Mini-secchi disk

Features

• Data Management: A mobile app has been developed to calculate Secchi disk depth, record photos and additional observation data and submit readings to a database managed by PML from where observations are openly shared through OGC-compliant interfaces. The app is currently undergoing testing and will be available in the coming months.
• Sensor Measurements:
  • Water transparency
  • Colour
  • pH
• How it works:
  The disk is lowered from a jetty or boat. Using an integrated measurement tape on a spindle, precise readings of the maximum visibility depth of the disk can be recorded. With the disk at half the visibility depth, the user is requested to estimate water colour using the Forel-Ule scale which is attached to the spindle. Additional observations of pH and surface water colour can be recorded through the app. The disk has an ultra-compact design and easily fits in a backpack to take on excursions in nature. In windy conditions additional weight can easily be added to the disk.
  • High portability
  • Easy deployment and storage
  • Assess water colour, transparency and pH using a single device
  • Contribute to image analysis by submitting photos through mobile App

Specifications

• Dimensions: 13 x 10 x 5 cm when fully compacted.
• Power requirement: None
• Method to transmit data: A mobile app has been developed to calculate Secchi disk depth, record photos and additional observation data and submit readings to a database.
• Deployment method: By citizen scientists from the shore or a boat.

Publications

Deliverables

• Open Data repositories (D9.3)

  Publication date: Jun 2018 | Lead author: PML

Technical Resources