Establish Gauging Stations for Water

Establish a gauging and meteorological network. No equipment exists to provide river or reservoir stage information in Iraq. Iraq has a very complex system of barrages, regulators, pump stations, canals and irrigation systems that require specific flows to operate properly. Many of these systems are in rural nonpopulated regions. Solar/battery powered gage stations with satellite transmitting capabilities are required for most of the region. It is estimated that nearly 100 stream and precipitation capable stations are needed. Approximately 20 full met stations with water quality sampling capability are needed. Additional information needed includes temperature, evaporation, snow melt, snow pack and radiation. A team of experts from the US will be in Iraq in Feb to March time range to determine the specific needs for forecasting and operation of the system.

The computer simulation model that is currently being developed will only be as good sa the input information. Real time information from the field is essential to accurately depict the current condition from which operation alternatives are determined.