Of all our natural resources, perhaps none are more vital to our health and success than our natural waterways. Our lakes, ponds, streams, and rivers provide us with fresh drinking water, diverse ecosystems, commercial shipping channels, and more. That’s why accurate measurement of natural water levels is crucial.
Many private and public organizations and institutions take regular measurements of natural water levels with a variety of different methods ranging from the primitive to the high-tech. Modern liquid level sensing technology, however, makes surface water level measurement more accurate and useful than ever.
Tools for Measuring Water Levels
One of the most common methods of measuring water levels is by using a submersible level sensor, which records the combined pressure of the water and atmosphere. When water levels in a river or other body of water rise, pressure increases. These sophisticated instruments offer the benefits of low energy usage with the capability for continuous, highly accurate monitoring.
Another method, utilized by the United States Geological Survey, is to dig a deep well near the banks of the body of water with one or more intake pipes running horizontally from the water to the well’s bottom. As the surface water rises or falls so too does the water level in the well, which is measured and recorded by a float switch or other liquid level sensor.
How the Surface Water Measurements are Used
Accurate water measurements are extremely important for local governments when planning their drinking water needs. Most cities and municipalities draw their water from surrounding surface water, like streams, rivers, and lakes. By taking and interpreting accurate water level measurements in these bodies of water, hydrologists (water scientists) help establish whether current levels will be sufficient to meet projected demands.
Water levels are also important for agriculture, especially in parts of the country without large quantities of rainfall. Without exact, current levels of groundwater levels, the logistics of agriculture and irrigation would be a great deal more difficult to manage, resulting in economic losses and less crop production.
When water levels fall more quickly or lower than usual, it can indicate an environmental issue that needs to be addressed. Conversely, if water levels rise sharply, it may mean that flooding is imminent and residents of the surrounding area need to be warned or evacuated.