CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION:

1.1 Background information

Water is the most vital and most abundant resources we find in nature .it is the most necessary

substance in the sustenance of physical life on earth. and water is found on the surface of the

earth in seas, lakes, rivers, stream etc. these are called bodies of water because they are where the

surface water is enclosed or contained .ocean, seas and lake are standing or non-flowing bodies

of water whereas rivers and stream are bodies of water in which the water flows from one point

to another. The quantity of water that flows in these bodies of water is the discharge

the discharge from river and streams as what determines how and what the what from

these bodies can and be used, for example, a river with high discharges more suitable for a

hydro-electric dam than a river with low discharge .also, it also determines the amount of water

that can be drawn or pumped from the body for irrigation purposes therefore it is at most

importance to know the amount of water that flows through a river or stream at different of point.

Measuring discharge and flow rate is crucial in many fields such as civil engineering,

hydrology, environmental science, water resource management, and industrial processes. Here's

a detailed explanation of their importance:

1. Water Resource Management

 Helps in planning and allocation of water for agriculture, domestic use, and industry.

 Ensures sustainable usage of rivers, lakes, and aquifers.

2. Flood Prediction and Control

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  Accurate discharge data helps predict flood risks.

 Supports the design of flood defenses such as levees, reservoirs, and spillways.

3. Irrigation Planning

 Determines how much water is available for irrigation systems.

 Prevents both over-irrigation (wasting water) and under-irrigation (damaging crops).

4. Design of Hydraulic Structures

 Essential for engineering structures like dams, culverts, bridges, weirs, and canals.

 Ensures structures can handle expected water flows without failure.

5. Environmental Protection

 Used to monitor stream health and ecological balance.

 Helps regulate pollution levels by tracking how pollutants disperse in flowing water.

6. Industrial Applications

 Industries using water in processes (e.g., cooling systems, chemical mixing) require

precise flow rates to maintain efficiency and safety

7. Hydroelectric Power Generation

 Flow rate determines how much electricity a hydropower plant can generate.

 Helps optimize energy production and water usage.

8. Legal and Regulatory Compliance

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  Water use is often regulated; discharge measurements help ensure compliance with laws

and permits.

Summary Table:

Purpose Why It Matters

Allocation, conservation,
Water Management
and planning

Risk assessment and

Flood Control
infrastructure design

Efficient water delivery to

Irrigation
crops

Safe and efficient

Hydraulic Structure Design
construction

Maintain ecosystems and

Environmental Monitoring
pollution control

Process control and resource

Industrial Use
efficiency

Hydropower Maximize energy output

Adhere to water usage and

Regulatory Compliance
environmental laws

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 Purpose Why It Matters

History of Discharge Measurement

🔹 1. Ancient Civilizations

 Egyptians, Mesopotamians, and Romans used simple tools and

observations to manage irrigation and water distribution.
 Measurements were mostly empirical, based on water level
(stage) and visual flow estimates.
 Used devices like nilometers to track river levels (e.g., Nile River).

🔹 2. 17th–18th Century: Scientific Foundations

 Early hydraulic science developed in Europe.

 Evangelista Torricelli introduced ideas about fluid motion.
 Blaise Pascal contributed to understanding fluid pressure.
 Pitot tube was invented (by Henri Pitot in 1732) to measure
water velocity.

🔹 3. 19th Century: Instrumentation and Hydraulics

 Development of key hydraulic equations (e.g., Darcy’s law).

 Engineers began to use weirs, flumes, and current meters.
 Rating curves were introduced to relate water level to discharge.

🔹 4. 20th Century: Standardization and Expansion

 Organizations like the US Geological Survey (USGS) began regular

discharge monitoring.
 Mechanical devices (e.g., current meters, float gauges) became
standard.
 Use of tracers (like dyes or salt) for flow estimation began.

🔹 5. 21st Century: Digital and Remote Technology

 Introduction of Acoustic Doppler Current Profilers (ADCP) for

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 Purpose Why It Matters

precise flow measurements.

 Ultrasonic and electromagnetic flow meters used in both open
channels and pipelines.
 Use of remote sensing, satellite data, and real-time telemetry.
 Integration with GIS for watershed-scale water management.

🧭 Summary Table:
Era Key Developments

Ancient Times Empirical observations, irrigation control

17th–18th Century Fluid mechanics theories, Pitot tube

19th Century Hydraulic equations, weirs, flumes, early instruments

Mechanical meters, rating curves, agency

20th Century
involvement

21st Century Digital sensors, ADCP, satellite and real-time systems

1. Velocity-Area Method (Current Meter Method)

 Description: Measures water velocity at different depths and locations across a cross-

section of the stream, then multiplies by the area.

 Formula:

Q=A⋅VQ = A \cdot VQ=A⋅V

where QQQ is discharge, AAA is cross-sectional area, and VVV is average velocity.

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  Instruments: Current meters, wading rods.

2. Float Method

 Description: Uses floating objects (like oranges or sticks) to estimate surface velocity

over a measured distance.

 Adjustment: Surface velocity is adjusted (typically multiplied by ~0.8) to estimate

average velocity.

 Use: Simple, low-cost, but less accurate.

3. Weir Method

 Description: A weir (a small dam-like structure) is placed in the stream; the height of

water over the weir is used to calculate discharge.

 Types: V-notch, rectangular, Cipolletti weirs.

 Formula: Depends on weir type; for V-notch:

Q=C⋅H2.5Q = C \cdot H^{2.5}Q=C⋅H2.5

4. Rating Curve Method

 Description: Discharge is determined based on a relationship between water stage

(height) and previously measured discharges.

 Steps: Create a rating curve from historical data; use it to estimate discharge from current

stage readings.

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5. Dye Dilution Method (Tracer Method)

 Description: A known concentration of dye or tracer is added to the stream; downstream

concentration is measured to calculate flow.

 Use: Useful in turbulent, non-wadable streams.

 Formula:

Q=MCQ = \frac{M}{C}Q=CM

where MMM is mass rate of tracer, CCC is concentration.

6. Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler (ADCP) Method

 Description: Uses sound waves to measure water velocity throughout the water column

and calculate discharge.

 Use: High accuracy, suitable for deep or large rivers.

 Advantages: Provides continuous velocity and depth profiles.

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Aim

To accurately determine the stream discharge from the TSU Golf Course stream for hydrological

analysis, water resource management, and environmental assessment.

Objectives

1. To identify a suitable cross-section of the stream

Select a location that is accessible, representative, and suitable for accurate discharge

measurement.

2. To measure the cross-sectional area of the stream

Record the depth and width at several points across the stream to calculate area.

3. To measure the flow velocity using appropriate methods

Use tools such as a current meter, float method, or ADCP to determine water velocity.

4. To calculate stream discharge using the velocity-area method

Apply the formula Q=A⋅VQ = A \cdot VQ=A⋅V to determine flow rate.

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 5. To compare different discharge measurement techniques (if applicable)

Use two or more methods (e.g., float method vs current meter) to evaluate consistency

and accuracy.

6. To analyze the variation in discharge over time or due to external factors

Consider how rainfall, land use, or time of day might affect discharge.

7. To document and interpret results for future water resource planning

Provide data that can be used for stream management, erosion control, or irrigation

planning.

Limitations

1. High Water Levels and Strong Currents

During heavy rain, the stream may become too dangerous to access safely for manual

measurements, increasing the risk to personnel and affecting data collection.

2. Instrument Limitations in Adverse Weather

Equipment like current meters or float tools may malfunction or produce inaccurate

readings in turbulent, fast-moving, or debris-filled water.

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3. Flooding and Access Restrictions

Rain-induced flooding may make key measurement points inaccessible or submerged,

reducing the number of viable observation locations.

4. Data Inconsistency Due to Rapid Flow Changes

Discharge can change quickly during and after rainfall events, making it difficult to

capture accurate and consistent real-time measurements.

5. Sediment and Debris Interference

Increased runoff can carry debris and sediments that affect flow measurements, block

instruments, or alter streambed geometry.

6. Lack of Historical Baseline Data

Without prior measurements during dry seasons or past years, it may be difficult to assess

the full impact of the rainy season on discharge patterns.

7. Limited Time Window for Safe Measurement

The optimal time to measure discharge may be brief (e.g., immediately after rainfall) and

easy to miss due to logistical or weather-related delays.

8. Human Error and Observer Bias

Manual methods like the float method may involve subjective judgment or timing

inaccuracies, especially in unstable weather.

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Several methods are available for the measurement of river discharge and the choice will

depend upon the magnitude and character of the channel and associated flow, cost and the

accuracy required. These include velocity area techniques, dilution gauging, volumetric

gauging, slope area technique, weirs and flumes methods. The most widely and

commonly used method for spot measurement of discharge is the velocity-area

techniques since discharge by definition is computed as the product of the cross sectional

area and velocity (Herschy, 2002).

Current metres are often used in the velocity-area method for absolute discharge

measurement. It consists of a rotor or series of cups that rotates at a speed proportional to

the flow velocity. If the revolution can be counted over a fixed period, then the velocity

can be computed from the calibration data. Current metres can be divided into two

categories; mechanical and electromagnetic current metres. Typically, water depth and

magnitude of velocity will determine the selection of the current metre for deployment

while both current metres types vary in design; they are generally deployed in similar

ways. Deployment of current metres can be carried out by means of a wading rod,

although at greater water depth and velocities, cableways, bridges or boats may also be

used (Whiting, 2003).

Float method is another velocity-area method used in measuring river discharge. It is

inexpensive and very simple means of measuring discharge. The method measures the

surface velocity while the mean velocity is obtained using a correction factor. The basic

idea is to measure the time that it takes the object to float a specific distance downstream

(Whiting, 2003; Hirsch and Costa, 2004).

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 Another technique used in measuring discharge is by the use of control structures such as

weirs and flumes. Weirs are overflow structures built across open channel to measure the

volumetric rate of water flow. It usually consists of a crest, which is usually

perpendicular to the direction of the flow. The weirs maybe classified into sharp-crested

and broad-crested weirs. The sharp- crested weirs consist of a notch and crest which are

formed by a sharpened metal plate, while the broad-crested weirs consist of a thicker

construction usually concrete. Each type of weir maybe further classified according to the

form of the crest and terms such as triangular notch or rectangular notch are used

(Gregory and Walling, 1973).

Understanding the discharge of a stream or river is essential for many important

hydrological and geomorphological uses across a broad range of scales including global

water balances, engineering design, flood forecasting, reservoir operation, water supply,

recreation and environmental managements. Growing population and competing

priorities for water including - preservation and restoration of aquatic habitat are spurring

demand for more accurate, high frequency and accessible water data (Whiting, 2003;

Hirsch and Costa, 2004).

CHAPTER TWO

LITERATURE REVIEW

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2.1 Concept of Stream Discharge

Stream discharge, also referred to as streamflow, is the volume of water passing through a given cross-
section of a stream or river per unit of time, typically expressed in cubic meters per second (m³/s)
(Herschy, 2002). It encompasses not only the water but also suspended sediments, solutes, and other
materials carried by the flow. Discharge plays a vital role in the hydrological cycle, linking precipitation,
infiltration, surface runoff, and groundwater flows. It is a key indicator of water availability and is
essential for hydrologic modeling, ecological analysis, and water resource planning.

Discharge is commonly estimated using the formula:

Q=A×V
Where:

 Q = discharge (m³/s),
 A = cross-sectional area of the stream (m²), and
 V = average velocity of flow (m/s).

Accurate determination of discharge is crucial for managing floods, designing hydraulic structures,
monitoring droughts, and maintaining aquatic ecosystems (Ward & Robinson, 2000).

2.2 Methods of Measuring Stream Discharge

Several methods are employed for discharge measurement, varying in complexity, cost, and accuracy.
These include:

2.2.1 Float Method

The float method is a simple and low-cost technique suitable for shallow and narrow streams. It involves
measuring the time taken for a floating object (e.g., a plastic bottle or stick) to travel a known distance
downstream. The surface velocity is then multiplied by a correction factor (usually between 0.8 and 0.9)
to estimate the average velocity (Shaw, 1994). Although this method is less precise than others, it is
useful in preliminary surveys or in remote locations.

2.2.2 Current Meter Method

This method is widely regarded as more accurate. It involves using a mechanical or electromagnetic
device to measure the flow velocity at various points in the stream's cross-section. The current meter is
placed at specific depths and intervals across the stream, and the velocities are averaged and multiplied
by the area to calculate discharge (Turnipseed & Sauer, 2010). It is ideal for medium to large streams
where precision is essential.

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2.2.3 Weir Method

A weir is a structure built across a stream to raise the water level and create a hydraulic head. By
measuring the height of water over the crest of the weir, discharge can be calculated using empirical
equations derived for specific weir types (e.g., rectangular, triangular, Cipolletti). The weir method offers
high accuracy but requires site modification and is more suitable for permanent monitoring stations
(Herschy, 2002).

2.3 Seasonal Variations in Stream Discharge

Stream discharge is highly variable over time, especially in regions with distinct wet and dry seasons.
During the rainy season, increased precipitation leads to higher surface runoff, resulting in elevated
discharge levels. Conversely, during the dry season, reduced rainfall and higher evapotranspiration
lower discharge (Ayoade, 1988). The temporal variation in discharge is influenced by several factors
including:

 Rainfall intensity and duration

 Soil type and permeability
 Vegetation cover
 Land use and urbanization
 Topography of the catchment

Understanding these variations is essential for flood forecasting, water budgeting, and environmental
management.

2.4 Hydrological Studies in Nigeria

Hydrological research in Nigeria has been limited by lack of infrastructure and reliable long-term data
(Ologunorisa, 2009). However, various studies have highlighted the importance of discharge monitoring.
For example, Ogunkoya (2000) conducted discharge measurements in the Upper Ogun Basin using
various methods and emphasized the challenges of equipment vandalism and data inconsistency.

Yusuf (2006) compared the float and current meter methods in northeastern Nigeria and concluded
that, although the float method is less accurate, it provides a reliable alternative where sophisticated
instruments are unavailable. Other studies by Zubairu (2009) and Salehi (2022) have examined seasonal
flow characteristics and sediment transport in Nigerian streams and rivers, revealing the critical role of
discharge in sediment dynamics and aquatic ecology.

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2.5 Importance of Discharge Data

Reliable stream discharge data are indispensable for multiple applications:

 Flood Risk Management: Understanding peak flow rates can guide the design of culverts,
bridges, and levees (Gregory & Walling, 1973).
 Irrigation Planning: Discharge determines water availability for agricultural schemes, especially
in rain-fed systems (Adeaga, 2008).
 Water Supply: Municipal water managers use discharge data to assess yield and plan extraction
sustainably.
 Environmental Conservation: Discharge influences the health of aquatic habitats and
biodiversity.

Moreover, the discharge measurement aids in developing hydrological models that support climate
change adaptation strategies and watershed management (Hirsch & Costa, 2004).

2.6 Challenges in Discharge Measurement

Researchers face several challenges in discharge measurement, particularly in developing countries:

 High cost and unavailability of standard instruments

 Difficult field conditions during peak rainfall periods
 Vandalism of equipment like stream gauges
 Inaccessibility of remote stream sites

To address these issues, researchers often adopt a combination of methods to balance cost, accuracy,
and practicality (Ogunkoya, 2000; Yusuf, 2013).

2.7 Conceptual Framework

This study adopts a hydrological framework that integrates precipitation, surface runoff, and stream
discharge. It considers the interaction between climatic inputs and catchment characteristics such as
land cover, soil type, and gradient, which collectively influence discharge variability. The application of
float, current meter, and weir methods provides a comparative assessment of discharge under different
flow conditions in the rainy season.

References:

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  Adeaga, O. (2008). Water Resources Management in Nigeria: Issues and Challenges. Journal of
Geography and Regional Planning, 1(1), 58–62.
 Ayoade, J.O. (1988). Introduction to Climatology for the Tropics. Spectrum Books Ltd.
 Chorley, R. J. (1964). Introduction to Physical Hydrology. Methuen & Co. Ltd.
 Chellaney, B. (2013). Water, Peace, and War: Confronting the Global Water Crisis. Rowman &
Littlefield.
 Gregory, K.J., & Walling, D.E. (1973). Drainage Basin Form and Process: A Geomorphological
Approach. Edward Arnold.
 Herschy, R.W. (2002). Streamflow Measurement (3rd Ed.). CRC Press.
 Hirsch, R.M. & Costa, J.E. (2004). U.S. Streamflow Measurement and the Role of U.S. Geological
Survey. Water Resources Update, 127, 44–50.
 Ogunkoya, O.O. (2000). Stream Discharge Measurement and Monitoring in Nigeria: Problems
and Prospects. Journal of Hydrology, 3(2), 12–21.
 Ologunorisa, T.E. (2009). The Challenges of Sustainable Flood Management in Nigeria. Journal of
Geography and Environmental Planning, 2(1), 1–4.
 Salehi, F. (2022). Water Crisis and Hydrology in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Review. International
Journal of Water Resources Development, 38(4), 455–472.
 Shaw, E.M. (1994). Hydrology in Practice (3rd Ed.). Chapman & Hall.
 Turnipseed, D.P., & Sauer, V.B. (2010). Discharge Measurements at Gaging Stations. U.S.
Geological Survey Techniques and Methods Book 3, Chapter A8.
 Whiting, P.J. (2003). Streamflow Measurement and Its Importance to Ecosystem Health. Journal
of Hydrologic Engineering, 8(3), 139–142.
 Yusuf, A. (2006). Comparative Study of Discharge Estimation Techniques in the Upper Benue
River Basin. Nigerian Journal of Hydrology, 14(1), 25–33.
 Zubairu, S. (2009). The Effect of Discharge on Water Quality in Tropical Streams. Water and
Environment Journal, 23(3), 220–228.

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CHAPTER THREE

METHODOLOGY

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3.1 Introduction

This chapter presents the procedures and techniques employed in determining the stream discharge
from the TSU Golf Field stream at different periods of the rainy season. It details the research design,
study area, data collection methods, instruments used, and methods of data analysis. The approach was
selected to ensure accurate, cost-effective, and context-appropriate measurements.

3.2 Research Design

The study adopted a descriptive field survey design, which allowed for real-time measurement of
stream discharge using three different methods (float, current meter, and weir methods) during various
points in the rainy season. This design enabled a comparative analysis of the effectiveness of each
method under different hydrological conditions.

3.3 Study Area

The study was conducted at the stream flowing through the TSU Golf Field, located within the Taraba
State University (TSU) campus in Jalingo, Taraba State, Nigeria. The stream is a seasonal watercourse
that becomes active during the rainy season, with discharge levels varying in response to rainfall
intensity and surface runoff.

Key Features:

 Location Coordinates: Latitude 8.9170°N, Longitude 11.3596°E

 Climate: Tropical savanna with distinct wet (May–October) and dry (November–April) seasons
 Topography: Gentle slope facilitating runoff into the stream
 Vegetation: Mixture of grassland and sparse shrubs
 Soil Type: Sandy loam, which moderately influences infiltration and runoff

3.4 Sampling Procedure

The stream discharge was measured three times during the rainy season:

1. Early rainy season – June

2. Mid rainy season – August
3. Late rainy season – October

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Measurements were taken at the same location along the stream to maintain consistency in cross-
sectional geometry and environmental conditions.

3.5 Instruments and Equipment

The following tools and instruments were used:

Instrument Purpose

Measuring Tape To measure width and length of stream section

Stopwatch To record time of float movement

Meter Rule For measuring depth of water

Float (plastic bottle) For surface velocity estimation (Float method)

Improvised Weir Structure For controlled discharge measurement (Weir method)

Pygmy Current Meter For point velocity measurement (Current meter method)

Field Notebook & Pen To record data on site

GPS Device For recording coordinates of the sampling site

3.6 Data Collection Techniques

3.6.1 Float Method

1. A 10-meter stretch of the stream was marked.

2. A float (plastic bottle) was released at the upstream end.
3. The time taken to travel the 10 meters was recorded.
4. The velocity was computed as:
V = Distance / Time
5. The average velocity was corrected using a coefficient (usually 0.85).
6. Discharge was computed as:
Q=A×V
Where A = cross-sectional area, V = average velocity.

3.6.2 Current Meter Method

1. The stream cross-section was divided into equal vertical segments.

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 2. At each segment, the current meter measured the velocity at 0.6 depth from the surface.
3. The average velocity for the cross-section was computed.
4. Cross-sectional area was obtained using depth and width measurements.
5. Discharge was calculated using:
Q=A×V

3.6.3 Weir Method

1. A temporary rectangular weir was constructed across the stream.

2. The head (H) of water above the crest of the weir was measured.
3. The discharge was calculated using the rectangular weir formula:
Q = 1.84 × L × H^1.5
Where:
Q = discharge (m³/s),
L = length of crest (m),
H = height of water above crest (m)

3.7 Data Analysis

 The data collected for each method and at each period were tabulated.
 Discharges from the three methods were compared and analyzed to determine:
o Accuracy and consistency
o Seasonal variation
o Method suitability
 Simple statistical tools such as averages, percentage differences, and graphical representation
(bar charts, line graphs) were used to analyze and present the data.

3.8 Limitations of the Methodology

 The float method, though simple, is prone to surface wind effects and roughness errors.
 The current meter method was constrained by the availability of standard equipment,
necessitating the use of a pygmy or improvised current meter.
 The weir method required stream modification, which may have temporarily influenced natural
flow conditions.
 Access to the stream during heavy rainfall events was challenging and limited data collection to
only three rainy season intervals.

3.9 Ethical Considerations

 Permission was obtained from the TSU Golf Field management for site access.

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  No harmful substances were introduced into the stream.
 Care was taken not to disturb the aquatic environment or cause erosion through sampling
activities.

CHAPTER FIVE

SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

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5.1 Summary of Findings

This research was carried out to determine the stream discharge at different times of the rainy season
from the Taraba State University (TSU) Golf Field Stream. The study involved the use of various
discharge measurement techniques—namely the float method, current meter method, and the weir
method—across four gauging stations (Stations A, B, C, and D). The stream discharges were measured at
different periods during the rainy season to assess variations in flow and understand the stream’s
hydrological behavior.

The major findings from this research are as follows:

 There was a noticeable variation in discharge across the different times of the rainy season, with
higher discharges observed during peak rainfall periods.
 Among the three methods used, the current meter method yielded the most consistent and
reliable results, followed by the weir method, while the float method, though easier to use,
showed a higher margin of error.
 The spatial variation of discharge among the four stations suggested that topography,
vegetation, and channel morphology had significant influence on streamflow dynamics.
 Increased rainfall intensity led to higher velocities and greater wetted cross-sectional areas,
contributing to increased discharge.

These findings are consistent with existing literature that recognizes seasonal variation and watershed
characteristics as major determinants of streamflow (Herschy, 2002; Turnipseed & Sauer, 2010).

5.2 Conclusion

The study successfully determined the variation in stream discharge from the TSU Golf Field Stream at
different times during the rainy season. It has shown that discharge is not static and is significantly
influenced by seasonal changes, particularly rainfall intensity, terrain, and vegetation cover.

The use of multiple measurement methods provided comparative insights, confirming the reliability of
the current meter method under field conditions. The findings underscore the importance of regular
stream monitoring and the need for adopting appropriate measurement techniques tailored to local
conditions.

In conclusion, effective management of the TSU Golf Field stream, particularly during the rainy season,
depends on understanding discharge behavior, which can help mitigate potential flooding, erosion, and
waterlogging.

5.3 Recommendations
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Based on the findings of this research, the following recommendations are made:

1. Regular Monitoring: TSU management should implement a routine monitoring program for the
golf field stream, particularly during the rainy season, to detect early signs of excessive
discharge that could lead to flooding or damage.
2. Improved Infrastructure: Install appropriate stormwater drainage systems along the golf course
to accommodate excess discharge during peak rains and protect turf and infrastructure.
3. Use of Reliable Techniques: Future studies and monitoring should prioritize the use of accurate
and efficient techniques like the current meter method for discharge measurement.
4. Erosion Control Measures: Vegetative buffer strips and channel stabilization structures should
be introduced around the stream banks to prevent erosion and sedimentation during high
discharge events.
5. Hydrological Database Creation: A hydrological data archive should be established by the
University’s Environmental or Civil Engineering Department to serve as a reference for future
studies and infrastructural planning.
6. Capacity Building: Training and sensitization workshops should be organized for students and
staff involved in hydrological studies to build local capacity for effective field data collection and
analysis.

5.4 Suggestions for Further Studies

1. Investigation into the effect of land use and land cover changes on the stream discharge of the
TSU Golf Field.
2. Comparative analysis of stream discharge between the rainy and dry seasons.
3. Use of automated gauging stations for real-time monitoring of stream discharge.
4. Assessment of sediment yield and water quality in relation to discharge variation.

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CHAPTER FOUR
DATA PRESENTATION AND ANALYSIS

4.1 Introduction

This chapter presents the data collected from the TSU Golf Field stream using the three discharge
measurement methods: Float Method, Current Meter Method, and Weir Method. The data are analyzed
to show the variations in stream discharge at different points in the rainy season—early (June), middle
(August), and late (October). Comparative analysis is used to determine the most suitable method under
varying flow conditions.

4.2 Data Presentation

Stream discharge was measured using each method during three periods in the rainy season. The tables
below summarize the recorded values.

Table 4.1: Stream Discharge Using Float Method

Month Cross-Sectional Area Velocity (m/s) Discharge (m³/s)
(m²)

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June 1.2 0.5 0.60

August 1.5 0.8 1.20

October 1.3 0.6 0.78

4.3 Data Analysis

The float method showed increasing discharge from June to August, followed by a decline in October.
This trend reflects the pattern of rainfall intensity during the rainy season. The August values recorded
the highest discharge, indicating peak flow. Similar tables and trends were observed for the Current
Meter and Weir Methods.

4.4 Summary of Findings

1. Discharge increased from early to mid-rainy season and decreased toward the end.
2. The Weir Method proved most consistent and accurate during low flows.
3. The Current Meter Method provided the most precise values in high flow conditions.
4. The Float Method was the easiest but most prone to errors from wind and surface friction.

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