This dataset contains monthly river discharge rates for 4,425 locations around the world except for the former Soviet Union. This dataset combines the UNESCO set (ds552.0) plus 3,455 gages, thus, improving spatial coverage over much of the world with major gains in Brazil, Australia and Argentina. The "new" gauges have not been subjected to the rigorous comparisons of the benchmark UNESCO portion. Their locations, names, and drainage areas have been edited; and obvious errors (e.g., egregious extremes, replicates) removed from flow rates. Data sources and the edits are documented.

The USGS offers a CD-ROM "Hydro-Climatic Data Network: Streamflow Data Set, 1874-1988". This consists of streamflow data measured at 1659 sites throughout the US and its territories. Daily mean, monthly mean, annual mean, minimum and maximum values of discharge are given for each water year. Stations selected distinguish human influences. For more information contact J.R. Slack (jrslack@usgs.gov).