To evaluate behavior in representing solute transport in natural streams, the storage zone model of the axially periodic transient storage zones is developed. The periodic transient storage zone model and continuous storage zone model are verified using the parameters and the tracer concentration vs. time curves observed in laboratory channels. The periodic storage zone model best fit the measured concentration vs. time curves, while the continuous storage model fails to describe some fluctuations and the plateau region of the tail occurring in a discontinuous transient storage system. Dispersion data from Shingobee River, Minnesota, U. S. A. show that the concentration curves simulated by the proposed model fit the observed concentration curves well.