Streamgaging in Pennsylvania: 1883-2009

Abstract

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania contains 83,602 miles of streams within its borders. These streams are natural resources that influence the lives and economy of Pennsylvania residents daily. The water resources are used on a daily basis for recreation, power generation, drinking water, agriculture, industry, and many other uses, emphasizing the importance of this valuable resource. The effects of too much or too little water can be devastating to communities throughout the Commonwealth. The amount of water (flow) in a stream has been a critical piece of information since before the founding of Pennsylvania. In 1612, John Smith navigated the 'Sasquesahanough' River while exploring the newly discovered territory. In 1630, Dutch pioneers traveled up the Delaware River to settle in Bucks County.