This dataset represents a stream network (centreline) of features both natural and artificial across NSW, classified using the Strahler Stream Order method, undertaken by the Department in 2013.

This is a legacy, best endeavours dataset based upon a static (2012) copy of the now NSW Department of Customer Services (DCS) | Spatial Services: NSW Hydro Line. Today this data forms part of the NSW Digital Topographic Database and NSW Foundation Data Framework administered by DCS.

Classification of the stream network was completed using the 'RivEX' tool (www.rivex.co.uk) in combination with ESRI ArcMap by the Departments Geospatial practitioners.

Method

The dataset was initially broken down against 13 Catchment Management Authority (CMA) catchment boundaries (as at 2012), or smaller subsets to aid RivEx processing, which closely aligned to hydrological catchments. The edges of the subsets were checked to ensure hydro lines fell within the correct hydrological unit.

Catchments were processed (classified) in order of stream flow to ensure the order at the end of one catchment was used as the beginning of any it flowed into.

For Victorian and Queensland datasets - any stream that flowed into NSW waterways were extracted (by complete catchment) and processed in exactly the same way as the NSW hydro lines data. Queensland was processed first so the Strahler results could be incorporated in the northern catchments of NSW. Victorian streams were processed before the NSW Murray & Lower Murray Darling areas to ensure continuity of stream order application in NSW.

A summarised workflow is provided below:

Input dataset: 2012 DCS NSW Hydro Line
Break the input dataset into manageable catchments for processing
Complete topology checks (ArcMap) on catchment subsets
Undertake basic hydrological enforcement by flipping geometric line directions where required to align with stream flow / class order direction.
Run Strahler processing (RivEX)
Undertake visual quality assurance of results & manually resolve issues.
Recombine catchments to assemble a statewide dataset
Output dataset: Hydro Line (2012) Strahler Stream Order Classification NSW

Note: Victorian and Queensland data was also sought (best available) so accurate Strahler assessments at the State borders could be assessed.

Hydro Line 2012 Strahler Stream Order Classification