Hydrological Measurements Sperbelgraben and Rappengraben (1903 - 2009)

On this webpage the WSL research unit Mountain Hydrology and Torrents provides the over 100-year-old hydrological data sets from the runoff stations Sperbel- and Rappengraben. Both catchments are situated in the Emmental (Canton of Berne) in the Swiss Prealps, separated from each other by a few kilometers only (see map). The long time span of the data sets is of particular value, as the catchments are comparatively small (less than 1km²). Originally, the measurements aimed at investigating the forest’s impact on discharge. Therefore, the forest coverage differs with nearly complete coverage in Sperbelgraben and around 50% in Rappengraben (see catchment area characteristics).

The hydrological model PREVAH has been used to fill data gaps longer than 24 hours, taking into account local precipitation data and other factors. This basically applies to the winter months of the first two decades.

The following data sets are currently available:

• Runoff, daily sums (mm) 1903 - 2008
• Precipitation, daily sums (mm) 1903 - March 2010 (Rappengraben: until March 2005)
  
• Snow depths (cm) 1904 - 1957
• Air temperature, daily values 1904 – 1934 (data after 1935 are currently prepared)
• Digital terrain model (25m grid)

If requested, runoff data at higher temporal resolution can be ordered (contact: manfred.staehli@wsl.ch).

Terms of use:

The data is principally available for free. However, where the data substantially contributes to a scientific publication, the authors are expected to contact the data owner and to offer co-authorship.

I confirm that I have read the terms of use and declare my agreement.

Links:

• Map
• Catchment area characteristics
• Measurement stations
• Literature