C.1.4 Documentation of Station Water Level
Accurate documentation of the record is extremely important. It establishes the identity of the location and the base values for future evaluation, and it ensures accurate transfer of the information from the field to the office. The information is gathered for various reasons: to route the original data in a different direction, to cross-reference the accuracy of the documentation, or to provide convenient access to the information on the original record.
Documentation must be complete and legible. Always do the documentation immediately following the observations. Do not depend on memory; never wait for a more convenient time or location.
In most cases, specially designed forms are provided for systematically recording information and readings. Extra information can always be listed on these forms if necessary. Forms can also be completed electronically on a hand-held computer.
Sometimes, information that appears to be insignificant or redundant must be recorded. For example, if a question on one form arises, it can be resolved quickly by comparing that form with others containing a record of the same observations. If two segments of a record requiring the same support data become separated, each segment, when properly documented, can be understood independent of the other.
The station log (Form AQU-06, The Water Stage Recorder - Station Record for the Year, see Appendix II), posted within the instrument shelter, provides a ready reference to the operating history of the station. The "Remarks" column shows the method used for past measurements, and indicates a safe limit of stage for stream wading. Level checks of the gauges are noted, along with any necessary gauge correction. Update the Form on AQU-06 before leaving the site.
Make all field data entries on the discharge measurement note front sheet (Form AQU-03, Discharge Measurement, see Appendix II) at the time of observation; before leaving the site, complete the form properly. The time, gauge heights, and general information recorded on this form establish the baseline data.