Electronic Data Archival:

Recommendations for NWIS- and project-related data files

Directive:

Provide USGS-WRD system/database administrators (and project personnel) with

A single document which references current USGS-WRD data-archival practices and policies, and provide recommendations to maintain, archive, and preserve electronic data that is generated and maintained within the NWIS databases, or has been utilized in, or associated with, a completed project or study.

Contents:

A. General recommendations for the archival of electronic data.

B. References to “online” data-archival practices/policies.

C. Archival of NWIS-Related data:

Surface Water:

Unit values, supporting documentation/files, and annual data report.

Original Digital Field-Recorded Time-Series Data.

Special: Streamflow/Basin Characteristics Files.

Peak-flow File.

Ground Water:

Aquifer test data

GW model archive

Log data

Water Quality:

NAWQA

DODEC

Water Use:

D. Archival of completed projects.

Conclusion:

The goal is to create a “cook-book” approach to electronic data archival that provides adequate detail to ensure essential electronic data are being archived. Recommendations that can simplify the archival process (such as using “project” areas) will also be included. This document will “live” on the web to promote updates and reflect modifications that address electronic-data archival needs as computer operations change, but “where” has yet to be determined.