Documentation and How-to

Data upload resources

Ready to upload data? Get started with these essential resources.

Last updated: October 20, 2023

DataStream follows a data format based on the WQX standard for the Exchange of Water Quality Data. Learn more about DataStream's data structure and format.

DataStream Upload Template

The worksheets in the Upload Template (available in Excel and Google Sheets) can be used to prepare your data in the correct format for upload. Our Data Specialists are available to help walk you through this process (contact us: team@DataStream.org).

Excel Upload Template

Open file

Google Sheets Upload Template

Open link

Note: If you have a large volume of data to convert into DataStream’s data format, it may be more practical to use tools like R or Python to speed up the process. We recommend setting up a call with a Data Specialist on our team who can provide assistance and help determine the best approach.

Dataset Metadata Form

We recommend preparing your dataset-level metadata (information about your dataset) in advance of uploading, so you have the details on hand when you fill in the online form. You can use either the Dataset Metadata Form (below) or the Dataset Metadata tab of the Upload Template to prepare this information.

Upload Metadata Form (Word)

Open file

How-to videos

Uploading your Data - New Dataset

Watch

Updating your Dataset - Add New Data

Watch

Updating your Dataset - Modify Existing Data

Watch

Updating your Dataset - Edit Metadata

Watch

DataStream Upload Guide

A printable version of our Upload data guidance.

DataStream Upload Guide (PDF)

Open file

Data format guidance for specific types of data

Best practices for reporting nutrient data
Best practices for reporting isotope data
Coming soon: Best practices for reporting metal-series data
Laboratory parameter mappings

Survey123 template

Survey123 is an ArcGIS tool that is used to create forms for data entry. DataStream has created two example Survey123 forms that facilitate data export in a format aligned with DataStream's Data structure and format and Upload Template.

Note: You will need to use your own ArcGIS account to create your own Survey123 forms based on these examples. If you enter your data directly into these example forms, DataStream will receive the entered data instead of you.

DataStream Survey 1 – Monitoring Locations:

Captures information on the name, location and type of water quality monitoring sites.

Open link

DataStream Survey 2 – Water Quality Results:

Captures results obtained for measured parameters at monitoring sites defined in the DataStream Survey 1 – Monitoring Locations.

Open link

Steps for creating DataStream compatible Survey123 forms for water quality data (PDF)

Details on creating your own version of these forms and exporting the data for upload to DataStream.

Open file

Additional resources

Excel Tips and Tricks for Working with Data webinar

Improve your Excel skills for working with data including data cleaning, pivot tables, graphing and general statistics.

Watch

QA/QC for Water Quality Data webinar

Learn how to check for outliers, interpret field and lab quality control data, and compare water quality parameters to assess your data’s accuracy.

Watch

Data Management Best Practices webinar

Review best practices for ensuring your data remains accessible, understandable and usable over time.

Watch

See all webinars