5.79673 5.95990 6.12196 6.28285 6.44251 6.60090 0.0005 2000.0
0.999900 6.86661 7.09277 7.31818 7.54272 7.76632 7.98888 8.21034 0.0001 10000.

P G1=2.1 G1=2.2 G1=2.3 G1=2.4 G1=2.5 G1=2.6 G1=2.7 Q T

0.000100 –0.95234 –0.90908 –0.86956 –0.83333 –0.80000 –0.76923 –0.74074 0.9999 1.0001
0.000500 –0.95215 –0.90899 –0.86952 –0.83331 –0.79999 –0.76923 –0.74074 0.9995 1.0005
0.001000 –0.95188 –0.90885 –0.86945 –0.83328 –0.79998 –0.76922 –0.74074 0.9990 1.0010
0.002000 –0.95131 –0.90854 –0.86929 –0.83320 –0.79994 –0.76920 –0.74073 0.9980 1.0020
0.005000 –0.94945 –0.90742 –0.86863 –0.83283 –0.79973 –0.76909 –0.74067 0.9950 1.0050
0.010000 –0.94607 –0.90521 –0.86723 –0.83196 –0.79921 –0.76878 –0.74049 0.9900 1.0101
0.020000 –0.93878 –0.90009 –0.86371 –0.82959 –0.79765 –0.76779 –0.73987 0.9800 1.0204
0.025000 –0.93495 –0.89728 –0.86169 –0.82817 –0.79667 –0.76712 –0.73943 0.9750 1.0256
0.040000 –0.92295 –0.88814 –0.85486 –0.82315 –0.79306 –0.76456 –0.73765 0.9600 1.0417
0.050000 –0.91458 –0.88156 –0.84976 –0.81927 –0.79015 –0.76242 –0.73610 0.9500 1.0526
0.100000 –0.86938 –0.84422 –0.81929 –0.79472 –0.77062 –0.74709 –0.72422 0.9000 1.1111
0.200000 –0.76482 –0.75211 –0.73880 –0.72495 –0.71067 –0.69602 –0.68111 0.8000 1.2500
0.300000 –0.64125 –0.63833 –0.63456 –0.62999 –0.62463 –0.61854 –0.61176 0.7000 1.4286
0.400000 –0.49494 –0.49991 –0.50409 –0.50744 –0.50999 –0.51171 –0.51263 0.6000 1.6667
0.429240 –0.44628 –0.45329 –0.45953 –0.46499 –0.46966 –0.47353 –0.47660 0.5704 1.7320
0.500000 –0.31872 –0.32999 –0.34063 –0.35062 –0.35992 –0.36852 –0.37640 0.5000 2.0000
0.570376 –0.17030 –0.18504 –0.19933 –0.21313 –0.22642 –0.23915 –0.25129 0.4296 2.3276
0.600000 –0.09997 –0.11590 –0.13148 –0.14665 –0.16138 –0.17564 –0.18939 0.4000 2.5000
0.700000 0.18540 0.16682 0.14827 0.12979 0.11143 0.09323 0.07523 0.3000 3.3333
0.800000 0.59183 0.57383 0.55549 0.53683 0.51789 0.49872 0.47934 0.2000 5.0000
0.900000 1.29377 1.28412 1.27365 1.26240 1.25039 1.23766 1.22422 0.1000 10.000
0.950000 2.00128 2.00570 2.00903 2.01128 2.01247 2.01263 2.01177 0.0500 20.000
0.960000 2.22986 2.23967 2.24831 2.25581 2.26217 2.26743 2.27160 0.0400 25.000
0.975000 2.71234 2.73451 2.75541 2.77506 2.79345 2.81062 2.82658 0.0250 40.000
0.980000 2.94181 2.97028 2.99744 3.02330 3.04787 3.07116 3.09320 0.0200 50.000
0.990000 3.65600 3.70543 3.75347 3.80013 3.84540 3.88930 3.93183 0.0100 100.00
0.995000 4.37186 4.44398 4.51467 4.58393 4.65176 4.71815 4.78313 0.0050 200.00
0.998000 5.32014 5.42426 5.52694 5.62818 5.72796 5.82629 5.93160 0.0020 500.00
0.999000 6.03865 6.16816 6.29626 6.42292 6.54814 6.67191 6.79421 0.0010 1000.0
0.999500 6.75798 6.91370 7.06804 7.22098 7.37250 7.52258 7.67121 0.0005 2000.0
0.999900 8.43064 8.64971 8.86753 9.08403 9.29920 9.51301 9.72543 0.0001 10000.

18–80 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012)

Table 1 Percentage points of Pearson Type III distribution (positive skewness)—Continued

P G1=2.8 G1=2.9 G1=3.0 G1=3.1 G1=3.2 G1=3.3 G1=3.4 Q T

0.000100 –0.71429 –0.68966 –0.66667 –0.64516 –0.62500 –0.60606 –0.58824 0.9999 1.0001
0.000500 –0.71429 –0.68966 –0.66667 –0.64516 –0.62500 –0.60606 –0.58824 0.9995 1.0005
0.001000 –0.71428 –0.68965 –0.66667 –0.64516 –0.62500 –0.60606 –0.58824 0.9990 1.0010
0.002000 –0.71428 –0.68965 –0.66667 –0.64516 –0.62500 –0.60606 –0.58824 0.9980 1.0020
0.005000 –0.71425 –0.68964 –0.66666 –0.64516 –0.62500 –0.60606 –0.58824 0.9950 1.0050
0.010000 –0.71415 –0.68959 –0.66663 –0.64514 –0.62499 –0.60606 –0.58823 0.9900 1.0101
0.020000 –0.71377 –0.68935 –0.66649 –0.64507 –0.62495 –0.60603 –0.58822 0.9800 1.0204
0.025000 –0.71348 –0.68917 –0.66638 –0.64500 –0.62491 –0.60601 –0.58821 0.9750 1.0256
0.040000 –0.71227 –0.68836 –0.66585 –0.64465 –0.62469 –0.60587 –0.58812 0.9600 1.0417
0.050000 –0.71116 –0.68759 –0.66532 –0.64429 –0.62445 –0.60572 –0.58802 0.9500 1.0526
0.100000 –0.70209 –0.68075 –0.66023 –0.64056 –0.62175 –0.60379 –0.58666 0.9000 1.1111
0.200000 –0.66603 –0.65086 –0.63569 –0.62060 –0.60567 –0.59096 –0.57652 0.8000 1.2500
0.300000 –0.60434 –0.59634 –0.58783 –0.57887 –0.56953 –0.55989 –0.55000 0.7000 1.4286
0.400000 –0.51276 –0.51212 –0.51073 –0.50863 –0.50585 –0.50244 –0.49844 0.6000 1.6667
0.429624 –0.47888 –0.48037 –0.48109 –0.48107 –0.48033 –0.47890 –0.47682 0.5704 1.7532
0.500000 –0.38353 –0.38991 –0.39554 –0.40041 –0.40454 –0.40792 –0.41058 0.5000 2.0000
0.570376 –0.26292 –0.27372 –0.28395 –0.29351 –0.30238 –0.31055 –0.31802 0.4296 2.3276
0.600000 –0.20259 –0.21523 –0.22726 –0.23868 –0.24946 –0.25958 –0.26904 0.4000 2.5000
0.700000 0.05746 0.03997 0.02279 0.00596 –0.01050 –0.02654 –0.04215 0.3000 3.3333
0.800000 0.45980 0.44015 0.42040 0.40061 0.38081 0.36104 0.34133 0.2000 5.0000
0.900000 1.21013 1.19539 1.18006 1.16416 1.14772 1.13078 1.11337 0.1000 10.000
0.950000 2.00992 2.00710 2.00335 1.99869 1.99314 1.98674 1.97951 0.0500 20.000
0.960000 2.27470 2.27676 2.27780 2.27785 2.27693 2.27506 2.27229 0.0400 25.000
0.975000 2.84134 2.85492 2.86735 2.87865 2.88884 2.89795 2.90599 0.0250 40.000
0.980000 3.11399 3.13356 3.15193 3.16911 3.18512 3.20000 3.21375 0.0200 50.000
0.990000 3.97301 4.01286 4.05138 4.08859 4.12452 4.15917 4.19257 0.0100 100.00
0.995000 4.84669 4.90884 4.96959 5.02897 5.08697 5.14362 5.19892 0.0050 200.00
0.998000 6.01858 6.11254 6.20506 6.29613 6.38578 6.47401 6.56084 0.0020 500.00
0.999000 6.91505 7.03443 7.15235 7.26881 7.38382 7.49739 7.60953 0.0010 1000.0
0.999500 7.81839 7.96411 8.10836 8.25115 8.39248 8.53236 8.67079 0.0005 2000.0
0.999900 9.93643 10.14602 10.35418 10.56090 10.76618 10.97001 11.17239 0.0001 10000.

P G1=3.5 G1=3.6 G1=3.7 G1=3.8 G1=3.9 G1=4.0 G1=4.1 Q T

0.000100 –0.57143 –0.55556 –0.54054 –0.52632 –0.51282 –0.50000 –0.48780 0.9999 1.0001
0.000500 –0.57143 –0.55556 –0.54054 –0.52632 –0.51282 –0.50000 –0.48780 0.9995 1.0005
0.001000 –0.57143 –0.55556 –0.54054 –0.52632 –0.51282 –0.50000 –0.48780 0.9990 1.0010
0.002000 –0.57143 –0.55556 –0.54054 –0.52632 –0.51282 –0.50000 –0.48780 0.9980 1.0020
0.005000 –0.57143 –0.55556 –0.54054 –0.52632 –0.51282 –0.50000 –0.48780 0.9950 1.0050
0.010000 –0.57143 –0.55556 –0.54054 –0.52632 –0.51282 –0.50000 –0.48780 0.9900 1.0101
0.020000 –0.57142 –0.55555 –0.54054 –0.52631 –0.51282 –0.50000 –0.48780 0.9800 1.0204
0.025000 –0.57141 –0.55555 –0.54054 –0.52631 –0.51282 –0.50000 –0.48780 0.9750 1.0256
0.040000 –0.57136 –0.55552 –0.54052 –0.52630 –0.51281 –0.50000 –0.48780 0.9600 1.0417
0.050000 –0.57130 –0.55548 –0.54050 –0.52629 –0.51281 –0.49999 –0.48780 0.9500 1.0526
0.100000 –0.57035 –0.55483 –0.54006 –0.52600 –0.51261 –0.49986 –0.48772 0.9000 1.1111
0.200000 –0.56242 –0.54867 –0.53533 –0.52240 –0.50990 –0.49784 –0.48622 0.8000 1.2500
0.300000 –0.53993 –0.52975 –0.51952 –0.50929 –0.49911 –0.48902 –0.47906 0.7000 1.4286
0.400000 –0.49391 –0.48888 –0.48342 –0.47758 –0.47141 –0.46496 –0.45828 0.6000 1.6667
0.429624 –0.47413 –0.47088 –0.46711 –0.46286 –0.45819 –0.45314 –0.44777 0.5704 1.7532
0.500000 –0.41253 –0.41381 –0.41442 –0.41441 –0.41381 –0.41265 –0.41097 0.5000 2.0000
0.570376 –0.32479 –0.33085 –0.33623 –0.34092 –0.34494 –0.34831 –0.35105 0.4296 2.3276
0.600000 –0.27782 –0.28592 –0.29335 –0.30010 –0.30617 –0.31159 –0.31635 0.4000 2.5000
0.700000 –0.05730 –0.07195 –0.08610 –0.09972 –0.11279 –0.12530 –0.13725 0.3000 3.3333
0.800000 0.32171 0.30223 0.28290 0.26376 0.24484 0.22617 0.20777 0.2000 5.0000
0.900000 1.09552 1.07726 1.05863 1.03965 1.02036 1.00079 0.98096 0.1000 10.000
0.950000 1.97l47 1.96266 1.95311 1.94283 1.93186 1.92023 1.90796 0.0500 20.000
0.960000 2.26862 2.26409 2.25872 2.25254 2.24558 2.23786 2.22940 0.0400 25.000
0.975000 2.91299 2.91898 2.92397 2.92799 2.93107 2.93324 2.93450 0.0250 40.000
0.980000 3.22641 3.23800 3.24853 3.25803 3.26653 3.27404 3.28060 0.0200 50.000
0.990000 4.22473 4.25569 4.28545 4.31403 4.34147 4.36777 4.39296 0.0100 100.00
0.995000 5.25291 5.30559 5.35698 5.40711 5.45598 5.50362 5.55005 0.0050 200.00
0.998000 6.64627 6.73032 6.81301 6.89435 6.97435 7.05304 7.13043 0.0020 500.00
0.999000 7.72024 7.82954 7.93744 8.04395 8.14910 8.25289 8.35534 0.0010 1000.0
0.999500 8.80779 8.94335 9.07750 9.21023 9.34158 9.47154 9.60013 0.0005 2000.0
0.999900 11.37334 11.57284 11.77092 11.96757 12.16280 12.35663 12.54906 0.0001 10000.

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012) 18–81

Table 1 Percentage points of Pearson Type III distribution (positive skewness)—Continued

P G1=4.2 G1=4.3 G1=4.4 G1=4.5 G1=4.6 G1=4.7 G17-=4.8 Q T

0.000100 –0.47619 –0.46512 –0.45455 –0.44444 –0.43478 –0.42553 –0.41667 0.9999 1.0001
0.000500 –0.47619 –0.46512 –0.45455 –0.44444 –0.43478 –0.42553 –0.41667 0.9995 1.0005
0.001000 –0.47619 –0.46512 –0.45455 –0.44444 –0.43478 –0.42553 –0.41667 0.9990 1.0010
0.002000 –0.47619 –0.46512 –0.45455 –0.44444 –0.43478 –0.42553 –0.41667 0.9980 1.0020
0.005000 –0.47619 –0.46512 –0.45455 –0.44444 –0.43478 –0.42553 –0.41667 0.9950 1.0050
0.010000 –0.47619 –0.46512 –0.45455 –0.44444 –0.43478 –0.42553 –0.41667 0.9900 1.0101
0.020000 –0.47619 –0.46512 –0.45455 –0.44444 –0.43478 –0.42553 –0.41667 0.9800 1.0204
0.025000 –0.47619 –0.46512 –0.45455 –0.44444 –0.43478 –0.42553 –0.41667 0.9750 1.0256
0.040000 –0.47619 –0.46512 –0.45455 –0.44444 –0.43478 –0.42553 –0.41667 0.9600 1.0417
0.050000 –0.47619 –0.46511 –0.45454 –0.44444 –0.43478 –0.42553 –0.41667 0.9500 1.0526
0.100000 –0.47614 –0.46508 –0.45452 –0.44443 –0.43477 –0.42553 –0.41666 0.9000 1.1111
0.200000 –0.47504 –0.46428 –0.45395 –0.44402 –0.43448 –0.42532 –0.41652 0.8000 1.2500
0.300000 –0.46927 –0.45967 –0.45029 –0.44114 –0.43223 –0.42357 –0.41517 0.7000 1.4286
0.400000 –0.45142 –0.44442 –0.43734 –0.43020 –0.42304 –0.41590 –0.40880 0.6000 1.6667
0.429624 –0.44212 –0.43623 –0.43016 –0.42394 –0.41761 –0.41121 –0.40477 0.5704 1.7532
0.500000 –0.40881 –0.40621 –0.40321 –0.39985 –0.39617 –0.39221 –0.38800 0.5000 2.0000
0.570376 –0.35318 –0.35473 –0.35572 –0.35619 –0.35616 –0.35567 –0.35475 0.4296 2.3276
0.600000 –0.32049 –0.32400 –0.32693 –0.32928 –0.33108 –0.33236 –0.33315 0.4000 2.5000
0.700000 –0.14861 –0.15939 –0.16958 –0.17918 –0.18819 –0.19661 –0.20446 0.3000 3.3333
0.800000 0.18967 0.17189 0.15445 0.13737 0.12067 0.10436 0.08847 0.2000 5.0000
0.900000 0.96090 0.94064 0.92022 0.89964 0.87895 0.85817 0.83731 0.1000 10.000
0.950000 1.89508 1.88160 1.86757 1.85300 1.83792 1.82234 1.80631 0.0500 20.000
0.960000 2.22024 2.21039 2.19988 2.18874 2.17699 2.16465 2.15174 0.0400 25.000
0.975000 2.93489 2.93443 2.93314 2.93105 2.92818 2.92455 2.92017 0.0250 40.000
0.980000 3.28622 3.29092 3.29473 3.29767 3.29976 3.30103 3.30149 0.0200 50.000
0.990000 4.41706 4.44009 4.46207 4.48303 4.50297 4.52192 4.53990 0.0100 100.00
0.995000 5.59528 5.63934 5.68224 5.72400 5.76464 5.80418 5.84265 0.0050 200.00
0.998000 7.20654 7.28138 7.35497 7.42733 7.49847 7.56842 7.63718 0.0020 500.00
0.999000 8.45646 8.55627 8.65479 8.75202 8.84800 8.94273 9.03623 0.0010 1000.0
0.999500 9.72737 9.85326 9.97784 10.10110 10.22307 10.34375 10.46318 0.0005 2000.0
0.999900 12.74 0l0 12.92977 13.11808 13.30504 13.49066 13.67495 13.85794 0.0001 10000.

P G1=4.9 G1=5.0 G1=5.1 G1=5.2 G1=5.3 G1=5.4 G1=5.5 Q T

0.000100 –0.40816 –0.40000 –0.39216 –0.38462 –0.37736 –0.37037 –0.36364 0.9999 1.0001
0.000500 –0.40816 –0.40000 –0.39216 –0.38462 –0.37736 –0.37037 –0.36364 0.9995 1.0005
0.001000 –0.40816 –0.40000 –0.39216 –0.38462 –0.37736 –0.37037 –0.36364 0.9990 1.0010
0.002000 –0.40816 –0.40000 –0.39216 –0.38462 –0.37736 –0.37037 –0.36364 0.9980 1.0020
0.005000 –0.40816 –0.40000 –0.39216 –0.38462 –0.37736 –0.37037 –0.36364 0.9950 1.0050
0.010000 –0.40816 –0.40000 –0.39216 –0.38462 –0.37736 –0.37037 –0.36364 0.9900 1.0101
0.020000 –0.40816 –0.40000 –0.39216 –0.38462 –0.37736 –0.37037 –0.36364 0.9800 1.0204
0.025000 –0.40816 –0.40000 –0.39216 –0.38462 –0.37736 –0.37037 –0.36364 0.9750 1.0256
0.040000 –0.40816 –0.40000 –0.39216 –0.38462 –0.37736 –0.37037 –0.36364 0.9600 1.0417
0.050000 –0.40816 –0.40000 –0.39216 –0.38462 –0.37736 –0.37037 – 0.36364 0.9500 1.0526
0.100000 –0.40816 –0.40000 –0.39216 –0.38462 –0.37736 –0.37037 –0.36364 0.9000 1.1111
0.200000 –0.40806 –0.39993 –0.39211 –0.38458 –0.37734 –0.37036 –0.36363 0.8000 1.2500
0.300000 –0.40703 –0.39914 –0.39152 –0.38414 –0.37701 –0.37011 –0.36345 0.7000 1.4286
0.400000 –0.40177 –0.39482 –0.38799 –0.38127 –0.37469 –0.36825 –0.36196 0.6000 1.6667
0.429624 –0.39833 –0.39190 –0.38552 –0.37919 –0.37295 –0.36680 –0.36076 0.5704 1.7532
0.500000 –0.38359 –0.37901 –0.37428 –0.36945 –0.36453 –0.35956 –0.35456 0.5000 2.0000
0.570376 –0.35343 –0.35174 –0.34972 –0.34740 –0.34481 –0.34198 –0.33895 0.4296 2.3276
0.600000 –0.33347 –0.33336 –0.33284 –0.33194 –0.33070 –0.32914 –0.32729 0.4000 2.5000
0.700000 –0.21172 –0.21843 –0.22458 –0.23019 –0.23527 –0.23984 –0.24391 0.3000 3.3333
0.800000 0.07300 0.05798 0.04340 0.02927 0.01561 0.00243 –0.01028 0.2000 5.0000
0.900000 0.81641 0.79548 0.77455 0.75364 0.73277 0.71195 0.69122 0.1000 10.000
0.950000 1.78982 1.77292 1.75563 1.73795 1.71992 1.70155 1.68287 0.0500 20.000
0.960000 2.13829 2.12432 2.10985 2.09490 2.07950 2.06365 2.04739 0.0400 25.000
0.975000 2.91508 2.90930 2.90283 2.89572 2.88796 2.87959 2.87062 0.0250 40.000
0.980000 3.30116 3.30007 3.29823 3.29567 3.29240 3.28844 3.28381 0.0200 50.000
0.990000 4.55694 4.57304 4.58823 4.60252 4.61594 4.62850 4.64022 0.0100 100.00
0.995000 5.88004 5.91639 5.95171 5.98602 6.01934 6.05169 6.08307 0.0050 200.00
0.998000 7.70479 7.77124 7.83657 7.90078 7.96390 8.02594 8.08691 0.0020 500.00
0.999000 9.12852 9.21961 9.30952 9.39827 9.48586 9.57232 9.65766 0.0010 1000.0
0.999500 10.58135 10.69829 10.81401 10.92853 11.04186 11.15402 11.26502 0.0005 2000.0
0.999900 14.03963 14.22004 14.39918 14.57706 14.75370 14.92912 15.10332 0.0001 10000.

18–82 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012)

Table 1 Percentage points of Pearson Type III distribution (positive skewness)—Continued

P G1=5.6 G1=5.7 G1=5.8 G1=5.9 G1=6.0 G1=6.1 G1=6.2 Q T

0.000100 –0.35714 –0.35088 –0.34483 –0.33898 –0.33333 –0.32787 –0.32258 0.9999 1.0001
0.000500 –0.35714 –0.35088 –0.34483 –0.33898 –0.33333 –0.32787 –0.32258 0.9995 1.0005
0.001000 –0.35714 –0.35088 –0.34483 –0.33898 –0.33333 –0.32787 –0.32258 0.9990 1.0010
0.002000 –0.35714 –0.35088 –0.34483 –0.33898 –0.33333 –0.32787 –0.32258 0.9980 1.0020
0.005000 –0.35714 –0.35088 –0.34483 –0.33898 –0.33333 –0.32787 –0.32258 0.9950 1.0050
0.010000 –0.35714 –0.35088 –0.34483 –0.33898 –0.33333 –0.32787 –0.32258 0.9900 1.0101
0.020000 –0.35714 –0.35088 –0.34483 –0.33898 –0.33333 –0.32787 –0.32258 0.9800 1.0204
0.025000 –0.35714 –0.35088 –0.34483 –0.33898 –0.33333 –0.32787 –0.32258 0.9750 1.0256
0.040000 –0.35714 –0.35088 –0.34483 –0.33898 –0.33333 –0.32787 –0.32258 0.9600 1.0417
0.050000 –0.35714 –0.35088 –0.34483 –0.33898 –0.33333 –0.32787 –0.32258 0.9500 1.0526
0.100000 –0.35714 –0.35088 –0.34483 –0.33898 –0.33333 –0.32787 –0.32258 0.9000 1.1111
0.200000 –0.35714 –0.35087 –0.34483 –0.33898 –0.33333 –0.32787 –0.32258 0.8000 1.2500
0.300000 –0.35700 –0.35078 –0.34476 –0.33893 –0.33330 –0.32784 –0.32256 0.7000 1.4286
0.400000 –0.35583 –0.34985 –0.34402 –0.33836 –0.33285 –0.32750 –0.32230 0.6000 1.6667
0.429624 –0.35484 –0.34903 –0.34336 –0.33782 –0.33242 –0.32715 –0.32202 0.5704 1.7532
0.500000 –0.34955 –0.34455 –0.33957 –0.33463 –0.32974 –0.32492 –0.32016 0.5000 2.0000
0.570376 –0.33573 –0.33236 –0.32886 –0.32525 –0.32155 –0.31780 –0.31399 0.4296 2.3276
0.600000 –0.32519 –0.32285 –0.32031 –0.31759 –0.31472 –0.31171 –0.30859 0.4000 2.5000
0.700000 –0.24751 –0.25064 –0.25334 –0.25562 –0.25750 –0.25901 –0.26015 0.3000 3.3333
0.800000 –0.02252 –0.03427 –0.04553 –0.05632 –0.06662 –0.07645 –0.08580 0.2000 5.0000
0.900000 0.67058 0.65006 0.62966 0.60941 0.58933 0.56942 0.54970 0.1000 10.000
0.950000 1.66390 1.64464 1.62513 1.60538 1.58541 1.56524 1.54487 0.0500 20.000
0.960000 2.03073 2.01369 1.99629 1.97855 1.96048 1.94210 1.92343 0.0400 25.000
0.975000 2.86107 2.85096 2.84030 2.82912 2.81743 2.80525 2.79259 0.0250 40.000
0.980000 3.27854 3.27263 3.26610 3.25898 3.25128 3.24301 3.23419 0.0200 50.000
0.990000 4.65111 4.66120 4.67050 4.67903 4.68680 4.69382 4.70013 0.0100 100.00
0.995000 6.11351 6.14302 6.17162 6.19933 6.22616 6.25212 6.27723 0.0050 200.00
0.998000 8.14683 8.20572 8.26359 8.32046 8.37634 8.43125 8.48519 0.0020 500.00
0.999000 9.74190 9.82505 9.90713 9.98815 10.06812 10.14706 10.22499 0.0010 1000.0
0.999500 11.37487 11.48360 11.59122 11.69773 11.80316 11.90752 12.01082 0.0005 2000.0
0.999900 15.27632 15.44813 15.61878 15.78826 15.95660 16.12380 16.28989 0.0001 10000.

P G1=6.3 G1=6.4 G1=6.5 G1=6.6 G1=6.7 G1=6.8 G1=6.9 Q T

0.000100 –0.31746 –0.31250 –0.30769 –0.30303 –0.29851 –0.29412 –0.28986 0.9999 1.0001
0.000500 –0.31746 –0.31250 –0.30769 –0.30303 –0.29851 –0.29412 –0.28986 0.9995 1.0005
0.001000 –0.31746 –0.31250 –0.30769 –0.30303 –0.29851 –0.29412 –0.28986 0.9990 1.0010
0.002000 –0.31746 –0.31250 –0.30769 –0.30303 –0.29851 –0.29412 –0.28986 0.9980 1.0020
0.005000 –0.31746 –0.31250 –0.30769 –0.30303 –0.29851 –0.29412 –0.28986 0.9950 1.0050
0.010000 –0.31746 –0.31250 –0.30769 –0.30303 –0.29851 –0.29412 –0.28986 0.9900 1.0101
0.020000 –0.31746 –0.31250 –0.30769 –0.30303 –0.29851 –0.29412 –0.28986 0.9800 1.0204
0.025000 –0.31746 –0.31250 –0.30769 –0.30303 –0.29851 –0.29412 –0.28986 0.9750 1.0256
0.040000 –0.31746 –0.31250 –0.30769 –0.30303 –0.29851 –0.29412 –0.28986 0.9600 1.0417
0.050000 –0.31746 –0.31250 –0.30769 –0.30303 –0.29851 –0.29412 –0.28986 0.9500 1.0526
0.100000 –0.31746 –0.31250 –0.30769 –0.30303 –0.29851 –0.29412 –0.28986 0.9000 1.1111
0.200000 –0.31746 –0.31250 –0.30769 –0.30303 –0.29851 –0.29412 –0.28986 0.8000 1.2500
0.300000 –0.31745 –0.31249 –0.30769 –0.30303 –0.29850 –0.29412 –0.28985 0.7000 1.4286
0.400000 –0.31724 –0.31234 –0.30757 –0.30294 –0.29844 –0.29407 –0.28982 0.6000 1.6667
0.429624 –0.31702 –0.31216 –0.30743 –0.30283 –0.29835 –0.29400 –0.28977 0.5704 1.7532
0.500000 –0.31549 –0.31090 –0.30639 –0.30198 –0.29766 –0.29344 –0.28931 0.5000 2.0000
0.570376 –0.31016 –0.30631 –0.30246 –0.29862 –0.29480 –0.29101 –0.28726 0.4296 2.3276
0.600000 –0.30538 –0.30209 –0.29875 –0.29537 –0.29196 –0.28854 –0.28511 0.4000 2.5000
0.700000 –0.26097 –0.26146 –0.26167 –0.26160 –0.26128 –0.26072 –0.25995 0.3000 3.3333
0.800000 –0.09469 –0.10311 –0.11107 –0.11859 –0.12566 –0.13231 –0.13853 0.2000 5.0000
0.900000 0.53019 0.51089 0.49182 0.47299 0.45440 0.43608 0.41803 0.1000 10.000
0.950000 1.52434 1.50365 1.48281 1.46186 1.44079 1.41963 1.39839 0.0500 20.000
0.960000 1.90449 1.88528 1.86584 1.84616 1.82627 1.80618 1.78591 0.0400 25.000
0.975000 2.77947 2.76591 2.75191 2.73751 2.72270 2.70751 2.69195 0.0250 40.000
0.980000 3.22484 3.21497 3.20460 3.19374 3.18241 3.17062 3.15838 0.0200 50.000
0.990000 4.70571 4.71061 4.71482 4.71836 4.72125 4.72350 4.72512 0.0100 100.00
0.995000 6.30151 6.32497 6.34762 6.36948 6.39055 6.41086 6.43042 0.0050 200.00
0.998000 8.53820 8.59027 8.64142 8.69167 8.74102 8.78950 8.83711 0.0020 500.00
0.999000 10.30192 10.37785 10.45281 10.52681 10.59986 10.67197 10.74316 0.0010 1000.0
0.999500 12.11307 12.21429 12.31450 12.41370 12.51190 12.60913 12.70539 0.0005 2000.0
0.999900 16.45487 16.61875 16.78156 16.94329 17.10397 17.26361 17.42221 0.0001 10000.

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012) 18–83

Table 1 Percentage points of Pearson Type III distribution (positive skewness)—Continued

P G1=7.0 G1=7.1 G1=7.2 G1=7.3 G1=7.4 G1=7.5 G1=7.6 Q T

0.000100 –0.28571 –0.28169 –0.27778 –0.27397 –0.27027 –0.26667 –0.26316 0.9999 1.0001
0.000500 –0.28571 –0.28169 –0.27778 –0.27397 –0.27027 –0.26667 –0.26316 0.9995 1.0005
0.001000 –0.28571 –0.28169 –0.27778 –0.27397 –0.27027 –0.26667 –0.26316 0.9990 1.0010
0.002000 –0.28571 –0.28169 –0.27778 –0.27397 –0.27027 –0.26667 –0.26316 0.9980 1.0020
0.005000 –0.28571 –0.28169 –0.27778 –0.27397 –0.27027 –0.26667 –0.26316 0.9950 1.0050
0.010000 –0.28571 –0.28169 –0.27778 –0.27397 –0.27027 –0.26667 –0.26316 0.9900 1.0101
0.020000 –0.28571 –0.28169 –0.27778 –0.27397 –0.27027 –0.26667 –0.26316 0.9800 1.0204
0.025000 –0.28571 –0.28169 –0.27778 –0.27397 –0.27027 –0.26667 –0.26316 0.9750 1.0256
0.040000 –0.28571 –0.28169 –0.27778 –0.27397 –0.27027 –0.26667 –0.26316 0.9600 1.0417
0.050000 –0.28571 –0.28169 –0.27778 –0.27397 –0.27027 –0.26667 –0.26316 0.9500 1.0526
0.100000 –0.28571 –0.28169 –0.27778 –0.27397 –0.27027 –0.26667 –0.26316 0.9000 1.1111
0.200000 –0.28571 –0.28169 –0.27778 –0.27397 –0.27027 –0.26667 –0.26316 0.8000 1.2500
0.300000 –0.28571 –0.28169 –0.27778 –0.27397 –0.27027 –0.26667 –0.26316 0.7000 1.4286
0.400000 –0.28569 –0.28167 –0.27776 –0.27396 –0.27026 –0.26666 –0.26315 0.6000 1.6667
0.429624 –0.28565 –0.28164 –0.27774 –0.27394 –0.27025 –0.26665 –0.26315 0.5704 1.7532
0.500000 –0.28528 –0.28135 –0.27751 –0.27376 –0.27010 –0.26654 –0.26306 0.5000 2.0000
0.570376 –0.28355 –0.27990 –0.27629 –0.27274 –0.26926 –0.26584 –0.26248 0.4296 2.3276
0.600000 –0.28169 –0.27829 –0.27491 –0.27156 –0.26825 –0.26497 –0.26175 0.4000 2.5000
0.700000 –0.25899 –0.25785 –0.25654 –0.25510 –0.25352 –0.25183 –0.25005 0.3000 3.3333
0.800000 –0.14434 –0.14975 –0.15478 –0.15942 –0.16371 –0.16764 –0.17123 0.2000 5.0000
0.900000 0.40026 0.38277 0.36557 0.34868 0.33209 0.31582 0.29986 0.1000 10.000
0.950000 1.37708 1.35571 1.33430 1.31287 1.29141 1.26995 1.24850 0.0500 20.000
0.960000 1.76547 1.74487 1.72412 1.70325 1.68225 1.66115 1.63995 0.0400 25.000
0.975000 2.67603 2.65977 2.64317 2.62626 2.60905 2.59154 2.57375 0.0250 40.000
0.980000 3.14572 3.13263 3.11914 3.10525 3.09099 3.07636 3.06137 0.0200 50.000
0.990000 4.72613 4.72653 4.72635 4.72559 4.72427 4.72240 4.71998 0.0100 100.00
0.995000 6.44924 6.46733 6.48470 6.50137 6.51735 6.53264 6.54727 0.0050 200.00
0.998000 8.88387 8.92979 8.97488 9.01915 9.06261 9.10528 9.14717 0.0020 500.00
0.999000 10.81343 10.88281 10.95129 11.01890 11.08565 11.15154 11.21658 0.0010 1000.0
0.999500 12.80069 12.89505 12.98848 13.08098 13.17258 13.26328 13.35309 0.0005 2000.0
0.999900 17.57979 17.73636 17.89193 18.04652 18.20013 18.35278 18.50447 0.0001 10000.

P G1=7.7 G1=7.8 G1=7.9 G1=8.0 G1=8.1 G1=8.2 G1=8.3 Q T

0.000100 –0.25974 –0.25641 –0.25316 –0.25000 –0.24691 –0.24390 –0.24096 0.9999 1.0001
0.000500 –0.25974 –0.25641 –0.25316 –0.25000 –0.24691 –0.24390 –0.24096 0.9995 1.0005
0.001000 –0.25974 –0.25641 –0.25316 –0.25000 –0.24691 –0.24390 –0.24096 0.9990 1.0010
0.002000 –0.25974 –0.25641 –0.25316 –0.25000 –0.24691 –0.24390 –0.24096 0.9980 1.0020
0.005000 –0.25974 –0.25641 –0.25316 –0.25000 –0.24691 –0.24390 –0.24096 0.9950 1.0050
0.010000 –0.25974 –0.25641 –0.25316 –0.25000 –0.24691 –0.24390 –0.24096 0.9900 1.0101
0.020000 –0.25974 –0.25641 –0.25316 –0.25000 –0.24691 –0.24390 –0.24096 0.9800 1.0204
0.025000 –0.25974 –0.25641 –0.25316 –0.25000 –0.24691 –0.24390 –0.24096 0.9750 1.0256
0.040000 –0.25974 –0.25641 –0.25316 –0.25000 –0.24691 –0.24390 –0.24096 0.9600 1.0417
0.050000 –0.25974 –0.25641 –0.25316 –0.25000 –0.24691 –0.24390 –0.24096 0.9500 1.0526
0.100000 –0.25974 –0.25641 –0.25316 –0.25000 –0.24691 –0.24390 –0.24096 0.9000 1.1111
0.200000 –0.25974 –0.25641 –0.25316 –0.25000 –0.24691 –0.24390 –0.24096 0.8000 1.2500
0.300000 –0.25974 –0.25641 –0.25316 –0.25000 –0.24691 –0.24390 –0.24096 0.7000 1.4286
0.400000 –0.25974 –0.25641 –0.25316 –0.25000 –0.24691 –0.24390 –0.24096 0.6000 1.6667
0.429624 –0.25973 –0.25640 –0.25316 –0.25000 –0.24691 –0.24390 –0.24096 0.5704 1.7532
0.500000 –0.25966 –0.25635 –0.25312 –0.24996 –0.24689 –0.24388 –0.24095 0.5000 2.0000
0.570376 –0.25919 –0.25596 –0.25280 –0.24970 –0.24667 –0.24371 –0.24081 0.4296 2.3276
0.600000 –0.25857 –0.25544 –0.25236 –0.24933 –0.24637 –0.24345 –0.24060 0.4000 2.5000
0.700000 –0.24817 –0.24622 –0.24421 –0.24214 –0.24003 –0.23788 –0.23571 0.3000 3.3333
0.800000 –0.17450 –0.17746 –0.18012 –0.18249 –0.18459 –0.18643 –0.18803 0.2000 5.0000
0.900000 0.28422 0.26892 0.25394 0.23929 0.22498 0.21101 0.19737 0.1000 10.000
0.950000 1.22706 1.20565 1.18427 1.16295 1.14168 1.12048 1.09936 0.0500 20.000
0.960000 1.61867 1.59732 1.57591 1.55444 1.53294 1.51141 1.48985 0.0400 25.000
0.975000 2.55569 2.53737 2.51881 2.50001 2.48099 2.46175 2.44231 0.0250 40.000
0.980000 3.04604 3.03038 3.01439 2.99810 2.98150 2.96462 2.94746 0.0200 50.000
0.990000 4.71704 4.71358 4.70961 4.70514 4.70019 4.69476 4.68887 0.0100 100.00
0.995000 6.56124 6.57456 6.58725 6.59931 6.61075 6.62159 6.63183 0.0050 200.00
0.998000 9.18828 9.22863 9.26823 9.30709 9.34521 9.38262 9.41931 0.0020 500.00
0.999000 11.28080 11.34419 11.40677 11.46855 11.52953 11.58974 11.64917 0.0010 1000.0
0.999500 13.44202 13.53009 13.61730 13.70366 13.78919 13.87389 13.95778 0.0005 2000.0
0.999900 18.65522 18.80504 18.95393 19.10191 19.24898 19.39517 19.54046 0.0001 10000.

18–84 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012)

Table 1 Percentage points of Pearson Type III distribution (positive skewness)—Continued

P G1=8.4 G1=8.5 G1=8.6 G1=8.7 G1=8.8 G1=8.9 G1=9.0 Q T

0.000100 –0.23810 –0.23529 –0.23256 –0.22989 –0.22727 –0.22472 –0.22222 0.9999 1.0001
0.000500 –0.23810 –0.23529 –0.23256 –0.22989 –0.22727 –0.22472 –0.22222 0.9995 1.0005
0.001000 –0.23810 –0.23529 –0.23256 –0.22989 –0.22727 –0.22472 –0.22222 0.9990 1.0010
0.002000 –0.23810 –0.23529 –0.23256 –0.22989 –0.22727 –0.22472 –0.22222 0.9980 1.0020
0.005000 –0.23810 –0.23529 –0.23256 –0.22989 –0.22727 –0.22472 –0.22222 0.9950 1.0050
0.010000 –0.23810 –0.23529 –0.23256 –0.22989 –0.22727 –0.22472 –0.22222 0.9900 1.0101
0.020000 –0.23810 –0.23529 –0.23256 –0.22989 –0.22727 –0.22472 –0.22222 0.9800 1.0204
0.025000 –0.23810 –0.23529 –0.23256 –0.22989 –0.22727 –0.22472 –0.22222 0.9750 1.0256
0.040000 –0.23810 –0.23529 –0.23256 –0.22989 –0.22727 –0.22472 –0.22222 0.9600 1.0417
0.050000 –0.23810 –0.23529 –0.23256 –0.22989 –0.22727 –0.22472 –0.22222 0.9500 1.0526
0.100000 –0.23810 –0.23529 –0.23256 –0.22989 –0.22727 –0.22472 –0.22222 0.9000 1.1111
0.200000 –0.23810 –0.23529 –0.23256 –0.22989 –0.22727 –0.22472 –0.22222 0.8000 1.2500
0.300000 –0.23810 –0.23529 –0.23256 –0.22989 –0.22727 –0.22472 –0.22222 0.7000 1.4286
0.400000 –0.23810 –0.23529 –0.23256 –0.22988 –0.22727 –0.22472 –0.22222 0.6000 1.6667
0.429624 –0.23809 –0.23529 –0.23256 –0.22988 –0.22727 –0.22472 –0.22222 0.5704 1.7532
0.500000 –0.23808 –0.23528 –0.23255 –0.22988 –0.22727 –0.22472 –0.22222 0.5000 2.0000
0.570376 –0.23797 –0.23520 –0.23248 –0.22982 –0.22722 –0.22468 –0.22219 0.4296 2.3276
0.600000 –0.23779 –0.23505 –0.23236 –0.22972 –0.22714 –0.22461 –0.22214 0.4000 2.5000
0.700000 –0.23352 –0.23132 –0.22911 –0.22690 –0.22469 –0.22249 –0.22030 0.3000 3.3333
0.800000 –0.18939 –0.19054 –0.19147 –0.19221 –0.19277 –0.19316 –0.19338 0.2000 5.0000
0.900000 0.18408 0.17113 0.15851 0.14624 0.13431 0.12272 0.11146 0.1000 10.000
0.950000 1.07832 1.05738 1.03654 1.01581 0.99519 0.97471 0.95435 0.0500 20.000
0.960000 1.46829 1.44673 1.42518 1.40364 1.38213 1.36065 1.33922 0.0400 25.000
0.975000 2.42268 2.40287 2.38288 2.36273 2.34242 2.32197 2.30138 0.0250 40.000
0.980000 2.93002 2.91234 2.89440 2.87622 2.85782 2.83919 2.82035 0.0200 50.000
0.990000 4.68252 4.67573 4.66850 4.66085 4.65277 4.64429 4.63541 0.0100 100.00
0.995000 6.64148 6.65056 6.65907 6.66703 6.67443 6.68130 6.68763 0.0050 200.00
0.998000 9.45530 9.49060 9.52521 9.55915 9.59243 9.62504 9.65701 0.0020 500.00
0.999000 11.70785 11.76576 11.82294 11.87938 11.93509 11.99009 12.04437 0.0010 1000.0
0.999500 14.04086 14.12314 14.20463 14.28534 14.36528 14.44446 14.52288 0.0005 2000.0
0.999900 19.68489 19.82845 19.97115 20.11300 20.25402 20.39420 20.53356 0.0001 10000.

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012) 18–85

Chapter 18 Selected Statistical Methods Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Table 2 Percentage Points of Pearson Type III Distribution, P (Kp, G1) 1/

For Negative Skewness

G1 = 0.0 to –9.0

The values in the body of the table are the values of Kp, standardized units, that correspond to these values of Gl
for P = 0.0001, 0.0005, 0.0010, 0.0020, 0.0050, 0.0100, 0.0200, 0.0250, 0.0400, 0.0500, 0.1000, 0.2000, 0.3000, 0.4000,
0.429624, 0.5000, 0.570376, 0.6000, 0.7000, 0.8000, 0.9000, 0.9500, 0.9600, 0.9750, 0.9800, 0.9900, 0.9950, 0.9980,
0.9990, 0.9995, and 0.9999 cumulative probability equal to or less than a particular discharge in ft3/s, or other vari-
able being analyzed.

Five decimals have been retained. The Return Period (T) is defined as l/Q, and P + Q 1.0.

Example: Given G1 = – 1.0 Find Kp for P = 0.9900 and Q = .0100 or T = 100

G1 = – 1.0 Kp = + 1.58838

Find Kp for P = Q = 0.5000 or T = 2

G1 = – 1.0 Kp = + 0.16397

where:
G1 = the coefficient of skewness
P = the cumulative probability equal to or less than a particular discharge in ft3/s, or other variable being
analyzed
Q = the cumulative probability equal to or greater than a particular discharge in ft3/s, or other variable
being analyzed
T = the return period and/or recurrence interval
Kp = value for selected percentage points and skewness

1/ This table was produced on the IBM 360/140 by the Central Technical Unit, SCS. The K–values for negative coef-
ficient of skewness were obtained by inverting the K–values in table 1 and changing the signs of the K–values.

18–86 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012)

Table 2 Percentage points of Pearson Type III distribution (negative skewness)

P G1=0.0 G1=–0.1 G1=–0.2 G1=–0.3 G1=–0.4 G1=–0.5 G1=–0.6 Q T

0.000100 –3.71902 –3.93453 –4.15301 –4.37394 –4.59687 –4.82141 –5.04718 0.9999 1.0001
0.000500 –3.29053 –3.45513 –3.62113 –3.78820 –3.95605 –4.12443 –4.29311 0.9995 1.0005
0.001000 –3.09023 –3.23322 –3.37703 –3.52139 –3.66608 –3.81090 –3.95567 0.9990 1.0010
0.002000 –2.87816 –2.99978 –3.12169 –3.24371 –3.36566 –3.48137 –3.60872 0.9980 1.0020
0.005000 –2.57583 –2.66965 –2.76321 –2.85636 –2.94900 –3.04102 –3.13232 0.9950 1.0050
0.010000 –2.32635 –2.39961 –2.47226 –2.54421 –2.61539 –2.68572 –2.75514 0.9900 1.0101
0.020000 –2.05375 –2.10697 –2.15935 –2.21081 –2.26133 –2.31084 –2.35931 0.9800 1.0204
0.025000 –1.95996 –2.00688 –2.05290 –2.09795 –2.14202 –2.18505 –2.22702 0.9750 1.0256
0.040000 –1.75069 –1.78462 –1.81756 –1.84949 –1.88039 –1.91022 –1.93896 0.9600 1.0417
0.050000 –1.64485 –1.67279 –1.69971 –1.72562 –1.75048 –1.77428 –1.79701 0.9500 1.0526
0.100000 –1.28155 –1.29178 –1.30105 –1.30936 –1.31671 –1.32309 –1.32850 0.9000 1.1111
0.200000 –0.84162 –0.83639 –0.83044 –0.82377 –0.81638 –0.80829 –0.79950 0.8000 1.2500
0.300000 –0.52440 –0.51207 –0.49927 –0.48600 –0.47228 –0.45812 –0.44352 0.7000 1.4286
0.400000 –0.25335 –0.23763 –0.22168 –0.20552 –0.18916 –0.17261 –0.15589 0.6000 1.6667
0.429624 –0.17733 –0.16111 –0.14472 –0.12820 –0.11154 –0.09478 –0.07791 0.5704 1.7532
0.500000 0.00000 0.01662 0.03325 0.04993 0.06651 0.08302 0.09945 0.5000 2.0000
0.570376 0.17733 0.19339 0.20925 0.22492 0.24037 0.25558 0.27047 0.4296 2.3276
0.600000 0.25335 0.26882 0.28403 0.29897 0.31362 0.32796 0.34198 0.4000 2.5000
0.700000 0.52440 0.53624 0.54757 0.55839 0.56867 0.57840 0.58757 0.3000 3.3333
0.800000 0.84162 0.84611 0.84986 0.85285 0.85508 0.85653 0.85718 0.2000 5.0000
0.900000 1.28155 1.27037 1.25824 1.24516 1.23114 1.21618 1.20028 0.1000 10.000
0.950000 1.64485 1.61594 1.58607 1.55527 1.52357 1.49101 1.45762 0.0500 20.000
0.960000 1.75069 1.71580 1.67999 1.64329 1.60574 1.56740 1.52830 0.0400 25.000
0.975000 1.95996 1.91219 1.86360 1.81427 1.76427 1.71366 1.66253 0.0250 40.000
0.980000 2.05375 1.99973 1.94499 1.88959 1.83361 1.77716 1.72033 0.0200 50.000
0.990000 2.32635 2.25258 2.17840 2.10394 2.02933 1.95472 1.88029 0.0100 100.00
0.995000 2.57583 2.48187 2.38795 2.29423 2.20092 2.10825 2.01644 0.0050 200.00
0.998000 2.87816 2.75706 2.63672 2.51741 2.39942 2.28311 2.16884 0.0020 500.00
0.999000 3.09023 2.94834 2.80786 2.66915 2.53261 2.39867 2.26780 0.0010 1000.0
0.999500 3.29053 3.12767 2.96698 2.80889 2.65390 2.50257 2.35549 0.0005 2000.0
0.999900 3.71902 3.50703 3.29921 3.09631 2.89907 2.70836 2.52507 0.0001 10000.

P G1=–0.7 G1=–0.8 G1=–0.9 G1=–1.0 G1=–1.1 G1=–1.2 G1=–1.3 Q T

0.000100 –5.27389 –5.50124 –5.72899 –5.95691 –6.18480 –6.41249 –6.63980 0.9999 1.0001
0.000500 –4.46189 –4.63057 –4.79899 –4.96701 –5.13449 –5.30130 –5.46735 0.9995 1.0005
0.001000 –4.10022 –4.24439 –4.38807 –4.53112 –4.67344 –4.81492 –4.95549 0.9990 1.0010
0.002000 –3.72957 –3.84981 –3.96932 –4.08802 –4.20582 –4.32263 –4.43839 0.9980 1.0020
0.005000 –3.22281 –3.31243 –3.40109 –3.48874 –3.57530 –3.66073 –3.74497 0.9950 1.0050
0.010000 –2.82359 –2.89101 –2.95735 –3.02256 –3.08660 –3.14944 –3.21103 0.9900 1.0101
0.020000 –2.40670 –2.45298 –2.49811 –2.54206 –2.58480 –2.62631 –2.66657 0.9800 1.0204
0.025000 –2.26790 –2.30764 –2.34623 –2.38364 –2.41984 –2.45482 –2.48855 0.9750 1.0256
0.040000 –1.96660 –1.99311 –2.01848 –2.04269 –2.06573 –2.08758 –2.10823 0.9600 1.0417
0.050000 –1.81864 –1.83916 –1.85856 –1.87683 –1.89395 –1.90992 –1.92472 0.9500 1.0526
0.100000 –1.33294 –1.33640 –1.33889 –1.34039 –1.34092 –1.34047 –1.33904 0.9000 1.1111
0.200000 –0.79002 –0.77986 –0.76902 –0.75752 –0.74537 –0.73257 –0.71915 0.8000 1.2500
0.300000 –0.42851 –0.41309 –0.39729 –0.38111 –0.36458 –0.34772 –0.33054 0.7000 1.4286
0.400000 –0.13901 –0.12199 –0.10486 –0.08763 –0.07032 –0.05297 –0.03560 0.6000 1.6667
0.429624 –0.06097 –0.04397 –0.02693 –0.00987 0.00719 0.02421 0.04116 0.5704 1.7532
0.500000 0.11578 0.13199 0.14807 0.16397 0.17968 0.19517 0.21040 0.5000 2.0000
0.570376 0.28516 0.29961 0.31368 0.32740 0.34075 0.35370 0.36620 0.4296 2.3276
0.600000 0.35565 0.36889 0.38186 0.39434 0.40638 0.41794 0.42899 0.4000 2.5000
0.700000 0.59615 0.60412 0.61146 0.61815 0.62415 0.62944 0.63400 0.3000 3.3333
0.800000 0.85703 0.85607 0.85426 0.85161 0.84809 0.84369 0.83841 0.2000 5.0000
0.900000 1.18347 1.16574 1.14712 1.12762 1.10726 1.08608 1.06413 0.1000 10.000
0.950000 1.42345 1.38855 1.35299 1.31684 1.28019 1.24313 1.20578 0.0500 20.000
0.960000 1.48852 1.44813 1.40720 1.36584 1.32414 1.28225 1.24028 0.0400 25.000
0.975000 1.61099 1.55914 1.50712 1.45507 1.40314 1.35153 1.30042 0.0250 40.000
0.980000 1.66325 1.60604 1.54886 1.49188 1.43529 1.37929 1.32412 0.0200 50.000
0.990000 1.80621 1.73271 1.66001 1.58838 1.51808 1.44942 1.38267 0.0100 100.00
0.995000 1.92580 1.83660 1.74919 1.66390 1.58110 1.50114 1.42439 0.0050 200.00
0.998000 2.05701 1.94806 1.84244 1.74062 1.64305 1.55016 1.46232 0.0020 500.00
0.999000 2.14053 2.01739 1.89894 1.78572 1.67825 1.57695 1.48216 0.0010 1000.0
0.999500 2.21328 2.07661 1.94611 1.82241 1.70603 1.59738 1.49673 0.0005 2000.0
0.999900 2.35015 2.18448 2.02891 1.88410 1.75053 1.62838 1.51752 0.0001 10000.

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012) 18–87

Table 2 Percentage points of Pearson Type III distribution (negative skewness)—Continued

P G1=–1.4 G1=–1.5 G1=–1.6 G1=–1.7 G1=–1.8 G1=–1.9 G1=–2.0 Q T

0.000100 –6.86661 –7.09277 –7.31818 –7.54272 –7.76632 –7.98888 –8.21034 0.9999 1.0001
0.000500 –5.63252 –5.79673 –5.95990 –6.12196 –6.28285 –6.44251 –6.60090 0.9995 1.0005
0.001000 –5.09505 –5.23353 –5.37087 –5.50701 –5.64190 –5.77549 –5.90776 0.9990 1.0010
0.002000 –4.55304 –4.66651 –4.77875 –4.88971 –4.99937 –5.10768 –5.21461 0.9980 1.0020
0.005000 –3.82798 –3.90973 –3.99016 –4.06926 –4.14700 –4.22336 –4.29832 0.9950 1.0050
0.010000 –3.27134 –3.33035 –3.38804 –3.44438 –3.49935 –3.55295 –3.60517 0.9900 1.0101
0.020000 –2.70556 –2.74325 –2.77964 –2.81472 –2.84848 –2.88091 –2.91202 0.9800 1.0204
0.025000 –2.52102 –2.55222 –2.58214 –2.61076 –2.63810 –2.66413 –2.68888 0.9750 1.0256
0.040000 –2.12768 –2.14591 –2.16293 –2.17873 –2.19332 –2.20670 –2.21888 0.9600 1.0417
0.050000 –1.93836 –1.95083 –1.96213 –1.97227 –1.98124 –1.98906 –1.99573 0.9500 1.0526
0.100000 –1.33665 –1.33330 –1.32900 –1.32376 –1.31760 –1.31054 –1.30259 0.9000 1.1111
0.200000 –0.70512 –0.69050 –0.67532 –0.65959 –0.64335 –0.62662 –0.60944 0.8000 1.2500
0.300000 –0.31307 –0.29535 –0.27740 –0.25925 –0.24094 –0.22250 –0.20397 0.7000 1.4286
0.400000 –0.01824 –0.00092 0.01631 0.03344 0.05040 0.06718 0.08371 0.6000 1.6667
0.429624 0.05803 0.07476 0.09132 0.10769 0.12381 0.13964 0.15516 0.5704 1.7532
0.500000 0.22535 0.23996 0.25422 0.26808 0.28150 0.29443 0.30685 0.5000 2.0000
0.570376 0.37824 0.38977 0.40075 0.41116 0.42095 0.43008 0.43854 0.4296 2.3276
0.600000 0.43949 0.44942 0.45873 0.46739 0.47538 0.48265 0.48917 0.4000 2.5000
0.700000 0.63779 0.64080 0.64300 0.64436 0.64488 0.64453 0.64333 0.3000 3.3333
0.800000 0.83223 0.82516 0.81720 0.80837 0.79868 0.78816 0.77686 0.2000 5.0000
0.900000 1.04144 1.01810 0.99418 0.96977 0.94496 0.91988 0.89464 0.1000 10.000
0.950000 1.16827 1.13075 1.09338 1.05631 1.01973 0.98381 0.94871 0.0500 20.000
0.960000 1.19842 1.15682 1.11566 1.07513 1.03543 0.99672 0.95918 0.0400 25.000
0.975000 1.25004 1.20059 1.15229 1.10537 1.06001 1.01640 0.97468 0.0250 40.000
0.980000 1.26999 1.21716 1.16584 1.11628 1.06864 1.02311 0.97980 0.0200 50.000
0.990000 1.31815 1.25611 1.19680 1.14042 1.08711 1.03695 0.98995 0.0100 100.00
0.995000 1.35114 1.28167 1.21618 1.15477 1.09749 1.04427 0.99499 0.0050 200.00
0.998000 1.37981 1.30279 1.23132 1.16534 1.10465 1.04898 0.99800 0.0020 500.00
0.999000 1.39408 1.31275 1.23805 1.16974 1.10743 1.05068 0.99900 0.0010 1000.0
0.999500 1.40413 1.31944 1.24235 1.17240 1.10901 1.05159 0.99950 0.0005 2000.0
0.999900 1.41753 1.32774 1.24728 1.17520 1.11054 1.05239 0.99990 0.0001 10000.

P G1=–2.1 G1=–2.2 G1=–2.3 G1=–2.4 G1=–2.5 G1=–2.6 G1=–2.7 Q T

0.000100 –8.43064 –8.64971 –8.86753 –9.08403 –9.29920 –9.51301 –9.72543 0.9999 1.0001
0.000500 –6.75798 –6.91370 –7.06804 –7.22098 –7.37250 –7.52258 –7.67121 0.9995 1.0005
0.001000 –6.03865 –6.16816 –6.29626 –6.42292 –6.54814 –6.67191 –6.79421 0.9990 1.0010
0.002000 –5.32014 –5.42426 –5.52694 –5.62818 –5.72796 –5.82629 –5.92316 0.9980 1.0020
0.005000 –4.37186 –4.44398 –4.51467 –4.58393 –4.65176 –4.71815 –4.78313 0.9950 1.0050
0.010000 –3.65600 –3.70543 –3.75347 –3.80013 –3.84540 –3.88930 –3.93183 0.9900 1.0101
0.020000 –2.94181 –2.97028 –2.99744 –3.02330 –3.04787 –3.07116 –3.09320 0.9800 1.0204
0.025000 –2.71234 –2.73451 –2.75541 –2.77506 –2.79345 –2.81062 –2.82658 0.9750 1.0256
0.040000 –2.22986 –2.23967 –2.24831 –2.25581 –2.26217 –2.26743 –2.27160 0.9600 1.0417
0.050000 –2.00128 –2.00570 –2.00903 –2.01128 –2.01247 –2.01263 –2.01177 0.9500 1.0526
0.100000 –1.29377 –1.28412 –1.27365 –1.26240 –1.25039 –1.23766 –1.22422 0.9000 1.1111
0.200000 –0.59183 –0.57383 –0.55549 –0.53683 –0.51789 –0.49872 –0.47934 0.8000 1.2500
0.300000 –0.18540 –0.16682 –0.14827 –0.12979 –0.11143 –0.09323 –0.07523 0.7000 1.4286
0.400000 0.09997 0.11590 0.13148 0.14665 0.16138 0.17564 0.18939 0.6000 1.6667
0.429624 0.17030 0.18504 0.19933 0.21313 0.22642 0.23915 0.25129 0.5704 1.7532
0.500000 0.31872 0.32999 0.34063 0.35062 0.35992 0.36852 0.37640 0.5000 2.0000
0.570376 0.44628 0.45329 0.45953 0.46499 0.46966 0.47353 0.47660 0.4296 2.3276
0.600000 0.49494 0.49991 0.50409 0.50744 0.50999 0.51171 0.51263 0.4000 2.5000
0.700000 0.64125 0.63833 0.63456 0.62999 0.62463 0.61854 0.61176 0.3000 3.3333
0.800000 0.76482 0.75211 0.73880 0.72495 0.71067 0.69602 0.68111 0.2000 5.0000
0.900000 0.86938 0.84422 0.81929 0.79472 0.77062 0.74709 0.72422 0.1000 10.000
0.950000 0.91458 0.88156 0.84976 0.81927 0.79015 0.76242 0.73610 0.0500 20.000
0.960000 0.92295 0.88814 0.85486 0.82315 0.79306 0.76456 0.73765 0.0400 25.000
0.975000 0.93495 0.89728 0.86169 0.82817 0.79667 0.76712 0.73943 0.0250 40.000
0.980000 0.93878 0.90009 0.86371 0.82959 0.79765 0.76779 0.73987 0.0200 50.000
0.990000 0.94607 0.90521 0.86723 0.83196 0.79921 0.76878 0.74049 0.0100 100.00
0.995000 0.94945 0.90742 0.86863 0.83283 0.79973 0.76909 0.74067 0.0050 200.00
0.998000 0.95131 0.90854 0.86929 0.83320 0.79994 0.76920 0.74073 0.0020 500.00
0.999000 0.95188 0.90885 0.86945 0.83328 0.79998 0.76922 0.74074 0.0010 1000.0
0.999500 0.95215 0.90899 0.86952 0.83331 0.79999 0.76923 0.74074 0.0005 2000.0
0.999900 0.95234 0.90908 0.86956 0.83333 0.80000 0.76923 0.74074 0.0001 10000.

18–88 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012)

Table 2 Percentage points of Pearson Type III distribution (negative skewness)—Continued

P G1=–2.8 G1=–2.9 G1=–3.0 G1=–3.1 G1=–3.2 G1=–3.3 G1=–3.4 Q T

0.000100 –9.93643 –10.14602 –10.35418 –10.56090 –10.76618 –10.97001 –11.17239 0.9999 1.0001
0.000500 –7.81839 –7.96411 –8.10836 –8.25115 –8.39248 –8.53236 –8.67079 0.9995 1.0005
0.001000 –6.91505 –7.03443 –7.15235 –7.26881 –7.38382 –7.49739 –7.60953 0.9990 1.0010
0.002000 –6.01858 –6.11254 –6.20506 –6.29613 –6.38578 –6.47401 –6.56084 0.9980 1.0020
0.005000 –4.84669 –4.90884 –4.96959 –5.02897 –5.08697 –5.14362 –5.19892 0.9950 1.0050
0.010000 –3.97301 –4.01286 –4.05138 –4.08859 –4.12452 –4.15917 –4.19257 0.9900 1.0101
0.020000 –3.11399 –3.13356 –3.15193 –3.16911 –3.18512 –3.20000 –3.21375 0.9800 1.0204
0.025000 –2.84134 –2.85492 –2.86735 –2.87865 –2.88884 –2.89795 –2.90599 0.9750 1.0256
0.040000 –2.27470 –2.27676 –2.27780 –2.27785 –2.27693 –2.27506 –2.27229 0.9600 1.0417
0.050000 –2.00992 –2.00710 –2.00335 –1.99869 –1.99314 –1.98674 –1.97951 0.9500 1.0526
0.100000 –1.21013 –1.19539 –1.18006 –1.16416 –1.14772 –1.13078 –1.11337 0.9000 1.1111
0.200000 –0.45980 –0.44015 –0.42040 –0.40061 –0.38081 –0.36104 –0.34133 0.8000 1.2500
0.300000 –0.05746 –0.03997 –0.02279 –0.00596 0.01050 0.02654 0.04215 0.7000 1.4286
0.400000 0.20259 0.21523 0.22726 0.23868 0.24946 0.25958 0.26904 0.6000 1.6667
0.429624 0.26282 0.27372 0.28395 0.29351 0.30238 0.31055 0.31802 0.5704 1.7532
0.500000 0.38353 0.38991 0.39554 0.40041 0.40454 0.40792 0.41058 0.5000 2.0000
0.570376 0.47888 0.48037 0.48109 0.48107 0.48033 0.47890 0.47682 0.4296 2.3276
0.600000 0.51276 0.51212 0.51073 0.50863 0.50585 0.50244 0.49844 0.4000 2.5000
0.700000 0.60434 0.59634 0.58783 0.57887 0.56953 0.55989 0.55000 0.3000 3.3333
0.800000 0.66603 0.65086 0.63569 0.62060 0.60567 0.59096 0.57652 0.2000 5.0000
0.900000 0.70209 0.68075 0.66023 0.64056 0.62175 0.60379 0.58666 0.1000 10.000
0.950000 0.71116 0.68759 0.66532 0.64429 0.62445 0.60572 0.58802 0.0500 20.000
0.960000 0.71227 0.68336 0.66585 0.64465 0.62469 0.60587 0.58812 0.0400 25.000
0.975000 0.71348 0.68917 0.66638 0.64500 0.62491 0.60601 0.58821 0.0250 40.000
0.980000 0.71377 0.68935 0.66649 0.64507 0.62495 0.60603 0.58822 0.0200 50.000
0.990000 0.71415 0.68959 0.66663 0.64514 0.62499 0.60606 0.58823 0.0100 100.00
0.995000 0.71425 0.68964 0.66666 0.64516 0.62500 0.60606 0.58824 0.0050 200.00
0.998000 0.71428 0.68965 0.66667 0.64516 0.62500 0.60606 0.58824 0.0020 500.00
0.999000 0.71428 0.68965 0.66667 0.64516 0.62500 0.60606 0.58824 0.0010 1000.0
0.999500 0.71429 0.68966 0.66667 0.64516 0.62500 0.60606 0.58824 0.0005 2000.0
0.999900 0.71429 0.68966 0.66667 0.64516 0.62500 0.60606 0.58824 0.0001 10000.

P G1=–3.5 G1=–3.6 G1=–3.7 G1=–3.8 G1=–3.9 G1=–4.0 G1=–4.1 Q T

0.000100 –11.37334 –11.57284 –11.77092 –11.96757 –12.16280 –12.35663 –12.54906 0.9999 1.0001
0.000500 –8.80779 –8.94335 –9.07750 –9.21023 –9.34158 –9.47154 –9.60013 0.9995 1.0005
0.001000 –7.72024 –7.82954 –7.93744 –8.04395 –8.14910 –8.25289 –8.35534 0.9990 1.0010
0.002000 –6.64627 –6.73032 –6.81301 –6.89435 –6.97435 –7.05304 –7.13043 0.9980 1.0020
0.005000 –5.25291 –5.30559 –5.35698 –5.40711 –5.45598 –5.50362 –5.55005 0.9950 1.0050
0.010000 –4.22473 –4.25569 –4.28545 –4.31403 –4.34147 –4.36777 –4.39296 0.9900 1.0101
0.020000 –3.22641 –3.23800 –3.24853 –3.25803 –3.26653 –3.27404 –3.28060 0.9800 1.0204
0.025000 –2.91299 –2.91898 –2.92397 –2.92799 –2.93107 –2.93324 –2.93450 0.9750 1.0256
0.040000 –2.26862 –2.26409 –2.25872 –2.25254 –2.24558 –2.23786 –2.22940 0.9600 1.0417
0.050000 –1.97147 –1.96266 –1.95311 –1.94283 –1.93186 –1.92023 –1.90796 0.9500 1.0526
0.100000 –1.09552 –1.07726 –1.05863 –1.03965 –1.02036 –1.00079 –0.98096 0.9000 1.1111
0.200000 –0.32171 –0.30223 –0.28290 –0.26376 –0.24484 –0.22617 –0.20777 0.8000 1.2500
0.300000 0.05730 0.07195 0.08610 0.09972 0.11279 0.12530 0.13725 0.7000 1.4286
0.400000 0.27782 0.28592 0.29335 0.30010 0.30617 0.31159 0.31635 0.6000 1.6667
0.429624 0.32479 0.33085 0.33623 0.34092 0.34494 0.34831 0.35105 0.5704 1.7532
0.500000 0.41253 0.41381 0.41442 0.41441 0.41381 0.41265 0.41097 0.5000 2.0000
0.570376 0.47413 0.47088 0.46711 0.46286 0.45819 0.45314 0.44777 0.4296 2.3276
0.600000 0.49391 0.48888 0.48342 0.47758 0.47141 0.46496 0.45828 0.4000 2.5000
0.700000 0.53993 0.52975 0.51952 0.50929 0.49911 0.48902 0.47906 0.3000 3.3333
0.800000 0.56242 0.54867 0.53533 0.52240 0.50990 0.49784 0.48622 0.2000 5.0000
0.900000 0.57035 0.55483 0.54006 0.52600 0.51261 0.49986 0.48772 0.1000 10.000
0.950000 0.57130 0.55548 0.54050 0.52629 0.51281 0.49999 0.48780 0.0500 20.000
0.960000 0.57136 0.55552 0.54052 0.52630 0.51281 0.50000 0.48780 0.0400 25.000
0.975000 0.57141 0.55555 0.54054 0.52631 0.51282 0.50000 0.48780 0.0250 40.000
0.980000 0.57142 0.55555 0.54054 0.52631 0.51282 0.50000 0.48780 0.0200 50.000
0.990000 0.57143 0.55556 0.54054 0.52632 0.51282 0.50000 0.48780 0.0100 100.00
0.995000 0.57143 0.55556 0.54054 0.52632 0.51282 0.50000 0.48780 0.0050 200.00
0.998000 0.57143 0.55556 0.54054 0.52632 0.51282 0.50000 0.48780 0.0020 500.00
0.999000 0.57143 0.55556 0.54054 0.52632 0.51282 0.50000 0.48780 0.0010 1000.0
0.999500 0.57143 0.55556 0.54054 0.52632 0.51282 0.50000 0.48780 0.0005 2000.0
0.999900 0.57143 0.55556 0.54054 0.52632 0.51282 0.50000 0.48780 0.0001 10000.

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012) 18–89

Table 2 Percentage points of Pearson Type III distribution (negative skewness)—Continued

P G1=–4.2 G1=–4.3 G1=–4.4 G1=–4.5 G1=–4.6 G1=–4.7 G1=–4.8 Q T

0.000100 –12.74010 –12.92977 –13.11808 –13.30504 –13.49066 –13.67495 –13.85794 0.9999 1.0001
0.000500 –9.72737 –9.85326 –9.97784 –10.10110 –10.22307 –10.34375 –10.46318 0.9995 1.0005
0.001000 –8.45646 –8.55627 –8.65479 –8.75202 –8.84800 –8.94273 –9.03623 0.9990 1.0010
0.002000 –7.20654 –7.28138 –7.35497 –7.42733 –7.49847 –7.56842 –7.63718 0.9980 1.0020
0.005000 –5.59528 –5.63934 –5.68224 –5.72400 –5.76464 –5.80418 –5.84265 0.9950 1.0050
0.010000 –4.41706 –4.44009 –4.46207 –4.48303 –4.50297 –4.52192 –4.53990 0.9900 1.0101
0.020000 –3.28622 –3.29092 –3.29473 –3.29767 –3.29976 –3.30103 –3.30149 0.9800 1.0204
0.025000 –2.93489 –2.93443 –2.93314 –2.93105 –2.92818 –2.92455 –2.92017 0.9750 1.0256
0.040000 –2.22024 –2.21039 –2.19988 –2.18874 –2.17699 –2.16465 –2.15174 0.9600 1.0417
0.050000 –1.89508 –1.88160 –1.86757 –1.85300 –1.83792 –1.82234 –1.80631 0.9500 1.0526
0.100000 –0.96090 –0.94064 –0.92022 –0.89964 –0.87895 –0.85817 –0.83731 0.9000 1.1111
0.200000 –0.18967 –0.17189 –0.15445 –0.13737 –0.12067 –0.10436 –0.08847 0.8000 1.2500
0.300000 0.14861 0.15939 0.16958 0.17918 0.18819 0.19661 0.20446 0.7000 1.4286
0.400000 0.32049 0.32400 0.32693 0.32928 0.33108 0.33236 0.33315 0.6000 1.6667
0.429624 0.35318 0.35473 0.35572 0.35619 0.35616 0.35567 0.35475 0.5704 1.7532
0.500000 0.40881 0.40621 0.40321 0.39985 0.39617 0.39221 0.38800 0.5000 2.0000
0.570376 0.44212 0.43623 0.43016 0.42394 0.41761 0.41121 0.40477 0.4296 2.3276
0.600000 0.45142 0.44442 0.43734 0.43020 0.42304 0.41590 0.40880 0.4000 2.5000
0.700000 0.46927 0.45967 0.45029 0.44114 0.43223 0.42357 0.41517 0.3000 3.3333
0.800000 0.47504 0.46428 0.45395 0.44402 0.43448 0.42532 0.41652 0.2000 5.0000
0.900000 0.47614 0.46508 0.45452 0.44443 0.43477 0.42553 0.41666 0.1000 10.000
0.950000 0.47619 0.46511 0.45454 0.44444 0.43478 0.42553 0.41667 0.0500 20.000
0.960000 0.47619 0.46512 0.45455 0.44444 0.43478 0.42553 0.41667 0.0400 25.000
0.975000 0.47619 0.46512 0.45455 0.44444 0.43478 0.42553 0.41667 0.0250 40.000
0.980000 0.47619 0.46512 0.45455 0.44444 0.43478 0.42553 0.41667 0.0200 50.000
0.990000 0.47619 0.46512 0.45455 0.44444 0.43478 0.42553 0.41667 0.0100 100.00
0.995000 0.47619 0.46512 0.45455 0.44444 0.43478 0.42553 0.41667 0.0050 200.00
0.998000 0.47619 0.46512 0.45455 0.44444 0.43478 0.42553 0.41667 0.0020 500.00
0.999000 0.47619 0.46512 0.45455 0.44444 0.43478 0.42553 0.41667 0.0010 1000.0
0.999500 0.47619 0.46512 0.45455 0.44444 0.43478 0.42553 0.41667 0.0005 2000.0
0.999900 0.47619 0.46512 0.45455 0.44444 0.43478 0.42553 0.41667 0.0001 10000.

P G1=–4.9 G1=–5.0 G1=–5.1 G1=–5.2 G1=–5.3 G1=–5.4 G1=–5.5 Q T

0.000100 –14.03963 –14.22004 –14.39918 –14.57706 –14.75370 –14.92912 –15.10332 0.9999 1.0001
0.000500 –10.58135 –10.69829 –10.81401 –10.92853 –11.04186 –11.15402 –11.26502 0.9995 1.0005
0.001000 –9.12852 –9.21961 –9.30952 –9.39827 –9.48586 –9.57232 –9.65766 0.9990 1.0010
0.002000 –7.70479 –7.77124 –7.83657 –7.90078 –7.96390 –8.02594 –8.08691 0.9980 1.0020
0.005000 –5.88004 –5.91639 –5.95171 –5.98602 –6.01934 –6.05169 –6.08307 0.9950 1.0050
0.010000 –4.55694 –4.57304 –4.58823 –4.60252 –4.61594 –4.62850 –4.64022 0.9900 1.0101
0.020000 –3.30116 –3.30007 –3.29823 –3.29567 –3.29240 –3.28844 –3.28381 0.9800 1.0204
0.025000 –2.91508 –2.90930 –2.90283 –2.89572 –2.88796 –2.87959 –2.87062 0.9750 1.0256
0.040000 –2.13829 –2.12432 –2.10985 –2.09490 –2.07950 –2.06365 –2.04739 0.9600 1.0417
0.050000 –1.78982 –1.77292 –1.75563 –1.73795 –1.71992 –1.70155 –1.68287 0.9500 1.0526
0.100000 –0.81641 –0.79548 –0.77455 –0.75364 –0.73277 –0.71195 –0.69122 0.9000 1.1111
0.200000 –0.07300 –0.05798 –0.04340 –0.02927 –0.01561 –0.00243 0.01028 0.8000 1.2500
0.300000 0.21172 0.21843 0.22458 0.23019 0.23527 0.23984 0.24391 0.7000 1.4286
0.400000 0.33347 0.33336 0.33284 0.33194 0.33070 0.32914 0.32729 0.6000 1.6667
0.429624 0.35343 0.35174 0.34972 0.34740 0.34481 0.34198 0.33895 0.5704 1.7532
0.500000 0.38359 0.37901 0.37428 0.36945 0.36453 0.35956 0.35456 0.5000 2.0000
0.570376 0.39833 0.39190 0.38552 0.37919 0.37295 0.36680 0.36076 0.4296 2.3276
0.600000 0.40177 0.39482 0.38799 0.38127 0.37469 0.36825 0.36196 0.4000 2.5000
0.700000 0.40703 0.39914 0.39152 0.38414 0.37701 0.37011 0.36345 0.3000 3.3333
0.800000 0.40806 0.39993 0.39211 0.38458 0.37734 0.37036 0.36363 0.2000 5.0000
0.900000 0.40816 0.40000 0.39216 0.38462 0.37736 0.37037 0.36364 0.1000 10.000
0.950000 0.40816 0.40000 0.39216 0.38462 0.37736 0.37037 0.36364 0.0500 20.000
0.960000 0.40816 0.40000 0.39216 0.38462 0.37736 0.37037 0.36364 0.0400 25.000
0.975000 0.40816 0.40000 0.39216 0.38462 0.37736 0.37037 0.36364 0.0250 40.000
0.980000 0.40816 0.40000 0.39216 0.38462 0.37736 0.37037 0.36364 0.0200 50.000
0.990000 0.40816 0.40000 0.39216 0.38462 0.37736 0.37037 0.36364 0.0100 100.00
0.995000 0.40816 0.40000 0.39216 0.38462 0.37736 0.37037 0.36364 0.0050 200.00
0.998000 0.40816 0.40000 0.39216 0.38462 0.37736 0.37037 0.36364 0.0020 500.00
0.999000 0.40816 0.40000 0.39216 0.38462 0.37736 0.37037 0.36364 0.0010 1000.0
0.999500 0.40816 0.40000 0.39216 0.38462 0.37736 0.37037 0.36364 0.0005 2000.0
0.999900 0.40816 0.40000 0.39216 0.38462 0.37736 0.37037 0.36364 0.0001 10000.

18–90 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012)

Table 2 Percentage points of Pearson Type III distribution (negative skewness)—Continued

P G1=–5.6 G1=–5.7 G1=–5.8 G1=–5.9 G1=–6.0 G1=–6.1 G1=–6.2 Q T

0.000100 –15.27632 –15.44813 –15.61878 –15.78826 –15.95660 –16.12380 –16.28989 0.9999 1.0001
0.000500 –11.37487 –11.48360 –11.59122 –11.69773 –11.80316 –11.90752 –12.01082 0.9995 1.0005
0.001000 –9.74190 –9.82505 –9.90713 –9.98815 –10.06812 –10.14706 –10.22499 0.9990 1.0010
0.002000 –8.14683 –8.20572 –8.26359 –8.32046 –8.37634 –8.43125 –8.48519 0.9980 1.0020
0.005000 –6.11351 –6.14302 –6.17162 –6.19933 –6.22616 –6.25212 –6.27723 0.9950 1.0050
0.010000 –4.65111 –4.66120 –4.67050 –4.67903 –4.68680 –4.69382 –4.70013 0.9900 1.0101
0.020000 –3.27854 –3.27263 –3.26610 –3.25898 –3.25128 –3.24301 –3.23419 0.9800 1.0204
0.025000 –2.86107 –2.85096 –2.84030 –2.82912 –2.81743 –2.80525 –2.79259 0.9750 1.0256
0.040000 –2.03073 –2.01369 –1.99629 –1.97855 –1.96048 –1.94210 –1.92343 0.9600 1.0417
0.050000 –1.66390 –1.64464 –1.62513 –1.60538 –1.58541 –1.56524 –1.54487 0.9500 1.0526
0.100000 –0.67058 –0.65006 –0.62966 –0.60941 –0.58933 –0.56942 –0.54970 0.9000 1.1111
0.200000 0.02252 0.03427 0.04553 0.05632 0.06662 0.07645 0.08580 0.8000 1.2500
0.300000 0.24751 0.25064 0.25334 0.25562 0.25750 0.25901 0.26015 0.7000 1.4286
0.400000 0.32519 0.32285 0.32031 0.31759 0.31472 0.31171 0.30859 0.6000 1.6667
0.429624 0.33573 0.33236 0.32886 0.32525 0.32155 0.31780 0.31399 0.5704 1.7532
0.500000 0.34955 0.34455 0.33957 0.33463 0.32974 0.32492 0.32016 0.5000 2.0000
0.570376 0.35484 0.34903 0.34336 0.33782 0.33242 0.32715 0.32202 0.4296 2.3216
0.600000 0.35583 0.34985 0.34402 0.33836 0.33285 0.32750 0.32230 0.4000 2.5000
0.700000 0.35700 0.35078 0.34476 0.33893 0.33330 0.32784 0.32256 0.3000 3.3333
0.800000 0.35714 0.35087 0.34483 0.33898 0.33333 0.32787 0.32258 0.2000 5.0000
0.900000 0.35714 0.35088 0.34483 0.33898 0.33333 0.32787 0.32258 0.1000 10.000
0.950000 0.35714 0.35088 0.34483 0.33898 0.33333 0.32787 0.32258 0.0500 20.000
0.960000 0.35714 0.35088 0.34483 0.33898 0.33333 0.32787 0.32258 0.0400 25.000
0.975000 0.35714 0.35088 0.34483 0.33898 0.33333 0.32787 0.32258 0.0250 40.000
0.980000 0.35714 0.35088 0.34483 0.33898 0.33333 0.32787 0.32258 0.0200 50.000
0.990000 0.35714 0.35088 0.34483 0.33898 0.33333 0.32787 0.32258 0.0100 100.00
0.995000 0.35714 0.35088 0.34483 0.33898 0.33333 0.32787 0.32258 0.0050 200.00
0.998000 0.35714 0.35088 0.34483 0.33898 0.33333 0.32787 0.32258 0.0020 500.00
0.999000 0.35714 0.35088 0.34483 0.33898 0.33333 0.32787 0.32258 0.0010 1000.0
0.999500 0.35714 0.35088 0.34483 0.33898 0.33333 0.32787 0.32258 0.0005 2000.0
0.999900 0.35714 0.35088 0.34483 0.33898 0.33333 0.32787 0.32258 0.0001 10000.

P G1=–6.3 G1=–6.4 G1=–6.5 G1=–6.6 G1=–6.7 G1=–6.8 G1=–6.9 Q T

0.000100 –16.45487 –16.61875 –16.78156 –16.94329 –17.10397 –17.26361 –17.42221 0.9999 1.0001
0.000500 –12.11307 –12.21429 –12.31450 –12.41370 –12.51190 –12.60913 –12.70539 0.9995 1.0005
0.001000 –10.30192 –10.37785 –10.45281 –10.52681 –10.59986 –10.67197 –10.74316 0.9990 1.0010
0.002000 –8.53820 –8.59027 –8.64142 –8.69167 –8.74102 –8.78950 –8.83711 0.9980 1.0020
0.005000 –6.30151 –6.32497 –6.34762 –6.36948 –6.39055 –6.41086 –6.43042 0.9950 1.0050
0.010000 –4.70571 –4.71061 –4.71482 –4.71836 –4.72125 –4.72350 –4.72512 0.9900 1.0101
0.020000 –3.22484 –3.21497 –3.20460 –3.19374 –3.18241 –3.17062 –3.15838 0.9800 1.0204
0.025000 –2.77947 –2.76591 –2.75191 –2.73751 –2.72270 –2.70751 –2.69195 0.9750 1.0256
0.040000 –1.90449 –1.88528 –1.86584 –1.84616 –1.82627 –1.80618 –1.78591 0.9600 1.0417
0.050000 –1.52434 –1.50365 –1.48281 –1.46186 –1.44079 –1.41963 –1.39839 0.9500 1.0526
0.100000 –0.53019 –0.51089 –0.49182 –0.47299 –0.45440 –0.43608 –0.41803 0.9000 1.1111
0.200000 0.09469 0.10311 0.11107 0.11859 0.12566 0.13231 0.13853 0.8000 1.2500
0.300000 0.26097 0.26146 0.26167 0.26160 0.26128 0.26072 0.25995 0.7000 1.4286
0.400000 0.30538 0.30209 0.29875 0.29537 0.29196 0.28854 0.28511 0.6000 1.6667
0.429624 0.31016 0.30631 0.30246 0.29862 0.29480 0.29101 0.28726 0.5704 1.7532
0.500000 0.31549 0.31090 0.30639 0.30198 0.29766 0.29344 0.28931 0.5000 2.0000
0.570376 0.31702 0.31216 0.30743 0.30283 0.29835 0.29400 0.28977 0.4296 2.3276
0.600000 0.31724 0.31234 0.30757 0.30294 0.29844 0.29407 0.28982 0.4000 2.5000
0.700000 0.31745 0.31249 0.30769 0.30303 0.29850 0.29412 0.28985 0.3000 3.3333
0.800000 0.31746 0.31250 0.30769 0.30303 0.29851 0.29412 0.28986 0.2000 5.0000
0.900000 0.31746 0.31250 0.30769 0.30303 0.29851 0.29412 0.28986 0.1000 10.000
0.950000 0.31746 0.31250 0.30769 0.30303 0.29851 0.29412 0.28986 0.0500 20.000
0.960000 0.31746 0.31250 0.30769 0.30303 0.29851 0.29412 0.28986 0.0400 25.000
0.975000 0.31746 0.31250 0.30769 0.30303 0.29851 0.29412 0.28986 0.0250 40.000
0.980000 0.31746 0.31250 0.30769 0.30303 0.29851 0.29412 0.28986 0.0200 50.000
0.990000 0.31746 0.31250 0.30769 0.30303 0.29851 0.29412 0.28986 0.0100 100.00
0.995000 0.31746 0.31250 0.30769 0.30303 0.29851 0.29412 0.28986 0.0050 200.00
0.998000 0.31746 0.31250 0.30769 0.30303 0.29851 0.29412 0.28986 0.0020 500.00
0.999000 0.31746 0.31250 0.30769 0.30303 0.29851 0.29412 0.28986 0.0010 1000.0
0.999500 0.31746 0.31250 0.30769 0.30303 0.29851 0.29412 0.28986 0.0005 2000.0
0.999900 0.31746 0.31250 0.30769 0.30303 0.29851 0.29412 0.28986 0.0001 10000.

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012) 18–91

Table 2 Percentage points of Pearson Type III distribution (negative skewness)—Continued

P G1=–7.0 G1=–7.1 G1=–7.2 G1=–7.3 G1=–7.4 G1=–7.5 G1=–7.6 Q T

0.000100 –17.57979 –17.73636 –17.89193 –18.04652 –18.20013 –18.35278 –18.50447 0.9999 1.0001
0.000500 –12.80069 –12.89505 –12.98848 –13.08098 –13.17258 –13.26328 –13.35309 0.9995 1.0005
0.001000 –10.81343 –10.88281 –10.95129 –11.01890 –11.08565 –11.15154 –11.21658 0.9990 1.0010
0.002000 –8.88387 –8.92979 –8.97488 –9.01915 –9.06261 –9.10528 –9.14717 0.9980 1.0020
0.005000 –6.44924 –6.46733 –6.48470 –6.50137 –6.51735 –6.53264 –6.54727 0.9950 1.0050
0.010000 –4.72613 –4.72653 –4.72635 –4.72559 –4.72427 –4.72240 –4.71998 0.9900 1.0101
0.020000 –3.14572 –3.13263 –3.11914 –3.10525 –3.09099 –3.07636 –3.06137 0.9800 1.0204
0.025000 –2.67603 –2.65977 –2.64317 –2.62626 –2.60905 –2.59154 –2.57375 0.9750 1.0256
0.040000 –1.76547 –1.74487 –1.72412 –1.70325 –1.68225 –1.66115 –1.63995 0.9600 1.0417
0.050000 –1.37708 –1.35571 –1.33430 –1.31287 –1.29141 –1.26995 –1.24850 0.9500 1.0526
0.100000 –0.40026 –0.38277 –0.36557 –0.34868 –0.33209 –0.31582 –0.29986 0.9000 1.1111
0.200000 0.14434 0.14975 0.15478 0.15942 0.16371 0.16764 0.17123 0.8000 1.2500
0.300000 0.25899 0.25785 0.25654 0.25510 0.25352 0.25183 0.25005 0.7000 1.4286
0.400000 0.28169 0.27829 0.27491 0.27156 0.26825 0.26497 0.26175 0.6000 1.6667
0.429624 0.28355 0.27990 0.27629 0.27274 0.26926 0.26584 0.26248 0.5704 1.7532
0.500000 0.28528 0.28135 0.27751 0.27376 0.27010 0.26654 0.26306 0.5000 2.0000
0.570376 0.28565 0.28164 0.27774 0.27394 0.27025 0.26665 0.26315 0.4296 2.3276
0.600000 0.28569 0.28167 0.27776 0.27396 0.27026 0.26666 0.26315 0.4000 2.5000
0.700000 0.28571 0.28169 0.27778 0.27397 0.27027 0.26667 0.26316 0.3000 3.3333
0.800000 0.28571 0.28169 0.27778 0.27397 0.27027 0.26667 0.26316 0.2000 5.0000
0.900000 0.28571 0.28169 0.27778 0.27397 0.27027 0.26667 0.26316 0.1000 10.000
0.950000 0.28571 0.28169 0.27778 0.27397 0.27027 0.26667 0.26316 0.0500 20.000
0.960000 0.28571 0.28169 0.27778 0.27397 0.27027 0.26667 0.26316 0.0400 25.000
0.975000 0.28571 0.28169 0.27778 0.27397 0.27027 0.26667 0.26316 0.0250 40.000
0.980000 0.28571 0.28169 0.27778 0.27397 0.27027 0.26667 0.26316 0.0200 50.000
0.990000 0.28571 0.28169 0.27778 0.27397 0.27027 0.26667 0.26316 0.0100 100.00
0.995000 0.28571 0.28169 0.27778 0.27397 0.27027 0.26667 0.26316 0.0050 200.00
0.998000 0.28571 0.28169 0.27778 0.27397 0.27027 0.26667 0.26316 0.0020 500.00
0.999000 0.28571 0.28169 0.27778 0.27397 0.27027 0.26667 0.26316 0.0010 1000.0
0.999500 0.28571 0.28169 0.27778 0.27397 0.27027 0.26667 0.26316 0.0005 2000.0
0.999900 0.28571 0.28169 0.27778 0.27397 0.27027 0.26667 0.26316 0.0001 10000.

P G1=–7.7 G1=–7.8 G1=–7.9 G1=–8.0 G1=–8.1 G1=–8.2 G1=–8.3 Q T

0.000100 –18.65522 –18.80504 –18.95393 –19.10191 –19.24898 –19.39517 –19.54046 0.9999 1.0001
0.000500 –13.44202 –13.53009 –13.61730 –13.70366 –13.78919 –13.87389 –13.95778 0.9995 1.0005
0.001000 –11.28080 –11.34419 –11.40677 –11.46855 –11.52953 –11.58974 –11.64917 0.9990 1.0010
0.002000 –9.18828 –9.22863 –9.26823 –9.30709 –9.34521 –9.38262 –9.41931 0.9980 1.0020
0.005000 –6.56124 –6.57456 –6.58725 –6.59931 –6.61075 –6.62159 –6.63183 0.9950 1.0050
0.010000 –4.71704 –4.71358 –4.70961 –4.70514 –4.70019 –4.69476 –4.68887 0.9900 1.0101
0.020000 –3.04604 –3.03038 –3.01439 –2.99810 –2.98150 –2.96462 –2.94746 0.9800 1.0204
0.025000 –2.55569 –2.53737 –2.51881 –2.50001 –2.48099 –2.46175 –2.44231 0.9750 1.0256
0.040000 –1.61867 –1.59732 –1.57591 –1.55444 –1.53294 –1.51141 –1.48985 0.9600 1.0417
0.050000 –1.22706 –1.20565 –1.18427 –1.16295 –1.14168 –1.12048 –1.09936 0.9500 1.0526
0.100000 –0.28422 –0.26892 –0.25394 –0.23929 –0.22498 –0.21101 –0.19737 0.9000 1.1111
0.200000 0.17450 0.17746 0.18012 0.18249 0.18459 0.18643 0.18803 0.8000 1.2500
0.300000 0.24817 0.24622 0.24421 0.24214 0.24003 0.23788 0.23571 0.7000 1.4286
0.400000 0.25857 0.25544 0.25236 0.24933 0.24637 0.24345 0.24060 0.6000 1.6667
0.429624 0.25919 0.25596 0.25280 0.24970 0.24667 0.24371 0.24081 0.5704 1.7532
0.500000 0.25966 0.25635 0.25312 0.24996 0.24689 0.24388 0.24095 0.5000 2.0000
0.570376 0.25973 0.25640 0.25316 0.25000 0.24691 0.24390 0.24096 0.4296 2.3276
0.600000 0.25974 0.25641 0.25316 0.25000 0.24691 0.24390 0.24096 0.4000 2.5000
0.700000 0.25974 0.25641 0.25316 0.25000 0.24691 0.24390 0.24096 0.3000 3.3333
0.800000 0.25974 0.25641 0.25316 0.25000 0.24691 0.24390 0.24096 0.2000 5.0000
0.900000 0.25974 0.25641 0.25316 0.25000 0.24691 0.24390 0.24096 0.1000 10.000
0.950000 0.25974 0.25641 0.25316 0.25000 0.24691 0.24390 0.24096 0.0500 20.000
0.960000 0.25974 0.25641 0.25316 0.25000 0.24691 0.24390 0.24096 0.0400 25.000
0.975000 0.25974 0.25641 0.25316 0.25000 0.24691 0.24390 0.24096 0.0250 40.000
0.980000 0.25974 0.25641 0.25316 0.25000 0.24691 0.24390 0.24096 0.0200 50.000
0.990000 0.25974 0.25641 0.25316 0.25000 0.24691 0.24390 0.24096 0.0100 100.00
0.995000 0.25974 0.25641 0.25316 0.25000 0.24691 0.24390 0.24096 0.0050 200.00
0.998000 0.25974 0.25641 0.25316 0.25000 0.24691 0.24390 0.24096 0.0020 500.00
0.999000 0.25974 0.25641 0.25316 0.25000 0.24691 0.24390 0.24096 0.0010 1000.0
0.999500 0.25974 0.25641 0.25316 0.25000 0.24691 0.24390 0.24096 0.0005 2000.0
0.999900 0.25974 0.25641 0.25316 0.25000 0.24691 0.24390 0.24096 0.0001 10000.

18–92 (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012)

Table 2 Percentage points of Pearson Type III distribution (negative skewness)—Continued

P G1=–8.4 G1=–8.5 G1=–8.6 G1=–8.7 G1=–8.8 G1=–8.9 G1=–9.0 Q T

0.000100 –19.68489 –19.82845 –19.97115 –20.11300 –20.25402 –20.39420 –20.53356 0.9999 1.0001
0.000500 –14.04086 –14.12314 –14.20463 –14.28534 –14.36528 –14.44446 –14.52288 0.9995 1.0005
0.001000 –11.70785 –11.76576 –11.82294 –11.87938 –11.93509 –11.99009 –12.04437 0.9990 1.0010
0.002000 –9.45530 –9.49060 –9.52521 –9.55915 –9.59243 –9.62504 –9.65701 0.9980 1.0020
0.005000 –6.64148 –6.65056 –6.65907 –6.66703 –6.67443 –6.68130 –6.68763 0.9950 1.0050
0.010000 –4.68252 –4.67573 –4.66850 –4.66085 –4.65277 –4.64429 –4.63541 0.9900 1.0101
0.020000 –2.93002 –2.91234 –2.89440 –2.87622 –2.85782 –2.83919 –2.82035 0.9800 1.0204
0.025000 –2.42268 –2.40287 –2.38288 –2.36273 –2.34242 –2.32197 –2.30138 0.9750 1.0256
0.040000 –1.46829 –1.44673 –1.42518 –1.40364 –1.38213 –1.36065 –1.33922 0.9600 1.0417
0.050000 –1.07832 –1.05738 –1.03654 –1.01581 –0.99519 –0.97471 –0.95435 0.9500 1.0526
0.100000 –0.18408 –0.17113 –0.15851 –0.14624 –0.13431 –0.12272 –0.11146 0.9000 1.1111
0.200000 0.18939 0.19054 0.19147 0.19221 0.19277 0.19316 0.19338 0.8000 1.2500
0.300000 0.23352 0.23132 0.22911 0.22690 0.22469 0.22249 0.22030 0.7000 1.4286
0.400000 0.23779 0.23505 0.23236 0.22972 0.22714 0.22461 0.22214 0.6000 1.6667
0.429624 0.23797 0.23520 0.23248 0.22982 0.22722 0.22468 0.22219 0.5704 1.7532
0.500000 0.23808 0.23528 0.23255 0.22988 0.22727 0.22472 0.22222 0.5000 2.0000
0.570376 0.23809 0.23529 0.23256 0.22988 0.22727 0.22472 0.22222 0.4296 2.3276
0.600000 0.23810 0.23529 0.23256 0.22988 0.22727 0.22472 0.22222 0.4000 2.5000
0.700000 0.23810 0.23529 0.23256 0.22989 0.22727 0.22472 0.22222 0.3000 3.3333
0.800000 0.23810 0.23529 0.23256 0.22989 0.22727 0.22472 0.22222 0.2000 5.0000
0.900000 0.23810 0.23529 0.23256 0.22989 0.22727 0.22472 0.22222 0.1000 10.000
0.950000 0.23810 0.23529 0.23256 0.22989 0.22727 0.22472 0.22222 0.0500 20.000
0.960000 0.23810 0.23529 0.23256 0.22989 0.22727 0.22472 0.22222 0.0400 25.000
0.975000 0.23810 0.23529 0.23256 0.22989 0.22727 0.22472 0.22222 0.0250 40.000
0.980000 0.23810 0.23529 0.23256 0.22989 0.22727 0.22472 0.22222 0.0200 50.000
0.990000 0.23810 0.23529 0.23256 0.22989 0.22727 0.22472 0.22222 0.0100 100.00
0.995000 0.23810 0.23529 0.23256 0.22989 0.22727 0.22472 0.22222 0.0050 200.00
0.998000 0.23810 0.23529 0.23256 0.22989 0.22727 0.22472 0.22222 0.0020 500.00
0.999000 0.23810 0.23529 0.23256 0.22989 0.22727 0.22472 0.22222 0.0010 1000.0
0.999500 0.23810 0.23529 0.23256 0.22989 0.22727 0.22472 0.22222 0.0005 2000.0
0.999900 0.23810 0.23529 0.23256 0.22989 0.22727 0.22472 0.22222 0.0001 10000.

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 56, April 2012) 18–93

United States
Department of Part 630
Agriculture

Natural
National Engineering Handbook
Resources
Conservation
Service

Chapter 19 Transmission Losses

Rain clouds
Cloud formation

Precipitation

n
iratio
Evaporation
n

ean
tio

Transp
s o il
ta

from oc
ge
ve

fr o m
m

n
fro

ti o

s
am
n

ir a
ti o

tr e
sp
ra
po

an

ms
va

Tr

Surfa E
fr o

ce ru
noff

Infiltration

Soil
Percolation

Rock Ocean
Ground water
Deep percolation

(210–VI–NEH, August 2007)

Chapter 19 Transmission Losses Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Issued August 2007

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all

its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, age,
disability, and where applicable, sex, marital status, familial status, parental
status, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, political beliefs, re-
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provider and employer.

(210–VI–NEH, August 2007)

Acknowledgments

Chapter 19 was originally prepared by Victor Mockus (retired) in 1956 and

revised in 1972. In 1983, it was revised by Leonard J. Lane, Agriculture Re-
search Service (ARS), Tucson, Arizona, in cooperation with George Comer
(retired), Gary Conaway (retired), Herman McGill (retired), and Harry
Millsaps (retired) of the Soil Conservation Service; and Virginia Ferreira
(retired), Edward Shirley (retired), and Delmer Wallace (retired) of the
Agriculture Research Service. This version was prepared by the Natural
Resources Conservation Service under guidance of Donald E. Woodward,
(retired), Washington, DC, and reviewed and edited by Helen Fox Moody,
hydraulic engineer, Beltsville, Maryland.

(210–VI–NEH, August 2007) 19–i

Chapter 19 Transmission Losses

Contents: 630.1900 Introduction 19–1

630.1901 Assumptions and limitations 19–1

(a) Assumptions..................................................................................................19–1
(b) Limitations ....................................................................................................19–1

630.1902 Symbols and notation 19–2

630.1903 Applications 19–3

(a) Summary of procedure ................................................................................19–3
(b) Estimating parameters from observed inflow-outflow data ...................19–4
(c) Estimating parameters in the absence of observed inflow- ....................19–5
outflow data
(d) Summary of parameter estimation techniques .........................................19–6

630.1904 Examples 19–6

19–1 No lateral inflow or out-of-bank flow ...................................................19–7
19–2 Uniform lateral inflow ..........................................................................19–10
19–3 Approximations for out-of-bank flow .................................................19–11
19–4 Transmission losses limited by available storage .............................19–14

630.1905 Summary 19–16

630.1906 References 19–17

Appendices
19A Derivation of Procedures for Estimating Transmission Losses ..... 19A–1
When Observed Data are Available
19B Analysis of Selected Data Used to Develop the Procedure ........... 19B–1
for Estimating Transmission Losses
19C Estimating Transmission Losses When No Observed Data ........... 19C–1
are Available

(210–VI–NEH, August 2007) 19–iii

Chapter 19 Transmission Losses Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Tables Table 19–1 Relationships between bed material characteristics 19–5

and parameters for a unit channel

Table 19–2 Procedures to use when observed inflow-outflow data 19–6

are available

Table 19–3 Procedures to use when no observed inflow-outflow 19–6

data are available

Table 19–4 Outline of examples and comments on their 19–16

applications

Table 19B–1 Hydrologic data used in analyzing transmission losses 19B–1

Table 19B–2 Parameters for regression model and differential 19B–2

equation model for selected channel reaches

Table 19B–3 Unit length, unit width, and unit length and width 19B–3
parameters for selected channel reaches

Table 19C–1 Data for analysis of relations between effective 19C–2

hydraulic conductivity and model parameters

Table 19C–2 Auxiliary transmission loss data for selected 19C–3

ephemeral streams in southern Arizona

Table 19C–3 Range of seepage rates in unlined canals 19C–4

Figures Figure 19A–1 Observed versus computed peak discharge of the 19A–3
outflow hydrograph

Figure 19C–1 Relation between KD and regression intercept 19C–2

Figure 19C–2 Relation between KD/P and decay factor 19C–2

19–iv (210–VI–NEH, August 2007)

Chapter 19 Transmission Losses
630.1900 Introduction
Natural stream channels in arid and semiarid regions
are generally ephemeral. Flow is occasional and fol-
lows storms, which are infrequent. When flows occur
in normally dry stream channels, the volume of flow
is reduced by infiltration into the bed, the banks, and
possibly the flood plain. These losses to infiltration,
called transmission losses, reduce not only the volume
of the hydrograph, but also the peak discharge.
This chapter describes a procedure for estimating
the volume of runoff and peak discharge for ephem-
eral streams; it can be used with or without observed
inflow-outflow data. If available, observed inflow-out-
flow data can be used to derive regression equations
for the particular channel reach. Procedures based
on the derived regression equations enable a user to
determine prediction equations for similar channels of
arbitrary length and width.
Chapter 19 also gives the procedures for estimating
parameters of the prediction equations in the absence
of observed inflow-outflow data. These procedures are
based on characteristics of the bed and bank material.
Approximations for lateral inflow and out-of-bank flow
are also presented.
(210–VI–NEH, August 2007)
630.1901 Assumptions and
limitations
(a) Assumptions
The methods described in this chapter are based on
the following assumptions:
• Water is lost in the channel; no streams gain
water.
• Infiltration characteristics and other channel
properties are uniform with distance and width.
• Sediment concentration, temperature, and ante-
cedent flow affect transmission losses, but the
equations represent the average conditions.
• The channel reach is short enough that an aver-
age width and an average duration represent the
width and duration of flow for the entire channel
reach.
• Once a threshold volume has been satisfied, out-
flow volumes are linearly proportional to inflow
volumes.
• Once an average loss rate is subtracted and the
inflow volume exceeds the threshold volume,
peak rates of outflow are linearly proportional to
peak rates of inflow. Moreover, the rate of change
in outflow peak discharge with changing inflow
peak discharge is the same as the rate of change
in outflow volume with changing inflow volume.
• Lateral inflow can be either lumped at points of
tributary inflow or uniform with distance along
the channel.
• For volume and peak discharge calculations, lat-
eral inflow is assumed to occur during the same
time as the upstream inflow.
(b) Limitations
The main limitations of the procedures are:
• Hydrographs are not specifically routed along the
stream channels; predictions are made for vol-
ume and peak discharge.
• Peak flow equations do not consider storage at-
tenuation effects or steepening of the hydrograph
rise.
19–1
Chapter 19 Transmission Losses
• Analyses on which the procedures are based
represent average conditions or overall trends.
• Influences of antecedent flow and sediment
concentration in the streamflow have not been
quantified.
• Estimates of effective hydraulic conductivity in
the streambed are empirically based and repre-
sent average rates.
• Peak discharge of outflow is decreased by the
average loss rate for the duration of flow.
• Procedures for out-of-bank flow are based on the
assumption of a weighted average for the effec-
tive hydraulic conductivity.
19–2 (210–VI–NEH, August 2007)
Part 630
National Engineering Handbook
630.1902 Symbols and notation
Upstream inflow
P = inflow volume (acre-feet)
p = peak rate of inflow (cubic feet per second)
Lateral inflow
QL = lateral inflow volume (acre-feet per mile)
qL = peak rate of lateral inflow (cubic feet per second
per foot)
Outflow
Q(x,w) = outflow volume (acre-feet)
q(x,w) = peak rate of outflow (cubic feet per second)
Channel reach
D = duration of flow (hours)
K = effective hydraulic conductivity (inches per hour)
V = total available storage volume of alluvium in the
channel reach (acre-feet)
w = average width of flow (feet)
x = length of reach (miles)
Prediction equations (parameters)
a = regression intercept for unit channel
(acre-feet)
a(D) = regression intercept for unit channel with a
flow of duration D (acre-feet)
a(x,w) = regression intercept for a channel reach of
length x and width w (acre-feet)
b = regression slope for unit channel
b(x,w) = regression slope for a channel reach of
length x and width w
k = decay factor (foot-miles)-1
k(D,P) = decay factor for unit channel with a flow
duration D and volume P (foot-miles)-1
PO = threshold volume or amount of inchannel
loss above which channel outflow occurs
for a unit channel (acre-feet). Channel
outflow is 0.0 until the threshold volume is
achieved.
PO(x,w) = threshold volume or amount of inchannel
loss above which channel outflow occurs
for a channel reach of length x and width w
(acre-feet). Channel outflow is 0.0 until the
threshold volume is achieved.
Chapter 19 Transmission Losses Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

converts from acre-feet per hour to cubic feet per

630.1903 Applications second.

If lateral inflow is uniform, the volume equation is that

The simplified procedures are summarized here; shown in equation 19–4 at the bottom of the page.
additional details and derivations are given in the
appendices. Methods have been developed for two The corresponding equation for peak discharge is
situations—when observed inflow-outflow data are shown in equation 19–5 at the bottom of this page.
available and when no observed data are available. In this equation the factor 5,280 converts cubic feet
per second per foot to cubic feet per second per mile.
(a) Summary of procedure Derivations and background information are in appen-
dix 19A.
The prediction equation for outflow volume, without
lateral inflow, is For a channel reach with only tributary lateral inflow,
equations 19–1 and 19–3 would be applied on the
P ≤ Po ( x, w )
tributary channel and the main channel to the point
⎧0
⎪ of tributary inflow. Then the sum of the outflows from
Q ( x, w ) = ⎨ these two channel reaches would be the inflow to the
⎪ a ( x, w ) + b ( x, w ) P P > Po ( x, w ) lower reach of the main channel.
⎩
(eq. 19–1) The procedures described by equations 19–1, 19–3,
where the threshold volume is 19–4, and 19–5 require that the upstream inflow vol-
umes and lateral inflow volumes along the channel
( )
−a x , w reach be estimated using the procedures described in
(
Po x, w = ) b( x, w ) (eq. 19–2)
National Engineering Handbook, part 630 (NEH 630),
chapter 10. Peak flow rates and flow durations are
estimated by use of procedures described in NEH 630,
The corresponding equation for peak discharge is chapter 16.
shown in equation 19–3 below. In this equation, 12.1

⎧0 Q ( x, w ) = 0
⎪
q ( x, w ) = ⎨12.1
⎪
⎩ D
{ }
a ( x, w ) − ⎡⎣1 − b ( x, w )⎤⎦ P + b ( x, w ) p Q ( x, w ) > 0
(eq. 19–3)

⎧0 P ≤ Po ( x, w )
⎪
⎪
Q ( x, w ) = ⎨ (eq. 19–4)
⎪ QL
⎪⎩ a ( x, w ) + b ( x, w ) P + kw ⎡⎣1 − b ( x, w )⎤⎦ P > Po ( x, w )

⎧0 Q ( x, w ) = 0
⎪
⎪
q ( x, w ) = ⎨
q L (5, 2800 )
(eq. 19–5)
⎪12.1
{ }
⎪⎩ D a ( x, w ) − ⎡⎣1 − b ( x, w )⎤⎦ P + b ( x, w ) p + kw
⎡⎣1 − b ( x, w )⎤⎦ Q ( x, w ) > 0

(210–VI–NEH, August 2007) 19–3

Chapter 19 Transmission Losses Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

(b) Estimating parameters from observed ticular attention to any data points far from the
inflow-outflow data regression line, especially those points that may
be strongly influencing the slope or intercept.
If a channel reach has an assumed length x and aver- 4. Correct data points that are in error; remove
age width w, then n observations on Pi and Qi (without points that are not representative.
lateral inflow) can be used to estimate the parameters
in equation 19–1. Parameters of the linear regression 5. Recompute the regression slope and intercept
equation can be estimated as using equations 19–6 to 19–9 and the corrected
data.
∑ (Qi − Q )( Pi − P )
n

b( x, w ) = i =1
(eq. 19–6) A great deal of care and engineering judgment must be
( )
n 2 exercised in finding and eliminating errors from the set
∑ Pi − P
and i =1 of observed inflow-outflow observations.

a( x, w ) = Q − b( x, w )P (eq. 19–7) (1) Unit channels

A unit channel is defined as a channel of length x =
where: 1 mile and width w = 1 foot. Parameters for the unit
Q = mean outflow volume channel are required to compute parameters for chan-
P = mean inflow volume nel reaches with arbitrary length and width. The unit
n = number of observations on Pi and Qi channel parameters are computed by the following
equations:
Alternative formulas recommended for computation ln b( x, w )
are k=− (eq. 19–10)
xw
n ⎛ n ⎞⎛ n ⎞
n ∑ Pi Qi − ⎜ ∑ Pi ⎟ ⎜ ∑ Qi ⎟ b = e −k (eq. 19–11)
⎝ ⎠ ⎝ ⎠
∑ (Qi − Q )( Pi − P ) =
n
i =1 i =1 i =1
i =1 n a( x, w )(1 − b)
a=
[1 − b(x, w )]
(eq. 19–8) (eq. 19–12)

and
2 where a(x,w) and b(x,w) are the regression param-
n ⎛ n ⎞
n ∑ Pi2 − ⎜ ∑ Pi ⎟ eters derived from the observed data. In this case the
⎝ i =1 ⎠ (eq. 19–9)
∑ ( Pi − P )
n
= i =1
2 length x and width w are fixed known values. Par-
i =1 n ticular care must be taken to maintain the maximum
number of significant digits in determining k, b, and a.
Linear regression procedures are available on most Otherwise, significant round-off errors can result.
computer systems and on many handheld calculators.
(2) Reaches of arbitrary length and width
Constraints on the parameters are Given parameters for a unit channel, parameters for a
channel reach of arbitrary length x and arbitrary width
a( x, w ) < 0 and 0 ≤ b( x, w ) ≤ 1 w are computed by the following equations:

When one or both of the constraints are not met, the b( x, w ) = e −kxw (eq. 19–13)
following procedure is suggested:
1. Plot the observed data on rectangular coordinate a( x, w ) =
a
1− b
[
1 − b( x, w ) ] (eq. 19–14)
paper: Pi on the X-axis and Qi on the Y-axis.
( )
−a x , w
2. Plot the derived regression equation on the graph
with the data.
(
Po x, w = ) b( x, w )
(eq. 19–2)

3. Check the data for errors (such as events with

lateral inflow or computational errors). Pay par-

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(c) Estimating parameters in the absence
of observed inflow-outflow data
When inflow-outflow data are not available, an esti-
mate of effective hydraulic conductivity is needed to
predict transmission losses. Effective hydraulic con-
ductivity, K, is the infiltration rate averaged over the
total area wetted by the flow and over the total dura-
tion of flow. Because effective hydraulic conductivity
represents a space-time average infiltration rate, it
incorporates the influence of temperature, sediment
concentration, flow irregularities, errors in the data,
and variations in wetted area. For this reason it is not
the same as the saturated hydraulic conductivity for
clear water under steady-state conditions. Analysis of
observed data results in equations for the unit channel
intercept
and for the decay factor on ungaged reaches
⎡ KD ⎤
k ( D, P ) = −1.09 ln ⎢1.0 − 0.00545 (eq. 19–16)
⎣ P ⎥⎦
Given values of a and k from equations 19–15 and
19–16, equations 19–13, 19–14, and 19–2 are used to
compute parameters for a particular x and w. Derived
relationships between bed material characteristics,
effective hydraulic conductivity, and the unit channel
parameters a and k are shown in table 19–1. These
data can be used to estimate parameters for ungaged
channel reaches.

a ( D) = −0.00465KD (eq. 19–15)

Table 19–1 Relationships between bed material characteristics and parameters for a unit channel (average moisture condi-
tions)

Bed material group Bed material characteristics Effective - - - - - - - - - Unit channel parameters - - - - - - - - -
hydraulic Intercept 2/ Decay factor 3/
conductivity 1/ a k
K (in/h) (acre-ft) (ft-mi)–1

1: Very high loss rate Very clean gravel and large >5 <– 0.023 >0.030
sand
2: High loss rate Clean sand and gravel, field 2.0 to 5.0 –0.0093 to –0.023 0.0120 to 0.030
conditions
3: Moderately high loss Sand and gravel mixture with 1.0 to 3.0 –0.0047 to –0.014 0.0060 to 0.018
rate low silt-clay content
4: Moderate loss rate Sand and gravel mixture with 0.25 to 1.0 –0.0012 to –0.0047 0.0015 to 0.0060
high silt-clay content
5: Insignificant to low Consolidated bed material; 0.001 to 0.10 –5 x 10-6 to –5 x 10-4 6 x 10-6 to 6 x 10-4
loss rate high silt-clay content
1/ See appendix 19C for sources of basic data.
2/ Values are for unit duration, D = 1 hour. For other durations, a(D) = –0.00465KD.
3/ Values are for unit duration and volume, D/P = 1. For other durations and volumes, use:
⎡
k ( D, P ) = −1.09 ln 1.0 − 0.00545
KD ⎤
⎢⎣ P ⎥⎦

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(d) Summary of parameter estimation

techniques
Suggested procedures for use when observed data are
available are summarized in table 19–2. Procedures for
use on ungaged channel reaches are summarized in
table 19–3. Again, whatever procedure is used, the pa-
rameter estimates must satisfy the constraints a(x,w)
< 0 and 0 ≤ b(x,w) ≤ 1.
630.1904 Examples
The following examples illustrate application of the
procedures for several cases under a variety of circum-
stances. As in any analysis, all possible combinations
of circumstances are impossible to consider, but the
examples presented here should provide an overview
of useful applications of the procedures. Use of these
procedures requires judgment and experience. At each
step of the process, care should be taken to ensure
that the results are reasonable and consistent with
sound engineering practice.

Example 19–1 illustrates application of the procedures

with and without observed data when flow is within
the channel banks and there is no lateral inflow. Ex-
ample 19–2 is for the same channel reach, but is based
on assumption of uniform lateral inflow between the
inflow and outflow stations. Approximations for out-
of-bank flow are described in example 19–3.

Table 19–2 Procedures to use when observed inflow-outflow data are available

Step Source Result

1. Perform regression analysis Eqs. 19–6, 19–7, 19–2 Prediction equations for the particular reach
2. Derive unit channel parameters Eqs. 19–10 to 19–12 Unit channel parameters
3. Calculate parameters Eqs. 19–13, 19–14, 19–2 Parameters of the prediction equations for
arbitrary x and w

Table 19–3 Procedures to use when no observed inflow-outflow data are available

Step Source Result

1. Estimate inflow
2. Identify bed material
3. Derive unit channel parameters
4. Calculate parameters
Hydrologic analysis
Table 19–1
Eqs. 19–15, 19–16, 19–11
Eqs. 19–13, 19–14, 19–2
Mean duration of flow, D, and volume of inflow P
Effective hydraulic conductivity, K
Unit channel parameters
Parameters of the prediction equations for
arbitrary x and w

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Example 19–1 No lateral inflow or out-of-bank flow

Given: A channel reach of length x = 5.0 miles, average width w = 70 feet.

Bed material consists of sand and gravel with a small percentage of silt and clay.
Assume a mean flow duration D = 4 hours and a mean inflow volume of P = 34 acre-feet.

Find: The prediction equations for the channel reach. Estimate the outflow volume and peak for an
inflow P = 50 acre-feet and p = 1,000 cubic feet per second.

Case 1 Observed inflow-outflow data

- - - - - Observed inflow-outflow data (acre-feet) - - - - -

Pi 20.0 100.0 25.0 10.0 15.0 P = 34

Qi 6.0 75.0 9.0 0.1 2.5 Q = 18.52

Solution: Follow the procedure outlined in table 19–2, step 1, for x = 5.0 miles and w = 70 feet.

b( x, w ) =
( )(
∑ Qi − Q Pi − P ) = 0.850
( )
2
∑ Pi − P

a ( x, w ) = Q − b ( x, w ) P
= 18.52 − 0.850 ( 34 ) = −10.38 acre-ft

−a ( x, w ) 10.38
Po ( x, w ) = = = 12.21 acre-ft
b ( x, w ) 0.850
Substituting these values in equation 19–1, the prediction equation for volume is

⎧0 P ≤ 12.21
⎪
Q ( x, w ) = ⎨
⎪ −10.38 + 0.850P P > 12.21
⎩

and the prediction equation (from equation 19–3) for peak discharge is

⎧0 Q ( x, w ) = 0
⎪
q ( x, w ) = ⎨
⎪ −31.4 − 0.454P + 0.850 p Q ( x, w ) > 0
⎩

For an inflow volume P = 50 acre-feet and an inflow peak rate p = 1,000 cubic feet per second,
the predicted outflow volume is
Q(x,w) = –10.38 + 0.850(50) = 32.1 acre-ft

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Example 19–1 No lateral inflow or out-of-bank flow—Continued

and the predicted peak rate of outflow is

q ( x, w ) = −31.4 − 0.454 (50 ) + 0.850 (1, 000 )

= 796 ft 3 /s

Case 2 No observed inflow-outflow data

Solution: Follow the procedures outlined in table 19–3. From table 19–1, estimate K = 1.0 inch per hour,
with D = 4.0 hour, P = 34 acre-feet, so:

a = −0.00465KD = −0.01860 acre-ft

⎛ KD ⎞
k = −1.09 ln ⎜ 1.0 − 0.00545
⎝ P ⎟⎠
= 0.000699 ( ft-mi )
−1

and
b = e–k = e–0.000699 = 0.999301

are the unit channel parameters. From equations 19–13, 19–14, and 19–2, the parameters for the
given reach with x = 5.0 miles and w = 70 feet are
( )( )( )
b( x, w ) = e −kxw = e − 0.000699 5.0 70
= 0.783
a
a ( x, w ) = ⎡1 − b ( x, w )⎤⎦
1−b ⎣
−0.01860
= (1 − 0.783 )
(1 − 0.999301)
= −5.788 acre-ft

and
− a ( x, w )
Po ( x, w ) =
b ( x, w )
( −5.78 )
=− = 7.38 acre-ft
0.783
The prediction equation for the volume is
⎧0 P ≤ 7.38
⎪
Q ( x, w ) = ⎨
⎪ −5.78 + 0.783P P > 7.38
⎩

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Example 19–1 No lateral inflow or out-of-bank flow—Continued

and the prediction equation for peak discharge is

⎧0 Q( x , w ) = 0
⎪
q( x, w ) = ⎨
⎪
⎩−17.5 − 0.656 P + 0.783 p Q( x, w ) > 0

For an inflow volume of P = 50 acre-feet and an inflow peak rate of p = 1,000 cubic feet per sec-
ond, the predicted outflow volume is

Q ( x, w ) = −5.78 + 0.783 (50 ) = 33.4 acre-ft

and the predicted peak rate of outflow is

q ( x, w ) = −17.5 − 0.656 (50 ) + 0.783 (1, 000 )

= 733 ft 3 /s

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Example 19–2 Uniform lateral inflow

Given: The channel reach parameters from example 19–1 and a lateral inflow of 21.3 acre-feet at a peak
rate of 500 cubic feet per second. Assume the lateral inflow is uniformly distributed.

Find: The volume of outflow and peak rate of outflow if P = 50 acre-feet and p = 1,000 cubic feet per
second.

Solution: Compute the lateral rates as follows:

21.3 acre-ft
QL = = 4.26 acre-ft/mi
5.0 mi

and

500 ft 3 /s
qL = = 0.0189 ft 3 /s/ft
(5.0 mi )(5, 280 ft/mi )
Using a(x,w) = –5.78, b(x,w) = 0.783, k = 0.000699, and w = 70 from case 2 of example 19–1 in
equation 19–4, the result is
QL
Q ( x, w ) = −5.78 + 0.783P + (1 − 0.783 )
kw
= 52.3 acre-ft

The corresponding calculations for peak discharge of the outflow hydrograph (eq. 19–5) are
q L (5, 280 )
q ( x, w ) = −17.5 − 0.656P + 0.783 p + (1 − 0.783 )
kw
= 1,175 ft 3 /s

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Example 19–3 Approximations for out-of-bank flow

Given: A channel reach of length x = 10 miles and an average width of inbank flow w1 = 150 feet with
inbank flow up to a discharge of 3,000 cubic feet per second. Once the flow exceeds 3,000 cubic
feet per second, out-of-bank flow rapidly covers wide areas. The bed material consists of clean
sand and gravel, and the out-of-bank material is sandy with significant amounts of silt-clay.

Find: Determine the outflow if the inflow is P = 700 acre-feet with a peak rate of p = 4,000 cubic feet
per second. Assume the mean duration of flow is 12 hours and the total average width of out-of-
bank flow is 400 feet. Also, estimate the distance downstream before the flow is back within the
channel banks.

Solution: Using the procedures outlined in table 19–3, make the following calculations:

Inbank flow:
w1 = 150 ft
K1 = 3.0 in/h (average hydraulic conductivity from table 19–1)

Out-of-bank flow:
w2 = 400 ft (includes width w1)
K2 = 0.5 in/h for width w2 - w1 (average hydraulic conductivity from table 19–1)

The weighted average for effective hydraulic conductivity is

w1 K 1 + ( w 2 − w1 ) K 2
K= (eq. 19–17)
w2
K = 1.44 in/h

Using this average value of K, D = 12 hours, and P = 700 acre-feet in equations 19–15 and 19–16,
the unit channel parameters are
a = −0.00465KD = −0.08035 acre-ft
⎛ KD ⎞
k = −1.09 ln ⎜ 1.0 − 0.00545
⎝ P ⎟⎠
= 0.000147 ( ft -mi )
−1

and

b = e −k = e −0.000147 = 0.99985

Given the unit channel parameters and w2 = 400 feet, the parameters for the channel reach are

b( x, w 2 ) = e −kxw 2 = e − 0.000147 400 x = e −0.0588 x

( )( )

and
a( x, w 2 ) =
a
1− b [
1 − b( x, w 2 )]
−0.08035 (
= 1 − e −0.0588 x )
(1 − 0.99985)

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Example 19–3 Approximations for out-of-bank flow—Continued

Now, estimate the distance downstream until flow is contained within the banks (from equation
19–3) as

q ( x, w ) =
12.1
D
{ }
a ( x, w ) − ⎡⎣1 − b ( x, w )⎤⎦ P + b ( x, w ) p

Use an upper limit as

q ( x, w ) = 3, 000 ft 3 /s ≤ b ( x, w ) p = e −0.0588 x ( 4, 000 )

which means
3, 000
e −0.0588 x ≥ = 0.75
4, 000

−1.0
x≤ ln 0.75 = 4.89 mi
0.0588

Then a trial-and-error solution of the volume and peak discharge equations for various values of
x < 4.89 miles produces a best estimate of x = 3.6 miles. Based on this value, the parameters are

b( 3.6, w 2 ) = 0.809

and
a ( 3.6, w 2 ) = −102.3 acre-ft
Therefore, the predictions for x = 3.6 miles are
Q ( 3.6, w 2 ) = −102.3 + 0.809 (700 )
= 464.0 acre-ft
for the volume, and

q ( 3.6,w 2 ) =-238.0+0.809 ( 4,000 ) =2,998 ft 3 /s

for the peak rate.

For distances beyond this point, the flow will be contained in the channel banks. Using K = 3.0,
D = 12, and P = 464.0 acre-feet (the inflow from the upstream reach), the parameters for inbank
flow with a distance of x = 10.0 – 3.6 = 6.4 miles are
a = −0.00465KD = −0.1674 acre-ft
⎛ KD ⎞
k = −1.09 ln ⎜ 1.0 − 0.00545
⎝ P ⎟⎠
= 0.000461 ( ft -mi )
−1

and
b = e −k = e −0.000461 = 0.99954

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Example 19–3 Approximations for out-of-bank flow—Continued

With these unit channel parameters, the parameters for inbank flow are

( ) ( )( )( )
b 6.4, w 1 = e −kxw 1 = e − 0.000461 6.4 150 = 0.642
and
a (6.4, w1 ) = ⎡1 − b ( x, w1 )⎤⎦
a
1−b ⎣
( −0.1674 )
= [1 − 0.642]
(1 − 0.99954 )
= −130.3 acre-ft

The predicted outflow is

Q (6.4, w1 ) = −130.3 + 0.642 ( 464.0 )
= 167.6 acre -ft
for the volume and
q (6.4,w1 ) =-298.9+0.642 ( 2,998 )
=1,626 ft 3 /s

for the peak discharge. Therefore, the prediction is out-of-bank flow for about 3.6 miles and
inbank flow for 6.4 miles, with an outflow volume of 168 acre-feet and a peak discharge of
1,626 cubic feet per second.

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Example 19–3 illustrates the need for judgment in
applying the procedure for estimating losses in out-of-
bank flow. Care must be taken to ensure that transmis-
sion losses do not reduce the flow volume and peak
to the point where flow is entirely within the channel
banks. If this occurs, then the reach length must be
broken into subreaches, as illustrated in this example.
In some circumstances, an alluvial channel could be
underlain by nearly impervious material that might
limit the potential storage volume in the alluvium (V)
and thereby limit the potential transmission losses.
Once the transmission losses fill the available stor-
age, nearly all additional inflow becomes outflow. The
procedure as shown in example 19–4 is modified to
predict and apply this secondary threshold volume, P1.

Example 19–4 Transmission losses limited by available storage

Given: The channel reach in example 19–1 with total available storage (maximum potential transmis-
sion loss) of V = 30 acre-feet.

Find: Given the volume equation from case 1 of example 19–1, compute equations to apply after the
potential losses are satisfied. From example 19–1, a(x,w) = -10.38 acre-feet, b(x,w) = 0.850, and
Po(X,W) = 12.21 acre-feet.

Solution: The total losses are P − Q(x,w) computed as

P − ⎡⎣a ( x, w ) + b ( x, w ) P ⎤⎦ = −a ( x, w ) + ⎡⎣1 − b ( x, w )⎤⎦ P

Equating this computed loss to V and solving for the inflow volume predicts the inflow volume
above which only the maximum alluvial storage is subtracted:
V + a ( x, w )
P1 =
1 − b ( x, w )

For this example, this threshold inflow volume is 130.8 acre-feet. With this additional threshold,
the prediction equation for outflow volume is modified to
⎧0 P ≤ Po ( x, w )
⎪
⎪
⎪
Q( x, w ) = ⎨a x, w + b x, w P
( ) ( ) Po ( x, w ) ≤ P ≤ P1
⎪
⎪
⎪P − V P > P1
⎩ (eq. 19–18)
The solution to this general equation is
⎧0 P ≤ 12.21
⎪
⎪⎪
Q( x, w ) = ⎨−10.38 + 0.850P 12.21 ≤ P ≤ 130.8
⎪
⎪
⎪⎩P − 30 P > 130.8

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Example 19–4 Transmission losses limited by available storage—Continued

The slope of the regression line is equal to

Q( x , w )
[P − Po (x, w )]
so an equivalent slope, once the available storage is filled, is
(P − V )
beq =
[P − Po (x, w )]
which for this example is
( P − 30)
beq =
( P − 12.21)
For an inflow volume of P = 300 acre-feet and peak rate of inflow p = 3,000 cubic feet per
second, the equivalent slope is beq = 0.938. Using the equivalent slope, the peak equation is
−12.1
q ( x, w ) = ⎡ P − Q ( x, w )⎤⎦ + beq p
D ⎣
= −90.75 + 0.938 ( 3, 000 ) = 2, 723 ft 3 /s

Therefore, the predicted outflow is Q(x,w) = 270 acre-feet and q(x,w) = 2,723 cubic feet per
second.

If the storage limitation had been ignored, the original equations would have predicted an
outflow volume of 245 acre-feet and a peak rate of outflow of 2,384 cubic feet per second. If a
channel reach has limited available storage, the procedure should be modified, as it was in this
example, to compute losses that do not exceed the available storage.

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630.1905 Summary

The examples presented illustrate the wide range

of applications of the transmission loss procedures
described in this chapter. They were chosen to empha-
size some limitations and the need for sound engineer-
ing judgment. These concepts are summarized in table
19–4.

Table 19–4 Outline of examples and comments on their applications

Example Procedure Special circumstances Comments

19–1 Table 19–2 Observed data available Slope and intercept must satisfy the constraints
(case 1)
19–1 Table 19–3 No observed data Typical application
(case 2)
19–2 Table 19–3 Uniform lateral inflow Importance of lateral inflow demonstrated
Eqs. 19–4, 19–5
19–3 Table 19–3 Out-of-bank flow Judgment required to interpret results
Eq. 19–17
19–4 Table 19–2 Limited available storage Concept of equivalent slope used
Eq. 19–18

19–16 (210–VI–NEH, August 2007)

Chapter 19 Transmission Losses
630.1906 References
Babcock, H.M., and E.M. Cushing. 1942. Recharge
to ground water from floods in a typical desert
wash. Pinal County, Arizona, Trans. Am. Geo-
phys. U. 23(1):49–56.
Briggs, P.C., and L.L. Werho. 1966. Infiltration and
recharge from the flow of April 1965 in the Salt
River near Phoenix, Arizona. Ariz. State Land
Dep. Water Res. Rep. No. 29, 12 p.
Burkham, D.E. 1970a. A method for relating infiltration
rates to streamflow rates in perched streams.
U.S. Geol. Surv. Prof. Pap. 700 D. p. D266–D271.
Burkham, D.E. 1970b. Depletion of streamflow by infil-
tration in the main channels of the Tucson Basin,
southeastern Arizona. U.S. Geol. Surv. Water Sup-
ply Pap. 1939–B, 36 p.
Jordan, P.R. 1977. Streamflow transmission losses in
western Kansas. Proc. Am. Soc. Civil Eng., J.
Hydraulics Div. 103(HY8):905–919.
Keppel, R.V. 1960. Transmission losses on Walnut
Gulch Watershed. In Joint ARS–SCS Hydrology
Workshop, New Orleans, LA. p. 21.1–21.8.
Keppel, R.V., and K.G. Renard. 1962. Transmission
losses in ephemeral streambeds. Proc. Am. Soc.
Civil Eng., J. Hydraulics Div. 88(HY3):59–68.
Kraatz, D.B. 1977. Irrigation and canal lining. United
Nations Food and Agriculture Organization,
Rome, Italy. 199 p.
Lane, L.J. 1972. A proposed model for flood routing in
abstracting ephemeral channels. Hydrology and
water resources in Arizona and the Southwest.
Proc. Am. Water Resources Assoc. and Ariz.
Acad. of Sci., Prescott, AZ. Vol. 2, p. 439–453.
Lane, L.J., M.H. Diskin, and K.G. Renard. 1971. Input-
output relationships for an ephemeral stream
channel system. J. Hydrol. 13:22–40.
(210–VI–NEH, August 2007)
Part 630
National Engineering Handbook
Lane, L.J., V.A. Ferreira, and E.D. Shirley. 1980. Esti-
mating transmission losses in ephemeral stream
channels. Proc. Am. Water Resources Assoc.
and Ariz.-Nev. Acad. of Sci., Las Vegas, NV. p.
193–202.
Matlock, W.G. 1965. The effect of silt-laden water on
infiltration in alluvial channels. Ph.D. disserta-
tion, Univ. of AZ, Tucson, AZ. 102 p.
Peebles, R.W. 1975. Flow recession in the ephemeral
stream. Ph.D. dissertation, Dep. Hydrology and
Water Resources, Univ. of AZ, Tucson, AZ. 88 p.
Peterson, H.V. 1962. Discussion, “Transmission losses
in ephemeral streambeds,” by R.V. Keppel and
K.G. Renard. Proc. Am. Soc. Civil Eng., J. Hy-
draulics Div. 88(HY5):339–343.
Renard, K.G. 1970. The hydrology of semiarid range-
land watersheds. U.S. Dept. Agric., Agric.
Research Serv. 41–162, 26 p.
Smith, R.E. 1972. Border irrigation advance and
ephemeral flood waves. Proc. Am. Soc. Civil
Eng., J. Irr. and Drainage Div. 98(IR2):289–307.
Texas Board of Water Engineers. 1960. Channel gain
and loss investigations, Texas streams, 1918–
1958. 270 p.
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources
Conservation Service. 2005. Estimation of direct
runoff from storm rainfall. National Engineering
Handbook 630, chapter 10. Washington, DC.
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources
Conservation Service. 2006. Hydrographs. Na-
tional Engineering Handbook 630, chapter 16.
Washington, DC.
Wilson, L.G., K.J. DeCook, and S.P. Neuman. 1980.
Final report: Regional recharge research for
Southwest alluvial basins. Water Resources Re-
search Center, Dep. Hydrol. and Water Res., Univ.
of AZ., Tuscon, AZ.
Wu, I-pai. 1972. Recession flows in surface irrigation.
Proc. Am. Soc. Civil Eng., J. Irr. and Drainage
Div. 98(IR1):77–90.
19–17
Appendix 19A Derivation of Procedures for
Estimating Transmission Losses
When Observed Data are Available
In much of the southwestern United States, water- By setting Q(x,w) = 0.0 and solving for P, the threshold
sheds are characterized as semiarid with broad al- volume, the volume of losses that occur before out-
luvium-filled channels that abstract large quantities flow begins is

( )
of streamflow (Babcock and Cushing 1942; Burkham
−a x , w
1970a, 1970b; Renard 1970). These abstractions or
transmission losses are important because streamflow
(
Po x, w = ) b( x, w )
(eq. 19–2)

is lost as the flood wave travels downstream, and thus,

runoff volumes are reduced. Although these abstrac-
tions are referred to as losses, they are an important
part of the water balance. They diminish streamflow,
support riparian vegetation, and recharge local aqui-
fers and regional ground water (Renard 1970).
Simplified procedures have been developed to esti-
mate transmission losses in ephemeral streams. These
procedures include simple regression equations to
estimate outflow volumes (Lane, Diskin, and Renard
1971) and simplified differential equations for loss rate
as a function of channel length (Jordan 1977). Other,
more complicated methods have also been used (Lane
1972; Wu 1972; Smith 1972; Peebles 1975).
Lane, Ferreira, and Shirley (1980) developed a proce-
dure to relate parameters of the linear regression equa-
tions (Lane, Diskin, and Renard 1971) to a differential
equation coefficient and the decay factor proposed by
Jordan (1977). This linkage between the regression
and differential equations provides the basis of the ap-
plications described in this chapter.
Differential equation for changes in
volume
Linkage with the regression model
Differential equations can be used to approximate the
influence of transmission losses on runoff volumes.
Because the solutions to these equations can be ex-
pressed in the same form as the regression equations,
least-squares analysis can be used to estimate param-
eters in the transmission loss equations.
Unit channel
The rate of change in volume, Q (as a function of arbi-
trary distance), with changing inflow volume, P, can be
approximated as
= − c − k Q( x )
dQ
(eq. 19–19)
dx
Substituting the initial condition and defining
P = Q(x = 0), the solution of equation 19–19 is

c(
Empirical basis of the regression Q( x ) = − 1 − e −kx ) + Pe −kx (eq. 19–20)
k
equation
For a unit channel, equation 19–20 becomes
When observed inflow-outflow data for a channel
reach of an ephemeral stream with no lateral inflow
are plotted on rectangular coordinate paper, the re- Q=−
c
(1 − e − k ) + Pe − k (eq. 19–21)
sult is often no outflow for small inflow events, with k
outflow increasing as inflow increases. When data are
which corresponds to the regression equation
fitted with a straight-line relationship, the intercept on
the X axis represents an initial abstraction. Graphs of Q = a + bP (eq. 19–22)
this type suggest equations of the form
Equating equations 19–21 and 19–22, it follows that
⎧0
⎪⎪
(
P ≤ Po x, w )
Q( x , w ) = ⎨ b = e −k (eq. 19–11)

(
⎪
) ( )
⎪⎩a x, w + b x, w P (
P > Po x, w ) and
(eq. 19–1)
c(
1 − e −k ) = − (1 − b) (eq. 19–23)
c
a=−
k k
are the linkage equations.

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Chapter 19 Transmission Losses Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Equation 19–23 can be solved for c as and through the linkage, the outflow volume equation
for upstream inflow augmented by uniform lateral
a inflow is
c = −k
1−b
Q( x, w ) = a( x, w ) + b( x, w )P +
QL
kw
[
1 − b( x, w ) ]
Channel of arbitrary length and width
For a channel of width w and length x,

Approximations for peak discharge

= −wc − wkQ( x, w )
dQ
dx
The basic assumption for peak discharge, q(x,w), is
that the outflow peak, once an average loss rate has
a
where: c = −k so that the differential equation is been subtracted, is equal to b(x,w) times the peak of
1−b the inflow hydrographs, p. That is, assume that

P − Q( x , w )
dQ a
= wk − wkQ ( x , w ) +
dx 1− b q( x, w ) = − + b( x, w ) p
D

Defining P as Q(x = 0) and substituting this initial con- where:

P − Q ( x, w ) = −a ( x, w ) + ⎡⎣1 − b ( x, w )⎤⎦ P
dition, the solution is

Q ( x, w ) =
a
1− b
( )
1 − e − kxw + Pe − kxw so that

From the linkage q ( x, w ) =

12.1
D
{ }
a ( x, w ) − ⎡⎣1 − b ( x, w )⎤⎦ P + b ( x, w ) p

b( x, w ) = e −kxw (eq. 19–13) where:

D = mean duration of flow, and
and 12.1 converts acre-feet per hour to cubic feet per
a second
a ( x, w ) = ⎡1 − b ( x, w )⎤⎦
1−b ⎣
(eq. 19–14)
For a peak lateral inflow rate of qL (ft3/s/ft), uniform
a ( x, w ) =
a
[1 − e − kxw ] along the reach, the peak discharge equation becomes
1−b
where:
a and b = unit channel parameters
k = decay factor
q ( x, w ) =
12.1
D
{a ( x, w ) − ⎡⎣1 − b ( x, w )⎤⎦ P }
q (5, 280 )
+ b ( x, w ) p + L ⎡⎣1 − b ( x, w )⎤⎦
Influence of uniform lateral inflow kw
If QL is the uniform lateral inflow (acre-feet/mile), this
inflow becomes an additional term in the differential
equation where 5,280 converts cubic feet per second per foot to
cubic feet per second per mile.
dQ a
= wk − wkQ ( x , w ) + Q L For small inflows where the volume of transmission
dx 1− b losses is about equal to the volume of inflow, the peak
discharge equation, equation 19–3, overestimates the
The solution is
peak rate of outflow. The relation between peak rate
a (
Q( x , w ) = 1 − e −kxw ) + Pe −kxw + L (1 − e −kxw )
Q of outflow observed and that computed from equation
1− b kw 19–3 is shown in figure 19A–1. The bias shown in fig-
ure 19A–1 is for small events and tends to overpredict,

19A–2 (210–VI–NEH, August 2007)

Chapter 19 Transmission Losses Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

but the equation does well for the larger events. The Figure 19A–1 Observed versus computed peak discharge
computed values shown in figure 19A–1 were based of the outflow hydrograph
on the mean duration of flow for each channel reach.
10,000
Better agreement of predicted and observed peak
rates of outflow might be obtained by using actual flow

Computed peak discharge (ft3/s)

durations.

1,000

100

Walnut Gulch, AZ reach 11-8

Queen Creek, AZ
Elm Fork of the Trinity River, TX
10
10 100 1,000 10,000
Observed peak discharge (ft3/s)

(210–VI–NEH, August 2007) 19A–3

Appendix 19B Analysis of Selected Data Used to
Develop the Procedure for Estimating
Transmission Losses
Selected data had to be analyzed so that param- The Trinity River data represent pumping diversions
eters of the prediction equations could be related to entirely within the channel banks. Data for the Kansas-
hydrograph characteristics and to effective hydraulic Nebraska streams represent floods of unknown size
conductivity. Events involving little or no lateral inflow and may include out-of-bank flow.
were selected from channel reaches in Arizona, Kan-
sas, Nebraska, and Texas (table 19B–1). Data summarized in table 19B–1 were subjected to
linear regression analysis to estimate the parameters
The data shown in table 19B–1 are not entirely con- a(x,w), b(x,w), Po(x,w), and kxw. These parameters
sistent because the events were floods of different are summarized in table 19B–2. Parameters for the
magnitudes. The Walnut Gulch data are from a series unit channels were computed for 10 channel reaches
of small to moderate events representing inbank flow, and are shown in table 19B–3.
whereas the Queen Creek data are for relatively larger
floods and no doubt include some out-of-bank flow.

Table 19B–1 Hydrologic data used in analyzing transmission losses (Lane, Ferreira, and Shirley 1980)

Location Reach Length, x Average Number - - - Inflow volume - - - - - - Outflow volume - - -

identification width, w of events
Mean Standard Mean Standard
deviation deviation
mi ft acre-ft acre-ft acre-ft acre-ft

Walnut Gulch, AZ 1/ 11-8 4.1 38 11 16.5 14.4 8.7 11.4

8-6 0.9 -- 3 13.7 -- 11.4 --
8-1 7.8 -- 3 16.3 -- 1.6 --
6-2 2.7 107 30 75.1 121.6 59.9 101.0
6-1 6.9 121 19 48.3 51.7 17.1 26.5
2-1 4.2 132 32 49.3 42.7 24.4 31.4
Queen Creek, AZ 2/ Upper to lower 20.0 277 10 4,283 5,150 2,658 3,368
gaging station
Elm Fork of Trinity Elm Fork-1 9.6 -- 3 454 -- 441 --
River, TX 3/ Elm Fork-2 21.3 -- 3 441 -- 424 --
Elm Fork-3 30.9 120 3 454 -- 424 --
Kansas-Nebraska 4/ Prairie Dog 26.0 17 5 1,890 1,325 1,340 1,218
Beaver 39.0 14 7 2,201 2,187 1,265 1,422
Sappa 35.0 23 6 6,189 8,897 3,851 7,144
Smokey Hills 47.0 72 4 1,217 663 648 451

1/ Data file at USDA-ARS, Southwest Rangeland Water Research Center, 442 E. 7th Street, Tucson, AZ 85705.
2/ Data from Babcock and Cushing (1942).
3/ Data from the Texas Board of Water Engineers (1960).
4/ Data from Jordan (1977).

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Chapter 19 Transmission Losses Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Table 19B–2 Parameters for regression model and differential equation model for selected channel reaches (Lane, Ferreira,
and Shirley 1980)

Location Reach Reach Length, Average Regression Model Threshold Decay R2

identification no. x width, w intercept, slope, volume, factor,
a(x,w) b(x,w) Po(x,w) kxw
mi ft acre-ft acre-ft

Walnut Gulch, AZ 11-8 1 4.1 38 –4.27 0.789 5.41 0.2370 .98

8-6 2 0.9 -- –0.34 0.860 0.40 0.1508 .99
8-1 3 7.8 -- –2.38 0.245 9.71 1.4065 .84
6-2 4 2.7 107 –4.92 0.823 5.98 0.1948 .98
6-1 5 6.9 121 –5.56 0.469 11.86 0.7572 .84
2-1 6 4.2 132 –8.77 0.673 13.03 0.3960 .84
Queen Creek, AZ Upper to 7 20.0 277 –117.2 0.648 180.90 0.4339 .98
lower station

Elm Fork of Elm Fork-1 8 9.6 -- –15.0 1.004 1/ -- -- .99

Trinity River, TX Elm Fork-2 9 21.3 -- +7.6 1/ 0.944 -- -- .99
Elm Fork-3 10 30.9 120 –8.7 0.952 9.14 0.0492 .99
Kansas-Nebraska Prairie Dog 11 26.0 17 –353.1 0.896 394.10 0.1098 .95
Beaver 12 39.0 14 –157.3 0.646 243.50 0.4370 .99
Sappa 13 35.0 23 –1,076.3 0.796 1,352.10 0.2282 .98
Smokey Hills 14 47.0 72 –99.1 0.614 161.40 0.4878 .81

1/ Channel reaches where derived regression parameters did not satisfy the constraints.

19B–2 (210–VI–NEH, August 2007)

 Table 19B–3 Unit length, unit width, and unit length and width parameters for selected channel reaches (Lane, Ferreira, and Shirley 1980)
Chapter 19

Location Identification - - - - - - Unit length parameters - - - - - - - - - - - - Unit width parameters - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Unit length and width parameter - - - - - - - -
a(w) b(w) Po(w) a(x) b(x) Po(x) a b Po k
Walnut 11–8 –1.13657 0.94384 1.2042 –0.12587 0.99378 0.1267 –0.03076 0.998480 0.0308 0.001521
Gulch, AZ 6–2 –1.93484 0.93039 2.0796 –0.05059 0.99818 0.0507 –0.01874 0.999326 0.0187 0.000674
6–1 –1.08819 0.89607 1.2144 –0.06541 0.99376 0.0658 –0.00950 0.999094 0.0095 0.000907
2–1 –2.41320 0.91002 2.6518 –0.08046 0.99700 0.0807 –0.01915 0.999286 0.0192 0.000714
Queen Upper to –7.14508 0.97854 7.3018 –0.52273 0.99843 0.5236 –0.02597 0.999922 0.0260 0.0000783
Creek, AZ lower station
Trinity Elm Fork-3 -0.28825 0.99841 0.2887 -0.07427 0.99959 0.0743 –0.002404 0.999987 0.0024 0.0000133
River, TX
Kansas- Prairie Dog –14.30986 0.99579 14.3705 –21.86124 0.99356 22.0029 –0.842008 0.999752 0.8422 0.000248
Nebraska Beaver –4.95071 0.98886 5.0065 –13.65447 0.96927 14.0874 –0.355480 0.999200 0.3558 0.000800
Sappa –34.28091 0.99350 34.5052 –52.07808 0.99013 52.5972 –1.493102 0.999717 1.4935 0.000283
Smokey Hills –2.65060 0.98968 2.6782 –1.73337 0.99325 1.7451 –0.036970 0.999856 0.0370 0.000144
Transmission Losses

(210–VI–NEH, August 2007)

Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

19B–3
Blank
Appendix 19C Estimating Transmission Losses When
No Observed Data are Available

Estimating transmission losses when observed inflow-
outflow data are not available requires a technique
for using effective hydraulic conductivity to develop
parameters for the regression analysis.
Estimating effective hydraulic
conductivity
The total volume of losses for a channel reach is KD,
where K is the effective hydraulic conductivity and D
is the duration of flow. Also, the total losses are
P–Q(x,w), so that:
However, because a and (1 – b)P are in acre-feet and
KD, the product of conductivity and duration, is in
inches, the dimensionally correct equation is
( )
−a + 1 − b P = 0.0101KD
where 0.0101 converts inches over a unit channel to
acre-feet. Because this equation is in two unknowns (a
and b), an additional relationship is required to solve
it. As a first approximation, the total losses are parti-
tioned between the two terms in the equation.
That is, let

a = − α ( 0.0101KD )
KD = 0.0275 [ P − Q ( x , w )]
and
(1 − b ) = (1 − α ) ⎛ 0.0101 KD ⎞
where 0.0275 converts acre-feet per foot-mile-hour to
inches per hour. Or, solving for K: ⎝ P ⎠

K=
[
0.0275 P − Q( x, w )] Solving for b,
D ⎛ KD ⎞
b = 1 − (1 − α )⎜ 0.0101 ⎟
But ⎝ P ⎠

where 0 ≤ α ≤ 1 is a weighting factor. Solve for k by

[ ]
P − Q( x, w ) = −a( x, w ) + 1 − b( x, w ) P substituting b = e-k and taking the negative natural log
of both sides; i.e.:
so that
⎡ ⎛ KD ⎞ ⎤
k = − ln ⎢1 − (1 − α ) ⎜ 0.0101 ⎟
P ⎠ ⎥⎦
{ ]}
⎝
K=
0.0275
D [
−a( x, w ) + 1 − b( x, w ) P ⎣
The selected data were analyzed to determine α by
(eq. 19–24) least-squares fitting as shown in table 19C–1. For the
data shown in table 19C–1, the estimate of α was 0.46.
is an expression for effective hydraulic conductivity. If Figures 19C–1 and 19C–2 show the data in table 19C–1
mean values for D and P are used, then equation 19–24 plotted according to the equations
estimates the mean value of the effective hydraulic
conductivity. a ( D) = −0.00465KD (eq. 19–15)
and
Effective hydraulic conductivity versus ⎡ KD ⎤
k ( D, P ) = −1.09 ln ⎢1.0 − 0.00545 (eq. 19–16)
model parameters ⎣ P ⎥⎦
For a unit channel, outflow is the difference between where for each channel reach, mean values were used
inflow and transmission losses: for K, D, and P. These relationships were used to calcu-
late the values shown in table 19–1 of the main text.
Q = P − KD
Auxiliary data compiled in a report by Wilson, De-
Because Q = a + bP, Cook, and Neuman (1980) are shown in table 19C–2.
Although the estimates of infiltration rates were ob-
( )
−a + 1 − b P = KD tained by a variety of methods, most rates were based
on streamflow data. Because these estimates generally
involved longer periods of flow than in the smaller

(210–VI–NEH, August 2007) 19C–1

Chapter 19 Transmission Losses Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Table 19C–1 Data for analysis of relations between effective hydraulic conductivity and model parameters (Lane, Ferreira,
and Shirley 1980)

Location Unit channel Decay K KD KD/P –ln[1–0.00545(KD/P)] Comments

intercept, a factor, k
acre-ft (ft-mi)-1 in/h in in/acre-ft

Walnut Gulch
11–8 –0.03076 0.001521 1.55 4.96 0.3010 0.001643 Inbank flow
6–2 –0.01874 0.000674 1.36 6.26 0.0834 0.000455
6–1 –0.00950 0.000907 1.03 3.71 0.0768 0.000419
2–1 –0.01915 0.000714 1.11 4.44 0.0901 0.000492
Queen Creek –0.02597 0.0000783 0.54 29.16 0.0068 0.0000371 Mixed flow
Elm Fork –0.00240 0.0000133 0.01 0.84 0.0019 0.0000104 Inbank flow
Kansas-Nebraska
Prairie Dog –0.84201 0.000248 1.28 122.9 0.0650 0.000355 Mixed flow:
Beaver –0.35548 0.000800 1.38 169.7 0.0771 0.000421 average widths
Sappa –1.49310 0.000283 2.57 287.8 0.0465 0.000254 may be under-
Smokey Hills –0.03697 0.000144 0.17 16.3 0.0134 0.000073 estimated

Least-squares fit:

a ( D) = −0.00465KD

⎡
k ( D, P ) = −1.09 ln 1.0 − 0.00545
KD ⎤
⎣⎢ P ⎦⎥

Figure 19C–1 Relation between KD and regression Figure 19C–2 Relation between KD/P and decay factor
intercept
-10 .01
a unit channel regression intercept (acre/ft)

Walnut Gulch
Queen Creek Walnut Gulch
Elm Fork Queen Creek
Kansas-Nebraska Elm Fork
Kansas-Nebraska
-1.0
k decay factor (ft/mi)-1

.001
a (D) = − 0 . 00465KD
-.10

.0001
-.01

¨
k  D, P  1.09 ln 1.0 0.00545
KD ·
ª© P ¹̧
-.001 .00001
0.1 1.0 10 100 1,000 .001 .01 .10 1.0
KD effective conductivity-duration product (in) KD
P Conductivity-duration product normalized
by inflow volume (in/AF)

19C–2 (210–VI–NEH, August 2007)

Chapter 19 Transmission Losses Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

ephemeral streams, they should be representative of
what is called effective hydraulic conductivity. The
data show the range of estimates of hydraulic conduc-
tivity for various streams within a river basin as esti-
mated by several investigators. For this reason, they
should be viewed as qualitative estimates. Improved
estimates based on site-specific conditions were used
in developing the prediction equations.
For comparison, seepage loss rates for unlined canals
are shown in table 19C–3. Though these data are not
strictly comparable with loss rates in natural channels,
they do show the variation in infiltration rates with dif-
ferent soil characteristics. Infiltration rates varied by a
factor of over 20 (0.12–3.0 in/h) from a clay loam soil
to a very gravelly soil.

Table 19C–2 Auxiliary transmission loss data for selected ephemeral streams in southern Arizona (Wilson, DeCook, and
Neuman 1980)

River basin Stream reach Estimation method Effective Source of

hydraulic estimates
conductivity
(in/h)

Santa Cruz Santa Cruz River, Tucson to Continental Streamflow data 1/ 1.5 – 3.4 Matlock (1965)
Santa Cruz River, Tucson to Cortero Streamflow data 3.2 – 3.7 Matlock (1965)
Rillito Creek, Tucson Streamflow data 0.5 – 3.3 Matlock (1965)
Rillito Creek, Cortero Streamflow data 2.2 – 5.5 Matlock (1965)
Pantano Wash, Tucson Streamflow data 1.6 – 2.0 Matlock (1965)
Average for Tucson area — 1.65 Matlock (1965)
Gila Queen Creek Streamflow data:
Summer flows 0.07 – 0.52 Babcock and
Cushing (1942)
Winter flows 0.37 – 1.05 Babcock and
Cushing (1942)
Average for 0.54 Babcock and
all events Cushing (1942)
Seepage losses >2.0 Babcock and
in pools 2/ Cushing (1942)
Salt River, Granite Reef Dam to 7th Ave. Streamflow data 0.75 – 1.25 Briggs and
Werho (1966)
San Pedro Walnut Gulch Streamflow data 1.1 – 4.5 Keppel (1960)
Keppel and
Renard (1962)
Walnut Gulch Streamflow data 2.4 Peebles (1975)
San Simon San Simon Creek — 0.18 Peterson (1962)

1/ Transmission losses estimated from streamflow data.

2/ Measurement of loss rates from seepage in isolated pools.

(210–VI–NEH, August 2007) 19C–3

Chapter 19 Transmission Losses Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Table 19C–3 Range of seepage rates in unlined canals 1/

Effective hydraulic Description of materials 2/

conductivity (in/h)

0.12–0.18 Clay-loam, described as impervious

0.25–0.38 Ordinary clay loam
0.38–0.50 Sandy loam or gravelly clay-loam
with sand and clay
0.50–0.75 Sandy loam
0.75–0.88 Loose sandy soil
1.0–1.25 Gravelly sandy soils
1.5–3.0 Very gravelly soils

1/ Data from Wilson, DeCook, and Neuman (1980) after Kraatz

(1977).
2/ Does not reflect the flashy, sediment-laden character of many
ephemeral streams.

19C–4 (210–VI–NEH, August 2007)

United States
Department of Part 630 Hydrology
Agriculture

Natural
National Engineering Handbook
Resources
Conservation
Service

Chapter 20 Watershed Yield

Rain clouds
Cloud formation

Precipitation

n
iratio
Evaporation
n

ean
tio

Transp
soil
ta

from oc
ge
ve

fr o m
m

n
fr o

ti o

s
am
n

ir a
ti o

tr e
sp
ra
po

an

ms
va

Tr

Surfa E
ce ru
fr o

noff

Infiltration

Soil
Percolation

Rock Ocean
Ground water
Deep percolation

(210–VI–NEH, April 2009)

Chapter 20 Watershed Yield Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Issued April 2009

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all its

programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability,
and where applicable, sex, marital status, familial status, parental status, religion,
sexual orientation, genetic information, political beliefs, reprisal, or because all
or a part of an individual’s income is derived from any public assistance program.
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require alternative means for communication of program information (Braille,
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DC 20250–9410, or call (800) 795-3272 (voice) or (202) 720-6382 (TDD). USDA
is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

(210–VI–NEH, April 2009)

 Acknowledgments

Chapter 20 was originally prepared by Victor Mockus (retired) in 1956

and was reprinted with minor revisions in 1971. This version was prepared
by Gary L. Conaway (retired), and Dr. David C. Garen, hydrologist, U.S.
Department of Agriculture (USDA), Natural Resources Conservation Ser-
vice (NRCS), Portland, OR, and under the guidance of Donald E. Wood-
ward (retired). It was finalized under the guidance of Claudia C. Hoeft,
national hydraulic engineer, USDA, NRCS, Washington, DC.

(210–VI–NEH, April 2009) 20–i

Chapter 20 Watershed Yield Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

20–ii (210–VI–NEH, April 2009)

Chapter 20 Watershed Yield

Contents: 630.2000 Introduction 20–1

630.2001 Water balance 20–1

630.2002 Methods of computing water yield 20–2

(a) Runoff map . ................................................................................................... 20–2
(b) Regression equations .................................................................................... 20–2
(c) Water balance ................................................................................................ 20–2

630.2003 Reservoir storage planning 20–6

(a) Determination of storage requirements to meet supply-demand............ 20–6
relations

630.2004 Data Sources 20–22

(a) Streamflow data............................................................................................ 20–22
(b) Precipitation data......................................................................................... 20–22
(c) Evaporations data........................................................................................ 20–22

­630.2005 References 20–23

(210–VI–NEH, April 2009) 20–iii

Chapter 20 Watershed Yield Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Tables Table 20–1 Council Creek near Stillwater, OK, storage required 20–11
to meet supply-demand relationship

Table 20–2 Reservoir seepage losses 20–18

Table 20–3 Water budget analysis for Council Creek Watershed 20–19
near Stillwater, OK

Figures Figure 20–1 Water yield October through May 1935 to 1958, 20–9
80 percent chance 810 acre-feet near Stillwater, OK

Figure 20–2 Reservoir site on Council Creek, near Stillwater, OK 20–10

Figure 20–3 Accumulated 80 percent supply for October through 20–13

May for proposed reservoir near Council Creek, OK

Figure 20–4 Council Creek near Still Water, OK, reservoir seepage 20–16

Figure 20–5 Results of Council Creek near Stillwater, OK, storage 20–17

20–iv (210–VI–NEH, April 2009)

Chapter 20 Watershed Yield
630.2000 Introduction
Watershed yield, or water yield, is useful in some plan-
ning and design activities. The term, however, is some-
what loosely used in the literature and can refer either
to a long-term average (e.g., 1971–2000 average annual
streamflow) or can be synonymous with runoff volume
for a specific period (e.g., flow for May 1999). The pe-
riod referred to is most often either a year or a month,
but one could also consider a day or any other period
in between. For the purposes of this chapter, consider
water yield to be long-term average flow, although the
concepts described are not limited to this. The term
yields is used to convey the idea that only a volume of
water is being referred to, as opposed to a hydrograph;
i.e., no information is given about the time distribution
of flow within the period.
Long-term averages provide sufficient information
to determine representative conditions without any
knowledge of the expected variation in the record.
Without estimates of variability, these average val-
ues are of fairly restricted usage. For some planning
and design purposes, the flows for certain exceeding
probabilities, such as 10 percent or 90 percent, may be
more important to know. For this, distribution func-
tions are necessary, requiring the application of statis-
tical methods. See NEH630.18, Statistics, for a descrip-
tion of statistical methods.
NEH630.20 reviews basic water balance concepts as
well as some general calculation methods and sug-
gested data sources.
(210–VI–NEH, April 2009)
630.2001 Water balance
Considering hydrologic processes taking place con-
tinuously in the watershed, the water yield, i.e., the net
amount of water flowing past a given point on a stream
during a given period, can be described by a basic
water balance equation:
Q = P + I − ET − G − ∆S − D (eq. 20–1)
where:
Q = streamflow
P = precipitation
I = import of water into the watershed
ET = evapotranspiration
G = net export of ground water
∆S = change in moisture storage
D = diversions out of the watershed
The unit used in this equation is arbitrary as long as it
is applied consistently to all parameters.
Several of the terms in the equation are themselves an
integration of many subprocesses and can be difficult
to evaluate. The shorter the time period considered,
the more important the short-term dynamics become,
and therefore, quantifying some of these terms, par-
ticularly ∆S and G, is more complex. Over long peri-
ods, such as a year or more, these two terms generally
become small because of time averaging and are often
considered to be negligible. The net export of ground
water, however, can be important, particularly in areas
of unique geology, such as the lava fields in the Snake
River Plain of Idaho or in karst areas. The I and D
terms are important in irrigated areas, or where large
water supply works divert water into or out of the
watershed. A more detailed consideration of each term
in the water balance equation is given later.
Chapter 20 Watershield Yield
630.2002 Methods of computing
water yield
Estimating water yield can be done in several ways.
The method chosen depends on the data availability,
the time period desired, and whether long-term aver-
ages or estimates for a given period are to be made.
Methods used to estimate water yield include:
• runoff map
• regression equations
• water balance
(a) Runoff map
The simplest method is to read a value from a map,
if one exists. In some States and regions, maps with
contours of equal average annual or monthly runoff (in
terms of depth) have been produced. There is no com-
prehensive set of such maps, nor is there a uniform
method for their production, so those that exist vary
widely in content and quality. To find out if a particular
one exists, one should consult local technical experts.
A basic reference is U.S. Geological Survey (USGS)
Hydrologic Atlas 71, Average Annual Runoff in the
United States 1951–1980.
(b) Regression equations
In some areas, special studies have been conducted to
develop multiple regression equations to predict water
yield from precipitation and watershed characteristics.
For example, Hawley and McCuen (1982) developed
an equation to predict average annual water yield for
each of five regions in the Western United States. The
equations from these studies, however, are location
specific and should not be used in any other areas. Lo-
cal experts should be consulted for information on the
existence and applicability of regional equations.
The most important variable in the regression equa-
tions is precipitation; therefore, the key to using this
method is to have a good estimate of watershed aver-
age precipitation for the time period of interest. The
best current source for annual and monthly averages
are the maps and geographic information system (GIS)
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National Engineering Handbook
data layers developed in the PRISM project, sponsored
by the NRCS National Water and Climate Center in
Portland, Oregon. See 630.2003, Data sources, for
details.
Other watershed characteristics, such as mean eleva-
tion or watershed area, can be obtained by analyzing
topographic maps, or better yet, by using digital eleva-
tion models within a GIS.
The National Water and Climate Center provides
seasonal water yield estimates of 700 locations in the
Western States and have information about past events
which can be helpful to determine monthly and annual
water yields.
(c) Water balance
The most comprehensive method to estimate water
yield is to quantify each term in the water balance
equation. The simplest and most feasible case is for
average annual water yield, in which some simplify-
ing assumptions can be made to make the problem
more manageable. If, however, all terms of the water
balance can be reliably estimated, a water balance for
monthly averages or for annual, monthly, or even daily
time series can be computed. A hydrologic model is
required, however, for time series computation, when
determining monthly or shorter duration water bal-
ances.
Thornthwaite and Mather (1955) first developed the
concept of a climatological water balance and a stan-
dard method for calculating it. Their method was
originally applied at a monthly time step to obtain
long-term averages of each term in the water balance
equation (although it did not explicitly consider the
I, D, or G terms). It has also been applied at a daily
time step and has been used to simulate monthly time
series. The Thornthwaite and Mather model, and other
similar models, represented an important step in esti-
mating water yield. More recent hydrologic simulation
models predict daily or subdaily time series, hence
requiring a great deal of input data and giving detailed
output, which is beyond the scope of what is usually
referred to as annual water yield. These models have
the potential to provide more detailed estimates of wa-
ter yield if there is enough data to calibrate the model.
Chapter 20 Watershield Yield
Evaluating the water balance terms for a given time
period is not simple because the variances are the
integration of many complex processes operating at
different spatial and temporal scales. This is why a
monthly water balance model needs to be used with
care. These models can compute the water balance to a
certain approximation, of course, but some variability
will be masked because the time scale of the processes
is much smaller than the time scale of the model.
The easiest situation is to make the assumption that
∆S and G are near zero, in which case the most impor-
tant loss becomes ET, and water yield is simply what
is left of water input (precipitation plus water import
minus export) after subtracting evapotranspiration
losses. As with the regression equation method, the
most important input is to have an accurate estimate
of watershed average precipitation. In irrigated areas
and where water diversion projects exist, good data
are required to estimate the I and D terms in the wa-
ter balance equation so that all watershed inputs are
known.
A few comments about each of the water balance
terms follow.
Precipitation (P)—A fundamental issue in comput-
ing a water balance is to estimate accurately the total
precipitation input to the watershed. This can be done
in a variety of ways depending on the available data
and the spatial variability of precipitation in the water-
shed of interest.
In areas of relatively uniform terrain and little spatial
variability of precipitation, classical textbook pro-
cedures, such as Thiessen polygons or the isohyetal
method, can be used and are generally adequate.
These procedures are simple methods of developing
spatial averages from point measurements, but are
inadequate to describe orographic or other spatially
variable behavior of any appreciable complexity. In
these cases, such as in mountainous areas, more com-
prehensive algorithms are needed to develop spatial
averages from point measurements that describe the
elevational (vertical) and horizontal variability. For
time series at the watershed scale, the algorithm based
on detrended kriging developed by Garen, Johnson,
and Hanson (1994) is an example. (Further informa-
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tion on this procedure is available from the NRCS
National Water and Climate Center in Portland, Ore-
gon.) For annual or monthly averages or monthly time
series at somewhat larger spatial scales (watershed to
regional), the best method is to use the PRISM maps
and GIS layers, as mentioned previously. This would
be the recommended procedure in most watershed
yield analyses.
Evapotranspiration—Evapotranspiration (ET) is
difficult to estimate because it is a complex process.
It is determined by the atmospheric demand for water
vapor (potential ET) and the availability of water to
be evaporated. ET is a sum of pure evaporation from
free water surfaces, such as wet vegetation, puddles,
and lakes, and the transfer of soil moisture through
plants and out their leaves (transpiration). The former
process depends only on the atmospheric conditions
(temperature, humidity, wind), whereas the latter also
depends on plant characteristics (stomatal resistance)
and on soil moisture availability.
Many models are available for estimating potential
evapotranspiration from meteorological data (Jensen,
Burman, and Allen 1990; ASCE 1996). They vary in
their assumptions, the processes described, the input
data required, and the temporal scale for which they
are appropriate. Potential ET can also be estimated
from pan evaporation data if a suitable pan coeffi-
cients are available.
Even if potential ET is adequately estimated, the
actual ET is less than or equal to this amount and de-
pends primarily on soil moisture availability. Because
of this interplay between the atmospheric demand and
the soil moisture, determining actual ET is problem-
atic without a detailed hydrologic model operated at a
short time step (i.e., a day or less). If adequate assump-
tions can be made, however, reasonable estimates of
actual ET as a fraction of potential ET are possible.
Net ground water export (G)—Knowing whether
an appreciable net export (or import) of ground
water even exists requires a good knowledge of the
geology of the watershed. Even in areas where sig-
nificant ground water phenomena are known to exist,
estimates of the amount of these losses are difficult
to make and to differentiate from other losses to the
watershed.
20–3
Chapter 20 Watershield Yield
Channel transmission losses are also included in this
term. These losses are particularly important in arid
areas where a significant amount of streamflow is
absorbed by the porous streambank and streambed
material. They represent a net loss from the channel
system.
Storage change (∆S)—Storage change encompasses
any place where water can be temporarily stored in
the watershed and can include plant surfaces, snow-
pack, puddles, and the soil depressions, lakes and
reservoirs, ponds, wetlands, soil moisture, and aqui-
fers. The capacity of some of these is relatively small
and can be safely ignored as long as the time consid-
ered is sufficiently large. For example, if a period that
begins and ends with dry plant surfaces were consid-
ered, then this would contribute nothing to a change
in storage. Similarly, no snowpack change in storage
occurs if the period began and ended with no snow on
the ground. For an annual water balance, the change
in soil moisture and aquifer storage is often assumed
to be small because the period begins and ends at the
same point in the annual cycle. This is appropriate for
the average annual water balance, but may not be true
for specific sequential years. It is certainly not true for
periods of less than a year. If a watershed contains a
large storage reservoir (or perhaps even a natural lake
whose level can fluctuate significantly), the change in
storage must be accounted for, requiring data on the
volume of water stored at the beginning and end of the
period.
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Imports and diversions (I, D)—Imports of water
from other watersheds or diversions out of the wa-
tershed occur typically in dry areas where irrigated
agriculture is important or where large facilities for
urban water supply have been developed. Since these
are human works, rather than natural processes, they
can only be evaluated using measured flow data from
the operating agencies.
Various State and Federal agencies have produced re-
ports describing the development of water budgets for
selected areas. USGS Circular 1308 has a good descrip-
tion of water budget development and includes many
examples. The Thornthwaite-Mather procedure for cal-
culating recharge from the soil moisture balance can
be used to develop monthly and annual water budgets.
Soil-Plant-Atmosphere-Water (SPAW) is a daily hydro-
logic budget model for agricultural field and ponds
(wetland, lagoons, ponds, and reservoirs). This model
was developed by Agricultural Research Service (ARS)
and has the capabilities to estimate both monthly and
annual watershed yield. It also has an option to evalu-
ate wetlands and make a reservoir operation study.
Chapter 20 Watershield Yield Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Example
A water budget is needed for a proposed site in southern New Jersey. It can be assumed that the coefficient to con-
vert pan evaporation to ET is 0.7, and that National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Technical
Report NWS 34 will be used as the source of evaporation data. It can be assumed is that the storage at the begin-
ning of the calendar year is full and the deficient moisture will be taken from the storage. The annual yield is about
19 inches. Develop a monthly budget for the site.

• Determine the average monthly precipitation from the nearest rain gage.
• Determine the monthly pan evaporation from the NOAA Technical Report NWS 34.
• Determine the monthly ET using a 0.7 coefficient.
• Develop the monthly runoff assuming the storage is full in January and there will be no change in storage
during the months when precipitation exceed ET and the change in storage for the year will be zero.

Month Precipitation Pan evaporation ET Change in storage Runoff

(in) (in) (in) (in) (in)
January 3.43 1.58 1.11 0.00 2.32
February 3.66 1.78 1.25 0.00 2.41
March 4.28 2.99 2.09 0.00 2.17
April 3.46 3.52 2.46 0.00 1
May 3.53 5 3.50 –0.97 1
June 3.88 5.47 3.83 –1.15 1.2
July 4.83 5.32 3.72 –0.39 1.5
August 5.12 4 2.80 0.32 2
September 4.88 4.56 3.19 –0.81 2.5
October 3.35 3.22 2.25 0.97 0.13
November 3.67 2.21 1.55 1.57 0.55
December 3.66 1.56 1.09 0.47 2.1
Totals 47.75 47.77 28.85 0.00 18.88

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Chapter 20 Watershield Yield
630.2003 Reservoir storage
planning
(a) Determination of storage require-
ments to meet supply-demand relations
Purpose and scope
The purpose is to demonstrate techniques and proce-
dures for determining the storage of water for use at a
later date. The increasing demands for surface-water
supplies for irrigation, recreation, municipal, indus-
trial, and urban developments have emphasized the
need for more information and study on the storage of
water.
The storage provided depends upon the interrelation-
ship between supply, losses, demand, and their respec-
tive distributions throughout the year, as well as the
economics based upon the cost of storage against the
benefits from use. This section provides examples
using varying intensities of analyses to solve storage
problems and consider some of the important factors.
Nomenclature and description of terms used are:
• supply—inflow at proposed site of reservoir
• losses—reservoir seepage and net lake evapo-
ration (lake evaporation minus precipitation)
• water use—the amount of water available at
the reservoir site. Losses between the reservoir
outlet and the point of actual beneficial use
should be included as part of the water use.
The solution of the storage problem requires the con-
sideration of the following factors.
Legal aspects of water storage
The State and local laws governing the storage and
use of water transcends all other considerations and
complicate the study of water storage. Therefore, it
is essential to first determine specifically the condi-
tions under which water can be stored and used. This
will answer the questions of by whom, when, and to a
degree, how much water can be stored for future use.
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Supply
Monthly and annual runoff amounts—The monthly
and annual runoff values must be determined for a
period of time long enough to reflect the “long-time”
variability of runoff. Mean monthly values should be
computed and used to determine the monthly percent-
ages of the mean annual runoff. A frequency curve
should be developed for the series of annual runoff
(NEH630.18).
Distribution of monthly values for any given percent
chance annual yield is made according to the monthly
percentages of the mean annual flow. This is not
exactly true, but furnishes reasonable estimates for
short-cut procedures.
Mass-flow diagram—The mass-flow diagram is ex-
tremely valuable in the study of storage requirements
or the determination of the flow which could be as-
sured with a given amount of storage. The mass-flow
curve is the integral of the hydrograph; the abscissa
being in units of time and the ordinate at any point
being the total volume of flow that passed that point
since zero time. The time unit is days, which may be
accumulated by months and plotted versus the volume
unit second-foot-day. The slope for the curve at any
point indicates the rate of change of volume with re-
spect to time and is thus a rate of flow. Since the units
are second-foot days and days, the rate of flow be-
comes cubic feet per second. Many kinds of data can
be studied by the mass-diagram technique, but proper
conversion units are essential.
Watershed condition—The drainage area above the
reservoir site should be examined to determine im-
portant hydrologic characteristics such as soils, land
use, and climatic variability. Possible future changes
in land use that may affect runoff should be consid-
ered. Other upstream changes that would influence
future runoff, such as additional storage, irrigation,
municipal, domestic, and industrial uses should also
be considered.
Frequency of supply criteria—A frequency of total an-
nual supply should be selected based on the intended
use and the adverse results of supply shortages during
some years. For irrigation, it is common NRCS prac-
tice to use the 80 percent probability as a minimum
criteria. This criteria provides, on the average, a com-
plete annual supply 4 in 5 years and would permit a
shortage during 1 in 5 years. There are some irrigated
Chapter 20 Watershield Yield
crops that may indicate the probability should be
raised to 90 or 95 percent and others where a design
probability of 70 percent or less will be adequate to
provide an economical design. The hydrologist should
be certain the water user has a complete understand-
ing of the probability of supply criteria used.
Storage
Storage, as used here, is net storage and does not
include the amount required to provide for future
sediment accumulation. Net storage does include use,
reservoir evaporation, and seepage. Estimates of sedi-
ment storage requirements will be furnished by the
geologist.
Survey of reservoir site—A survey of the reservoir
site is made to determine elevation, surface area, and
capacity relationships. The required capacity must
provide storage for sediment, use, losses, and flood
water. Specific site conditions, such as spillway loca-
tion, may place limitations on the available storage.
Demand
Potential annual demand—An estimate of the po-
tential annual demand consisting of use, reservoir
evaporation, and seepage will have to be made. The
use value should reflect all losses associated with the
transit of water from the reservoir to the point of use
and the actual efficiency of use to show the demand at
the reservoir. This information is normally provided by
the irrigation engineer or other engineers concerned
with the water use requirement. The potential annual
supply value is then compared with the annual runoff
values. The average annual runoff is the average maxi-
mum amount that could be supplied through “carry-
over” storage. Reservoir evaporation and seepage
losses would reduce this maximum amount. The aver-
age potential demand may be larger than the average
annual runoff. In this case, it is known that demand
cannot be satisfied and lower amounts will have to be
considered. The potential demand may be less than
the minimum year of record. In this case, the annual
supply is adequate, but the seasonal distribution of
supply and demand are important items.
Distribution of demand during year—This distribu-
tion will normally be furnished to the hydrologist by
other engineers concerned with the intended use of
the water supply. The monthly demand should be
determined in units of percent of total annual demand.
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The actual monthly demand may be determined by
the product of the monthly percent and the selected
total annual demand. Determining the monthly de-
mand in percent will facilitate the computations of
actual monthly demand when several values of total
annual demand are being considered. The demand
distribution should be compared with the average
monthly runoff distribution. If the runoff distribution
is predominantly during one period of the year, the
comparison will be of assistance in estimating storage
required to provide a given supply. For example, in
many areas, a high percent of the annual runoff occurs
during the winter and spring seasons. If the water use
is for irrigation during July, August, and September, it
will be necessary to store an amount nearly equal to
total demand plus reservoir losses due to evaporation
and seepage.
Reservoir losses—All possible reservoir losses must be
considered. The principal losses are generally evapora-
tion and seepage. A geologist should be requested to
furnish estimated rates of permeability and/or trans-
missibility. The hydrologist will determine seepage
losses using monthly values of surface area and the
associated permeability and/or transmissibility rates.
Evaporation losses may be estimated on a monthly
basis if past evaporation and precipitation records are
available. Evaporation, like many climatic elements, is
a variable. The past record should be long enough to
reflect the long-time variability of net evaporation.
Adequate evaporation data will not be available for
many reservoir locations. Where this is the case, it is
suggested that evaporation estimates should be made
on an annual, seasonal, or monthly basis using the
NOAA publication, Technical Report NWS 34, Mean
Monthly, Seasonal, and Annual Pan Evaporation for
the United States.
If average annual evaporation, precipitation, and water
surface area are used in estimating annual evapora-
tion losses, these estimates will be too low during the
years of above normal net evaporation. The standard
deviation of evaporation is available in NOAA Techni-
cal Report NWS 34. This value may be added to the
average value to obtain an evaporation that represents
conditions during the years of higher losses.
The average surface area may be determined from the
storage-surface area relationship and the mean stor-
age. If there is a definite change in storage during the
20–7
Chapter 20 Watershield Yield Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

seasons, the evaporation and seepage losses may be Frequency of supply criteria—A frequency curve was
computed separately for the May through October pe- developed for runoff from October through May for
riod and the November through April period. Evapora- water years 1935 through 1958. The 80 percent proba-
tion data on the two periods are obtained from NOAA bility from this curve was used as the minimum supply
Technical Report NWS 34. In this case, a different aver- (fig. 20–1).
age surface area is used for each period.
The distribution of the 80 percent supply was made
according to the percentage distribution of the mean
Example
monthly values of October through May for the period
The construction of a storage reservoir on Council
of record, 1935 through 1958.
Creek near Stillwater, Oklahoma, has been proposed.
The purpose of the storage is to provide irrigation wa-
Storage—A survey of the reservoir site provided in-
ter during the summer months. The area to be irrigated
formation for the preparation of the elevation-surface
is located downstream from the reservoir site.
area and elevation-storage curves (fig. 20–2). The ge-
ologist estimated the sedimentation rate to be 0.2 acre-
Legal aspects of water storage—In this example,
foot per square mile per year. With a life expectancy
water appropriation rights authorize the storage of the
of 50 years and a drainage area of 31 square miles, the
total runoff that occurs from October 1 through May
required storage for the sediment pool is 310 acre-feet.
31 of any year. An amount equivalent to the runoff that
The invert of the intake is set at the elevation of the
occurs from June 1 through September 30 must be
top of the sediment pool. The principal spillway crest
released from the reservoir as it occurs.
is set at the indicated maximum required storage and
the emergency spillway crest at the elevation dictated
Supply—The drainage area at the reservoir site is 31
by design criteria. Flood water is detained between
square miles (19,840 acres). A recording stream gage is
the crest of the principal spillway and the emergency
located immediately below the structure site. Records
spillway crest.
are available from April 1934 through 1958. Analysis of
the double mass curves of surrounding stations indi-
Demand—The estimate of the potential annual de-
cates this period to be representative of the long-term
mand consisted of making estimates of the net lake
average.
evaporation and reservoir seepage losses plus the
intended use by months. Net lake evaporation was
A nonrecording precipitation gage with records from
computed by subtracting mean monthly precipitation
1931 to 1958 is located at Stillwater, Oklahoma. Pan
at Stillwater from the mean monthly lake evaporation.
evaporation and wind records are available from
The mean monthly use requirements for the proposed
1948 through 1957 at Stillwater. A first-order Weather
project are shown in line 8 of table 20–1.
Bureau Station record is available at Oklahoma City,
Oklahoma, where all the climatalogical factors are
A water budget equation can be written as follows:
recorded that are necessary in the determination of
watershed yield at point of storage plus precipitation
evaporation from reservoir.
on reservoir minus dead storage, required releases,
evaporation, transpiration, and seepage equal the
Monthly and annual runoff amounts—The monthly
amount available for use. When any of these items are
and annual runoff amounts for October through May
small, they may be omitted for simplicity.
for water years 1935 through 1958 were determined
from the records. This period of time reflects the long-
Approximation using annual values—For approxi-
time variability of runoff.
mations, it is possible to use annual values developed
from regionalizations of specific data. This involves
Watershed condition—For this example, land use and
the use of isolines of annual runoff and evaporation.
climate are not considered. Additional demands for use
USGS presents the distribution of average pan annual
are not foreseen during life expectancy of the project.
runoff in the United States. NOAA Technical Report
NWS 34 shows the distribution of average annual
evaporation in the United States. With a map study of
the proposed site and estimates of annual losses based

20–8 (210–VI–NEH, April 2009)

 Chapter 20 Watershield Yield Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Figure 20–1 Water yield October through May 1935 to 1958, 80 percent chance 810 acre-feet near Stillwater, OK

+2

+1

-1

-2
0
10,000
Runoff (acre-ft)

1,000

100
99.5 99 98 95 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 5 2 1

Percent equal to or greater than:

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Chapter 20 Watershield Yield Part 630
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Figure 20–2 Reservoir site on Council Creek, near Stillwater, OK

10,000
1,000
Elevation–storage area

Surface area (acre)

Storage (acre-ft)
Elevation–surface area

100
10
890

880

870

860

850

845

841

835

Elevation (msl-ft)

20–10 (210–VI–NEH, April 2009)

 Table 20–1 Council Creek near Stillwater, OK, storage required to meet supply-demand relationship
Chapter 20

Line Item Oct. Nov. Dec. Jan. Feb. Mar. Apr. May June July Aug. Sept. Year
1 Mean monthly sup- 493 179 134 107 144 494 926 1571 1248 620 508 439
ply acre-ft
2 Accumulated mean 493 672 806 913 1057 1551 2477 4048 No storage allowed
monthly acre-ft
3 Accumulated mean 12.2 16.6 19.9 22.6 26.1 38.3 61.2 100
monthly %
4 Accumulated 80% 99 134 161 183 211 310 496 810 810 810 810 810 66
probability acre-ft
5 Lake evaporation 6.3 3.5 2 1.5 1.9 3.1 4.7 5.5 7.8 10.2 10.7 8.8
(ES–1016) in
6 Precipitation (Still- 2.85 2.01 1.35 1.14 1.27 2.16 3.53 4.83 4.08 2.98 3.05 3.62 32.87
water, OK) in
7 Net lake evapora- 0.287 0.124 0.054 0.030 0.052 0.078 0.098 0.056 0.310 0.602 0.638 0.432 2.761
tion ft
Watershield Yield

8 Mean monthly use 288 362 362 294 192 1498

acre-ft
9 Accumulated mean 288 650 1012 1306 1498
monthly use acre-ft
10 Accumulated mean 19.23 43.39 67.56 87.18 100.0

(210–VI–NEH, April 2009)

monthly use %
11 Average mean 50 116 148 172 197 260 403 653 810 810 810 810
monthly 80% prob.
supply acre-ft
Trial No. 1
12 Use acre-ft 125 157 157 128 83 650
Part 630

13 Accumulated use 125 282 439 567 650

acre-ft
14 Mean monthly use 62 204 360 503 608
acre-ft
15 Accumulated mean 50 116 148 172 197 260 403 591 606 450 307 202
monthly storage
(line 11–14)
National Engineering Handbook

16 Elevation assoc. with 841.7 843.7 844.6 845.2 845.8 847.3 849.5 852 852.2 850.3 848 845.9
15 ft

20–11
 Table 20–1 Council Creek near Stillwater, OK, storage required to meet supply-demand relationship—Continued

20–12
Line Item Oct. Nov. Dec. Jan. Feb. Mar. Apr. May June July Aug. Sept. Year
Chapter 20

17 Surface area assoc. 18 30 35 38 42 50 67 86 88 73 56 42

with 16 acres
18 Seepage acre-ft 1 1 1 1 1 2 3 4 4 3 2 1
19 Evaporation 5 4 1 1 2 4 7 5 27 44 36 18
(line 7×17) acre-ft
20 Use acre-ft — — — — — — — 125 157 157 128 83
21 Demand acre-ft 6 5 2 2 3 6 10 134 188 204 166 102
22 Accumulated 6 11 13 15 18 24 34 168 356 560 726 828
Demand acre-ft
Trial No. 2
12 Use acre-ft 121 152 152 124 81 630
13 Accumulated use 121 273 425 549 630
acre-ft
Watershield Yield

14 Mean monthly use 60 197 349 487 590

acre-ft
15 Line 11–14 (Est. stor- 50 116 148 172 197 260 403 593 613 461 323 202
age) acre-ft
16 Elevation assoc. with 841.7 843.7 844.6 845.2 845.8 847.3 849.5 852 852.3 850.4 848.1 846.3

(210–VI–NEH, April 2009)

line 15 ft
17 Surface area assoc. 18 30 35 38 42 50 67 86 89 74 57 45
with line 16 acres
18 Seepage acre-ft 1 1 1 1 1 2 3 4 4 3 2 1
19 Evaporation 5 4 1 1 2 4 7 5 28 45 36 19
(line 7×17) acre-ft
Part 630

20 Use acre-ft — — — — — — — 121 152 152 124 81 630

21 Demand 6 5 2 2 3 6 10 130 184 200 162 101
(line 18+19+20)
acre-ft
22 Accumulated De- 6 11 13 15 18 24 34 164 348 548 710 811
mand acre-ft
23 Required storage 93 123 148 168 193 286 462 646 462 262 100 –1
National Engineering Handbook

(Line 4–22) acre-ft

 Chapter 20 Watershield Yield Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Figure 20–3 Accumulated 80 percent supply for October through May for proposed reservoir near Council Creek, OK

800

Accumulated 80 percent supply

October through May runoff
700

Max required storage ×

646 acre-ft

600

500

Accumulated
× ×
Accumulated acre-ft

demand

400

300
×
×
Required
storage
200 ×
×
×
×
100 × ×

0 ×
Oct. Nov. Dec. Jan. Feb. Mar. Apr. May June July Aug. Sept.
Time

(210–VI–NEH, April 2009) 20–13

Chapter 20 Watershield Yield
upon the best knowledge available, a reasonable water
budget can be determined by applying the water bud-
get formula. This will be an approximate answer to the
question of whether, on the average, the annual stor-
age available for use will meet the estimated needs. In
most cases, however, we are concerned with adequacy
of the seasonal distribution. The use of average annual
values will not adequately answer this question, but it
will indicate feasibility and whether there is justifica-
tion in making a more detailed study.
Approximation using probability of annual supply
and estimated losses—The 80 percent probability of
supply (810 acre-ft) was taken from the frequency
curve in and distributed by months according to the
accumulated mean monthly values in table 20–1. The
accumulated 80 percent supply for October through
May is shown in figure 20–3.
An estimate of the accumulated mean monthly stor-
age was made by subtracting the accumulated mean
monthly use from the accumulated mean monthly 80
percent probability of supply (line 15, table 20–1). With
this estimated storage and its associated elevation,
surface area, and figures 20–2 and 20–4, the reservoir
evaporation and seepage were computed. The accu-
mulated demand should be equal to or less than the
supply, or a new trial must be made after decreasing
the use. The example shown in table 20–1 and figure
20–3 illustrates how the use had to be reduced so the
demand would not exceed the supply. The original
proposal of use (1,498 acres) exceeded the supply (810
acre-ft) without considering losses, therefore, the use
had to be reduced.
The results of using the 80 percent probability of an-
nual supply and estimated losses were checked by
the water budget analysis using observed data. During
water-short years of 1950 and 1951, the required stor-
age estimate of 646 acre-feet was sufficient to satisfy
the indicated use, but this was far below the proposed
use of 1,498 acre-feet.
Approximation using storage—The original proposal
was to provide 1,498 acre-feet of use distributed by
months as shown in line 8, table 20–1. It has been
shown the 80 percent probability of supply would not
supply the proposed use, but with carry-over storage,
20–14 (210–VI–NEH, April 2009)
Part 630
National Engineering Handbook
it might. A procedure for the estimation of required
storage follows with the results shown in figure 20–5.
• Plot the accumulated runoff for a critical low
flow period (1949–1952).
• Superimpose the accumulated use curve on
the mass runoff diagram with time ordinates
coinciding and the use line tangent to the mass
curve at starting time. The use curve must
intersect the mass runoff curve. The maximum
ordinate value (1800) between the accumulated
runoff and the accumulated use represents
the maximum needed storage without consid-
eration of storage needed to satisfy reservoir
evaporation and seepage losses. This storage
value is used as the mean storage value to
determine mean surface elevation from which
estimates can be made of the reservoir evapo-
ration and seepage losses.
• An accumulated demand curve is developed by
summing the values of use, reservoir evapora-
tion and seepage losses.
• The accumulated demand curve is superim-
posed on the accumulated mass curve in a
similar manner to the use curve. The maximum
ordinate between the accumulated runoff curve
and the accumulated demand curve is the re-
quired storage.
The results of this analysis were checked by the water
budget approach and found to more than adequately
provide the needed storage for water-short years 1949
through 1951.
Water budget analysis—The water budget computa-
tion is a trial-and-error procedure. One must estimate
the average monthly water budget from which the
average monthly elevation can be obtained. This is
then compared with the computed average monthly
water surface elevation. This should be in agreement;
if not, a new estimate of elevation should be made and
the computed elevation recalculated.
 Chapter 20 Watershield Yield Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Figure 20–4 Council Creek near Still Water, OK reservoir seepage

800

875

870

(acre-ft)
Stage–seepage loss
month

865
Elevation (msl-ft)

860

855

850

845
20 40 60 80 100 120
Seepage loss (acre-ft)
month

(210–VI–NEH, April 2009) 20–15

 Chapter 20 Watershield Yield Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Figure 20–5 Results of Council Creek near Stillwater, OK,. storage

81

Accumulated demand curve

(seepage, evaporation, and use)
80

79
Accumulated acre-ft (thousands)

78
3050
acre-ft

77
Accumulated
Accumulated use observed runoff

1800
acre-ft

76

75

74
D J F M A M J J A S O N D
1949 1950 1951 1952
Years

20–16 (210–VI–NEH, April 2009)

Chapter 20 Watershield Yield
The basic water budget equation can be written as
follows:
U = S + I − E − Es − QS − R (eq. 20–2)
where:
U = water available for use, acre-ft
S = water storage above the intake elevation,
acre-ft
I = inflow watershed yield, acre-ft
E = evaporation, acre-ft
Es = seepage out of reservoir, acre-ft
Qs = spillway discharge, acre-ft
R = required reservoir release, acre-ft
The geologist provided a geologic cross section
through the reservoir site with log-borings indicating
the type of materials present and their permeability
rates. These rates were associated with stratum eleva-
tions and appear in column 5 of table 20–2.
The assumptions for this example are as follows:
• Seepage into the ground occurs in this particu-
lar reservoir site.
• The laws of seepage apply.
• Hydraulic gradient developed is assumed to be
1:1 or 100 percent.
• Seepage loss equilibrium exists.
• The site consists of uniform material.
Table 20–2 for reservoir seepage losses was prepared
as follows:
Col. 1 Elevation (ft) mean sea level (msl) datum.
Col. 2 Surface area (acre) (fig. 20–2)
Col. 3 Incremental surface area (acre): differ-
ence in surface area associated with the
elevation in question and the previous
elevation
Col. 4 Storage (acre-ft) total storage associated
with elevation in question. (fig. 20–2)
Col. 5 Seepage loss (ft/mo) (furnished by geolo-
gists)
(210–VI–NEH, April 2009)
Part 630
National Engineering Handbook
It is expected that laboratory tests of undis-
turbed samples for the reservoir site and the
borrow area will be available for making the
estimate of seepage loss.
Col. 6 Incremental seepage loss (acre-ft/mo)
column 6 equals column 3 times column 5.
Example: Elevation 846
Col. 6 6 = ( 43 )(.03 ) = 1.29 acre-ft/mo
Col. 7 Summation seepage loss (acre-ft) This is
the accumulation of incremental seepage
losses.
Example: Elevation 848
Col. 7 7 = (13 )(.03 ) + 1.29 + 1.68 acre-ft/mo
Figure 20–4 is plotted from items 1 and 7 of table 20–2.
Figure 20–5 is a plot of the resulting graphical solution
to the water budget of Council Creek near Stillwater,
OK.
Water budget computations were prepared as illustrat-
ed in table 20–3. An explanation of the column head-
ings and the method of computing the data in each
column are described:
Col. 1 Year
Col. 2 Month
Col. 3 Runoff (acre-ft) total watershed yield
from recording stream gage record at site
or from regional estimate
Col. 4 Estimated average water surface eleva-
tion for the month (ft). An estimate is
made of the water budget as follows:
Summation for month in question (Σ)
col. 12 (previous month+col. 3–col. 7
–col. 8–col. 9–col. 10–col. 11=col. 12
storage at end of current month (acre-ft)
Determine stage associated with the aver-
age of col. 12 (previous month) and col.
12 current month storage. This estimated
stage col. 4 is then used for computing
actual values.
Col. 5 Water surface area in reservoir (acre) for
stage in col. 4 (from stage-area curve for
the reservoir)
20–17
Chapter 20 Watershield Yield Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Table 20–2 Reservoir seepage losses

Column 1 Column 2 Column 3 Column 4 Column 5 Column 6 Column 7

Elevation Surface area ∆ surface area Storage Seepage rate ∆ seepage Σ monthly seepage
(ft msl) (acre) (acre-ft) (ft/mo) (acre-ft/mo) (acre-ft)
43 0.03 1.29
846 43 211 1.29
13 .03 .39
848 56 310 1.68
14 .09 1.26
850 70 436 2.94
16 .09 1.44
852 86 592 4.38
18 .09 1.62
854 104 782 6.00
21 .09 1.89
856 125 1011 7.89
23 .09 2.07
858 148 1284 9.96
25 .12 3.00
860 173 1605 12.96
30 .12 3.60
862 203 1981 16.56
37 .12 4.44
864 240 2424 21.00
40 .12 4.80
866 280 2944 25.80
45 .12 5.40
868 325 3549 31.20
55 .15 8.25
870 380 4254 39.45
60 .15 9.00
872 440 5074 48.45
70 .15 10.50
874 510 6024 58.95
85 .21 17.85
876 595 7129 76.80
95 .21 19.95
878 690 8414 96.75
110 .21 23.10
880 800 9904 119.85

20–18 (210–VI–NEH, April 2009)

 Table 20–3 Water budget analysis for Council Creek Watershed near Stillwater, OK
Chapter 20

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15
Year Month Runoff Est. avg. Est. avg. Evaporation Evapora- Seepage Res- Spillway Demand Storage Water Comput- Elev.
monthly water tion ervoir discharge at end of surface ed avg. for avg.
water surface release month elev. at storage monthly
surface area end of for month storage
elevation month
(acre-ft) (ft) (acre) (ft) (acre-ft) (acre-ft) (acre-ft) (acre-ft) (acre-ft) (acre-ft) (ft) (acre-ft) (ft)
Mar. 0 0
1949 Apr. 85 841.3 15 0.459 7 0 0 0 0 78 842.9 39 841.3
May 4470 859.9 173 0.51 88 13 0 1397 0 3050 866.5 1564 859.9
June 121 865.6 270 0.68 184 24 121 0 274 2568 864.7 2809 865.6
July 105 863.8 237 0.721 171 20 105 0 238 2139 862.9 2354 863.8
Aug. 6 861.9 202 0.685 138 17 6 0 242 1742 860.9 1940 861.9
Sept. 289 860.5 182 0.507 92 14 289 0 0 1636 860.2 1689 860.5
Oct. 38 860.2 178 0.309 55 13 0 0 0 1606 860.1 1621 860.2
Watershield Yield

Nov 13 860 175 0.202 35 13 0 0 0 1571 589.9 1588 860

Dec 24 859.9 173 151 26 13 0 0 0 1556 859.8 1563 859.9
Subtotal 5151 796 127 521 1397 754 1556 Check
1950 Jan. 72 860 175 0.122 21 13 0 0 0 1596 860 1575 860

(210–VI–NEH, April 2009)

Feb. 64 860.1 177 0.166 29 13 0 0 0 1616 860.2 1605 860.1
Mar. 54 860.1 177 0.371 29 13 0 0 0 154 860.7 1604 860.1
Apr. 157 860.1 177 0.606 107 13 0 0 0 1628 860.2 1610 860.1
May 498 860.7 184 0.531 98 14 0 0 184 1830 861.3 1729 860.7
June 382 859.7 168 0.641 108 13 382 0 413 1296 858.2 1513 859.7
July 5020 858 148 0.415 61 10 5020 0 0 1225 857.7 1260 858
Part 630

Aug. 1170 857.1 137 0.497 68 9 1170 0 107 1041 856.4 1133 857.1
Sept. 104 855.8 123 0.352 43 8 104 0 100 890 835.1 966 855.8
Oct. 21 855 114 0.386 44 7 0 0 0 860 854.8 875 855
Nov. 35 854.8 113 0.228 26 7 0 0 0 862 854.8 861 854.8
Dec. 32 854.8 113 0.14 16 7 0 0 0 1 854.9 866 854.8
Subtotal 7609 687 127 6676 0 804 1 Check
National Engineering Handbook

1951 Jan. 75 855.1 117 0.17 20 7 0 0 0 919 855.3 895 855.1

20–19
 Table 20–3 Water budget analysis for Council Creek Watershed near Stillwater, OK—Continued

20–20
Chapter 20

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15
Year Month Runoff Est. avg. Est. avg. Evaporation Evapora- Seepage Res- Spillway Demand Storage Water Comput- Elev.
monthly water tion ervoir discharge at end of surface ed avg. for avg.
water surface release month elev. at storage monthly
surface area end of for month storage
elevation month

(acre-ft) (ft) (acre) (ft) (acre-ft) (acre-ft) (acre-ft) (acre-ft) (acre-ft) (acre-ft) (ft) (acre-ft) (ft)
Feb. 514 857.2 139 0.155 22 9 0 0 0 1402 858.9 1160 857.2
Mar. 167 859.2 163 0.367 60 12 0 0 0 1497 859.5 1450 859.2
Apr. 277 860 175 0.373 65 13 0 0 0 1696 860.6 1596 860
May 1560 863.9 238 0.421 100 21 0 72 13 3050 866.5 2372 869.9
June 762 866 280 0.512 143 26 762 0 100 2781 865.4 2916 866
Subtotal 3355 410 88 762 72 113 2781 Check
Watershield Yield

(210–VI–NEH, April 2009)

Part 630
National Engineering Handbook
Chapter 20 Watershield Yield Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

Col. 6 Evaporation on average water surface Example: April 1940

area in reservoir (ft).
7 = 15 × 0.459 (eq. 20–4)
Pan evaporation for station at Stillwater was fragmen-
tary, record necessitating correlation with first-order
Col. 8 Total seepage using average monthly
station at Oklahoma City.
water surface elevation.
Steps used in arriving at lake evaporation at Stillwater: Example: November 1949
From climatological records at Oklahoma City. Month-
Estimated average monthly water surface
ly pan and lake evaporations for Oklahoma City were
elevation 860.0 (msl). From stage–seep-
computed using climatological factors.
age loss curve (fig. 20–4) the total seepage
equals 13.0 acre-ft.
A correlation equation was written between the com-
puted pan evaporation at Oklahoma City and the mea- Col. 9 Reservoir release (acre-ft) released to
sured monthly pan evaporation at Stillwater. meet prior appropriations or maintain
low flows. In this example, all runoff that
Y = 0.4 + 1.17 X (eq. 20–3) occurs from June 1 through September
30 must be passed through the reservoir
where: without depletion.
X = computed pan evaporation, using adjusted
Col. 10 Spillway discharge computed for the
wind for Oklahoma City
month (acre-ft) computed from mean
Y = measured monthly pan evaporation at Stillwa-
stage over crest of spillway and hydrau-
ter, Oklahoma
lics of the spillway.
The next assumption was that the pan-lake evapora- Col. 11 Gross water needed for month (acre-ft).
tion relationship at Oklahoma City would be a reason- This information will be provided by the
able estimate of the pan-lake evaporation relationship user or the agents.
at Stillwater.
Col. 12 Storage at end of month (acre-ft). Current
month (column 12) equals the summation
Monthly lake evaporation at Stillwater was computed
of the previous month’s storage at end of
by multiplying the computed monthly lake evaporation
the month. Storage equals column 12 plus
at Oklahoma City by the ratio of the observed monthly
column 3 minus the sum of columns 7, 8,
pan evaporation at Stillwater to the computed monthly
9, 10, and 11.
pan evaporation at Oklahoma City.
Pos Example: April 1940
Es = Eo

Poc
(eq. 20–4)
0 + 85 − (7 − 10 + 0 + 0 + 0 ) = 78

Col. 13 Water elevation at end of month (ft).

where:
Mean sea level (msl) from stage-storage
E s = computed monthly lake evaporation at Still-
curve with storage at the end of month,
water
(col. 12).
Pos = observed monthly pan evaporation at Still-
water Col. 14 Computed average storage for the month
Poc = computed monthly pan evaporation at (acre-ft). Computed as average of previ-
Oklahoma City ous end of month storage and current end
E o = computed monthly lake evaporation at Okla- of month storage.
homa City
Col. 15 Elevation for the average monthly storage
(ft). msl: stage (ft) msl associated with
Col. 7 Evaporation from average water surface
average monthly storage (acre-ft)
area (acre-ft). Evaporation (col) equals
column 15 times column 16 in acre feet.

(210–VI–NEH, April 2009) 20–21

Chapter 20 Watershield Yield
The water budget analysis for the period March 1949
through June 1951 indicated that carry-over storage of
3,050 acre-feet provided for all the necessary require-
ments. In July of 1954 and 1956, 3,050 acre-feet of
storage were not sufficient to provide for the demand.
The determination of whether the storage is adequate,
inadequate, or excessive is a judgment decision based
upon this kind of analysis and the nature of the intend-
ed use. In this example, if the use were water supply,
fire protection, or recreation, the storage might not be
considered adequate. The storage could be considered
adequate for irrigation, livestock water, or orchard
spray water where periods of low supply can be toler-
ated.
Water stored below the elevation of sediment pool
cannot be used; however, if depletion has lowered
the water level to the elevation of the sediment pool,
evaporation and seepage will continue to deplete this
storage, and the storage would have to be replaced
before water would be available for beneficial use. The
reservoir operations study program (RESOP) or other
reservoir operation computer program can be used in
lieu of manual computations.
20–22 (210–VI–NEH, April 2009)
Part 630
National Engineering Handbook
630.2004 Data Sources
Some primary data source for the retrieval of stream
flow, reservoir, diversion, and climate data used in
watershed yield analysis are described in this section.
Other specific sources may be required depending on
the site situation.
(a) Stream flow data
The USGS is responsible for collecting and maintain-
ing daily stream flow data and reservoir levels within
the United States These data are available on a current
and historic basis in their National Water Information
System Web site (NWISWeb). Selected water-resources
data for approximately 1.5 million sites across the
United States from 1857 to the present. The USGS
NWISWeb tutorial includes step-by-step guides for the
first-time user of NWISWeb. The current Web address is
http://water.usgs.gov/data. Some State and local gov-
ernment agencies maintain their stream gage networks
which may or may not be incorporated into NWIS.
Streamflow data collection by other Federal agencies is
generally incorporated in the to NWIS Web site.
(b) Precipitation data
The National Weather Service is responsible for col-
lecting climate data. The National Climate Data Center
(NCDC) stores this data and their Web site is http://
www.ncdc.noaa.gov/oa/ncdc.html. The NRCS has
some precipitation data available which is a download
from NCDC. The operators and owners of reservoirs
and sewage treatment plants may have collected pre-
cipitation data that is not included in the NCDC data-
bases. The state climatologist should have a good idea
of what precipitation data is available.
(c) Evaporations data
The NOAA technical reports NWS 33 and NWS 34
contain the best evaporation data available. Various
state universities and agricultural agencies may have
collected evaporation data at selected locations. The
state climatologist should have a good idea of what
evaporation data is available.
Chapter 20 Watershield Yield Part 630
National Engineering Handbook

U.S. Geological Survey. 2007. A monthly water-balance

­630.2005 References model driven by a graphical interface. Open-file
report 2007, 1088. Washington, DC.

American Society of Civil Engineers. 1996. Hydrology U.S. Geological Survey. 1987. Average annual runoff
handbook. ASCE Manuals and Reports on Engi- in the United States 1951–1980. Hydrologic atlas
neering Practice No. 28 (2nd ed.). 710.

Daly, C., R.P. Neilson, and D.L. Phillips. 1994. A statis-

tical-topographic model for mapping climatologi-
cal precipitation over mountainous terrain. J.
Appl. Meteor. 33(2):140-158.

Garen, D.C., G.L. Johnson, and C.L. Hanson. 1994.

Mean areal precipitation for daily hydrologic
modeling in mountainous regions. Water Re-
sourc. Bul. 30(3):481-491.

Gebert, W.A., D.J. Graczyk, and W.R. Krug. 1987. Aver-

age annual runoff in the United States 1951–80.
U.S. Geological Survey Hydrologic Atlas 710.
Washington, DC.

Hawley, M.E., and R.H. McCuen. 1982. Water yield esti-

mation in western United States. Amer. Soc. Civ.
Eng., J. Irrig. and Drain. Div. 108(IR1):25-34.

Healy, R.W., T.C. Winter, J.W. LaBaugh, and O.L.

Franke. 2007. Water budgets: Foundations for
effective water-resources and environmental
management. U.S. Geological Survey Circular
1308. Washington, DC. 90 p.

Jensen, M.E., R.D. Burman, and R.G. Allen (eds.). 1990.

Evapotranspiration and irrigation water require-
ments. Amer. Soc. Civ. Eng. Manuals and Reports
on Engineering Practice No. 70.

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

1982. Mean monthly seasonal and annual pan
evaporation for the United States. Technical
report NWS 34. Washington, DC.

Saxton, K.E., and P.A.H. Willey. 2005. Soil-plant-air-

water Users Manual. 37 pp.

Thornthwaite, C.W., and J.R. Mather. 1955. The water

balance. In Climatology, Vol. VIII, No.1, Lab. of
Climatol., Drexel Instit. Tech. Centerton, NJ.

(210–VI–NEH, April 2009) 20–23

 NATIONAL ENGINEERING HANDBOOK

SECTION 4

HYDROLOGY

CHAFTER 21. DESIGN HYDROGRAPHS

Victor Mockus
Eydraulic Engineer

Revisions by

Vincent McKeever
William Owen
Robert Rallison
Hydraulic Engineers

Reprinted with minor revisions, 1972

NEH Notice 4-102, August 1972

 NATIONAL ENGINEERING HANDBOOK

SECTION 4
HYDROLOGY

CHAPTER 2 1 . DESIGN HYDROGRAPHS

Contents &
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21.1
P r i n c i p a l Spillways . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21.1
Runoff curve number procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21.2
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21.2
Sources of r a i n f a l l d a t a
. . . . . . . . . 21.2
Areal adjustment of r a i n f a l l amount
Runoff curve numbers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21.2
Climatic index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21.3
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21.5
Channel l o s s e s
Quickreturnflow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 . 5
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21.5
Upstream r e l e a s e s
Combination of channel l o s s . quick r e t u r n flow.
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21.5
and upstream r e l e a s e
Runoff volume maps procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21.8
Areas of mapped runoff volume . . . . . . . . . . . . 21.8
Deep snowpack a r e a s. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21.8
Construction of p r i n c i p a l spi1lwa;- hydrographs and
mass curves. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21.9
Development of Table 21.10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21.9
Use of Table 21.10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21.10
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21.12
Examples

Faergency Spillways . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Hydrologic c r i t e r i a . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Source of design storm r a i n f a l l am0un.t .....
.....
Duration adjustment of r a i n f a l l amount
.......
A r e a l adjustment of r a i n f a l l amount
Runoff determination ..............
Dimensionless hydrographs ............
Construction of emergency s p i l l w a y an$ freeboard
hydrographs .................
Figures

Figure

21.la Quick r e t u r n flow combine? w i t h p r i n c i p a l

s p i l l w a y hydrograph f o r t h e runoff volume map
procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21.9
 Figures

Figure

. . . . . . . . .. . . . . .:
Mass curves of runoff
ES-1003 .......................
323-1011 .......................
ES-1012 ......................
ES-1020 (Contiguous s t a t e s )
Sheet 1 of 5 ....................
Sheet 2 of 5 .....................
Sheet 3 of 5 ....................
Sheet 4 of 5 .....................
Sheet 5 of 5 ....................
ES-1021 (Hawaii)
Sheet 1 of 5 ....................
Sheet 2 of 5 ....................
Sheet 3 of 5 ......................
Sheet 4 of 5 ....................
Sheet 5 of 5 ....................
ES-1022 (Alaska)
Sheet 1 of 5 ....................
Sheet 2 of 5 ....................
Sheet 3 of 5 ....................
Sheet 4 of 5 ....................
Sheet 5 of 5 ....................
ES-1023 (Puerto Rico)
Sheet 1 of 5 ....................
Sheet 2 of 5 ....................
Sheet 3 of 5 .....................
Sheet 4 of 5 ....................
Sheet 5 of 5 ....................
. . . Croix Islands )
ES-1024 (St Thomas. S t John. S t
Sheet 1 of 5 ....................
Sheet 2 of 5 ....................
Sheet 3 of 5 ....................
Sheet 4 of 5 ....................
Sheet 5 of 5 .....................
Tables

Tables

21.1 ....
Ratios f o r a r e a l adjustment of r a i n f a l l amount
21.2 ............
Ten-day runoff curve numbers
21.3 Channel-loss f a c t o r s f o r reduction of d i r e c t
runoff ......................
21.4 Minimum quick r e t u r n flow f o r PSH derived from
rainfall .....................
 Tables

Table

Arrangement of increments b e f o r e c o n s t r u c t i o n of
PSHandPSMC .................... 21.11
PSH and PSMC f o r example 21.1 ............. 21.14
PSH and PSMC f o r example 21.2 ............. 21.16
PSH f o r example 21.3 ............ ..... 21.18
............
S e r i a l numbers of PSH and PSMC 21.19
Time, r a t e , and mass t a b u l a t i o n f o r p r i n c i p a l
spillway hydrographs (PsH) and mass curves (PSMC) .. 21.20
.....
Equations used i n c o n s t r u c t i o n of ESH and FH 21.52
Hydrograph computation ................ 21.54
Hydrograph computation ................ 21.56
...........
R a i n f a l l p r i o r t o excess r a i n f a l l 21.57
R a i n f a l l and time r a t i o s f o r determining To
....
when storm duration i s g r e a t e r than 6 hours 21.58
Hydrograph f a m i l i e s and To/Tp r a t i o s f o r which
dimensionless hydrograph r a t i o s a r e given i n
Table 21.17 ................... .21.59
Time, discharge, and accumulated runoff :-atios
...........
f o r dimensionless hydrographs 21.60

Exhibits

Exhibit

21.1 100-year 10-day runoff f o r developing t h e p r i n c i p a l

spillway hydrograph ( e a s t ) . . . . . . . . . . . . 21.48a
.
21.2 Ratios of volumes of runoff ( Q 1 / Q l O ) f o r developing
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21.48b
t h e PSH ( e a s t )
21.3 Quick r e t u r n flow f o r developing t h e p r i n c i p a l
spillway hydrograph . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21.48~
21.4 100-year 10-day runoff f o r developing t h e p r i n c i -
. . . . . . . . . . . 21.48d
p a l spillway hydrograph ( w e s t )
21.5 Ratios of volumes of runoff (Q,/Qlo)for develop-
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21.48e
i n g t h e PSH ( w e s t )
 NATIONAL ENGINEERING HANDBOOK

SECTION 4
HYDROLOGY

CHAPTER 21. DESIGN HYDROGRAPHS

Introduction

This chapter contains a systematic approach t o t h e development of

design hydrographs f o r use i n proportioning e a r t h dams and t h e i r s p i l l -
ways according t o SCS c r i t e r i a . Included a r e d a t a o r sources of d a t a
f o r design r a i n f a l l amount, d u r a t i o n , and d i s t r i b u t i o n ; methods of
modifying design runoff t o include e f f e c t s of channel l o s s e s , quick
r e t u r n flow, o r upstream r e l e a s e s ; and methods f o r r a p i d c o n s t r u c t i o n
of hydrographs..
L
The methodology presented i n t h i s chapter i s s u i t a b l e f o r t h e design
of many t y p e s of water c o n t r o l s t r u c t u r e s , i n c l u d i n g channel works,
but t h e emphasis i s on hydrology f o r design of e a r t h dams t h a t pro-
vide temporary s t o r a g e f o r f l o o d prevention i n a d d i t i o n t o permanent
s t o r a g e f o r o t h e r uses. I t s c h i e f purpose i s t o c o n t r i b u t e t o s a f e
design. Although t h e methods are based on d a t a of a c t u a l storms and
f l o o d s , they a r e not intended f o r reproducing hydrographs of a c t u a l
f l o o d s ; more s u i t a b l e methods f o r a c t u a l floods a r e found i n e a r l i e r
chapters.

The remainder of t h i s chapter i s divided i n t o two major p a r t s . The

f i r s t i s concerned with hydrologic design f o r p r i n c i p a l s p i l l w a y s ,
t h e second f o r emergency spillways. The examples i n each p a r t go
only a s f a r a s t h e completion of hydrographs. Methods of r o u t i n g
hydrographs through spillways a r e given i n c h a p t e r 17. Uses of hyd-
rographs a r e i l l u s t r a t e d i n o t h e r SCS p u b l i c a t i o n s .

P r i n c i p a l Spillways

The SCS c r i t e r i a r e q u i r e p r i n c i p a l spillway c a p a c i t y and t h e associa-

t e d floodwater r e t a r d i n g s t o r a g e t o be such t h a t p r o j e c t o b j e c t i v e s
a r e 'met and t h a t t h e frequency of emergency s p i l l w a y o p e r a t i o n i s
within s p e c i f i e d l i m i t s . The c r i t e r i a a r e met by use of a P r i n c i p a l
Spillway Hydrograph (PSH) o r i t s mass curve (PSMC), which a r e devel-
L oped a s shown i n t h i s p a r t of t h e chapter. D e t a i l s of SCS hydrologic
c r i t e r i a a r e given f i r s t , t h e n d e t a i l s of t h e PSH and PSMC develop-
ment a r e given i n examples.

NEH Notice 4-1, January 1971

Any one of four methods of runoff determination is suitable for the
design of principal spillway capacity and retarding storage. They are
(1) the runoff cunre number procedure using rainfall data and the water-
shed's characteristics, (2) the use of runoff yolume maps covering
specific areas of the United States, (3) the regionalization and trans-
position of volume-duration-probability analyses made by the SCS Central
Technical Unit, and (4) the use of local streamflow data with provision
of sufficient documentation on the method and results. The latter two
methods are not discussed in this chapter because they vary in procedure
from @ w e to case, due to conditions of local data, and standard pro-
cedures have not yet been established.

Runoff Curve Number Procedure

The runoff curve number procedure uses certain climatic data and the
characteristics of a watershed to convert rainfall data to runoff vol-
me. This procedure should be used for those areas of the country not
covered by runoff volume and rate maps. (Exhibit 21.1 through 21.5. )

SOURCES OF RAINFALL DATA. Rainfall data for the determination of di-

rect runoff may be obtained from maps in U.S. Weather Bureau technical
papers :

For durations to 1 day.--

TP-40. 48 contiguous States.
TP-42. Puerto Rico and Virgin Islands.
TP-43. Hawaii.
TP-47. Alaska.

For durations from 2 to 10 days.--

=-49. 48 contiguous States
TP-51. Hawaii.
TP-52. Alaska.
TP-53. Puerto Rico and Virgin Islands.
AREAL AWUSTMEWl OF R A I N F U AMOUNT. If the drainage area above a
structure is not over 10 square miles, no adjustment in rainfall
amount is made. If it is over 10 square miles, the area-point ratios
of table 21.1 may be used to reduce the rainfall amount. The table
applies to all geographical locations serviced by SCS. The ratios
are based on the 1- and 10-day depth-area curves of figure 10, U.S.
Weather Bureau TP-49, but are modified to give a ratio of 1 at 10
square miles.

RUNOFF CURVE NUMBERS. The runoff curve number (CN) for the drainage
area above a structure is determined and runoff is estimated as de-
scribed in chapters 7 through 10. The CN is for atltecedent moisture
condition I1 and it applies to the 1-day storm used in development of
the PSH or PSMC. If the 100-year frequency 10-day duration point

NEH Notice 4-1, January 1971

Table 21. i . - - ~ a t i o s f o r a r e a l adjustment of r a i n f a l l amount

Area Area/point r a t i o f o r Area/point ratio for

Area
1 day 10 days 1 day 10 days
3. m i .
10 or l e s s
15
20
25
30

r a i n f a l l f o r t h e s t r u c t u r e s i t e i s 6 or more inches, t h e CN f o r t h e 10-

day storm i s taken from t a b l e 21.2. If it i s . l e s s than 6 inches, t h e CN
f o r t h e 10-day storm i s t h e same a s t h a t f o r t h e 1-day storm. The
10-day CN i s used only with t h e t o t a l 10-day r a i n f a l l .

CLIMATIC IIVDEX. The climatic index used i n t h i s part of t h e chapter

is:

where C i = climatic index

Pa = average annual p r e c i p i t a t i o n i n inches
Ta = average annual temperature i n degrees Fahrenheit

P r e c i p i t a t i o n and temperature data f o r U.S. Weather Bureau s t a t i o n s

can be obtained f r o m t h e following Weather Bureau publications:

Climatological Data. Issued annually and monthly f o r each S t a t e

o r a combination of S t a t e s and for Puerto Rico and Virgin Islands.
The annual issues contain annual and monthly data and averages o r
departures; monthly issues contain similar information f o r indi-
vidual months.
Climatic Summary of t h e United S t a t e s -
Supplement f o r 1931-1952.
Issued once f o r each S t a t e o r a combination of States.
Climates of t h e S t a t e s . Issued once f o r each S t a t e and f o r Puerto
Rico and Yirgin Islands.
Monthly Normals of Temperature, Precipitation, and Heating
Degree Days. Issued once f o r each S t a t e o r a combination of
States. Also contains annual averages.

(210-VI-NM-4, Amend. 6, March 1985)

Table 21.2. --Ten-day runoff curve numbers*

Runoff curve numbers for:

1 day 10 days lday lodays 1 day 10 days

* This t a b l e i s used only i f the 100-year frequency lO-day p o i n t rain-

f a l l is 6 or more inches. I f it i s l e s s , t h e 10-day CIi i s t h e same

as t h a t f o r 1 day.

(210-VI-NEH-4, Amend. 6, March 1985)

 Climatic Maps f o r t h e National Atlas. Maps with a scale of one
i n t e n million. A map f o r ayerage annual p r e c i p i t a t i o n i s avail-
able but t h e r e i s no map f o r average annual temperature.

SCS personnel may obtain these publications thPough t h e i r Regional

Technical Service Center.

CHANNEL LOSSES. I f t h e drainage a r e a above a s t r u c t u r e has a climatic

index l e s s than 1, then t h e d i r e c t runoff from r a i n f a l l may be decreased
t o account f o r channel l o s s e s of i n f l u e n t streams. Channel l o s s e s can
be determined from l o c a l data but t h e ' l o s s e s must not be more than de-
termined by use of t a b l e 21.3. When adequate l o c a l d a t a a r e not a v a i l -
able, t a b l e 21.3 i s t o be used. Example 21.1 gives t h e procedure f o r
making t h e channel l o s s reduction of d i r e c t runoff.

Channel l o s s e s i n areas where t h e c l i m a t i c index i s 1 o r more w i l l

require s p e c i a l study; r e s u l t s must be approved by t h e Director,
Engineering Division, before being used i n f i n a l design hydrology.

QUICK RETURN FLOW. Quick r e t u r n flow (QRF) i s t h e r a t e of discharge t h a t

P e r s i s t s f o r some period beyond t h a t f o r which t h e 10-day PSH i s derived.
It includes base flow and other flows t h a t become a p a r t of t h e flood
hydrograph such a s ( 1 ) r a i n f a l l t h a t has i n f i l t r a t e d and reappeared
soon afterwards a s surface flow; ( 2 ) drainage from marshes and potholes;
and ( 3 ) delayed drainage from snow banks. I f t h e drainage a r e a above
a s t r u c t u r e has a climatic index g r e a t e r than 1, then QRF must be
added t o t h e hydrograph o r mass curve of d i r e c t runoff from r a i n f a l l .
QRF can be determined from l o c a l data but it must not be l e s s than t h e
steady r a t e determined by use of t a b l e 21.4. When adequate l o c a l data
a r e not a v a i l a b l e , t a b l e 21.4 i s t o be used. Example 21.2 gives t h e
procedure f o r adding QRF t o t h e hydrograph or mass curve of d i r e c t run-
off derived from r a i n f a l l .

UPSTREAM RELEASES. Releases from upstream s t r u c t u r e s must be added t o

t h e hydrograph o r mass curve of runoff. This addition must be made re-
gardless of other additions o r subtractions of flow. Upstream r e l e a s e
r a t e s a r e determined from routinns of applicable hydrographs o r mass
curves through t h e upstream s t r u c t u r e s and t h e reaches downstream from
them.

COMBINATIONS OF CHANNEL LOSS, QUICK RETURN FLOW AND UPSTREAM RELEASE.

In t h e introduction it was s t a t e d t h a t t h e chief Purpose of t h e method-
ology i n t h i s chapter i s t o contribute t o safe design and t h a t these
methods a r e not intended f o r reproctucing a c t u a l floods. Equation 21.1
and t a b l e s 21.1 through 21.4 must be considered i n t h a t l i g h t .

For l a r g e watersheds t h e topography may be such t h a t two climatic in-

dexes a r e needed, f o r example where a semiarid p l a i n i s surrounded by
mountains. In such cases t h e design storm i s determined f o r t h e water-
shed a s a whole, t h e d i r e c t runoff i s estimated separately f o r t h e two

NM Notice 4-1, January 1971

 TABLE 21.3--CHANNEL-LOSS FhCTGRS FOR REDUCTION O f DIRECT RUNOFF
.......................................................................
.
ORAlN&Gt
.:--------------------------------------------------
C L I R A T I C INDEX C I

AREA
.:
:
1.0 0.9 t 08 0.7 0.6 0.5 0.4 OR
LESS

-------
SP. MI.

1. OR LESS
2.
3.
4.
5.

20.
SO.
40.
SO.
60.

200.
250.
500.
350.
roo.

NXU Notice 4-103, June 1981

Sable 21.4. Minimum quick return flow for PSH derived from
rainfall.

Ci Qm Ci &RF
in./aax p=l i n . 1 ~

+ Change in tabulation interval.

For C i greater than 3, uee:

QRF -
= g ( ~ i1)O*5 for QRF it. csm

or &RF = 0.335 ( C i - 1)0'5 f o r w i n

inches per day.

(210-VI-NEH-4, Amend. 6, March 1985)

p a r t s by use of appropriate CN and then combined, t h e channel l o s s re-
duction i s based on t h e a r e a of t h e semiarid p l a i n and i t s c l i m a t i c
index, t h e hydrograph o r mass curve of d i r e c t runoff i s constructed,
and QRF from t h e mountain a r e a i s added.

I f t h e r e a r e upstream s t r u c t u r e s , t h e i r r e l e a s e s a r e always added re-

gardless of t h e downstream c l i m a t i c index or o t h e r considerations.

Rmoff Volume Maps Procedure

The runoff volume and r a t e maps, e x h i b i t s 21.1 through 21.5, a r e pro-

vided f o r areas of t h e United S t a t e s where measured runoff volumes vary
s i g n i f i c a n t l y from those obtained from t h e curve number procedure f o r
converting r a i n f a l l t o runoff. The mapped areas a r e of two gener,al
types: ( 1 ) t h e areas where runoff from e i t h e r snowmelt, dormant season
r a i n f a l l , o r a combination of t h e two produce g r e a t e r runoff volumes
than growing season r a i n f a l l and ( 2 ) t h e deep snowpack areas of high
mountain elevations.

AREAS OF bIAPPED RUNOFF VOLUME. The 100-year 10-day runoff volume maps,
e x h i b i t s 21.1 and 21.4, represent regionalized values derived from
gaged streamflow data &d supplementk with climatological data and
l o c a l observations. These values should be used f o r estimating flood-
water detention storage within t h e map a r e a where l o c a l streamflow
d a t a a r e not adequate.

Areal reduction should not be made on t h e 10-day runoff volumes shown

i n t h e maps. Since these-amounts were derived from stream gage d a t a ,
base flow and channel l o s s w i l l be automatically included i n t h e map
values and i n Table 21.10.

Quick r e t u r n flow i n t h i s procedure i s used as t h e r a t e of discharge

expected t o p e r s i s t beyond t h e flood period described under t h e 10-day
PSH. The r a t e s of discharge, e x h i b i t 21.3, were derived by averaging
t h e accumulated depths of runoff between t h e 1 5 t h and 30th day on
volume-duration-probability (VDP) accumulation graphs. They were ob-
t a i n e d from t h e same VDP s t a t i o n d a t a from which t h e 100-year 10-day
runoff volumes i n e x h i b i t 21.1 were obtained.

When using t h e Runoff Volume Maps Procedure, t h e quick r e t u r n flow

r a t e , exhibit 21.3, is made an extension t o t h e PSH before routing it
through t h e r e s e r v o i r , f i g u r e 21.la.

DEEP SNOWPACK AREAS. Flood volume estimates from t h e deep snowpack

areas may be calculated from l o c a l streamflow d a t a o r by regionali-
zation and t r a n s p o s i t i o n of streamflow data.

A standard procedure f o r making a regional a n a l y s i s of volumes of

runoff f o r v - w i n g durations and frequencied has not been developed
a t t h i s time. Past experience has indicated t h a t acceptable e s t i -
mates can be made using multiple regression techniques. I f watersheds
can be s e l e c t e d t h a t a r e reasonably homogeneous with regard t o items

NM ~ o t i c e4-1, January 1971

 TIME - DAYS
Figure 21.la Quick Return Flow Combined with P r i n c i p a l Spillway
Hydrograph f o r t h e Runoff Volume Maps Procedure.

such as seasonal p r e c i p i t a t i o n , range of elevation, aspect, cover,

geology, s o i l s , e t c . , estimating equations can be developed with
a minimum number of independent variables. U n t i l techniques a r e
developed t o properly analyze t h e e f f e c t s of a number of v a r i a b l e s ,
t h e s e l e c t i o n of homogeneous gaged watersheds with as much s i m i l a r i t y
t o t h e ungaged watersheds a s possible i s recommended f o r estimating
volume-duration-probability data. St a t i s t i c s from volume-durat ion-
p r o b a b i l i t y studies of gaged watersheds can a l s o be used t o a s s i s t
i n developing estimating equations.

Construction of P r i n c i p a l Spillway Hydrographs and Mass Curves

The p r i n c i p a l spillway capacity and r e t a r d i n g storage amount a r e pro-

poptioned using t h e Principal Spillway Hydrograph (PsH) o r i t s mass
curve (PSMC) developed from tabulations given i n t a b l e 21.10. Examples
i n t h i s s e c t i o n show how t o s e l e c t t h e appropriate s e t of t a b u l a t i o n s
and t o construct t h e PSH or PSMC. One o r more routings of t h e PSH o r
PSMC give t h e required storage and p r i n c i p a l spillway capacity; t h e
routings a r e discussed i n chapter 17.

DEXELOPMENT OF TABLE 21.10. The p r i n c i p l e s of hydrograph development

a r e discussed i n chapter 16 but because t h e standard s e r i e s of PSH
and PSMC i s not described t h e r e , t h e method of preparation w i l l be
b r i e f l y given here.

The PSH and PSMC i n t a b l e 21.10 a r e developed from a continuous 10-day

period of on-site d i r e c t runoff, a l l of a given frequency. Choice of
t h e 10-day period i s based on SCS experience with t h e use of both
stream-flow records and an e a r l i e r system of standardized hydrographs.
I f t h e runoff i n t h e 10-day period i s arranged i n order of decreasing

NEH Notice 4-1, January 1971

rate of flow and then accumulated to form a mass curve, it has the
appearance of c m e A in figure 21.1. Such a curye is a straight
line on log paper and it has the equation:
&D = Qio ~ ~ / 1 0 1 ~ (21.2)
where QD = total runoff at time D in days
Q ~ =Q total runoff at the end of 10 days
D = time in days
a = log ( Q ~ o/&), in which Q1 is the total runoff at the
end of 1 day

Thus, knowing only the 1- and 10-day runoff amounts, a continuous

mass curve can be developed for the entire lO-day period.

Examination of such mass curves of runoff from streamflow stations

in many locations of the United States showed that the exponent
varied from 0.1 to 0.5. Extremes of 0.0458 and 0.699 were chosen for
the standard curves; these extremes correspond to Qi/Qlo ratios of
0.9 and 0.2 respectively. The ratio Ql/Qlo is used hereafter in this
chapter as a parameter in preference to a or Qlo/Ql because Qlo is
more satisfactory as a divisor in preparing PSH and PSMC with dimen-
sionless rates and amounts of flow. Ql/Qlo ratios of 0.2, 0.3, 0.4,
0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, and 0.9 were selected to give representative
degrees of curvature for the runoff curves.

The 10-day on-site runoff for each Qi/Qlo ratio was rearranged as shown
in table 21.5to provide a moderately critical distribution of the
10-day runoff. This gave a distribution midway between extremes that
are theoretically possible. On figure 21.1, curves A and B show the
extremes and c w e C shows the rearranged distribution for a Ql/Qlo
ratio of 0.4.

The effects of watershed lag were included by taking increments of

runoff for each of the eight typical mass curves, making incremental
hydrographs, and summing these to give total hydrographs for water-
sheds with times of concentration of 1.5, 3, 6, 12, 18, 24, 30, 36,
42, 48, 54, 60, 66, and 72 hours. This gave 112 hydrographs , each of
which was redueed to unit rates of runoff and afterwards accumulated
and reduced to unit mass curves. Curve D in figure 21.1 is the mass
curve developed from curve C for a watershed with a t h e of concentra-
tion of 24 hours, Runoff for curve D went on for more than a day past
the termination point E but because the rate was so small, the mass
curve was terminated as shown. Other PSH and PSMC in table 21.10 are
similarly terminated. The time interval is varied to reduce the size
of the table and at the same time give enough points for reproducing
the PSH and PSMC accurately. Straight-line connection of points is
accurate enough for graphical work and linear interpolation for tabu-
lar work.

USE OF TABLE 21.10. The parameters for selecting a set of tabulations

from table 21.10 are the Ql/Qlo ratio and the time of concentration Tc
in hours. The ratio and Tc of a watershed will seldom be values for

NEH Notice 4-1, Jan.uarY 1971

Table 21.5.--Arrangement of increments before construction of PSH
and PSMC
Time Increment

19th largest 1/2 day

11 1,
17th
,I I,
15th "
11 It
13th "
I? 1,
11th "

I1
9th "
I,

It TI it

7th
5th ,, II 11

t1 ?t
3rd "
9th largest 1/10 day
7th " I, 1,

5th " 11 I,

3rd " I, 11

Largest 1/10 day

2nd largest 1/10 day
*I I,
4th I'
It it
6th "
8th " It 11

It 1,
10th "
4th largest 1/2 day

NEE Notice 4-1, January 1971

which t h e t a b l e i s prepared, t h e r e f o r e choose t h a t s e t having a Q i / Q l o
r a t i o and Tc nearest those of t h e watershed. It i s e a s i e r t o make
t h e choice on t a b l e 21.9, which gives available PSH and PSMC and t h e i r
s e r i a l numbers, and then t o look up t h e s e r i a l number i n t a b l e 21.10
f o r t h e tabulations.

Examples

The procedure by which a PSH o r PSMC i s developed w i l l be i l l u s t r a t e d

by four examples. I n example 21.1, channel l o s s e s a r e taken from
d i r e c t runoff before development of a PSH and PSMC; i n example 21.2,
i s added t o a PSH and PSMC; i n example 21.3, runoff volume and
r a t e maps ( e x h i b i t 21.1through 21.5) a r e used t o obtain runoff; and
i n example 21.4, upstream r e l e a s e s a r e added t o a PSH.

Example 21.1.--Develop t h e 50-year frequency PSB and PSMC f o r a

watershed l o c a t e d a t l a t i t u d e , longitude
The watershed has a drainage a r e a of 15.0 square miles, time of
concentration of 7.1 hours, average annual p r e c i p i t a t i o n of 22.8
inches, average annual temperature of 61.5OF, and a runoff curve
number (CN) of 80. There a r e no upstream s t r u c t u r e s .

1. Compile t h e 1- and 10-day point r a i n f a l l amounts from U.S.

Weather Bureau maps. For t h i s l o c a t i o n TP-40 and TP-49 a r e used.
The 50-year frequency 1- and 10-day amounts a r e 6.8 and 11.0
inches respectively.

2. Determine t h e a r e a l r a i n f a l l . Get t h e adjustment f a c t o r s from

t a b l e 21.1. For t h e drainage a r e a of 15.0 square miles they a r e
0.978 and 0.991 f o r t h e 1- and 10-day r a i n s respectively. The
a r e a l r a i n f a l l is 0.978(6.8) = 6.65 inches f o r t h e 1-day r a i n
and 0.991(11.0) = 10.9 inches f o r t h e 10-day r a i n .

3. Determine t h e CN f o r t h e 10-day r a i n . F i r s t check whetker

t h e 100-year frequency 10-day point r a i n f a l l amount i s 6 or more
inches. The appropriate map- i n TP-49 shows it i s , therefore
e n t e r t a b l e 21.2 with t h e 1-day CN of 80 and f i n d t h e 10-day
CN i s 65.

4. Estimate t h e d i r e c t runoff f o r 1 and 10 days. Enter figure

1 0 . 1 w i t h t h e r a i n f a l l amounts from s t e p 2 and t h e appropriate
CN from s t e p 3 and f i n d Q1 = 4.37 and Q l o = 6.34 inches.

5. Comp~tet h e c l i m a t i c index. Using t h e given d a t a and equa-

t i o n 21.1, t h e index C i i s 1 0 0 ( 2 2 . 8 ) / 6 1 . 5 ~= 0.603. Because
t h e C i i s l e s s than l t h e channel l o s s may be used t o reduce
d i r e c t runoff.

6. Estimate t h e n e t runoff. The net runoff i s t h e d i r e c t run-

o f f minus t h e channel l o s s but when t a b l e 21.3
- i s used t h e net
runoff is obtained by a m u l t i p l i c a t i o n not a subtraction. Enter

NEH Notice 4-1', January 1971

 t a b l e 21.3 with t h e drainage area 15.0 square miles and t h e C i
of 0.603 and by i n t e r p o l a t i o n f i n d a reduction f a c t o r of 0.75.
Multiply Q1 and Qlo of s t e p 4 by t h e f a c t o r t o get net runoffs
of 3.28 and 4.76 inches respectively. The n e t runoffs w i l l be
Q1 and Qlo i n t h e r e s t of t h i s example.

7. Compute t h e QIIQIOr a t i o . From s t e p 6, Q1/Q10 = 3.28/4.76 =

0.689.

8. Find t h e PSH and PSMC tabulations i n t a b l e 21J.Q. Enter

t a b l e 21.9 with t h e r a t i o 0.689 and Tc of 7.1 hours and f i n d t h a t
t h e PSH with values nearest those i s No. 22. Locate t h e appro-
p r i a t e t a b u l a t i o n s i n t a b l e 21.10 by looking up PSH No. 22. Col-
umns 1, 2, and 4 of t a b l e 21.6 show t h e time, r a t e , and mass
t a b u l a t i o n s taken from t a b l e 21.10.

9. Compute PSH discharges i n c f s . F i r s t f i n d t h e product of

drainage a r e a and 810. This i s 15.0(4.76) = 71.40 mile2-inches.
Multiply t h e e n t r i e s i n column 2, t a b l e 21.6 by 71.40, t o get
t h e discharges i n c f s i n column 3.

10. Compute PSMC amounts i n inches. Multiply t h e e n t r i e s i n

column 4 , t a b l e 21.6,~. by t o get accumulated runoff i n
inches a s shown i n column 5. I f amounts i n acre-feet o r another
u n i t a r e desired, convert Q l o t o t h e desired u n i t before making
t h e s e r i e s of multiplications.

The example i s completed with s t e p 10. m e next s t e p i s t h a t of rout-

ing t h e PSH o r PSMC through t h e s t r u c t u r e ; see chapter 17 f o r routing
methods.

In t h e second example t h e s t e p s concerning channel l o s s a r e omitted

and s t e p s concerning &RF a r e included.

Example 21.2--Develop t h e 25-year frequency PSH and PSMC f o r a water-

shed a t l a t i t u d e , longitude .The watershed has a
drainage a r e a of 8.0 square miles, time of concentration of 2.0 hours,
average annual p r e c i p i t a t i o n of 30.5 inches, average annual tempera-
t u r e of 53.1°F, and a runoff curve number of 75. QRF during flood
periods i s estimated t o be 5 c f s . There a r e no upstream s t r u c t u r e s
i n t h e watershed.

1. Compile the 1- and 10-day point r a i n f a l l amounts from U.S.

Weather Bureau maps. For t h i s location TP-40 and TP;49 a r e used.
The 25-year frequency
- 1- and 10-day amounts a r e 5.6 and 12.5 i n -
ches respectively.

2. Determine the a r e a l r a i n f a l l . Because t h e drainage a r e a i s

not over 10 square miles t h e a r e a l r a i n f a l l i s t h e same as t h e
point r a i n f a l l . The amounts i n s t e p 1 w i l l be used.

NEH Notice 4-1, January 1971

Table 21.6. --PSH and PSMC f o r example 2l.1

Time -cfs
A 4 0
PSH Acc.
40
ppsm

csmlinch cfs inches

NEH Notice 4-1, January 1971

3. Determine t h e CN f o r t h e 10-day r a i n . The 10-day amount i n
s t e p 1 i s over 6 inches t h e r e f o r e t h e 100-year 10-day amount i s
t o o , and t a b l e 21.2 may be used. Enter t h e t a b l e with t h e CN of
75 f o r 1 day and f i n d t h e CN i s 58 a t 1 0 days.

4. ~ 6 t i m a t et h e d i r e c t runoff f o r 1 and 1 0 days. Enter f i g u r e

1 0 . 1 with t h e r a i n f a l l amounts from s t e p 2 and t h e a p p r o p r i a t e
CN from s t e p 3 and f i n d Q1 = 2.94 and Q l o = 6.68 inches. Because
t h e r e a r e no channel l o s s e s , t h e d i r e c t runoff i s t h e n e t runoff.

5. Compute t h e QlIQlor a t i o . From s t e p 4, Q 1 / Q l o = 2.9416.68 =

0.440.

6. Find t h e PSH and PSMC t a b u l a t i o n s i n t a b l e 21.10. Enter t a b l e

21.9 with t h e r a t i o of 0.440 and T, of 2 . 0 hours and f i n d t h a t t h e
PSH and PSMC w i t h v a l u e s n e a r e s t t h o s e i s No. 3. Locate t h e
a p p r o p r i a t e t a b u l a t i o n s i n t a b l e 21.10 by looking up PSH No. 3.

7. Compute PSH d i s c h a r g e s i n c f s . F i r s t f i n d t h e product of

drainage a r e a and Q l o . This i s 8 . 0 ( 6 . 6 8 ) = 53.44 mile2-inches.
Multiply t h e e n t r i e s i n t a b l e 21.10 f o r PSH No. 3 by 53.44 t o
g e t aischarges i n c f s . These a r e shown i n column 2 , t a b l e 21.7,
under t h e heading of " ~ r e l i m i n a r yPSH" because t h e f i n a l PSH must
contain QRF.

8. Compute PSMC amounts i n inches. Multiply t h e e n t r i e s i n t a b l e

21.10 f o r PSMC No. 3 by Ql0 (6.68 inches) t o g e t accumulated
runoff i n inches. The r e s u l t s a r e shown i n column 5, t a b l e 21.7,
under t h e heading "Preliminary PSMC" because t h e f i n a l PSMC must
c o n t a i n accumulated QBF. I f t h e PSMC i s t o be i n a c r e - f e e t o r
another u n i t , convert $10 t o t h e d e s i r e d u n i t b e f o r e making t h e
s e r i e s of m u l t i p l i c a t i o n s .

9. Determine t h e minimum p e r m i s s i b l e quick r e t u r n flow. F i r s t

compute t h e c l i m a t i c index: using t h e average annual p r e c i p i t a -
t i o n and temperature m d equation 21.1, t h e index C i i s 100(30.5)/
53.1' = 1.08. Enter t a b l e 21.4 w i t h t h e C i of 1 . 0 8 and f i n d t h a t
t h e minimum &RF is 0.045 inches p e r day o r 1.20 csm, which con-
v e r t s t o 8.0(1.20) = 9.6 c f s . The l o c a l l y e s t i m a t e d QRF i s 5 c f s .
Therefore t h e minimum p e r m i s s i b l e QRF i s 9.6 c f s because it i s
l a r g e r t h a n t h e l o c a l l y estimated flow. Round 9.6 t o 1 0 c f s and
e a b u l a t e i n column 3, t a b l e 21.7.

10. Add &RF t o t h e preliminary PSH. The QRF shown i n column 3,

t a b l e 21.7, i s added t o t h e preliminary PSH, column 2 , t o g i v e t h e
PSH aischarges i n column 4.

11. Add &RF t o t h e preliminary PSMC. The accumulated QRF i n

inches, column 6, t a b l e 21.7, i s added t o t h e p r e l i m i n a r y PSMC
column 5 , t o give t h e PSMC amounts i n column 7.

NEH Notice 4-1, January 1971

21.16
Table 21.7.--PSH and PSMC for example 21.2

Prelim- Prelim-
Time inary QRF* PSH inary Acc.
PSMC
PSH PSMC QRF**

-
cfs cfe
- -
cfs inches inches inches

0 0 10 10 0 0 0
.1 48 10 58 .01 .oo .01
.5 60 10 70 .11 .02 -13
1.0 69 10 79 -26 .04 -30
2.o 78 10 88 .60 -09 -69
3 -0 100 10 110 1.00 .14 1.14
3.5 118 10 128 1.26 .16 1.42
4.0 146 10 156 1.58 .18 1.76
4.2 181 10 191 1.72 .I9 1.91
4.4 230 10 240 1.91 .20 2.11

4.6 259 10 269 2-13 .21 2.34

4.7 298 10 308 2.25 -21 2.46
4.8 370 10 380 2.40 .22 2.62
4.9 512 10 522 2.60 .22 2.82
5.0 1992 10 2002 3.16 -22 3.38
5-1 1039 10 1049 3.84 -23 4.07
5.2 567 10 577 4.20 -23 4.43
5.3 383 10 393 4.42 .24 4.66
5.4 302 10 312 4.57 .24 4.81
5.5 257 10 267 4.69 -25 4.94
5-6 207 10 217 4.80 -25 5005
5.8 174 10 184 4.97 .26 5-23
6.o 154 10 164 5.U -27 5.38
6.5 128 10 138 5.41 .29 5-70
7.0 108 10 U8 5.66 -32 5.98
8.0 84 10 94 6.07 ' .% 6.43
9-0 72 10 82 6.41 .40 6.81
10.0 57 10 67 6.66 .45 7.u
10.1 2 10 12 6.68 .45 7.I3
10.3 0 10 10 6.68 .46 7.14
11.0 0 10 10 6.68 50 7.18
12.o 0 10 10 6.68 .54 7.22
etc. etc. etc. etc. etc . etc. etc.
* 9.6 cfs rounded to 10 cfs.
** At a rate of 0.045 inches per day.

NEH Notice 4-1,January 1971

I n t h e t h i r d example t h e use of the runoff volume maps i s i l l u s t r a t e d .

Example' 21.3--Develop t h e 100-year frequency PSH f o r a water-

shed l o c a t e d a t 43' l a t i t u d e and 77' longitude. The watershed
has a drainage a r e a of 12 square miles, time of concentration of
3.5 hours.

1. Estimate 100-year 10-day runoff volumes from exhibit 21.1.

The i n t e r p o l a t e d value i s 8.8.

2. Select t h e Q ~ / Q r~aOt i o from exhibit 21.2. For t h i s a r e a

t h e value i s 0.4.

3. Calculate 1-day volume of runoff. Ql/Qlo = 0.4, Qi = (0.4)

(8.8') = 3.52 inches.

4. Find t h e PSH t a b u l a t i o n s i n Table 21.10. Enter t a b l e 21.9

with t h e Q l / Q l c r a t i o of 0.4 and Tc of 3.5 hours and f i n d t h a t
t h e P S H t i t h values nearest i s No. 11. Locate appropriate tabu-
l a t i o n s i n t a b l e 21.10 by looking up PSH No. 11.

5. Compute PSH discharges i n c f s . Find t h e product of drainage

a r e a and 4 1 0 . This i s (12) (8.8)' = 105.6 mile2-inches. E n t r i e s
f o r PSH No. 11 a r e multiplied by t h i s value t o obtain discharge
i n cfs. These a r e shown i n column 2, t a b l e 21.8.

6. Determine the'quick-return flow r a t e . From exhibit 21.3 t h e

i n t e r p o l a t e d value i s 5.3 csm.

7. Extension of quick-return flow r a t e s beyond t h e PSH. The

quick-return flow r a t e i s ( 1 2 ) (5.3) = 63.6 c f s , round t o 64
cfs. This constant r a t e of discharge i s an extension t o t h e
PSH as shown i n f i g u r e 21. l a , and column 4, t a b l e 21.8. No
value l e s s than 64 c f s should be used i n t h e recession s i d e of
t h e PSH.
The procedure f o r adding r e l e a s e s from upstream s t r u c t u r e s i s shown
i n t h e following d e s c r i p t i v e example. If a lower s t r u c t u r e has
channel l o s s e s i n i t s contributing area t h e deduction f o r channel l o s s
i s made i n t h e preliminary PSH f o r t h a t area. Deductions may a l s o
be required f o r PSH of t h e upper s t r u c t u r e s but once t h e s e PSH a r e
routed through t h e s t r u c t u r e s no further deductions a r e made i n t h e
release rates.

Example 21.4--~dding r e l e a s e s from upstream s t r u c t u r e s when de-

veloping t h e PSH f o r a lower s t r u c t u r e i n a s e r i e s i s done as
follows :

1. Develop t h e preliminary PSH f o r t h e lower s t r u c t u r e . Use t h e

method of example 21.1 o r 21.2 o r 21.3 whichever i s applicable.

NEH Notice 4-1, January 1971

Table 21.8.--PSH for Example 21.3.

Prelim-
inary
Time PSH QRF PSH

-
cfs -
cf s -
cfs
0 0 0
.1 61 61
.5 116 116
1.0 134 134
2.0 151 151

11.0 0 64 64
12.0 o 64 64
etc. etc. etc. etc;

NM Notice 4-1, Jauary 197i

 2. Flood-route the upstream structure releases or outflows to
the lower structure. Chapter 17 discusses flood-routing
procedures.
3. Add the routed flows to the preliminary PSB to get the PSH
for the lower structure.

Note that if an upstream structure is itself a lower structure in a

series then the procedure of example 21.4 must be followed for it
first.

Table 21.9.-Serial nlahbers of PSH and PSMC

-
hours
Serial numbers

* Use this row for all Tc less than 1.5 hours.

** Use this row for all Tc over 72 hours.

NM Notice 4-1,January 1971

Table 21.10.--Time, r a t e and mass t a b u l a t i o n s f o r P r i n c i p a l Spillway
Iiydrographs (PSH) and Mass Curves (PSMC)

Tc = 1.5 hours
S e r i a l No. : 1 2 3 4
Q ~ / Q ~: ~ 0 2 0.3 0.4 0 05

Time PSH PSMC PSH PSMC PSH PSMC PSH PSK

cfS/AQl0 C~S/AQ,~ a10 cfs/A%O eO
CfSIOa10
Table 2 1 .lo. --(Continued)
T, = 1.5 hours

Serial No. : 5 6 7 8
QJQlo . 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9
Time PSH P S PSH PSE PSH PSMC PSH PSMC
Table 21 -10.--(Continued)

T, = 3 hours

Serid No.. : 9 10 L
L 12
Q A o : 0.2 0-3 0.4 0.5

Time PSH PSMC PSH PSMC PSH PSMC PSH PSE

Table 21 LO.--(continued)

Tc = 3 hours

Serial No, : 13 14 15 16
~ ~ 1: %0.6~ 0.7 0.8 0.9
Time PSH PSW PSH PSMC PSH PSMC PSH PSMC
U.24

Table 2 l .LO. --(continued)

T, = 6 hours

S e r i a l No. : 17 18 19 20
Q ~ / Q ~ o: 0-2 Oe3 0.4 0 -5
Time PSH PSMC PSH PSMC PSH PEW PSH PSK
Table 21.lo. --(continued)

Tc = 6 hours
Serial No. : 21 22 23 24
Q I / Q ~ ~: o .6 0-7 0.8 0.9
Time PSH PSMC PSH PSW PSH PSMC PSH PSMC
days

0
.2
.5
1.0
2-0

3.0
3h
4.0
403
4.6
4.8
4.9
5 00
5.1
5.2
593
5.4
5.5
5.6
5.8
6.0
6.5
7 -0
7.5
8.0

9.0
9.9
10 -1
10.3
10.8
21.26

Table 21.10. --(continued)

hours
S e r i a l No. : 25 26 28

Time PSE PSMC PSH PSH PSB PSMC

Table 21.lo. --(continued)

T, = 1 2 hours

S e r i d No. : 29 30 31 32
Q ~ / Q : ~ ~0.6 0.7 0 -8 0.9

Time PSH PSI42 PSH PSMC PSH PSW PSH PSMC

Table 21 .lo. --(Continued)

!i?,18 hours
=

Serial NO. : 33 34 35 36
%/Bl0 : 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5
Time PSR PSMC PSH PSMC PSH PSW PSH PSMC
Table 21.10. --(continued )

T,- = 18 hours
Serial NO. : 37 38 39 40
Q ~ / Q :~ 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9
Time PSH PSMC PSH PSK PSH PSK PSH PSMC
c f s / ~ & , UlO
~ cfs/AQIO a10 &lo cfs/A%o L%~
Table 21.lo. --(continued)

T, = 24 hours
S e r i a l No. : 41 42 43 44
Q ~ / Q :~ ~0.2 0.3 0.4 0 -5

Time PSH PSW PSH PSE PSH PSE PSH PSMC

Table 21.10. --(continued)

Tc = 24 hours
S e r i a l No. : 45 46 47 48
Ql/~lo : 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9

Time PSH PSMC PSH PSMC PSH PSMC PSH PSbC

2l.32

Table 21.10a--(Continued)

Tc= 30 hours
Serial 4g
No. : 50
Ql/Qlo : 0.2 0*3 51
0.4 52
0.5
Time PSH PSI.c PSH PSE PSH PSIE PSH PEW
e. Q/Q-~ -/AQlo Q&o dAQ,o so cf4AQ1.o%o

0 0 0 0 0 0 0
A50 .OOO? -0005 *067 .0003
.Y55 .0103 .0077 -538 .0057 .425 .0046
1.6% a0407 .0306 ,998 .0233 .764 *0181
l.y55 .0747 .0568 1.195 .0437 .937 .Q339
2.252 .1527 .1201 .0932 1.229 -0738
2-574 -2416 .lY55 .1567 ~6% .1263
2.99 .3022 -2528 .2068 2.274 SW3
3.228 -3363 .2865 22339 .1975
3.579 .3614 -3133 :g 4.249 .2232
3.8% .32P .2823 5.520 .2412
4.124 .3474 .3032 .2645
40438 .3682 kgi 443
4.724 .m6 :gE 10.535 .3299
4.935 e4171 .3913 U.666 .3708
5.052 .444G Y-779 .4266 12.218 .4148
04713 9.730 .4626 12.098 .4597
K8 .4982 9a348 .W8 n-502 .5032
4:845 .5241 8e761 .5312 10.630 .544c
4.471 .57l.6 7.337 .5w7 a.5a5 .614g
A126 60050 .6&o 6.816 .6n5
.a81 5.048 .6&S .n67
.6933 3.919 .7302 ?gz .7689
.7312 3.157 .7’@39 31076 ma
.76&z 2.497 .8103 2.2& A69
2.555 .7665 .8106 2.068 1.799 .8768
2.322 .8206 .a576 ~.@ri’ 1.366
2.170 - 8703 .aw 1.457 l-1.16 1%
2.009 . Y470 1.253 ,951
1.530 :gz .9734 .915 ,705 :g$

-702 .416 .9920 .32l .Vv38

.59 :gg :;g ~65 .997Q .127 .9977
.107 . Yy@ .99% -063 .999 .048 .995-Q
0 1.0000 1.0000 0 1 .oooo 0 l.OOOC
Table 21.lo.--(continued)

T, = 30 hours
Serial NO. : 53 54 55 56
QI/Q~O : 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9
Time PSH PSMC PSH PSMC PSH Pix PSH PSMC
Table 21.LO. --(Continued)

T, = 36 hours
S e r i d No. : 57 58 59 60
Q&O : 0.2 0 03 Oak 0-5
Time PSH P a PSH PSm PSH PSM: PSH PSW
Table 21 .lo. --(continued)

T, = 36 hours
S e r i a l No. : 61 62 63 64
Ql/Q-,o : 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9
Time PSH PSMC PSH PSMC PSR' PSMC PSH PSW
U0c
C ~ ~ / A Q , ~ L&10
f ~ / ~ % ~ cfs/A5iO U10 a10
 --(continued)
Table 21-10.

T, = 42 hours
Serial N O . : 65 66 67 68
Ql/Ql0 : 0.2 0.3 0.4 0-5
Time PSH PSMC PSR PSMC PSH PSMC PSH PSK
Table 21.10. --(continued)

T, = 42 hours
Serial No. : 69 70 71 72
Q1/Ql0 : 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9

Time PSH PSE PSH PSE PSH PSE PSH PSE

21.38

Table 21.lo.--(continued)

T, = 48 hours
S e r i a l No. : 73 74 75 76
Q : 0.2 0.3 o -4 0-5
Time PSH PSW PSH PSMC PSH PSbE PSH PSW

-
days s.ZL%10 a10 *
l
o Ql0 cfs/A!30 L
5L0cfs/A!30 !&30
0
.6
1.3
2-0
3-0
4.o
4.8
5.0
5-2
5.4
5.5
5.6
5.7
5.8
5.9
6.o
6.l
6.2
6.3
6.4
6.6
6-8
7.0
7.3
7.6
8.0
8.5
9.2
10.o
10.5
ll.2
12.0
13.O
15.O
Table 2120.--(Continued)

T, = 48 hours
Serial NO. : 77 78 79 a
Ql/Qlo : o .6 0.7 0.8 0.9
Time PSH PSMC PSH PSMC PSB PSKC PSH PSKC
Table 21.lo. --(continued)

T , = 54 hours
Serial NO. : 81 82 83 84
Q ~ / Q ~ :o 0.2 0.3 0.4 0 -5

Time PSH PSMC PSH PSMC PSH PSMC PSH PSM2

Table 21-10. --(continued)

T, = 54 hours

S e r i a l No. : 85 86 87 88
Q1/Q1o : 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9

Time PSH PSMC PSH PSMC PSH PSE PSH PSMC

21.42

Table 21.10. --(continued)

T, = 60 hours
Serial No. : 89 9 91 9
Ql/Q-l~
: 0.2 0 -3 0.4 0.5
Time PSH PSMC PSH PSM: PSH PSM: PSH PSMC
Table 21 .lo. --(Continued)

T, = 60 hours
Serial No. : 93 94 95 %
Q : 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9
Time PSH PSMC PSH PSMC PSH PSK PSH PSMC
Table 21.lo. --(Continued)

T, = 66 hours
Serial NO. : 97 98 99 100
9/Q10 : 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5
Time PSH PSMC PSH PSMC PSH PSMC PSH PSMC
-
days

0
.6
1.3
2.0
3.0
4.0
4.8
5.0
5.2
5.4
5.6
5.8
6.0
6.2
6.4
6.5
6.6
6*7
6.8
7-0
7.2
7.4
7.7
8.0
8.5
9.0
9.5
10.o
10.6
ll.2
12.0
13.O
14.0
17.O
Table 21.10. --(continued)

Tc =66 hours
Serial No. : 101 102 103 104
Q ~ / Q: ~ ~0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9
Time PSH PSMC PSH PSE PSH PSI42 PSH PSMC
Table 21.10. --(continued)

Serial No. : 105 106 107 108

Ql/%O : 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5
Time PSH PSMC PSH PSMC PSH Psi% PSH PSMC
-
days cfs/AQ10 a10
cfs/AQlo &
Table 21.10. --(continued)

T, = 72 h o u r s

S e r i a l No. : 109 ll0 lll 112

Q1/~,, : 0 -6 0.7 0.8 0.9

Time PSH PSMC PSH PSMC PSH PSMC PSH PSMC

 TIME IN DAYS
FIGURE21.1 - Mass curves o f runoff in various arrangements.
 R A T ~ O SFOR 50 AND 26-YEAR 10-DAY RUNOFF VOLUMES

TO obtain: M u l l i ~ l ymap values by.

~ r e a1 Area 2 Area 3
W-YEAR IO-DAY
~ ~
RUNOFF 0.85 0.90 0.92
25-YEAR 10-DAY RUNOFF 0 70 0.80 0.85 FIGURE 2-1 ( A )
100-YEAR. 10-DAY RUNOFF (INCHES)
PRINCIPAL SPILLWAY HYDROGRAPH

JANUARY 1971. REV. A P R i L 1976

 LEGEND

Q1 - 1-Day Volume Runoff

(Il0. 10-Day Volume Runoff

FIGURE 2-1 (El)

RATIOS OF VOLUMES OF RUNOFF (Ql/Q1,,)
PRINCIPAL SPILLWAY HYDROGRAPH

ANUARY 1971. REV. A P R I L 1976

-
N
,-
 - -.
ANUARY 1971, REV. APRIL 1976 PRINCIPAL SPILLWAY HYDROGRAPH SNOWMELT PRODUCING FLOOD AREAS
 Emergency Spillways L/

Flows larger than those completely controllable by the principal spillway

and retarding storage are safely conveyed past an earth dam by an emer-
gency spillway. The emergency spillway is designed by use of an Emergency
Spillway Eydrograph (ESH) and its m i n i m freeboard determined by use of
a Freeboard Hydrograph (FH). Both kinds of hydrographs are constructed
by the same procedure. There is a small difference in that procedure d e -
periding on whether a watershed's time of concentration is or is not over
six hours.

This part of the chapter presents a manual method of developing ESH and
FH. The method requires the use of the dimensionless hydrographs given in
table 21.17. Methods of routing the ESH or FH through structures are given
in chapter 17.
Alternatives to developing and routihg the hydrographs manually are (i)
use of the SCS electronic computer program, in which basic data are input
and the ESH or FH, the routed hydrograph, and reservoir elevations are out-
put; and (ii) the Upper Darby or UD method, in which no hydrograph is needed
but which uses the hydrograph characteristics of ESH or FH in an indirect
routing procedure with results in terms of spillway elevation and capacity.
The hydrologic criteria given below apply to the manual method and its al-
ternatives. The examples that follow apply only to the manual method.

Hydrologic Criteria
SOURCE OF DESIGN STORM RAINFALL AMOUNT. The basic 6-hour design stom
rainfall amount used in development of ESH and FB is taken from one of
the following maps:

Background information on the material in this part of the chapter is

given in "Central Technical Unit Method of Hydrograph Development," by
M. H. Xleen and R. G. Andrews, Transactions, American Society of Agri-
cultural Engineers, vol. 5, no. 2, p. 180-185,1962; and in "Hydrology of
-
Spillway Design: Small Structures Limited Data," by Harold 0. Ogrosky,
paper no. 3914, Proceedings, American Society of Civil Engineers, Journal
of the EIydraulics Division, &fay 1964.
 ES -1020, 5 sheets. 48 contiguous States. Supplementary sheets
for California and Washington-Oregon are also given.
ES-1021, 5 sheets. Hawaii.
ES-1022, 5 sheets. Alaska.
ES-1023, 5 sheets. Puerto Rico.
ES-1024, 5 sheets. Virgin Islands.
The rainfall amounts on these maps are minimums allowed by SCS criteria for
various classes of structures.

DURATION ADJUSTMEW OF RAINFALL AMOUNT. If the time of concentration of

the drainage area above a structure is more than six hours, the duration
of the design storm is made equal to that time and the rainfall amount is
increased using a factor from figure 2.2, part (c).

AREPL ADJUS!lNEWt OF RAINFALL AMOUNT. If the drainage area above a struc-

ture is 10 square miles or less, the areal rainfall is the same as the rain-
fall taken from the maps of ES-1020 through 1024. If the area is over 10
square miles but not over 100 square miles, the areal rainfall is obtained
by use of a factor from figure 21.2, part (a). If the area is over 100
square miles, the adjustment factor for the area is requested from the En-
gineering Division, Washington, D. C. When a request is submitted the
following info-%ion about the area should also be submitted: (lj location,
preferably the latitude and longitude of the watershed outlet; (2) size in
square miles; ( 3 ) length in miles, following the main valley; (4) time of
concentration in hours; (5) runoff curve number; (6) proposed value of the
adjustment or adjustment factor. If a factor is also needed for a subwater-
shed of that watershed, then similar information about the subwatershed should
also be submitted.

RUNOFF DEERMINATION. Runoff is determined using the methods ~f cbapter 10.

The runoff curve number (CN) for the drainage area above a structure is de-
termined by any of the methods in chapter 10. This CN must be for antecedent
moisture condition I1 or greater and it applies throughout the design storm
regardless of the stom duration.

DIMENSIONLESS HYDROGRAPHS. The ESH and FH are made using the dimensionless
hydrographs given in table 21.17. If a hydrograph is to be developed in an
electronic computer program, then the storm distribution given in figure 21.2.b
(Es-1003-b) must be used to get an equivalent ESH or FB..

Construction of Emergency Spillway and Freeboard Hydrographs

Two examplesof hydrograph construction are given. The first illustrates
the procedure when the watershed time of concentration is not over six hours,
t h e second when it i s . There i s no difference i n procedure f o r ESR and FH.
Equations used i n t h e examples a r e l i s t e d i n table 21.11.

Example 2l.5.--Construct an ESH f o r a c l a s s (b) s t r u c t u r e with a drain-

age a r e a of 1.86 square miles, time of concentration of 1.25 hours,
CN of 82, and l o c a t i o n a t l a t i t u d e , longitude-.

1. Determine t h e 6-hour design storm r a i n f a l l amount, P. For t h i s

s t r u c t u r e class t h e ESH r a i n f a l l amount i s taken from ES-1020, sheet
2 of 5. For t h e given l o c a t i o n t h e map shows t h a t P = 9.4 inches.

2. Determine t h e a r e a l r a i n f a l l amount. The a r e a l r a i n f a l l i s t h e

same a s i n s t e p 1 because t h e drainage area i s n o t over 10 square miles.
Step 2 of example 21.6 shows t h e process.

3. M e the duration adjustment of r a i n f a l l amount. No adjustment i s

made because t h e time of concentration i s not over s i x hours. Step 3
of example a . 6 shows t h e process.

4. Determine t h e -off amount, Q. Enter f i g u r e 10.1 with P = 9.4

inches and CN = 82 and f i n d Q = 7.21 inches.

5. Determine t h e hydrograph family. Enter f i g u r e 21.3 (ES-1011) with

CN = 82 and a t P = 9.4 read hydrograph family 2.

6. Determine t h e duration of excess r a i n f a l l , To. Enter f i g u r e 21.4

(Es-1012) with P = 9.4 inches and a t CN = 82 read by i n t e r p o l a t i o n
t h a t To = 5.37 h o y s .

7. Compute t h e i n i t i a l value of Tp. By equation 21.4 t h i s i s O.T(l.25)

= 0.88 hours.

-
8. c o m p u t e d % r a t i o . This i s 5.37/0.88 = 6.10.

9. S e l e c t a revised To/$ r a t i o from t a b l e 21.16. This t a b l e shows

t h e hydrograph families and r a t i o s f o r which dimensionless hydro-
graphs a r e given i n t a b l e 21.17. E n t e r t a b l e 21.16 with t h e r a t i o
from s t e p 8 and s e l e c t t h e tabulated r a t i o n e a r e s t it. For this ex-
ample t h e selected r a t i o , ( ~ ~ / T ~ ) r e vi .s , 6.

10. Compute Rev. Tp. This i s a revised Tp used because of t h e change

i n ratio. By equation 21.3, Rev. Tp = 5.37/6 = 0.895 hours.

ll. Compute qp. By equation 2l.6 t h i s i s 484(1.86)/0.895 = 1006 c f s .

2 Compute Qqp. Using t h e Q from s t e p 4 and t h e qp from s t e p ll gives

~ ( q p ~ ( ' 1 0 0 =6 7253.26
) c f s . Round t o 7250 cfs.

13. Compute t h e times f o r which hydrograph r a t e s w i l l be computed.

In equation 21.7 u s e Rev. TD from s t e p 10 and t h e e n t r i e s in t h e t/s
c o l of~ the selected hydrograph i n t a b l e 21.17. The computed ti%
a r e shown in c o l m 2 o f t a b l e 21.12.
Table 2l.U--Equations used in construction of ESH and FE
Equation No.

Rev. Tp = To
I W T p rev

sp =
484 A
Rev. Tp

where A = drainage area in square miles

q = hydrograph rate in cfs

9c = hydrograph rate in cfs when Q = 1 inch

9p = hydrograph peak rate in cfs when Q = 1 inch
Q = design storm runoff in inches
Rev. Tp = revised time to peak in hours
t = time in hours at which hydrograph rate is computed
Tc = time of concentration in hours
To = duration of excess rainfall in hours
(To/Tp)rev. = revised ratio from table 21.16
= time to peak in hours for CTU design hydrographs
Tp
 14. Compute t h e hydrograph r a t e s . Use equation 21.8 and t h e qc/qp
column of t h e selected hydrograph i n t a b l e 21.17. The computed
r a t e s a r e shown i n column 3 of t a b l e 21.12.

The hydrograph i s completed with s t e p 14. Bow t h e hydrograph i s further

r e t d ~ U h t e do r p l o t t e d f o r routing through t h e spillway depends on t h e
routing method t o be used. See chapter 17 f o r routing d e t a i l s .

The mass curve f o r t h e hydrograph can be obtained using t h e Q t / ~ column

of t h e selected hydrograph i n t a b l e 21.17. Ratios i n t h a t column a r e
multiplied by t h e Q of s t e p 4 t o give accumulated runoff i n inches a t t h e
time computed i n s t e p 13. For accumulated runoff i n acre-feet o r another
u n i t , convert Q t o t h e desired u n i t before making t h e s e r i e s of m u l t i p l i -
cations.

In t h e following example t h e storm duration i s increased because the time

of concentration i s over six hours. Increasing t h e duration a l s o requires
increasing t h e r a i n f a l l amount but i f t h e drainage a r e a i s over 10 square
miles t h e increase i s p a r t l y o f f s e t by the decrease i n a r e a l r a i n f a l l .

Example 21.6.--Construct a FH f o r a c l a s s ( c ) s t r u c t u r e with a drain-

age a r e a of 23.0 square miles, time of concentration of 10.8 hours,
CN of 77, and l o c a t i o n a t latitude-, longitude-.

1. Determine t h e 6-hour design storm r a i n f a l l amount, P. For t h i s

s t r u c t u r e c l a s s t h e FK r a i n f a l l amount i s taken from ES-1020, sheet
5 of 5 . For t h e given l o c a t i o n the map shows t h a t P = 25.5 inches.
2 Determine t h e a r e a l r a i n f a l l amount. Use t h e appropriate curve
on f i g u r e 2l.2.a (Es-1003-a). For t h i s l o c a t i o n t h e "Humid and sub-
humid climate" curve a p p l i e s and t h e adjustment f a c t o r f o r t h e drain-
age a r e a of 23.0 square miles i s 0.93. The adjusted r a i n f a l l i s
0.93(25.5) = 23.72 inches.

3. Make t h e duration adjustment of r a i n f a l l amount. The duration i s

made equal t o t h e time of concentration, i n t h i s case, 10.8 hours.
Enter f i g u r e 21.2 .c (Es-1003-c) with t h e duration of 10.8 hours and
f i n d an adjustment f a c t o r of 1.18. The adjusted r a i n f a l l i s
1.18(23.72) = 27.99 inches. It i s rounded t o 28.0 inches f o r t h e r e -
mainder of this example.

4. Determine t h e runoff amount, Q. Enter f i g u r e 10.1 with the r a i n -

fall from s t e p 3 (P = 28.0 inches) and a t CN = 77 find Q = 24.7 inches.

5 . Determine t h e hydrograph family. Enter f i g u r e 21.3 ( E S - 1 0 ~ )with

CN = 77 and a t P = 28.0 inches read hydrograph family 1.

6 . Determine t h e duration of excess r a i n f a l l , To. Enter t a b l e 2l.14

with CN = 77 and f i n d t h a t P*, t h e r a i n f a l l p r i o r t o the excess r a i n -
f a l l , i s 0.60 inches. Enter t a b l e 21.15 with t h e r a t i o P/P =
0.60/28.0 = 0.0214 and by i n t e r p o l a t i o n read a time r a t i o of 0.950.
m e n To = (time r a t i o ) x (storm duration) = 0.950(10.8) = 10.26 hours.
SCS-EIIG-319
Rev. 1-70
File Code ENG-13-14

HYDROGRAPH COMPUTATION
DATE --
COMPUTED BY
CHECKED BY

WATERSHED OR PROJECT (zMmm z'*)

STATE

STRUCTURE SITE OR SUBAREA

OR. AREA A36 SQ. MI. STRUCTURE CLASS^

LZC HR. STOWD U R A T I O N HR.

POINT RAINFALL 2IN.

ADJUSTED RAINFALL.

AREAL : FACTOR

DURATION: FACTOR

RUNOFFCURVE NO. ' B2

HYDROGRAPH FAMILY NO. 2

CWUTEO 6.10 .
REVISED T 0,835

X C O L U W = (t/Tp) R N . 5 aCOLUYO = (s/ $XQX$)

T a b l e 21.12 Hydrograph computation

NM Notice 4-102, August 1972
 7. Compute the i n i t i a l value of Tp. By equation 21.4 t h i s i s
o.T(l0.8) = 7.56 hours.

I -
8. Compute the TO/% r a t i o . This i s 10.26/7.56 = 1.357.

1
.
9. Select a revised T,/T r a t i o from table 21.16. Enter table 21.16
with the r a t i o from step %
and s e l e c t the tabulated r a t i o nearest it.
For t h i s example the selected r a t i o , ( ~ ~ / T ~ ) r e ivs. ,1.5.

10. Compute Rev. Tp. This i s a revised Tp used because of the change
i n r a t i o . By equation 21.5, , Rev. Tp = 10.26/1.5 = 6.84 hours.

ll. Compute a. By equation 21.6 this i s 484(23.0)/6.84 = 1627.5

cfs. Round t o 1628 cfs.

2 Compute Qq Usin the Q from step 4 and the q from step

@vesw2t: 7 (16287 = 40,W.6 cfs. Round t o & , a 2 cfs.
13. Compute the times for which hydrograph r a t e s w i l l be computed.
Use equation 21.7 with the Rev. Tp from step 10 and the entries i n
the t/Tp column of the selected hydrograph i n table 21.17. The com-
puted rates are shown i n column 2 of table a.13.

14. Compute the hydrograph rates. Use equation a . 8 with Qqp of step
12 and the qc/q column of the selected hydrograph i n Mole 21.17.
The computed rafes are shown i n coLumn 3 of table 21.13.
 ,;.1-70
l e Code ENG-13-14
--
HYDROGRAPH COMPUTATION
DATE
COMPUTED BY
CHECKED BY - I
Q,=IP,/QR

WATERSHED OR PROJECT ( E x ~ f l P L E 2L 6, Q

STATE P------

STRUCTURE SITE OR SUBAREA

DR. AREA 23.0 SQ. MI. STRUCTURE CLASSC

Tc HR. STORM DURATION 8

POINT RAINFALL 255 IN.
ADJUSTED RAINFALL:

AREAL : FACTOR

DURATION: FACTOR

RUNOFF CURVE NO. 77

Q Z47 IN.

HYDROGRAPH FAMILY NO.

CDMPUTEDTp '.56 HR.

10.26 HR.
To

REVWI T 6-84
P

- W4A
% - REV. T P
- I428 CFS

(QXSY = m.D2 CFS.

r c o L u u o = (1 / Tp) REV. Tp P(C0tUYI) = (\ / sXQXV

UCDLUMM) = (Q,/QN

Table 21.13 Hydrograph computation.

NEII Notice 4-102, August 1972
Table 21.14.--Rainfall prior to excess rainfall.

(inches) (inches) (inches) (inches) (inches)

Table 21.15.--Wnfall and time ratios for determining To when the storm
duration is greater than 6 hours.

Rain- Time Rain- Time Rain- Time Rain- Time

fall ratio fall ratio fall ratio fall ratio
ratio ratio ratio ratio

(Change in
tabulation
increment. )
Table 21.16. --Hydrograph families and T o / ~ pratios for which dimen-
sionless hydrograph ratios are given in table 21.17

- -

Asterisks signify that dimensionless hydrograph tabulations are given

in table 21.17.
 Table 21.17 --Time, discharge, and accmmlated runoff ratios
for dimensionless hydrographs

Hydrograph Family 1

Line t/Tp qc/qp

No.
 Table 21.17 (continued) Eydrograph Family 1

T,/T~ = 4 To/TP = 6

Line
No.

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10

11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20

21
22
23
24
25

26
 Table 2l. .17 (continued) Hydrograph Family 1

No.

1
2 1.22
3 2.44
4 3.66
5 4.88
6 6 .lo
7 7-72
8 8.54
9 9-76
10 lo. 98
ll. 12.20
12 13.42
13 14.64
14 15.%
15 17.08
16 18.30
17 19-52
18 20.74
1-9 u.96
X) 23.18
21 24.40
22 25.62
23 26.84
24 28.06
23 29.28
26
27
28
29
3Q
31
Table 21.17 (Continued) Hydrograph Family 1

To/Tp = 36

Line t/Tp qc/qp Q~/Q

No.
 Table 21.17 (continued)

Hydrograph Family 2

T ~ / T= ~1 To/Tp = 1.5
Line t/Tp qc/qp Q~/Q
No.
 Table 21.17 (continued) Eydrograph Family 2

%/TI, = 3
Line t / ~ ~
No.

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10

11
12
13
14
15

16
17
18
19
20

21
22
23
24
25

26
27
28
29
70
31
32
 Table 21.17 (continued) Hydrograph Family 2

Line t / ~ ~
qc/qp t / ~ p qc/qp &t/&
No.
Table 2l.17 (continued) Hydrograph Family 2

To/Tp = 36 To/% = 50 To/Tp = 75

 21.68

Table 21.17 (continued)

Hydrograph Family 3

Line
No.

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10

ll
1 12
13
14
15

1 16
17
18
19
20

21.
22
23

NM Notice 4-102, August 1972

 Table 21.17 (continued) Hydrograph Family 3

TO/rp= 3
Line t / ~ ~
No.

1 0
2 34
3 .68
4 1.02
5 1.36
6 1.70
7 2.04
8 2.38
9 2-72
10 3.06
11 3.40
12 3.74
13 4.08
14 4.42
15 4.76
16 5.10
17 5-44
18 5.78
19 6.12
X, 6.46
u 6.80
22 7.14
23 7.48
24 7.82
25
26
u.70

Table 21.17(~ontinued) Hydrograph Family 3

Line
No.

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10

U.
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
 Table 21.17 (Continued) Hydrograph Family 3

Line t/Tp qc/qp

No.
 Table 21.17 (Continued)

iiydrograph Family 4

Line
No.

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
ll
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20

21
22
23
Table 2 l . 17 (continued) Hydrograph Family 4
 u.74

Table 21.17 (continued) EIydrograph Family 4

Line t / ~ ~
No.

1 0
2 .50
3 1.00
4 1.50
5 2.00
6 2.50
7 3.00
8 3-50
g 4.00
10 4.50
ll 5.00
12 5.50
13 6.00
14 6.50
115 7.00
16 7.50
17 8.00
18 8.50
19 9.00
20 9.50
21 10.00
22 10.50
23 11.00
24 ll.50
25 12.00
26 12.50
27 13.00
28 U.50
29 14.00
jo 14.50
31
32
33
34

NM Notice 4-102, A w s t 1972

 Table 21.17 (continued)

Hydrograph Family 4 Hydrograph Family 5

Line t/Tp qc/qp

No.
Table 2 l . 17 (continued) Hydrograph Family 5
 Table 21. 17 (continued) Hydrograph Family 5

Line t/Tp
No.

1 0
2 36
3 -72
4 1.08
5 1.44
6 1.80
7 2.16
8 2.52
g 2.88
10 3.24
11 3.60
12 3.96
13 4.32
14 4.68
15 5.04
16 5.40
17 5-76
18 6.12
lg 6.48
20 6.84
 Table 21.17 (continued) Hydrograph Family 5

Line t/Tp d q p Q~/Q

No.
 Table 21.17 (concluded) Hydrograph Family 5

TO/T, = 50

Line t/TP qc/qP Q~/Q

No.
 -
21.81
HYDROLOGY: CRITERIA FOR DESIGN STORMS USED IN DEVELOPING
EMERGENCY SPILLWAY DESIGN AND FREEBOARD HYDROGRAPHS

DRAINAGE AREA HI SOUARE MILES

((1) RAINFALL RATIOS FOR DRAINAGE AREAS OF

10 TO 100 SQUARE MILES

REFERENCE
U. S. DEPAEIMENT OF AGiLICULl'UEE
SOIL CONSERVATION SERVICE

(210-VI-NEH-4, Amend. 6, March 1985)

 Runoff curve numbers

Figure 21-3. Chart f o r selectin, a hydrograph family f o r a given

I
r a i n f a l l and runoff curve number. i
NEH Notice 4-102, August 1972
 Duration of excess rainfall in hours - To 1
Figure 21-4. Duration of excess r a i n f a l l f o r a &hour r a i n f a l l and
f o r runoff curve numbers 40 t o 100.

NEH Notice 4-102, August 1972

 FIGURE 21.5 (1 of 5 )

(210-VI-NEH-4, Amend. 6, March 1985)

 FIGURG 21.5 ( 2 of 5 )

(210-VI-NEH-4, Amend. 6, March 1985)

 FIGURE 21.5 ( 3 of 5 )

(210-VI-NM-4, Amend. 6, March 1985)

 FIGURE 21.5 ( 5 of 5)

(210-VI-NEH-4, Amend. 6, March 1985)

FIGURE 21.6 ( 5 of 5 )
FIGURE 21.7 (2 of 5 )
 I I I
0 i

FIGURE 21.7 ( 4 of 5)
-.-

FIGURE 21.7 ( 5 of 5 )
A T L A N T I C o C E A N 1
A T L A N T I C 0 C E A N

I (INCHES) WR DEVELOPING THE FREEWARD HYDROGRAPH f O R CLASS lbl STRUPURES

,
A T L A N T
6s. 30'

I
I C 0 C E A N

PL__
.,..,. ---__ iit,.,.

ES 1023 Sheet 4 di'5

- .. --
FIGURE 21.8 ( 5 of 5 )
FIGURE 21.9 (1 of 5 )
 M I N I M U M SIX.HOUR PRfCIPITAlION lincherl for derelopfnp lh. FREEeOARD HYDROGRAPH lor
CLASS 101 STRUCTURES or Ih. EMERGENCY SPILLWAY HYDROGRAPH lor CLASS (b) STRUCTURES

..05

C A
- "r
R B B E A
I
N S E
I
A
.I
I
105 I I
-

U S SOIL CONSERVATION SERVICE JUNE 1V6I

--
V$S 64-d Bl'S' 6V.0' 61.35'

ES 1024
6.7
FIGURE 21.9 ( 3 of 5 )
FIGURE 21.9 ( 4 of 5)
 3
(AS ISLAND I IJOHN
SK ISLAND

SIX.HOUR PRECIQIIAIION linrh.sJ for d.r.lopinp the fREElOARD HYDROGnArH lo, CLASS Id SIRUCIURES

Frob. -ax, 6-hour P d p : n t l m I r o n U.S.W.B. I P r q

 National Engineering Handbook
United States Department of Agriculture Part 630 Hydrology
Natural Resources Conservation Service

Chapter 22 Glossary

Rain clouds
Cloud formation

Precipitation

n
iratio
Evaporation
n

ean
tio

Transp
oil
ta

from oc
ge

s
ve

from
m

n
fro

tio

ms
n

ira
tio

a
sp

tre
ra
po

an

ms
va

Tr

Surfa E
fro

ce ru
noff

Infiltration

Soil
Percolation

Rock Ocean
Ground water
Deep percolation

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 49, February 2012)

Chapter 22 Glossary National Engineering Handbook
Part 630 Hydrology

Issued February 2012

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all

its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, age,
disability, and where applicable, sex, marital status, familial status, parental
status, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, political beliefs,
reprisal, or because all or a part of an individual’s income is derived from
any public assistance program. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all pro-
grams.) Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for commu-
nication of program information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should
contact USDA’s TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TDD). To file a
complaint of discrimination, write to USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights,
1400 Independence Avenue, SW., Washington, DC 20250–9410, or call (800)
795-3272 (voice) or (202) 720-6382 (TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity
provider and employer.

(210–VI–NEH, Amend. 49, February 2012)

Acknowledgments

Chapter 22, Glossary, was originally prepared by Victor Mockus (retired)

in 1956. It was reprinted with minor revisions in 1971. This version of
chapter 22 was updated under the guidance of Claudia C. Hoeft, national
hydraulic engineer, Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS),
Washington, DC, with input from Helen Fox Moody, hydraulic engineer,
NRCS, Beltsville, Maryland.

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22–ii (210–VI–NEH, Amend. 49, February 2012)

Chapter 22 Glossary

Contents 630.2200 Introduction 22–1

630.2201 Definitions 22–1

630.2202 Abbreviations and symbols 22–14

630.2203 Conversion factors 22–15

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Chapter 22 Glossary

630.2200 Introduction 630.2201 Definitions

A selected list of definitions of terms used in hydrolog- This section contains definitions for hydrologic
ic evaluations is given in this chapter. This list is not terms commonly used within the U.S. Department of
intended to be exhaustive or to cover every hydrologic Agriculture (USDA), Natural Resources Conservation
term. Other useful definitions are given in: Service (NRCS). Definitions for underlined terms
can be found elsewhere in the list of definitions.
• Nomenclature for Hydraulics (1962) American
Abbreviations and symbols representing many of these
Society of Civil Engineers, Manual No. 43
terms are found in section 630.2202.
• Soil and Water Terminology (2007) American
Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers,
Standard S526.3
• General Introduction and Hydrologic Definitions,
(1960) Manual of Hydrology: Part 1. General
Surface-Water Techniques, Geological Survey
Water-Supply Paper 1541–A. Methods and prac-
tices of the Geological Survey. HTML version
(1995) available at:
http://water.usgs.gov/wsc/glossary.html
• Water Words Dictionary (2011) Nevada
Department of Conservation and Natural
Resources and Nevada Division of Water
Planning, available at: http://water.nv.gov/
programs/planning/dictionary/
• Environmental Management Glossary, Fourth
Edition (2006) Soil and Water Conservation
Society of American
• Glossary of Geology, Fifth Edition (2005)
American Geological Institute

This chapter also contains a list of useful conversion

factors.

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Acre-foot The amount of water that will cover one acre to a depth of 1 foot. Equals
43,560 cubic feet. Abbreviated AF.
Actual retention Actual retention after runoff begins, in inches. Abbreviated F.
Albedo The percentage of incoming radiation that is reflected by a natural surface
such as the ground, ice, snow, or water. The term is often used for the
reflectivity of snow in particular.
Annual flood The maximum instantaneous peak discharge in a water year.
Annual flood series A list of the maximum flood peak discharges occurring in each year for the
period of record.
Annual runoff The total natural discharge of a stream for a year, usually expressed in
inches depth or acre-feet. See water yield.
Annual yield The total amount of water obtained in a year from a stream, spring, well,
etc. Usually expressed in inches depth, acre-feet, millions of gallons, or
cubic feet.
Antecedent moisture condition See antecedent runoff condition. Abbreviated AMC.
Antecedent runoff condition The average condition of a watershed when flooding occurs. Abbreviated
ARC. Formerly called antecedent moisture condition.
Area-depth curve A graph showing the change in average rainfall depth as the size of the area
receiving the rainfall changes.
Areal rainfall The average rainfall over an area, usually derived from or discussed in
contrast with point rainfall.
Atmospheric vapor The gaseous form of water that occurs in the atmosphere.
Auxiliary spillway A spillway designed to convey excess water safely through, over, or around
a dam. May also be referred to as an emergency spillway.
Auxiliary spillway hydrograph The hydrograph used to evaluate the stability of the auxiliary spillway to
pass flow at a safe velocity. May also be referred to as an “emergency spill-
way hydrograph.”
Auxiliary spillway system A single auxiliary spillway or a combination of auxiliary spillways designed
to work together.
Base flow The sustained or fair-weather discharge that persists after storm runoff
and associated quick return flow are depleted. It is usually derived from
groundwater discharge or gradual snow or ice melt over extended periods
of time, but need not be continuous flow. It can be based on annual or sea-
sonal periods depending upon when major floods usually occur. It may also
be defined as the stream discharge derived from groundwater sources. It is
sometimes considered to include flow from regulated lakes or reservoirs.
Channel flow Water flow in a defined channel, either natural or humanmade.
Connected impervious area Describes a situation where runoff from an impervious area flows directly
to storm drains, street gutters, or steam channels.
Conservation storage Water impounded for consumptive uses, such as municipal, industrial, and
irrigation water supply, and nonconsumptive uses such as recreation, and
fish and wildlife.
Conservation tillage A tillage practice that leaves residues on the soil surface for erosion con-
trol and water conservation. It includes specific residue management
practices, such as no-till, mulch-till, or ridge-till.

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Consumptive use A term used mainly by irrigation engineers to describe the amount of water
used in crop growth plus evaporation from the soil. See also evapotranspi-
ration.
Correlation A statistical index that measures linear variation between variables.
Cover The vegetation and vegetational debris, such as mulch and residue, that ex-
ist on the soil surface. In some classification schemes, such as table 9–1 in
NEH630.09, fallow or bare soil is considered the minimum cover class.
Cover class See land use and treatment class.
Crest The elevation of the uppermost surface of a dam or an earth spillway.
Crest staff gage A gage used to make a quick visual observation of water surface levels in
reservoirs, rivers, streams, irrigation channels, weirs, and flumes.
Criterion variable The dependant variable in a statistical regression analysis.
Cross section The shape of a channel, stream, or valley determined by a line approxi-
mately perpendicular to the main path of water flow, along which measure-
ments of distance and elevations are determined.
Cubic feet per second A volumetric unit of water flow. Sometimes called second-feet. Abbreviated
cfs.
Cubic feet per second per square Measures the volume of water flowing per second per square mile of drain-
mile age area. Assumes uniformly distributed runoff. Abbreviated csm.
Curve number A dimensionless number of 98 or less that relates runoff to the soil-cover
complex of a watershed. The curve number indicates the runoff potential
of a soil-cover complex during periods when the soil is not frozen. Higher
numbers mean greater runoff. Abbreviated CN. Also called a runoff curve
number (RCN).
Dam An artificial barrier, together with any associated spillways and appurte-
nant works, across a watercourse or natural drainage area, that does or
may impound or divert water.
Damage reach A length of floodplain or valley selected for damage evaluation.
Degree-day A day with an average temperature one degree above a defined basis or
threshold. The average is usually obtained by averaging the maximum
and minimum temperature for the day. Depending on usage, the threshold
temperature may vary. For example, in snowmelt studies, a degree-day is
defined as a day with an average daily temperature above 32 °F, so a day
with an average temperature of 40° F gives (40°– 32°) = 8 degree-days.
Degrees of freedom The number of independent pieces of information, or parameters, required
to form a statistical estimate.
Depression storage The volume of water stored on the soil surface.
Depth-area curve A graph showing the change in average rainfall depth as size of area chang-
es.
Design storm A specified rainfall depth and rainfall distribution used to estimate runoff
in design of hydraulic structures.
Digital elevation model A digital representation of a topographic surface. Abbreviated DEM.

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Dimensionless unit hydrograph A discharge hydrograph resulting from one inch of direct runoff distributed
uniformly over the watershed, with the direct storm runoff generated at a
uniform rate during the unit storm duration.
Direct runoff Water that enters the stream channel during a storm. It mainly consists
of rainfall on the stream surface, surface runoff, and quick return flow.
Abbreviated Q.
Discharge Quantity of water flow at a location in a stream or river, commonly mea-
sured and reported in units of cubic feet per second or cubic meters per
second. Abbreviated q.
Drainage area The area of a watershed draining into a stream at a given point. The area
may be of different sizes for surface runoff, subsurface runoff or flow, and
base flow. Generally the surface runoff area is used as the drainage area.
See watershed.
Drainage system The set of streams and other bodies of impounded surface water that drain
a region.
Duration of excess rainfall The time of a rainfall event during which direct runoff occurs, measured in
hours. Abbreviated D.
Duration of unit excess The incremental time of a storm during which direct runoff occurs for the
rainfall unit hydrograph, in hours. Abbreviated ∆D.
Effective duration The time in a storm during which the water supply for direct runoff is pro-
duced. Also the duration of excess rainfall.
Emergency spillway See auxiliary spillway.
Emergency spillway hydrograph See auxiliary spillway hydrograph.
Energy grade line A graphical representation of the kinetic head of water flowing in a pipe,
conduit, or channel. The line is plotted above the hydraulic grade line at a
distance equal to the velocity head. Abbreviated EGL.
Evaluation series A list of floods or storms that produced floods during a representative
period that is used in water project evaluation to obtain estimates of flood
damages.
Evaporation The process by which surface or subsurface water is converted to atmo-
spheric vapor.
Evapotranspiration Water withdrawn from soil by evaporation and plant transpiration. See
consumptive use. Abbreviated ET.
Exceedance probability The probability that a random event will exceed a specified magnitude in a
given time period, usually one year.
Excess rainfall The part of rainfall during a given storm that exceeds the infiltration capac-
ity and is available for direct runoff.
Excessive precipitation Standard term for rainfall in which the rate of fall is greater than certain
adopted limits, chosen with regard to the normal precipitation of a given
place or area. Not the same as excess rainfall.
Fallow Cropland kept unseeded for a period of time. This may be a normal part of
the cropping system for weed control, water conservation, soil condition-
ing, etc.
Flood A relatively high flow as determined by either gage height or discharge
quantity. An event during which a stream overflows its normal banks.

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Flood pool Floodwater storage in a reservoir. In a floodwater retarding structure it

is the temporary storage between crests of the principal spillway and the
auxiliary spillway or spillways.
Flood routing The process of progressively determining the time and shape of a flood
wave in a stream or reservoir.
Flood wave The rise and fall in streamflow during and after a storm.
Floodplain The strip of relatively smooth land adjacent to a stream channel construct-
ed by the present water course and covered by water when the stream
flows over its banks.
Floodwater retarding structure A dam, usually made with an earth fill, having a flood pool where incoming
floodwater is temporarily stored and slowly released downstream through
a principal spillway.
Flow duration The percentage of time during which specified flow rates are exceeded.
Flow retardance The degree to which flow is impeded as it travels over a surface. Thick
mulches in forests and hay meadows with high stem densities have high
flow retardance, as well as high infiltration rates. Bare surfaces have little
flow retardance. Flow retardance is measured by a retardance factor,
which is inverse to retardance. Therefore, surfaces with high retardance
have low retardance factors and surfaces with low retardance have high
retardance factors. Also referred to as surface retardance.
Freeboard hydrograph The hydrograph used to evaluate the total spillway flow capacity of a dam
and the structural integrity of the spillway system. It is also used to estab-
lish the minimum settled crest elevation of the dam. Abbreviated FBH.
Frequency The number of occasions that the same numerical measure of a particular
quantity has occurred between definite time periods. Often stated in terms
such as return interval, recurrence interval, or percent chance.
Frequency analysis An analysis of the frequency at which a given event occurs or repeats over
a particular time period or in a given sample.
Frequency array A sequence of actual events (floods, etc.) suitable for use in frequency
analysis, or a sequence of hypothetical events obtained from a frequency
analysis.
Frequency curve The line on probability paper that represents a series of events and their
exceedance probabilities.
Frequency distribution A generalized cumulative density function of known shape and range of
values.
Friction slope The friction head loss per unit length along an open channel or a conduit.
Groundwater The water in the saturated zone beneath the water table.
Historical series A systematic record or series of all events, including both measured and
nonmeasured events, in a given period of years, with the date of each event
being known.
Hydraulic grade line A line or an elevation representing the hydraulic head in a closed conduit
or open channel. In an open channel, the hydraulic grade line is the water
surface. Abbreviated HGL.

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Hydrograph A graph showing the discharge, stage, velocity, or other property of water
with respect to time for a given point on a stream or for a given point in any
drainage system.
Hydrologic condition An indication of the effects of ground cover and treatment on runoff.
Hydrologic soil-cover complex A combination of a hydrologic soil group and a land use and treatment
class describing the potential runoff conditions.
Hydrologic soil group A group of soils having the similar physical and runoff characteristics.
Hydrologic unit Watershed boundaries organized in a nested hierarchy by size. Abbreviated
HU.
Hydrology The science that deals with the occurrence and distribution of naturally
occurring water on, around, and under the Earth’s surface.
Impervious area The ground cover where there is little to no infiltration and there could be
some surface detention, such as pavement, roof tops, and other similar
surfaces.
Infiltration The part of rainfall that enters the soil; the process by which part of the
rainfall enters the soil.
Infiltration rate The rate at which water enters the soil after prolonged wetting of the soil
profile. Abbreviated Fc.
Initial abstraction All of the rainfall that occurs before runoff occurs, consisting of intercep-
tion, evaporation, infiltration, and depression storage. Abbreviated Ia.
Integrity analysis Evaluation of an earth or vegetated earth spillway to pass a given flood
without eroding to the point of breach. For purposes of spillway design,
an earth spillway must retain its integrity (not erode to the point of lower-
ing the hydraulic control) during the passage of the freeboard hydrograph
through the reservoir.
Interception Precipitation caught and stored on plants and finally absorbed, evaporated,
or sublimated.
Interflow Water that infiltrates into the soil profile and moves laterally until it returns
to the surface or stream.
Irrigation pool Reservoir storage used to store water for release as needed in irrigation.
Isohyet A line on a map connecting points of equal rainfall amounts.
Joint use storage Volume in a reservoir that is used for two or more purposes; for instance,
irrigation and floodwater purposes.
Karst topography An area of a watershed where the subsurface geology is primarily carbon-
ate rocks resulting in sink holes and large surface flow losses.
Kinematic wave A variation in surface flow that maintains a unique function relating flow to
stage.
Lag On a hydrograph, the time from the centroid of rainfall to the peak of the
hydrograph. Abbreviated L.
Land cover A broad land classification such as agricultural or forest, etc.

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Land treatment measure A tillage practice, a pattern of tillage or land use, or any land improvement
with a substantial effect of reducing runoff and sediment production or im-
proving use of drainage and irrigation facilitates. Examples are contouring,
improved crop rotations, controlled grazing, land leveling, and field drain-
age. In hydrologic computations, nonbeneficial measures (such as straight
row or poor rotation corn) are included for convenience in evaluation. In
general conservation work, “land treatment measure” has a broader mean-
ing that includes measures to improve the soil, control sheet erosion, and/or
increase soil fertility.
Land use A land classification, such as row crops or pasture, that indicates a type of
land use. Roads may also be classified as a separate land use.
Land use and treatment class Class that consists of use and treatment combinations that actually occur
on watersheds. Often referred to as cover class.
Landscape elements The landforms, water, vegetation, and structures that make up any land-
scape we see and experience.
Logarithmic-normal probability A normal probability distribution using the logarithmic transformation of
distribution the data.
Log-normal Short for logarithmic-normal probability distribution.
Log-normal paper Graph paper used in estimating frequencies of floods, etc. The paper has a
logarithmic scale for the flood (or other event) amounts and a cumulative
distribution scale (also called frequency or percent chance scale) for the
probability plotting positions.
Log paper Short for “full logarithmic graph paper,” is a graph paper that has logarith-
mic scales on both horizontal and vertical axes. Sometimes called “log-log
paper.” The scales may be any number of cycles, but usually in combina-
tions such as 1x1, 2x2, 3x3, 3x5, 4x7, etc.
Loss The portion of precipitation lost as runoff from the surface of the land due
to evaporation and/or deep percolation.
Manning’s n A coefficient of roughness, used in a formula for estimating the capacity of
a channel or a pipe to convey water. Generally, n values are determined by
inspection in the field.
Maximum potential retention Maximum potential retention represents the potential maximum amount of
water in inches that will be retained on the watershed surface after storm
runoff begins. This is an important variable in the NRCS runoff equations.
It is not a directly measurable watershed variable. Abbreviated S.
Mean The average of a series of numbers. It can be arithmetic or geometric, de-
pending on the equation used to compute the mean.
Mean daily flow The average or mean discharge of a stream for one day. Usually given in
cubic feet per second.
Median The value in an array of numbers that has as many lower values as it has
higher values.
Mulch-till Managing the amount, orientation, and distribution of crop and other plant
residue on the soil surface year-round while limiting the soil-disturbing
activities used to grow crops in systems where the entire field surface is
tilled prior to planting.

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Muskingum-Cunge A flood routing technique that applies to channel or reach routing.

NEH630 The NRCS National Engineering Handbook (NEH), Part 630, Hydrology.
Formerly National Engineering Handbook Section 4, or NEH–4.
Non-structural measures Non-structural measures alleviate flood losses or reduce the impact of
flooding by modifying the susceptibility of land, people, and property to
flood damage. Non-structural measures include, but are not limited to,
certain conservation practices, flood warning systems, flood-proofing mea-
sures, acquisition, and/or relocation of individual properties.
Normal A mean or average value established from a series of hydrological or me-
teorological observations.
No-till Managing the amount, orientation, and distribution of crop and other plant
residue on the soil surface year-round, while limiting the soil-disturbing
activities.
Outliers Extreme event represented by data points which depart from the trend of
the rest of the data.
Partial-duration series A list of all events, such as floods, occurring above a selected base, without
regard to the number, within a given period. In the case of floods, the se-
lected base is usually equal to the smallest annual flood in order to include
at least one flood in each year.
Peak discharge The maximum discharge attained during a flood. Abbreviated qp.
Percent chance A statistical description of the probability that an event of a given size will
be equaled or exceeded during any given year. This name is often given to
the probability scale on log-normal paper. Percent chance is the inverse of
recurrence interval.
Percolation The movement of groundwater in streamline flow in any direction through
small interconnected and saturated interstices of rock or earth.
Period of record The time during which data were collected.
Pervious area An area with some type of ground cover where infiltration can occur.
Plotting position The point computed by an equation and used to locate given data on prob-
ability paper.
Point rainfall Rainfall at a specific location such as a rain gage. Point rainfall is common-
ly associated with duration over which rain is recorded or assumed.
Precipitation The total measurable supply of water of all forms of falling moisture, in-
cluding dew, rain, mist, snow, hail, and sleet; usually expressed as a depth
of liquid water on a horizontal surface in a day, month, or year, and desig-
nated as daily, monthly, or annual precipitation.
Population The entire (usually infinite) number of data points from which a sample is
taken or collected. The total number of past, present, and future floods at
a location on a river is the population of floods for that location even if the
floods are not measured or recorded.
Predictor variable The independent variable or variables in a regression equation or the vari-
able used to predict the criterion variable or dependent variable.
Preliminary investigation A brief study of a potential project to estimate whether a detailed investiga-
tion is justified. Abbreviated PI.

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Principal spillway A spillway designed to convey, in a safe and nonerosive manner, all ordi-
nary discharges coming into a reservoir and all of an extreme amount that
does not pass through the auxiliary spillway.
Principal spillway hydrograph The hydrograph used to determine the minimum crest elevation of the
auxiliary spillway. It is used to establish the principal spillway capacity and
determine the associated minimum floodwater retarding storage.
Probability The likelihood that a certain event will occur.
Probability paper Any graph paper prepared especially for plotting magnitudes of events
versus their frequencies or probabilities. See log-normal paper.
Quick return flow The diminishing discharge directly associated with a specific storm that
occurs after surface runoff has reached its maximum. It includes base flow,
prompt subsurface discharge (commonly called interflow), and delayed
surface runoff. This flow reappears rapidly in comparison to base flow and
is generally much in excess of normal base flow. It is common in humid
climates and in watersheds with soils of high infiltration capacities and
moderate to steep slopes. Abbreviated QRF.
Rainfall A fall of rain; precipitation in the form of liquid water. The amount of rain,
usually expressed in inches depth of water on an area, that reaches the
surface of the Earth.
Rainfall distribution The distribution of rainfall with time. There are standard distributions that
are used for design of conservation measures.
Random error Errors that occur in any kind of measured data from time to time because
of a variety of unrelated causes.
Reach A length of spillway channel, stream channel, or valley selected for use
in hydraulic or other computations. Reaches are usually selected to have
constant hydraulic properties. See damage reach, stream reach.
Recession curve The part of the descending limb on a hydrograph that extends from the
point of inflection to the time when direct runoff has ceased.
Recurrence interval The average number of years within which a given event will be equaled or
exceeded. A 50-year frequency flood has an average recurrence interval of
50 years, and so on. It is the inverse of percent chance. It is often referred
to as return interval.
Regional analysis An analysis of parameters on gaged watersheds in a region that is used to
estimate the same parameters for ungaged watersheds in the same region.
It is often used in making flood frequency or other types of hydrologic
analyses.
Regression A method of developing a relationship between a criterion variable and one
or more predictor variables, with the objective of predicting the criterion
variable for given values of the predictor variable.
Reservoir A pond, lake, tank, basin, or other space, either natural in its origin or cre-
ated in whole or in part by the building of engineering structures. A reser-
voir stores, regulates, and controls water.
Reservoir routing Flood routing through a reservoir.
Residual The difference between the value predicted with the regression equation
and the criterion variable.

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Retardance factor A measure of surface conditions related to the rate at which runoff con-
centrates at some point of interest. Retardance factor expresses an inverse
relation to flow retardance. Low retardance factors are associated with
rough surfaces having high degrees of flow retardance, or surfaces over
which flow will be impeded. High retardance factors are associated with
smooth surfaces having low degrees of flow retardance, or surfaces over
which flow moves rapidly. The retardance factor is assumed to be equal to
the curve number. Abbreviated cn’.
Return interval See recurrence interval.
Ridge-till Managing the amount, orientation, and distribution of crop and other plant
residues on the soil surface year-round, while growing crops on pre-formed
ridges alternated with furrows protected by crop residue.
Rill erosion Small gullies that occur on the land slope in a random pattern.
Runoff The part of precipitation that runs off the surface of a drainage area.
Runoff curve number See curve number. Abbreviated RCN.
Saturated hydraulic conductivity The rate of flow of water through a unit cross section of a porous mass
under a unit hydraulic gradient at a temperature of 60 °F.
Second-foot See cubic feet per second.
Second-foot-day The volume of water represented by a flow of 1 cubic foot per second for a
period of 1 day or 24 hours.
Semi-log-paper Short for “semi-logarithmic graph paper,” which is graph paper with an
arithmetic scale along one axis and a logarithmic scale along the other.
Either scale is used for the independent variable as the data require.
Shallow concentrated flow Flow collecting in small rills and gullies which forms as sheet flow begins
to concentrate. Shallow concentrated flow is not assumed to have a well-
defined channel. Shallow concentrated flow depths typically range from 0.1
to 0.5 foot.
Sheet erosion Erosion on a slope before a rill or small gully is formed.
Sheet flow Flow over plane surfaces. Sheet flow usually occurs in the headwaters of
a stream. NRCS limits maximum sheet flow length to 100 feet. Maximum
depths are normally in the magnitude of 0.1 foot.
Skew Skew is a shape parameter and the third moment about the mean, which
measures the symmetry of a distribution.
Small grains Wheat, oats, barley, flax, rice, and other close drilled or broadcast grain
crops.
Snow water equivalent The depth of water, in inches, contained in the snowpack. Abbreviated
SWE.
Soil-cover complex See hydrologic soil-cover complex.
Soil-water-storage The amount of water the soils (including geologic formations) of a water-
shed will store at a given time. Amounts vary from watershed to watershed.
The amount of soil-water storage for a given watershed is continually vary-
ing as rainfall or evapotranspiration takes place.

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Spillway An open or closed channel, conduit, or drop structure used to convey wa-
ter from a reservoir. It may contain gates, either manually or automatically
controlled, to regulate the discharge of water. See principal spillway and
auxiliary spillway.
Stability analysis Analysis of an earthen auxiliary spillway exit channel assuming water flow-
ing through the channel at a peak velocity or stress.
Stability design hydrograph The hydrograph used to establish the dimensions of the earth auxiliary
spillway from a stability analysis of the exit channel. Older documents use
the term emergency spillway hydrograph. Abbreviated SDH.
Stage The height of a water column above a determined point of reference, usu-
ally measured in feet.
Standard deviation A measure of dispersion of data. Data grouped closely about their mean
have a small standard deviation; data grouped less closely have a larger
standard deviation. Abbreviated Sd.
Standard error of estimate The standard deviation of the residuals. Abbreviated Se.
Standard rain gage Also “standard gage.” The National Weather Service (NWS) nonrecording
rain gage, having an opening 8 inches in diameter and a holding capacity of
24 inches of rainfall. The gage is usually examined once daily at a regular
time, and the catch (if any) measured by depth in inches and hundredths of
an inch.
Standard rain gage, recording A rain gage that automatically records the amount of precipitation col-
lected, as a function of time. There are tipping bucket and weighing types
of gages.
Storage The capacity of a reservoir below the elevation of the crest of the auxiliary
spillway. Usually expressed as acre-feet of storage.
Storage-indication method A flood-routing method. Often called the Puls method (after Louis G. Puls),
though it is actually a variation of the method devised by Puls.
Storm A rainfall event.
Storm distribution The variation with time of the precipitation within a storm.
Stream Water flowing in a watercourse or channel.
Streamline A vector drawn tangentially to the flow of water or other moving fluid.
Stream reach A length of stream channel selected for use in hydraulic or other computa-
tions. See reach.
Structural measure For flood prevention work, any form of earthwork dam, ditch, levee, drop
spillway, jetties, riprap, etc., or installation of concrete, masonry, metal, or
other material.
Sublimation The process by which a material changes state from solid directly to gas.
Subarea See subwatershed.
Subsurface Underground.
Subsurface flow See subsurface runoff.
Subsurface runoff Water that infiltrates the soil and reappears as seepage or spring flow and
forms part of the flood hydrograph for that storm. Difficult to determine in
practice and seldom worked with separately.

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Subwatershed A watershed that is part of a larger watershed. It may be evaluated sepa-

rately when necessary in order to improve computational accuracy for
results on a whole watershed basis or to get results for that area only.
Surface The uppermost level of the land.
Surface retardance See flow retardance.
Surface runoff Total rainfall, minus interception, evaporation, infiltration, and surface
storage, that moves across the ground surface to a stream or depression.
Surface storage Natural or human-made roughness of a land surface, that stores some or
all of the surface runoff of a storm. Natural depressions, contour furrows,
and terraces are usually considered as producing surface storage, but stock
ponds, reservoirs, stream channel storage, etc., are generally excluded.
Synthetic record A storm or flood series obtained by taking selected values from a frequency
curve based on historical data.
Synthetic storm A storm obtained by taking a selected value from the frequency curve
based on historical series of storm data.
Systematic errors Errors that may occur because of defects in the instruments, in their expo-
sure, or in the observational procedure. A gradual change in the surround-
ings of a station may be a source of systematic error.
Systematic record Hydrologic values or information systematically recorded by a Federal,
State, or local agency.
Thiessen method A method of using a rain gage network for estimating average depth of rain-
fall over a watershed.
Tillage Cultivation of the land.
Time of concentration The time it takes runoff to travel from the hydraulically most remote point
of the watershed to the outlet. Time of concentration varies from storm
event to storm event, but is often used as a constant. Time of concentration
consists of three hydraulic components: sheet flow, shallow concentrated
flow, and channel flow. Abbreviated Tc.
Transmission loss A reduction in volume of flow in a stream, canal, or other waterway due to
infiltration or seepage into the channel bed and banks.
Transpiration The process by which plants dissipate water into the atmosphere from
leaves and other surfaces. Also, the term applies to the water that escapes
as vapor from plant leaves and other surfaces.
Travel time The average time for water to flow through a reach or other stream or val-
ley length that is less than the total length.
Treatment class Applies mainly to agricultural land uses and includes mechanical practices
such as contouring or terracing, and management practices such as grazing
control or rotation of crops. The classes consist of land use and treatment
combinations that actually occur on watersheds.
Unconnected impervious area An area that is not directly connected to the drainage system. This term
describes the condition where runoff from an impervious area flows over
a pervious area as sheet flow before reaching the drainage system. One
example is runoff flowing from down spouts that outlet onto a lawn, so the
runoff must cross the lawn before reaching a storm drain or gutter.

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Unit hydrograph A discharge hydrograph coming from one inch of direct runoff distributed
uniformly over the watershed, with the direct runoff generated at a uni-
form rate during the given storm duration. A watershed may have a 1-hour,
2-hour, etc., unit hydrograph.
VDP Abbreviation for volume-duration-probability.
Vegetated spillway A vegetated open channel in earth materials.
Visual focal point A landscape element to which the eyes are automatically attracted.
Visual resource quality The rating of the uniqueness or desirability of a visual resource. High
resource quality is usually indicative of diverse size, form, color or texture
in a given landscape. A unique landscape element, such as a mountain peak
in an otherwise flat terrain will have a high visual resource quality—one
that captures the viewer’s attention due to the peak’s contrast to the flat
landscape.
Visual resources The definable appearance of a landscape described by its evisual elements:
landform, water, vegetation, and structure.
Volume-Duration-Probability The volume of high or low flow for selected durations (1, 3, and 7 days for
high flow and 7, 14, 30, 60, and 120 days for low flow) analyzed on a fre-
quency basis. Abbreviated VDP.
Water loss That part of the storm rainfall that does not appear as runoff for the dura-
tion of the flood. See loss.
Watershed The surface area contributing direct runoff to a stream at a given point.
Watershed measure Any vegetative or structural means (including earthwork) of directly im-
proving or conserving the soil and water resources of a watershed. See
land treatment measure and structural measure.
Water supply The amount of water in a stream or reservoir, or groundwater, available to
supply necessary demands.
Water-Supply Paper A publication of the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), which reports re-
search and/or data pertaining to surface water and/or groundwater resourc-
es for a geographic area within the United States. Abbreviated WSP.
Water table The upper surface of groundwater.
Water year The year taken as beginning October 1. Often used for convenience in
streamflow work, since in many areas, streamflow is at its lowest at that
time.
Water yield Natural annual runoff, measured at a given place in a watershed.
Weibull plotting position Values used to plot a frequency curve.

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630.2202 Abbreviations and

symbols

The following is a list of common abbreviations and

sumbols for the terms defined in section 630.2201.

AF Scre-foot or acre-feet
AMC Antecedent moisture condition
ARC Sntecedent runoff condition
cfs Cubic feet per second
cfs-day Second-foot-day
CN Curve number
cn´ Retardance factor
csm Cubic feet per second per square mile
D Duration of excess rainfall
DEM Digital elevation model
DUH Dimensionless unit hydrograph
EGL Energy grade line
ET Evapotranspiration
F Actual retention
FBH Freeboard hydrograph
Fc Infiltration rate
HGL Hydraulic grade line
HU Hydrologic unit
Ia Initial abstraction
L Lag
PI Preliminary investigation
PS Principal spillway
PSH Principal spillway hydrograph
Q Direct runoff volume
q Discharge
qp Peak discharge
QRF Quick return flow
RCN Runoff curve number
S Maximum potential retention
Sd Standard deviation
SDH Stability design hydrograph
Se Standard error of estimate
SWE Snow water equivalent
Tc Time of concentration
VDP Volume-duration-probability
WSP See Water-Supply Paper
∆D Duration of unit excess rainfall

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630.2203 Conversion factors

The following lists some common conversion factors.

Multiply: By: To obtain:

AF 0.5042 cfs-days
AF 12.10 cfs-hours
AF 0.01875 inches depth on 1 square mile
AF 0.3258 million U.S. gallons
AF per day 0.5042 cfs
AF per square mile 0.01875 inches depth
centimeters 0.3937 inches
cfs 1.983 AF per day
cfs 724.0 AF per year
cfs 0.02832 cubic meters per second
cfs 0.6463 million U.S. gallons per day
cfs 448.8 U.S. gallons per minute
cfs-days 1.983 AF
cfs-days 0.03719 inches depth on 1 square mile
cfs-days per square mile 0.03719 inches depth
cfs-hours 0.08264 AF
cfs-hours per square mile 0.001550 inches depth
csm 0.03719 inches depth per day
csm 13.57 inches depth per year
cubic feet 7.481 U.S. gallons
feet per second 0.6818 miles per hour
hectares 2.471 acres
imperial (UK) gallons 1.200 U.S. gallons
inches depth 53.33 AF per square mile
inches depth on 1 square mile 53.33 AF
inches per hour 1.008 cfs per acre
inches per hour 645.3 csm
kilograms 2.205 pounds
liters 0.2642 U.S. gallons
meters 3.281 feet
millimeters 0.03937 inches
million U.S. gallons per day 1.547 cfs
square miles 2.590 square kilometers
U.S. gallons per minute 0.002228 cfs

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