New Hi-tech Devices and Programs to Monitor Water Quality

Posted: May 18, 2010

Electronic Data monitoring: FOTL is in the process of deploying automatic electronic data monitoring sensors to measure water quality parameters including lake elevation, dissolved oxygen content, water temperature, acidity (pH), conductivity (measure of total ions in the water), and chlorophyll fluorescence (measure of how much algae is present).  In addition, weather data including wind speed, wind direction, sunlight intensity, rainfall amount, relative humidity, and air temperature will be captured and recorded.  This continually recorded data will be available to scientists from around the world through the GLEON network (Global Lake Ecological Observatory Network).  Lake Lillinonah will be the first Lake in CT to share this technology via the GLEON network with scientists from around the world.  FOTL is determined to supply real-time and historical data to assist a variety of groups that are interested in limnology studies in general and with problems specific to Lake Lillinonah in particular, including cyanobacteria (toxic algae) blooms, causes of debris fields, and the general health of the flora and fauna of the lake.

Much of the data captured by Friends of the Lake will be displayed on our newly updated website. Friends of the Lake will display and store all data captured, make it available to the public, and offer interactive displays useful to visitors of Lake Lillinonah who also visit the website.  For instance, real-time water level data will be displayed.  A high water level (above 195.5’ NGVD) will warn potential visitors of the Lake that there is a strong possibility of dangerous floating debris.

Friends of the Lake is also launching an iPod application that will be available for free to anyone who owns an iPhone to help the recording and reporting of debris sightings and other issues related to Lake Lillinonah.  The application user can take a picture of any condition on the lake.  With that picture, the application will automatically record the date and time, photographer, GPS location and description (if entered).  This information will easily upload to the new Friends of the Lake website.  This historical record will be available to the general public.  This record, combined with other data captured by FOTL sensors, will help memorialize and determine the causes of the severe debris fields, algae blooms, and other conditions of concern on Lake Lillinonah.  Stay tuned for further information on how you can get this new app…