Forecasting for Management of Spring Runoff in the Columbia River System

by Vernon C. Bissell, NOAA, Northwest River Forecast Cent, Portland, OR, USA,
Douglas D. Speers, NOAA, Northwest River Forecast Cent, Portland, OR, USA,



Document Type: Proceeding Paper

Part of: Water for Resource Development

Abstract:

The National Weather Service, Corps of Engineers, and Bonneville Power Administration are affiliated in the 'Columbia River Forecast Service' (CRFS) to more efficiently provide streamflow forecast and management information at key control points. Forecast products provide highly significant guidance for the regulation of the Columbia River Reservoir System, an extensive development that produces numerous benefits for the Pacific northwest. Long-term runoff forecasts are used to determine the extent to which reservoirs are lowered each year for flood control and power generation, while short-term forecasts provide the basis for day-to-day operating decisions, especially during flood periods. With annual benefits in the billions of dollars and with sensitive environmental concerns facing management agencies, Columbia River system forecasts are and will continue to be an invaluable facet to the management of the Columbia River Resource.

Subject Headings: Forecasting | Reservoirs | Stormwater management | Runoff | Rivers and streams | Streamflow | River systems | Pacific Northwest | United States

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