Two commonly suggested forms of the equation linking head loss and velocity for flow of water through coarse granular media are the Forchheimer and exponential relations. Combined with the continuity expression, these relations give the differential equations applicable, within the limits of validity of the parent relations, to actual regions of flow. The resultant nonlinear partial differential equations are amenable to solution by the numerical technique known as the method of finite elements. This technique has advantages when dealing with complex boundary shapes. Solutions have been obtained for some examples of unconfined flow with boundary conditions similar to those likely to be encountered in practical applications. Experimental work in an open flume has shown that agreement between observed and calculated values of discharge and piezometric head can be obtained when the coefficients in the head loss equations are accurately known.