Comprehensive Stream WIDs

A two-dimensional representation of stream linework within the State of Minnesota, with associated attributes. This dataset contains both current and past Water Unit IDs. This data set is built primarily on the 24K scale National Hydrography Dataset. Some segments may be from the 100K version NHD, and some created by MPCA or DNR hydrography. Streams are segmented into reaches based on hydrological, physical, and political boundaries. Each identified reach has a unique ID consisting of the HUC8+three digits. These are Water Unit IDs, or WIDs (formerly known as Assessment Unit IDs (AUIDs)). These WIDs are the reference the MN Pollution Control Agency uses to support monitoring, assessment, permitting, and restoration work.<br/><br/>This “Comprehensive” version of the dataset depicts the changes in WID assignment and extent over the span of the program. WIDs are not permanent IDs, and the extent of a reach is subject to change over time, influenced by factors such as water quality standards, channelization or restoration work, hydrological influence, and other reasons that influence how MPCA conducts water quality work. When extent of a reach is changed, the WID number also changes. This Comprehensive dataset includes the current ‘Active’ WIDs and previous ‘Retired’ WIDs. This is not intended to capture changes to stream path over time.<br/><br/>Historical associations are maintained by MPCA. Streams without a specific agency interest associated have an ID of '*HUC8*-999'. As the MPCA programs associate stations or attributes with these unspecified waters, new WIDs are assigned.