The Department gathers, analyzes, and publishes data about the surface water of the state. Using automated stream gaging stations, the Department collects streamflow information at more than 200 sites around the state. Watermasters also routinely measure the streamflows in their districts to maintain accurate accounts of flow quantities. This information also helps the Department to enforce existing water rights during low-flow periods. Surface Water Data
Ground water data
The Department maintains 336 data collection sites in a statewide network of observation wells. The agency´s ground water hydrogeologists also gather information from more than 3,000 test wells. These staff work with the United States Geological Survey in cooperative studies mapping and assessing ground water resources in the Willamette and Deschutes Basins and other areas. Online Well Logs
Water availability analysis
Data on streams, rivers, and existing water rights are used in a computerized streamflow model to help determine if water is available for new uses. When someone applies for a new water use, this information allows Department staff to assess if enough water is available to support the new use above and beyond existing uses. Water Availability Database
Water Resources Department staff gather data such as streamflow measurements (top) and well levels from sites around the state. Water rights and water uses are digitized (middle) for use in advanced mapping systems. Department staff add this information to computer databases (bottom) for determining water availability and planning future uses.
