3TIER created the FirstLook hydro rank based upon our global precipitation dataset, which was used in the production of our overall global hydro dataset. The global precipitation dataset is the result of merging two monthly precipitation datasets, the NASA TMPA 3B43 dataset and a dataset produced by the University of Delaware. The latter is a gauge-based dataset, while the former is both gauge and satellite-based. The end product is a 1/8 degree resolution, monthly average precipitation dataset from 1990 – 2006.

3TIER’s primary aim in the creation of the global hydro dataset was to enable higher quality hydro prospecting, particularly for small scale, run-of-river hydro development. Until now, there has never been a similar data source for hydro resource prospecting.

Contact 3TIER for more information on data available from our global hydro dataset (including gross head and annual mean runoff data) or to discuss hydro-related products and services that may assist you in the project development process.