Title
Rain and Stream Gauges Maintenance Agreement
Action
Action:
A. Approve a five-year agreement with the United State Geological Survey for an amount up to $2,254,100 for maintenance of storm water rain and stream gauges, and
B. Authorize the City Manager to amend the agreement consistent with the purpose for which the agreement was approved.
Body
Staff Resource(s):
Angela Charles, Charlotte Water
Mike Davis, Storm Water Services
Samantha Willis, Storm Water Services
Explanation
* The funding from this agreement is used to maintain the rain and stream gauge system in the City of Charlotte stream network.
* Since 1961, the City of Charlotte has worked with the United State Geological Survey (USGS) to gather rainfall and stream flow information through a cost-sharing program. The previous agreement was for a five-year period and approved by City Council on November 13, 2017.
* The rain and stream gauge system for the City of Charlotte is part of a nationwide network that measures quantity and quality of surface water resources.
* A rain gauge electronically collects and transmits the amount of rain at the location the gauge is stationed. The gauge transmits rainfall amounts to the USGS office for compilation.
* A stream gauge electronically collects and transmits information about the water within streams and lakes. The gauge collects and transmits elevation, temperature, and flow information to the USGS office for compilation.
* There are 29 stream gauge stations and 38 rain gauge stations in the City of Charlotte stream network.
* Data from the gauge system is used to:
* Determine flood-prone areas,
* Review rain event impacts,
* Determine long-term trends,
* Aid in surface water quality investigations,
* Assist in drainage infrastructure design, and
* Notify emergency personnel of potential threats to life and property.
* The agreement with USGS is for a five-year period. The total five-year cost is $3,597,800. The city's share payable to USGS on 29 ...
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