Illustration depicting a currents monitoring buoy-based system

4.3 Currents

Current, in terms of hydrology, refers to the movement of water that takes place in all natural surface waters, including streams, rivers, lakes, coastal waters, and oceans. Various factors influence water currents, such as wind patterns, temperature and salinity differences, the Earth’s rotation (Coriolis effect), the gravitational pull of the moon, the physical topography of […]

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illustration depicting a real-time flow monitoring system near a culvert

4.2 Flow

Water flow measurement builds on level measurement to provide not only water levels, but total volume in moving natural waterways, namely rivers and streams. Flow monitoring tracks the movement of water in a watershed and is a critical component of water resource management, hydropower generation, environmental conservation, and other hydrological studies. Flow rates in water […]

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Illustration of a dock monitoring system that is measuring water level.

4.1 Water level

Water level measurement is a fundamental aspect of water resource management and environmental monitoring in aquatic ecosystems. Monitoring the water level in natural waters such as lakes, rivers, reservoirs, oceans, groundwater, and other water bodies is essential to researchers, resource managers, infrastructure planners, port authorities, and other environmental professionals. Climate change concerns have also amplified […]

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Illustration of a field computer in a forest next to a real-time soil monitoring station

2.7 Field Computers, Displays, and Mobile Apps

While data loggers, sensors, and cloud datacenters make up the backbone of environmental measurement systems for continuous monitoring, various other displays are commonly used both during fieldwork and normal operation. Field computers, handheld display units, and mobile devices like smartphones are used both for real-time data collection and configuration of permanent installations. On-site displays are […]

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Illustration of a laptop inside of a building with a window. outside the window is a data buoy transmitting data to the cloud which is then visible on the computer.

2.6 Cloud Datacenter

Cloud datacenters, also known as web-based or online datacenters, play a pivotal role in managing the data delivered by modern environmental data collection systems. They provide a secure, centralized platform for storing, processing, and analyzing collected data via the Internet, thereby enhancing the accessibility, scalability, and functionality of environmental monitoring programs. Cloud datacenters typically offer […]

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Illustration of a buoy and land based NexSens system in a wetlands. Both systems are equipped with solar panels.

2.5 Power and Solar Charging

With remote monitoring also comes the need for an autonomous, efficient power supply to ensure the continuous operation of sensors, data loggers, and telemetry equipment. Systems installed at or near existing infrastructure can receive power from the electrical grid.  However, fixed power supplies are not available in many applications, so alternative means are required. In […]

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Illustration of a buoy-based radio telemetry system deployed near a beach

2.4 Telemetry

Telemetry refers to the automatic measurement and wireless transmission of data from remote sensors to centralized data collection and management systems. Such technology is crucial for environmental monitoring, particularly in remote locations where real-time data is essential to meet regulatory requirements or to provide quick notice of environmental conditions. Telemetry systems can use various communication […]

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Illustration of a groundwater sensing instrument in a corn field

2.2 Smart Sensors

Smart sensors are advanced measurement devices equipped with integrated processing capabilities and other features that enhance their functionality and reliability. While traditional sensors simply convert physical phenomena into electrical signals that can be recorded and processed, smart sensors can preprocess the data to provide instantaneous results. In addition, they frequently include advanced features such as […]

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2.1 Introduction to Data Collection

Environmental data collection is fundamental to scientific research, environmental management, and regulatory compliance. The systematic gathering of information about natural systems helps scientists, engineers, and policymakers make informed decisions to protect ecosystems, manage resources, and understand environmental changes.  Data collection can range from simple, manual measurements to complex, automated systems that continuously monitor various environmental […]

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1.1 Historical Context and Modern Innovations in Environmental Monitoring

This handbook provides a comprehensive guide to modern techniques in measuring the natural environment, including water quality, hydrology, weather, and soil. It focuses on environmental monitoring and data collection, including sensors, remote data acquisition systems, and cloud-based data management. Its aim is to be a practical resource for environmental professionals, researchers, and students to quickly locate […]

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