This dataset provides model specifications used to estimate metabolism. The format is a table with 1 row per model (1 tab-delimited file, compressed into zip file). The specific format of this configuration file is arbitrary and specific to this analysis, and the format need not be replicated to use streamMetabolizer; however, this tabular format is useful because it allows for the reading by both humans and computers of (1) the combinations of sites and temporal resolutions for which models were run, (2) the timeseries data that were selected and combined to prepare the input to each model, and (3) the model specifications and parameters that were used in each model application. This dataset is part of a larger data release of metabolism model inputs and outputs for 356 streams and rivers across the United States (https://doi.org/10.5066/F70864KX). The complete release includes: modeled estimates of gross primary productivity, ecosystem respiration, and the gas exchange coefficient; model input data and alternative input data; model fit and diagnostic information; site catchment boundaries and site point locations; and potential predictors of metabolism such as discharge and light availability.