BCCF Flo Mo

We've been collecting measurements of Walley Creek flow since August 2019, when we saw the creek go completely dry for the first time in known history.  We're working with the BCCF Flow Monitoring Network (Flo Mo) to get our data up to "grade C"  as far as Resources Information Standards Committee (RISC) standards.  This will involve continuing to use the Flowtracker at least 6 times/year during high flow,  continuing to collect level logger measurements at least 4 times/year, and using flumes as well as photographic evidence during low flow or dry events.

The Standard Operating Procedures Manual and data sheets are available on the resources section of the BCCF Community Flow Monitoring Network website.

Collecting data is a very technical process, involving expensive equipment that is often shared between organizations and doesn't always work the way it's supposed to.  Interpreting the data involves comparing the measurements against rainfall amount, barometric pressure, and creek size/shape.  Then there's the challenge of reflecting on the information in a way that's meaningful to the people who want to understand it for decision making.

As NALT staff continue to collect flow measurements on Walley Creek, we'll work towards maintaining the flume at the RDN GNPCC.   The BCCF is supporting us to add a Flo Mo monitoring station in 2024.  We really want to know and understand the flows on Walley Creek.  At its lowest flow there are sections that go subsurface just above Shores Drive, while on October 18, 2023 we recorded 130 L/second in Reach 1.  Its highest flow was taken November 15, 2021 at 300L/second!!  Our goal is to work with City storm water managers to mitigate impacts on fish and other life in and around Walley Creek.

August 2022 - the whole summer was more or less at this level, with a few surges from summer rain

August 2023 - because of very low rainfall spring and summer 2023 there was no surface water in Walley Creek where it's been diverted to flow through a liner on the GNPCC property.