Glossary
Streamgage
A streamgage is a USGS (or partner) site measuring stage and often discharge on a river or stream. Streamgages on inflows or tailwaters help explain reservoir behavior but are not always at the main pool gage.
Published May 16, 2026 · Editorial standards
Why it matters
A rising pool gage plus a falling upstream streamgage tells a different story than both rising together. Anglers tracking creek arms and tournament directors watching river flow both lean on USGS networks where they exist.
Streamgage vs reservoir gage
Reservoir gauges describe the pool. Streamgages describe the river channel—often linked via rating curves to discharge in cubic feet per second.
Related terms: USGS · Gauge · Discharge · Tailwater · Flood stage
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