New DNRC Web App Provides Access to Surface Water Data

A new web application from the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) puts real-time streamflow data at the fingertips of boaters, anglers, water management professionals, and the general public.

The web application, called StAGE, dynamically displays surface water data collected from 29 DNRC stream gages across the state. Users can access river stage, discharge, and water temperatures. The new app is designed for optimal performance on mobile devices.

DNRC Director Amanda Kaster said the StAGE app is part of a broader initiative to make the Department’s services and natural resource information more readily accessible to Montanans.

“This is a great example of connecting water management professionals, recreationists, and the people of Montana to the valuable data they need on a daily basis, whether for work or play,” Kaster said.

In addition to providing data from the DNRC stream gage program, StAGE also provides access to data from seasonal and historical gages from past and present DNRC water projects, as well as surface water measurement sites at state-owned dams and canals. Ground water elevation and water-quality data are also accessible from select sites.

StAGE was developed for the DNRC by GCS Holdings of Missoula, Mont. Kaster said department hydrologists worked closely with the developer to ensure the application met the demands of water managers while remaining accessible to the general public. The StAGE project was funded in part through a grant from the Western States Water Council.

The StAGE application is available at https://gis.dnrc.mt.gov/apps/StAGE/