Water can be measured in open channels (rivers, streams, irrigation races etc) using standard hydrological techniques.  Smaller channels can be measured by wading - larger ones can be measured from bridges or slackline cables.

Automatic water level recorder installed for the Ashburton Community Water Trust on the South Ashburton River.

Weir structures allow accurate measurement of water flow in open races

A selection of current meters used to measure the velocity of water in open channels