Units: (mm)
Water depth is the measurement of the distance between the surface and the bottom of a waterbody. Water depth can be used to calculate discharge or “flow.” Discharge is calculated by developing a graph of the relationship of depth to volume and then comparing depth measurements against this graph. Our project partners at Stroud are working on a display to show discharge as well as depth.
Units: (°C)
Water temperature is displayed in degrees Celsius in scientific data collection. Water temperature affects the dissolved oxygen concentration of the water, the rate of photosynthesis, metabolic rates of aquatic organisms, and the sensitivity of organisms to toxins, parasites, and disease. All aquatic organisms are dependent on certain temperature ranges for optimal health. If temperatures are outside of this optimal range for a prolonged period, the organisms become stressed and can die. Water temperature generally increases with turbidity; as the particles absorb heat, the dissolved oxygen levels are reduced. Temperature is primarily controlled by climatic conditions, influenced by heavy precipitation (rainstorms), snowstorms, and the amount of sunlight present, but can be impacted by human activities.
A guide below that translates Celsius to Fahrenheit:
Link: Celsius to Fahrenheit conversion (°C to °F) (rapidtables.com)
Temperature Ranges |
Descriptions |
0°C = 32°F |
water freezes |
10°C = 50°F |
Cooler water is needed for fish spawning and embryo survival |
20°C = 68°F |
|
30°C = 86°F |
Fish are potentially stressed |
(specific conductance)
Units: (µmhos/cm):
Conductivity is a parameter that measures the ability of water to pass an electrical current. Conductivity in water is affected by the presence of inorganic dissolved solids such as chlorine, nitrate, sulfate, and phosphate anions (ions that carry a negative charge) or sodium, magnesium, calcium, iron, which are ions that carry a positive charge. This measurement can also be affected by temperature, the warmer the water, the higher the conductivity. Inland freshwaters that support good mixed fisheries typically have conductivity values of less than 1,000 (µmhos/cm). Conductivity outside this range could indicate that the water is not suitable for certain species of fish or macroinvertebrates. In some cases, readings may serve as a preliminary indicator of potential septic leaks.
Units: (°F)
The logger temperature is the measurement of temperature inside the sensor unit. Electronics can be affected by temperature, so we use this to determine whether the sensor is being influenced by the weather. Water temperature and logger temperature are displayed on the same graph.
Units: Voltage
The climate stations are powered by multiple power resources, including solar panels. The graph displays the measurement of how well the solar panel on the sensor station is charging the battery. This is used to help maintain the sensors and unit overall.