7934

• UCREFRP Catalog Number: 7934
• Author: Hyra, R.
• Title: Methods of Assessing Instream Flows for Recreation.
• USFW Year: 1978.
• USFW - Doc Type: Instream Flow Information Paper No. 6,
• Copyright Material: NO

ABSTRACT
The Instream Flow Group (IFG) has conducted research into methods
• of quantifying Instream flow needs for fish, wildlife, and recreation.
This paper describes two techniques developed by IFG for performing
recreational Instream flow studies. The single cross section method is
• relatively simple and provides a base flow figure which will provide for
the boating activities which make use of the of river. The incremental
method is more sophisticated and may be used to develop recommendations
~~ regarding streamflows required for various types of recreation, or to
provide a recreation analysis of any streamflow. Streamflow suitability
• criteria for recreation are presented for both methods.
INTRODUCTION
It has been long recognized that there are many competing demands
for the use of stream water. Diverting stream water for irrigation,
water supply, and energy developments can deplete streamflows to the
point where opportunities for recreation and the associated environ-
mental values of the stream are seriously impaired.. Numerous water
planning studies, both basin-wide and project oriented, have emphasized
the need to quantify the amount of water required to support recreation,
fish and wildlife resources, and to maintain aesthetic conditions.
The tools and techniques for estimating streamflows required for
recreation and aesthetics, and for insuring reasonable consideration of
recreation and aesthetics in the allocation of stream water, are cur-
rently undergoing study.- Instream flow requirements and values for
recreation, in the past, have often been based only upon the amount
required to maintain a fishery. However, several studies have indicated
that recreation and aesthetic requirements, at times, may not be the
same. as for a fishery.
;. This paper presents the techniques of assessing Instream flows for
recreation. These techniques were developed by the Cooperative Instream
Flow Service Group and closely parallel techniques used to assess
Instream flows for fisheries. The data collection procedures, the
physical and hydraulic simulation of the stream, and the computer models
which analyze the data are the same for both fisheries and recreation.
The major difference between the two techniques is the response of the
individual fish or recreationist to various physical parameters of