OCR Text |
Show curate, and timely knowledge of the extent and intensity of storms and snowmelt in relation to the other basin characteristics. Currently the resources development agencies, in collaboration with the Bureau of the Budget and the basic data agencies, specify the kinds, coverage, and accuracy of data they require in terms of time priorities. These specifications are included in the annual programs of the research agencies, and submitted to the Bureau of the Budget as a part of the justification of appropria- tions requested. Agencies charged with collection of basic data follow a general pattern in their operations. The agencies concerned with conservation, use, and development of our natural resources likewise follow consistent procedures, which are largely prescribed by statute. Steps should be taken to assure a coordination between the two. The time element is vitally important. Data relating to physical features such as topography and geology change very little and are collected in an orderly procedure. But to be of most value, collection should be started in sufficient time for investigation and development of projects and programs. On the other hand, hydrologic and sedimentation elements fluctuate so widely over the years that records over short periods are in- adequate and often misleading. For this reason a national network of stations is essential and should be maintained continuously for most eco- nomical use of public funds and safety in design of structures. Basic economic data likewise must be collected, recorded, and made available for appropriate development stages. Federal agencies authorized to collect data should strive to serve in the best and most eco- nomical manner the information needs of devel- opment agencies as well as of the general public. Increased and closer cooperation is required. This should improve desirable correlation between stages in project development and phases of col- lection of data. In general this can be best achieved through the active participation of rep- resentatives of the data-gathering agencies in all planning activities of the basin commissions. Determination of the adequacy of such basic data should be the responsibility of the river basin commissions, which use the information for de- sign and construction of works and for guidance and assistance in carrying out land use programs. They should specify their needs. Various kinds of data, supplied by basic data agencies of the Federal Government, are available. In order to assure the adequacy of data at all stages of planning, construction, and operation, a sound basis for cooperation between the two groups of agencies should be firmly established. Hydrology and Sedimentation Basic research in hydrology, sedimentation, and effects of land management on runoff and erosion should be directed toward a more nearly com- plete understanding of the physical, chemical, and biological phenomena involved in the entire hy- drologic cycle. Basic research involves inten- sive investigation in many branches of science and is being undertaken by many agencies, usually with reference to their special problems. Inte- gration of such research is urgently needed. Major development projects justify employ- ment of specialists who apply the results of basic research to each project. Minor projects, on the other hand, cannot support such personnel. Many gaps in existing knowledge still occur that call for basic and applied research to answer questions involved in complete development of water and related land resources. A few of the major problems on which basic research is needed are: 1. Frequency, intensity, and areal distribution of precipitation, and influence of mountains on precipitation. 2. Evaporation from free water surfaces, small and large. 3. Evapo-transpiration from land surfaces with various types of vegetation and soil depth. 4. Solubility of minerals and rock materials. 5. Effect of vegetal cover and land use on peak rates and distribution of runoff and on erosion and sediment loads for large and small streams. 6. Long-term fluctuations in annual and sea- sonal precipitation, runoff, ground-water levels, and sediment movement. 102 |