BS 17898 is a European standard that outlines the recommendations for the management of observed hydrometric data, including raw data and other data and statistics derived from these observations to ensure greater integration of data.
While the principles of data management can be applied to all hydrometric observations, particular focus is placed on measurements of precipitation, water level (including stage), and discharge in open channels.
BS 17898 covers metadata associated with hydrometric data, including recommendations for the production and management of descriptive, analytical, and statistical material relating to sites where hydrometric data are collected.
The recommendations under BS 17898 can be applied to some forms of data directly derived from observational records (for example, summary time series of monthly mean river flows), but are not designed for the management of data resulting from more complex numerical models or spatially aggregated datasets (for example, remotely sensed data).
Note1: BS 17898 does not cover the field collection of data or its transmission but focuses on the management of data once they have been received in a hydrometric information management system.
Note2: There are other data (for example, evaporation, soil moisture and snow depths) that are embraced by the term “hydrometry” as defined under BS 17898, and there are yet others (for example, water temperature, pH, atmospheric pressure) that are peripheral. These are not discussed explicitly but it is intended that the same general principles be applied to the management of all such data.
BS 17898 on the management of observed hydrometric data is useful for:
Water management decisions and policies ought to be based upon quantitative knowledge of the hydrological system. The subsequent management of such hydrometric data provides the linkage between the field measurement and the eventual use of processed data to address a wide range of strategic and operational river and water management applications.
BS 17898 guideline assists you with principles of hydrometric data management, the requirement for data management, the sequence of data management, metadata, precipitation data, water level data, velocity, discharge data, and volume data for the management of observed hydrometric data.
With obedience and compliance to BS 17898, you can standardise the process of managing hydrometric data and allow the integration of data and ensure their protection for future use.