(a) The NRC will provide guidance and advice to the USGS on the following issues: Of the many river science questions, which should be a high priority for the USGS given: 1. Its unique capabilities and limitations compared to other agencies (Fish and Wildlife Service, Corps of Engineers, Bureau of Reclamation, etc.), academia, and the private sector. Which hydrologic, geomorphic, chemical, and biological variables should the USGS monitor to provide the information needed to address river science issues? 1. What are the new opportunities and challenges in measurement technology that should be developed and applied to River Science issues? 2. What additional benefits could be achieved through a higher degree of integration of river monitoring activities including flow, sediment, chemistry, and biota?3. Monitoring for purposes of improved understanding and regional characterization often emphasizes network designs that maximize spatial coverage with minimal temporal coverage. How should network designs make the trade-off between these two kinds of coverage?4. In what ways do the USGS databases need to be modified to adequately store, manage, and disseminate River Science data in useful ways?What should be the underlying design principles behind USGS River Science research?1. What are the appropriate temporal scales (years versus decades) and spatial scales (single site, short reach, small watershed, major basin) that should be employed in USGS river science studies? 2. What should be the balance between intense studies of individual systems, and broader regional or national studies? 3. Where should most of this work take place (e.g., small, fairly pristine streams; moderate to large rivers which are significantly affected by land uses such as agriculture and urbanization; or large, highly modified rivers)?(b) The project is sponsored by the U.S. Geological Survey.(c) The approximate start date for this project is January 14, 2004.(d) A final report will be issued at the end of the project in approximately 24 months.Note: The project duration has been extended. The final report is expected to be issued in summer 2006.