NWDTW_2026: Full Schedule

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8:00am CDT

Thursday July 23, 2026 8:00am - 8:20am CDT

Learn more with Amy Simonson -- the USGS Northeast Region Coastal Science Capability Team co-leader, and an Urban Landscapes and Flood Science Capability Team member -- about how we work with scientists across science centers and in some cases other USGS regions to increase communication and awareness as well as provide opportunities for collaboration. See all the Northeast Region Capability Teams here: https://doimspp.sharepoint.com/sites/usgs-Northeast-Region/SitePages/CT.aspx.

We welcome membership in any of the Capability Teams, even if you are outside the Northeast Region. To be added, please refer to the CT Lead Contacts in the CT SharePoint site.

Speakers

Amy Simonson

Thursday July 23, 2026 8:00am - 8:20am CDT
BCC - Wilson (58 Tiered Class Only)

Collaboration

Length 20 minutes
Can't teach also presenting nugo2 and HydroCorrect;
Notes Thanks for all your work!

8:00am CDT

Developing Guidelines for Continuous Meteorological Monitoring

Thursday July 23, 2026 8:00am - 8:20am CDT

BCC - Smith (42 Class / 48 Theater)

Continuous meteorological (MET) monitoring is conducted across the USGS to meet cooperator needs, support hydrologic research, and provide operational support for other data collection activities. We will provide an early-stage development overview of USGS MET monitoring guidelines to facilitate standardized data collection for air temperature, relative humidity, barometric pressure, wind, and solar radiation observations. The current state of continuous MET monitoring across the USGS will be discussed along with progress toward creating monitoring guidelines that can be consistently applied across the agency.

Speakers

Shawn Naylor

Richard Van Nevel

Ariele Kramer

Thursday July 23, 2026 8:00am - 8:20am CDT
BCC - Smith (42 Class / 48 Theater)

LISTENING SESSIONS

Length 30 minutes
Can't teach Monday, AM;

8:00am CDT

From Field Survey to Plotted Cross-Section: SVMobileAQ Data Collection and AreaComp3 Visualization

Thursday July 23, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT

BCC - Birmingham (65 Class / 100 theater)

Accurate and efficient cross-section surveys are essential for maintaining high-quality stage-discharge ratings and index velocity gage operations. This presentation demonstrates a streamlined workflow for conducting differential level surveys of river cross-sections using the SVMobileAQ mobile application and importing the data into AreaComp3 software for visualization and analysis.
The session will cover the fundamentals of setting up a conventional differential level instrument (level gun) and collecting cross-section data in the field with SVMobileAQ. Attendees will then learn how to seamlessly import the survey data into AreaComp3 to generate plotted cross-sections referenced to gage datum.
Although commonly applied to index velocity gages, this approach provides broader benefits for streamgaging programs, including evaluation of control features at stage-discharge stations, detection of changes in channel geometry through overlay of historical surveys, and investigation of discrepancies by comparing survey results with ADCP bathymetry.
This practical, field-to-office workflow offers an accessible and efficient method for improving the quality and utility of cross-section data in water resources monitoring.

Speakers

Arthur Lilienthal

Thursday July 23, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
BCC - Birmingham (65 Class / 100 theater)

GNSS/SURVEYING

Length 50 minutes
Can't teach Monday, AM;Monday, PM;
Notes I could lengthen this to 80 minutes if that was beneficial.

8:00am CDT

An Introduction to Electromagnetic Methods and the Horizontal-to-Vertical Spectral Ratio technique

Thursday July 23, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT

Moody Music - Recital Hall (74 Theater / Thurs Only)

This talk is a hands on introduction to three geophysical methods, time-domain and frequency-domain electromagnetic (TDEM and FDEM) methods, along with the horizontal to vertical spectral ratio (HVSR) method that are increasingly useful for groundwater investigations. We focus on how these methods work, what they measure, how they’re deployed in the field, and the subsurface information they provide. Case studies highlight how electromagnetic methods can map subsurface conductivity and characterize aquifers, and how the HVSR passive seismic technique helps estimate sediment thickness overlying bedrock, an important input for groundwater modeling.

Speakers

Neil Terry

Annie Tucker

Eric White

Thursday July 23, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
Moody Music - Recital Hall (74 Theater / Thurs Only)

Hydrogeophysics for groundwater investigations

Length 50 minutes
Can't teach Monday, AM;Monday, PM;

8:00am CDT

Uncrewed Aircraft Systems Applications for Water Science

Thursday July 23, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT

Moody Music - Choral Room (300 Theater / Thurs Only)

This is an introduction to planning effective missions for Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) for Water Science Centers. An overview will be presented for establishing capabilities, selecting UASs and sensors, mission planning, data processing, quality assurance and publication for UAS-collected data. Logistical and safety considerations, as well as scientific best practices will be discussed. Examples of UAS projects and use cases from across the Nation will be presented for streamflow monitoring, flood response, terrain mapping, groundwater - surface water exchange zone identification, and more!

Speakers

Chris L. Gazoorian

Thursday July 23, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
Moody Music - Choral Room (300 Theater / Thurs Only)

UNCREWED AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS

Length 50 minutes
Can't teach Monday, AM;
Notes This will cover high-level overview of UAS operations general information for WSC management and scientists. This is very much a presentation and NOT a training session.

8:00am CDT

dataRetrieval: R and Python packages to access USGS water data

Thursday July 23, 2026 8:00am - 9:20am CDT

BCC - Nichols (21 Class / 40 Theater)

This training will demonstrate how to use the dataretrieval package in R/Python to access USGS water data. We will cover recent changes and updates that have occurred in dataretrieval to leverage new Water Data APIs. We’ll show examples for how to replace legacy workflows with modern alternatives, including how to obtain data for a site list or area of interest. We’ll discuss future updates and how to get the current status of dataretrieval workflows. Attendees are encouraged to bring existing scripts and workflows to the session to get hands on help in adapting to the new modern dataretrieval functions.

Speakers

Laura DeCicco

Cee Nell

Joseph Zemmels

Elise Hinman

Thursday July 23, 2026 8:00am - 9:20am CDT
BCC - Nichols (21 Class / 40 Theater)

COMPUTER TOOLS

8:00am CDT

Tips & Tricks for Running Station Levels

Thursday July 23, 2026 8:00am - 9:20am CDT

Hotel Capstone - Presidents (40 Theater)

This session will present different ways to combat common issues/errors when running station levels. Topics covered will include but not limited to: equipment, planning, archiving, and documentation. Attendees will have an opportunity to present their office's tips and tricks for running station levels during Open Mic portion.

Speakers

Tyler Sansing

Dustin Wallace

Holden Smith

Crystal Hammer

Supervisory Hydrologic Technician/Field Office Chief (Columbus, OH), U.S. Geological Survey

I'm the Columbus OH Field Office Chief for the Ohio-Kentucky-Indiana WSC. For my 1st 2.5 years in the USGS, I worked out of the Pacific Islands WSC in Honolulu, Hawaii. I accepted a position in Columbus, Ohio to return to my home state and be closer to family having grown up in Cincinnati... Read More →

Thursday July 23, 2026 8:00am - 9:20am CDT
Hotel Capstone - Presidents (40 Theater)

SHOW AND TELL FIELD HACKS: EFFICIENCY TIPS AND TRICKS

Length 80 minutes
Can't teach Tuesday, AM;Tuesday, PM;Wednesday, AM;Wednesday, PM;Thursday, AM;
Notes I will have others present this just don't know who yet; may not do it this year.

8:30am CDT

Campbell Scientific SCWID GUI Demonstration

Thursday July 23, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am CDT

BCC - Central Bank (39 Class / 60 Theater)

Introduction to Campbell Scientific SCWID (Shortcut for Web Interface Design), a web based GUI that lives on the datalogger and can be customized for your application. How they work, what they can do, and how you can design your own.

Speakers

Chris Grindle

Thursday July 23, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am CDT
BCC - Central Bank (39 Class / 60 Theater)

COMPUTER TOOLS

Length 50 minutes

8:30am CDT

Continuous Water-Quality Data Corrections: Key Considerations

Thursday July 23, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am CDT

BCC - Mobile (37 Class / 60 Theater)

Continuous water-quality data need careful review and often require drift or fouling corrections to ensure accuracy. This session explains when and how to correct records, describes manual and automatic methods in Aquarius Time Series, and discusses percent versus multi-point corrections. The session also addresses data censoring. Participants will examine how to apply corrections for various continuous water-quality parameters and field conditions.

Speakers

Amanda Booth

Thursday July 23, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am CDT
BCC - Mobile (37 Class / 60 Theater)

CONTINUOUS QW

Length 50 minutes
Can't teach Monday, AM;Monday, PM;

8:30am CDT

NuGo2: Training, Help, and Feedback Session

Thursday July 23, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am CDT

BCC - Wilson (58 Tiered Class Only)

Do you have questions about NuGo2? NuGo2 replaced deprecated Go2 scripts to send alerts to field staff about transmission problems, erroneous data, and measurements needed based on current conditions. This session will include hands-on training to set up, customize, and troubleshoot NuGo2 configurations. We will cover frequently asked questions and tips and tricks for NuGo2 setup. We want to see varied use cases for NuGo2 - bring any questions, suggestions, and issues, and we will work through them. Hydrographers and data managers will gain the skills and knowledge needed to use NuGo2 for improved site monitoring and management.

Speakers

Amber Jones

Sarah Queen

Waylon Marler

Amy Simonson

Thursday July 23, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am CDT
BCC - Wilson (58 Tiered Class Only)

DATABASE (DBA/LDM/NWIS)

Length 50 minutes
Can't teach Monday, AM;Monday, PM;

8:30am CDT

Field Support & Research to Operations Team Overview and Panel Discussion

Thursday July 23, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am CDT

Moody Music - Room 1003 (150 Theater / Thurs Only)

The Field Support & Research to Operations Team (FS/R2O) of the Hydrologic Networks Branch is tasked with providing support to field staff, project staff, and other science center personnel. In this session, FS/R2O staff will lead a panel discussion on the support provided to the science centers, take questions, and provide insight into ongoing projects, training and workflows that FS/R2O staff are working on to advance the various WRD topical areas (GW, QW, Sediment, R2O).

Speakers

Paul Diaz

Lance Gruhn

Kimberly Shaffer

Heather Heckathorn

Travis Knight

Russ Lotspeich

David Coyle

Thursday July 23, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am CDT
Moody Music - Room 1003 (150 Theater / Thurs Only)

Field Support

Length 50 minutes
Can't teach Monday, AM;Monday, PM;
Notes This presentation is subject to change and/or addition or subtraction of presenters based on field support frameworks that currently under evaluation.

8:30am CDT

New Limited-Use Method for the Collection of Low Precision (0.1 ft) Stage Data

Thursday July 23, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am CDT

BCC - Sellers (476 Class / 800 Theater)

Limited-Use methods are collected and/or reviewed using non-standard methods, which may include modifications to a standard method, differences in quality assurance procedures, and(or) following external methods with limited validation information pertaining to a particular use or context. The low precision, or 0.1ft, stage data method establishes the procedural framework for these modification. The method provides a complete description of the requirements for site establishment, as well as the data collection and data processing quality assurance/quality control procedures.
This session will discuss these requirements and examine how the new method's modifications impact data quality compared to the standard methods currently collected under the parameter Gage height.

Speakers

Bryan Pula

Thursday July 23, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am CDT
BCC - Sellers (476 Class / 800 Theater)

Fit for Purpose/Surface Water

Length 50 minutes
Can't teach Monday, AM;

8:30am CDT

Future Directions in GNSS Surveying- Intro to the New NSRS

Thursday July 23, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am CDT

BCC - Lackey (58 Tiered Class Only)

In 2026 the National Geodetic Survey is releasing the North American-Pacific Geopotential Datum of 2022. This will have a wide range of implications on how we collect and disseminate spatial data. This session is an introduction to the new datum and its parts as well as discussion of how it will impact USGS Water systems and interpretive data.

Speakers

Bryce McClenney

Thursday July 23, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am CDT
BCC - Lackey (58 Tiered Class Only)

GNSS/SURVEYING

8:30am CDT

A Primer on Remotely Sensing Water Quality Conditions

Thursday July 23, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am CDT

BCC - Mason (33 Class / 60 Theater)

The growth of remotely sensed products dedicated to water quality creates exciting opportunities for the USGS. However, navigating through all these products can be confusing, especially for those just getting experienced with remote sensing of water resources. To orient end users with a working knowledge of existing data products and tools for remotely sensing water quality, this session will demonstrate several products recently developed by the Water Mission Area’s Remote Sensing of Water Quality project, including those dedicated for monitoring temperature, chlorophyll, and turbidity. During this session, instructors will present concrete, potential applications, where remotely sensed products can improve efficiency, decision making, and safety for hydrologic technicians. Following these worked examples, the session will be dedicated to attendees exploring tools on their own and sharing feedback with the instructors on how best to tailor these products’ continued development.

Speakers

Tyler V King

Supervisory Research Hydrologist, US Geological Survey

Supervisory research hydrologist focused on aquatic remote sensing. Head in the clouds, feet on the riverbed. You know the type.

Michael F Meyer

Thursday July 23, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am CDT
BCC - Mason (33 Class / 60 Theater)

IMAGERY AND REMOTE SENSING

Length 50 minutes

9:00am CDT

Year in Review: Summary of Hydroacoustics in WY25

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:00am - 9:20am CDT

BCC - Birmingham (65 Class / 100 theater)

Join fellow hydroacoustics enthusiasts in this beloved annual session to find out who made the largest measurement in WY25 and other interesting tidbits.

Speakers

Justin Boldt

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:00am - 9:20am CDT
BCC - Birmingham (65 Class / 100 theater)

HYDROACOUSTICS

Length 20 minutes
Can't teach Monday, AM;Monday, PM;

9:00am CDT

How do you do? - Hydrotechs in the office

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:00am - 9:20am CDT

BCC - Thames (21 Class / 40 Theater)

This session is an open‑format discussion focused on the day‑to‑day office work of hydrologic technicians. Attendees are encouraged to share the strategies, tools, workflows, and habits that help them stay productive when they’re not in the field. The goal is to create a collaborative “hive‑mind” environment where participants can exchange ideas, ask questions, troubleshoot challenges, and learn from one another’s experiences.
Whether it’s data management techniques, tips for organizing field schedules, or tricks for navigating internal systems, all ideas are welcome. Come ready to contribute, listen, and walk away with practical takeaways from your fellow hydrotechs.

Speakers

Ernie McCoy

Hydrologic Technician, USGS-Dakota WSC

Hydrotech at the Grand Forks field office in North Dakota. I started as a student the summer of 09, graduated from UND with a bachelors degree in Environmental Geoscience. I stream gage, collect discrete samples and run continuous monitors collecting the big five.

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:00am - 9:20am CDT
BCC - Thames (21 Class / 40 Theater)

SHOW AND TELL FIELD HACKS: TIPS AND TRICKS

Length 20 minutes
Notes I will need free cookies to encourage people to attend.

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:00am - 10:20am CDT

BCC - Sellers (476 Class / 800 Theater)

We'll provide a status update on where the project is at, and where we are headed.

Speakers

Laura Flight

Catherine Fargen

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:00am - 10:20am CDT
BCC - Sellers (476 Class / 800 Theater)

COMPUTER TOOLS

Length 20 minutes
Can't teach Monday, AM;Monday, PM;
Notes Put it in whatever track you'd like.

10:00am CDT

Envisoning the future of QWDX and SedLOGIN

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:00am - 10:20am CDT

BCC - Smith (42 Class / 48 Theater)

The QWDX and SedLOGIN Modernization Discovery project is evaluating options for updating the systems that support the efficient and traceable transfer of laboratory and field data into AQUARIUS Samples. This session will share a project update and offer users a chance to contribute directly to the alternatives analysis—helping shape the future of how discrete-sample data flows into AQS.

Speakers

Kate Norton

Patrick Eslick-Huff

Michael Canova

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:00am - 10:20am CDT
BCC - Smith (42 Class / 48 Theater)

DISCRETE QW

Length 20 minutes
Can't teach Monday, PM;Monday, AM;
Notes Relates talks about the future of lab data in AQSamples

10:00am CDT

Using DSET tools to access water quality data in the DataHub

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:00am - 10:20am CDT

BCC - Nichols (21 Class / 40 Theater)

A new suite of features within the DSET (Discrete Samples Extensibility Tools) application provides access to internal sample data from the Data Hub. This effectively allows programmers to use R to retrieve those data, including those that are not available from the public endpoints. This will be an introduction to those features.

Speakers

Dave Rus

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:00am - 10:20am CDT
BCC - Nichols (21 Class / 40 Theater)

DISCRETE QW

Length 20 minutes
Notes This session will be a good followup to the 'Intro to dataRetrieval' session proposed by Laura DeCicco.

10:00am CDT

Use of Remote Boats with ADCPs

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:00am - 10:20am CDT

BCC - Birmingham (65 Class / 100 theater)

Remote control (RC) boats are increasingly used to deploy acoustic Doppler current profilers (ADCPs) for streamflow measurements. These platforms can enhance safety, reduce operational costs, and improve field efficiency. However, they also introduce potential data quality concerns. Additional quality assurance is required to detect and mitigate issues such as electromagnetic interference, air entrainment, and flow disturbance.
This presentation will outline the advantages and limitations of RC boat based ADCP deployments, present examples of both high and low quality datasets, and highlight practical steps users can take in the field and during post processing to address common data quality challenges.

Speakers

Travis Knight

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:00am - 10:20am CDT
BCC - Birmingham (65 Class / 100 theater)

HYDROACOUSTICS

Length 20 minutes

10:00am CDT

From Issue to Insight: Troubleshooting Continuous Water-Quality Monitor

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT

BCC - Mobile (37 Class / 60 Theater)

Do you use water-quality monitors and want to learn more about troubleshooting? This course will look at common problems with water-quality monitors and will demonstrate how to identify problems and fix them.

Speakers

Kimberly Shaffer

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
BCC - Mobile (37 Class / 60 Theater)

CONTINUOUS QW

Length 50 minutes
Can't teach Monday, AM;Monday, PM;

10:00am CDT

NuGo2: Training, Help, and Feedback - PART 2

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT

BCC - Wilson (58 Tiered Class Only)

How is NuGo2 working for you? This is a follow up of the first NuGo2 session - though the first session is not prerequisite! If you attended the first session, then you configured NuGo2 and may have received email alerts. In this session, we will examine notifications and follow up on any questions about the results and settings. If you missed the first session, we will review details on set up, customization, and troubleshooting of NuGo2 configurations along with frequently asked questions and discussion of known limitations, future plans, and timelines.

Speakers

Amber Jones

Sarah Queen

Waylon Marler

Amy Simonson

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
BCC - Wilson (58 Tiered Class Only)

DATABASE (DBA/LDM/NWIS)

Length 50 minutes
Can't teach Monday, AM;Monday, PM;Tuesday, AM;Tuesday, PM;
Notes This is a follow up to the Part 1 NuGo2 session, so they should be sequential in the schedule.

10:00am CDT

Organized to Succeed: Tools, Trucks, and Shop Setups for Hydrotechs (Open Form)

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT

BCC - Thames (21 Class / 40 Theater)

This session highlights practical ways hydrotechs organize tools, trucks, and shop spaces to work safer, faster, and more efficiently. It’s a collaborative, audience‑driven discussion where attendees share setups, tips, and lessons learned. The open format encourages questions, problem‑solving, and idea‑sharing—so if you’ve got a challenge you’re facing, bring it and let’s talk it through or even better bring send your photo examples!

Speakers

Ernie McCoy

Hydrologic Technician, USGS-Dakota WSC

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
BCC - Thames (21 Class / 40 Theater)

SHOW AND TELL FIELD HACKS: TIPS AND TRICKS

Length 50 minutes
Notes more cookies

10:00am CDT

Future Directions in GNSS Surveying: Proposed Changes to Field Data Collection Methods

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:00am - 11:20am CDT

BCC - Lackey (58 Tiered Class Only)

This session will focus on a new tech memo from the NGS (NOS NGS 92). I will present the changes in field survey methods the NGS has outlined in the document and discuss potential changes to USGS GNSS data collection methods to bring us into compliance.

Speakers

Bryce McClenney

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:00am - 11:20am CDT
BCC - Lackey (58 Tiered Class Only)

GNSS/SURVEYING

10:00am CDT

Groundwater Workgroup Open-Forum

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:00am - 11:20am CDT

Moody Music - Room 1003 (150 Theater / Thurs Only)

The goal of this open-forum/listening session is to provide groundwater expertise for Q&A and to promote interaction and networking within the USGS groundwater community

Speakers

Lance Gruhn

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:00am - 11:20am CDT
Moody Music - Room 1003 (150 Theater / Thurs Only)

GROUNDWATER

Length 80 minutes
Can't teach Monday, PM;Monday, AM;

10:00am CDT

Satellite Data to Support Water Science Center Operations

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:00am - 11:20am CDT

BCC - Mason (33 Class / 60 Theater)

In this presentation, students will learn to access, view, analyze, and interpret satellite data for use in hydrologic monitoring. Participants will leave being able to easily access data useful for station planning and monitoring, specifically: (1) access and interpret water extent data (DSWE), (2) access and interpret water surface elevation data (SWOT), and (3) access and interpret remotely sensed water quality data (RSWQ), (4) access and query evapotranspiration data, and (5) view daily high-resolution satellite imagery (PLANET). Example applications include:

- Situational awareness to improve site visit safety and efficiency
- Viewing current conditions to support site visit planning
- Analyzing historical data to put current observations into context when working records
- Providing cooperators with easily accessed data during network planning discussions

Speakers

Tyler V King

Supervisory Research Hydrologist, US Geological Survey

Supervisory research hydrologist focused on aquatic remote sensing. Head in the clouds, feet on the riverbed. You know the type.

Jack Eggleston

Rachel Sleeter

Michael F Meyer

Anteneh Sarbanes

Rob Dudley

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:00am - 11:20am CDT
BCC - Mason (33 Class / 60 Theater)

IMAGERY AND REMOTE SENSING

Length 110 minutes
Notes Thank you!

10:30am CDT

Index Velocity Rating Departure Causes from Pitch and Roll

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:30am - 10:50am CDT

BCC - Birmingham (65 Class / 100 theater)

Small changes in an ADVM position can cause big problems with your index velocity rating. Changes in pitch and roll can change from poor mount design, broken mounts, debris snags, or ADVM installation error. When pitch and roll changes occur, a different sample volume is measured which can cause departures in your index velocity rating. ADVM movement could be difficult to catch, but reviewing ADVM data in the field can explain and potentially prevent rating issues. This talk will discuss how to identify rating problems caused by changes in pitch and roll along with best practices for shifting index velocity ratings due to pitch and roll.

Speakers

David Segal

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:30am - 10:50am CDT
BCC - Birmingham (65 Class / 100 theater)

HYDROACOUSTICS

Length 20 minutes

10:30am CDT

RMS auto method updates and listening session

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am CDT

BCC - Sellers (476 Class / 800 Theater)

This listening session is designed to gather feedback and address questions about the RMS auto method. It’s a valuable opportunity for users to share their experiences, raise concerns, and learn more about the software. I will also highlight recent updates and preview what’s coming next.

Speakers

Sonya Vasquez

Cameron Marshall

Hydrologist, USGS WMA OSD HNB

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am CDT
BCC - Sellers (476 Class / 800 Theater)

LISTENING SESSIONS

Length 50 minutes
Can't teach Not available during LDM forum or NWDi presentation;

11:00am CDT

Enhanced monitoring of a broad suite of contaminants using fluorescence measurements

Thursday July 23, 2026 11:00am - 11:20am CDT

BCC - Nichols (21 Class / 40 Theater)

Fluorescence measures the inherent optical properties of dissolved substances in water and provides a wealth of information. Analysis of these substances can be used to assess environmental processing of dissolved organic matter (DOM), and also help distinguish sources of water and contaminants. The USGS Organic Matter Research Laboratory in Sacramento, CA, provides a range of analytical services including dissolved organic carbon concentration, and the optical properties of dissolved organic matter (DOM) in water. USGS scientists working with the OMRL have developed proxy models relating fluorescence measurements to a wide spectrum of constituents of concern including PFAS, oil/gas, mercury, and wildfire materials in both surface water and groundwater. These data can also be used to identify which optical instruments are likely to be most suitable for in situ monitoring for specific basins or sites, or if none are available, to develop a novel sensor for the cooperators’ needs.

Speakers

Maura Uebner

Jacob Fleck

Angela Hansen

Thursday July 23, 2026 11:00am - 11:20am CDT
BCC - Nichols (21 Class / 40 Theater)

DISCRETE QW

Length 20 minutes

11:00am CDT

Catching up with the HaWG

Thursday July 23, 2026 11:00am - 11:20am CDT

BCC - Birmingham (65 Class / 100 theater)

Join us for a focused 10-minute presentation highlighting the latest research and development initiatives from Hydroacoustic Working Group (HaWG). Following this, attendees will engage in a dynamic 40-minute open forum, offering the chance to connect directly with HaWG experts, ask questions, and share your operational needs. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights and support from the leading voices in hydroacoustics.

Speakers

Travis Knight

Justin Boldt

Thursday July 23, 2026 11:00am - 11:20am CDT
BCC - Birmingham (65 Class / 100 theater)

HYDROACOUSTICS

Length 50 minutes

11:30am CDT

HYDROACOUSTICS

Length 50 minutes
Can't teach Monday, AM;Monday, PM;

1:00pm CDT

An Innovative, Tiered, Multi‑Platform Framework for High‑Resolution Water‑Quality Monitoring and Mapping

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT

BCC - Mobile (37 Class / 60 Theater)

An Innovative, Tiered, Multi‑Platform Framework for High‑Resolution Water‑Quality Monitoring and Mapping (NWDTW 2026)

Theresa Armijo, Hydrologic Technician, Colorado Water Science Center
Matt Burgess, Geographer, National Uncrewed Systems Office
Matt Gyves, Physical Scientist, Pennsylvania Water Science Center
Tyler King, Research Hydrologist, Hydrologic Remote Sensing Branch

Effective assessment of water-quality conditions requires strategies that capture spatial and temporal variability and complexities of biogeochemical processes. In this talk we present and seek feedback on a tiered, multi-platform monitoring framework that integrates satellite observations, Uncrewed Aircraft System (UAS)-based hyperspectral imaging, boat-based discrete sampling, in-situ water-quality measurements, and micro-sized autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs; Jaia Robotics JaiaBot BIO) measurements. Together, these platforms form a scalable and adaptive system for characterizing water-quality dynamics across broad spatial and temporal scales.
This approach will be piloted in August 2026 to characterize conditions in two Colorado reservoirs affected by harmful algal blooms (HABs). Integrating sampling and monitoring technologies within a tiered and multi-platform framework enhances the resolution of water-quality assessments and supports early event detection. This allows for targeted sampling campaigns, and improved mapping of spatially complex environments—including reservoirs, river networks, and estuarine systems.
The multi-platform framework provides an efficient path toward cost-effective, repeatable monitoring, scalable and transferable platforms that can be tailored to diverse management objectives such as site-specific studies to basin-wide or regional initiatives. With this approach, we aim to characterize conditions at increasingly fine resolution.

"Any use of trade, firm, or product names is for descriptive purposes only and does not imply endorsement by the U.S. Government."

Speakers

Theresa Armijo, Hydrologic Technician, Colorado Water Science Center

Matt Burgess, Geographer, National Uncrewed Systems Office

Matt Gyves, Physical Scientist, Pennsylvania Water Science Center

Tyler V King

Supervisory Research Hydrologist, US Geological Survey

Supervisory research hydrologist focused on aquatic remote sensing. Head in the clouds, feet on the riverbed. You know the type.

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
BCC - Mobile (37 Class / 60 Theater)

IMAGERY AND REMOTE SENSING

Length 50 minutes

1:00pm CDT

Visualizing Current Conditions at the state-level with hyswap

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:20pm CDT

BCC - Wilson (58 Tiered Class Only)

This session introduces a set of state-level Python notebooks that use hyswap to generate maps and charts of current water conditions. These notebooks are designed to be easy to run and modify, providing a practical entry point for creating visuals that were previously available through legacy systems like WaterWatch.

Participants will learn how to produce 7-, 14-, and 28-day percentile maps, along with HUC-based runoff maps, using reproducible workflows that can be adapted to different states or regions. The session will walk through how the notebooks are structured, how they access and process data, and how outputs can be customized for specific communication or analysis needs.

This is a hands-on, work-along session. Attendees are encouraged to bring a laptop and follow along as we get the notebooks running locally, step through the code, and make simple modifications. Support will be provided to help participants set up Python environments and troubleshoot issues so they can continue using the notebooks independently after the session. The session is open to anyone interested in learning how to generate state-level water condition visuals using Python, regardless of prior experience.

Speakers

Cee Nell

Elise Hinman

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:20pm CDT
BCC - Wilson (58 Tiered Class Only)

COMPUTER TOOLS

Length 80 minutes
Can't teach Tuesday, AM;Tuesday, PM;Wednesday, AM;Wednesday, PM;Thursday, AM;I'd like not to be on the first day to allow time to meet people and offer help getting set up in advance;

1:00pm CDT

Measuring Groundwater flow velocity and direction: Project investigations, long term deployments, and Research and Development of New Multi-dimensional Heat Pulse Flowmeters

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:20pm CDT

Moody Music - Room 1003 (150 Theater / Thurs Only)

Groundwater flow meters that measure horizontal flow direction and velocity have been used by the USGS in a variety of investigations across the country. Traditionally, these instruments required on-site operation and supported investigative studies of contaminant plumes (such as TCE and PFAS) to aid in site characterization and remedial planning, as well as to evaluate aquifer test responses and production well influence. As part of the NGWOS Illinois Basin Study, groundwater flow meters have been deployed for long-term, telemetered monitoring at two testbed sites to help characterize groundwater flow and direction to assess groundwater–surface water interactions between streams and nearby agricultural areas. Recently, as part of the NGWOS Research and Development sub-program, work has commenced to develop a heat pulse flowmeter that is capable of measuring flow direction and velocity in 3-dimensional space rather than being limited to the horizontal plane. This presentation will provide an overview of available technologies, guidance on proper deployment and operation, case studies, best management practices, and research and development of a new multi-dimensional instrument.

Speakers

David Lampe

Lance Gruhn

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:20pm CDT
Moody Music - Room 1003 (150 Theater / Thurs Only)

GROUNDWATER

Length 80 minutes
Can't teach Thursday, AM;

1:00pm CDT

RMS Automated Station Analysis Method and how CAWSC is using the method

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:50pm CDT

BCC - Sellers (476 Class / 800 Theater)

The use of location notes and tags as the CAWSC defines them.

Speakers

Eric Lindbloom

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
BCC - Sellers (476 Class / 800 Theater)

RMS Automated Station Analysis Method the future of records work

Length 110 minutes

1:30pm CDT

Peak Precision from Your Desk: In-Office Validation of the Upper End of Stage-Discharge Rating Curves

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT

BCC - Lackey (58 Tiered Class Only)

Developing reliable upper-end extensions of stage-discharge rating curves is often challenging due to limited high-flow measurements. This presentation outlines a clear hierarchy of preferred approaches—starting with direct flow measurements, followed by indirect methods—and then focuses on practical in-office techniques that can be performed without field work. Methods include estimating peak flows using areal regression (Q vs. drainage area), transferring peak discharges from upstream or downstream gages, and leveraging the StreamStats cross-section cutting tool along with the AreaComp3 software program to generate control and channel geometry. These desk-based strategies allow hydrologists to effectively vet rating descriptor pairs, assess curve shape, and confidently extend ratings to higher stages.

Speakers

Arthur Lilienthal

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT
BCC - Lackey (58 Tiered Class Only)

SURFACE WATER

Length 50 minutes
Can't teach Monday, AM;Monday, PM;Thursday, AM;
Notes I could expand this to 80 minute session if that helps.

2:00pm CDT

Modernizing Field Data Collection Reviews: A Scalable Approach to Consistency, Accountability, and Efficiency

Thursday July 23, 2026 2:00pm - 2:20pm CDT

BCC - Smith (42 Class / 48 Theater)

This presentation highlights how the New York Water Science Center modernized its Field Data Collection Review process by replacing manual worksheets and disconnected tracking steps with an integrated digital workflow. Attendees will see how standardized review forms, automated notifications, and centralized tracking improved consistency, accountability, and administrative efficiency. The session will also share practical lessons learned and considerations for other Centers interested in adopting a similar approach.

Speakers

Katherine Grindle

Thursday July 23, 2026 2:00pm - 2:20pm CDT
BCC - Smith (42 Class / 48 Theater)

DATA CHIEFS/FIELD OFFICE CHIEFS

Length 20 minutes

2:00pm CDT

ADCP Greatest Hits

Thursday July 23, 2026 2:00pm - 2:20pm CDT

BCC - Birmingham (65 Class / 100 theater)

Wind down the week with a session that highlights ADCP key concepts paired with music.

Speakers

Justin Boldt

Thursday July 23, 2026 2:00pm - 2:20pm CDT
BCC - Birmingham (65 Class / 100 theater)

HYDROACOUSTICS

Length 20 minutes
Can't teach Monday, AM;Monday, PM;Tuesday, AM;Tuesday, PM;

2:00pm CDT

Batch Data Loader and WQ Review: Tips, Tricks, Demos, and Feedback

Thursday July 23, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT

BCC - Nichols (21 Class / 40 Theater)

This will be an informal session where the latest features of BDL and WQR are demonstrated, with an emphasis on the use cases of those in attendance. The roadmap for the applications will be discussed, and feedback will be solicited regarding the prioritization of future feature development.

Speakers

Dave Rus

Thursday July 23, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
BCC - Nichols (21 Class / 40 Theater)

DISCRETE QW

Length 50 minutes

3:00pm CDT

Closing Plenary

Thursday July 23, 2026 3:00pm - 4:30pm CDT

BCC - Sellers (476 Class / 800 Theater)

Thursday July 23, 2026 3:00pm - 4:30pm CDT
BCC - Sellers (476 Class / 800 Theater)