Stein Index Classification for Streams National 20150513

## **Abstract** \n\nThe dataset was derived by the Bioregional Assessment Programme. The parent dataset(s) is identified in the Lineage field in this metadata statement. The processes undertaken to produce this derived dataset are described in the History field in this metadata statement. \n\n\n\nA raster of landform built using the Stein Index as described in the 'INTERIM CLASSIFICATION OF AQUATIC SYSTEMS IN THE MURRAY-DARLING BASIN' page 23-24.\n\nThis is used to classify streams according to whether it is upland or lowland relative to the surrounding terrain and high energy or low energy depending on landscape features.\n\n## **Purpose** \n\nTo provide a simple classification of streams for regions where there was limited information\n\n## **Dataset History** \n\nThe final definitions for landform, in terms of the Stein index are:\n\n \n\nLowland: mrVBF > 3;\n\nLow Energy Upland: mrVBF 2.5;\n\nHigh Energy Upland: mrVBF < 2.5 AND mrRTF =2.5 AND mrVBF4, transitional 3.5 to 4). A visual inspection of other areas in New South Wales did not support changing thresholds at this time, but a more rigorous calibration and validation process has not yet been carried out. The New South Wales River Styles data set based on site observations is likely to be a valuable contributor to this process.\n\n \n\nGIS application\n\nThe landform attribute was developed using the 3 sec mrVBF and mrRTF from CSIRO (Table 10)\n\n \n\nLowland: MrVBF_int > 3; \n\nLow Energy Upland: MrVBF_int 2;Lowland\n\nHigh Energy Upland: MrVBF_int