What is stream flow?
1. Stream flow (m3/s)or discharge is the volume of water that moves through a specific point in a stream during a given time.
2. Steam flow has two components. The first is velocity, and the second is the volume of water in the stream.

What factors influence stream velocity in your watershed?
1. Depth of stream channel - When you reduce the area that the water must flow, while the volume of water passing through remains the same, the velocity of the water increases.
2. Width of stream channel - When you reduce the area that the water must flow, while the volume of water passing through remains the same, the velocity of the water increases.
3. Roughness of stream bottom – Water moves faster over smooth surfaces, thus, the stream velocity is greater when the stream bottom is comprised of mainly sand and clay.
4. Slope or incline of surrounding terrain - If the surrounding terrain is steep, then rainwater and snow melt will have less time to soak into the ground and runoff will be greater.

What factors influence stream volume in your watershed?
1. Weather or climate – Areas with more rain or snow will have more water draining into surrounding streams and rivers.
2. Seasonal changes – In the summer there is less water in the stream compared to the winter.
3. Merging tributaries – The number of tributaries that merge with a stream or river contribute to more water to the system, increasing the stream volume.
4. Human impact – Water is removed for consumption, industry, and irrigation. Roads and parking lots cover vast areas, preventing rainwater from soaking into the ground.Instead, water is forced to run off into surrounding streams and rivers.

What is the optimal stream flow in a watershed?
The stream flow for rivers can range from 593-725,00 (m3/s). What factors are affected by stream flow in a watershed?
1. Stream flow is an important factor in the water ecosystem and is responsible for many of the physical characteristics of the stream. Stream flow can also modify the chemical and biological aspects of a stream. Aquatic plants and animals depend upon stream flow to bring vital food and nutrients from upstream, or to remove waste downstream.
2. The reduction of water flow near operating dams or areas stagnant water may increase water temperature, and consequently affect dissolved oxygen levels.