Ephemeral stream sensor design using state loggers

Abstract

Ephemeral streamflow events have the potential to transport sediment and pollutants downstream, which, in predominently agricultural basins, is especially problematic. Despite the importance of ephemeral streamflow, the duration and timing of the events are characteristics that are rarely measured. Ephemeral streamflow sensors have been created in the past with varying degrees of success and this paper presents a solution which minimizes previous shortcomings in other designs. The design and setup of the sensor network in two agricultural basins, as well as considerations for data processing are explored in this paper with regard to monitoring ephemeral streamflow at high spatial and temporal resolutions. © Author(s) 2011.