Links
- Document: Report (4.25 MB) , HTML , XML
- Data Releases:
- USGS data release - Model Archive Summary for acoustic derived suspended- sediment concentration at 13269000 Snake River at Weiser, ID
- USGS data release - Suspended sediment dataset for development of regression models to estimate suspended sediment concentration and loads for the Snake River at Weiser, Idaho, 1977–2022
- NGMDB Index Page: National Geologic Map Database Index Page (html)
- Download citation as: RIS | Dublin Core
Abstract
The U.S. Geological Survey, in cooperation with Idaho Power, developed streamflow- based regression models to estimate suspended sediment concentration (SSC) and loads on the Snake River at Weiser, Idaho site (U.S. Geological Survey streamgage 13269000; hereafter referred to as “Snake at Weiser site”). This site sits upstream from the dams and reservoirs of the Hells Canyon Complex and the Hells Canyon National Recreation Area, where large sandbars along the Snake River that provide recreation and riparian habitat and host archaeological resources have declined since 1973. Analyses of samples from historical (1977- 2003) and modern (2017- 22) periods show that SSC has decreased over time, with median concentrations declining from 50 milligrams per liter (mg/L) to 28 mg/L. Mann- Kendall trend tests confirm statistically significant declines in total SSC and the fine and sand fractions of suspended sediment through the full period of record.
Regression models specific to each period outperformed models using the full dataset, suggesting changes in the sediment supply to this reach of the Snake River and highlighting the need for period- based approaches. Regression models for total SSC and fine sediment were more accurate than those for sand, which exhibited greater error and bias, likely reflecting a sand supply limited by upstream dams. The regression model for modern period total SSC and a previously developed acoustic surrogate model showed similar performance, indicating both methods are viable for estimating SSC and loads.
These findings help to better quantify suspended sediment concentrations and loads upstream of the Hells Canyon Complex and provide resource managers with tools to better quantify sediment loads affecting reservoir storage and the maintenance of sandbars in the Hells Canyon National Recreation Area.
Suggested Citation
Kenworthy, M.K., 2026, Regression models for estimating suspended sediment concentrations and loads and comparison with acoustic surrogate model on the Snake River, Weiser, Idaho, 1977–2022: U.S. Geological Survey Scientific Investigations Report 2026–5007, 27 p., https://doi.org/10.3133/sir20265007.
ISSN: 2328-0328 (online)
Study Area
Table of Contents
- Abstract
- Introduction
- Methods
- Results
- Discussion
- Summary
- References Cited
| Publication type | Report |
|---|---|
| Publication Subtype | USGS Numbered Series |
| Title | Regression models for estimating suspended sediment concentrations and loads and comparison with acoustic surrogate model on the Snake River, Weiser, Idaho, 1977–2022 |
| Series title | Scientific Investigations Report |
| Series number | 2026-5007 |
| DOI | 10.3133/sir20265007 |
| Publication Date | May 07, 2026 |
| Year Published | 2026 |
| Language | English |
| Publisher | U.S. Geological Survey |
| Publisher location | Reston, VA |
| Contributing office(s) | Idaho Water Science Center |
| Description | Report: vi, 27 p.; 2 Data Releases |
| Country | United States |
| State | Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, Utah |
| Other Geospatial | Snake River |
| Online Only (Y/N) | Y |
| Additional Online Files (Y/N) | N |