Author(s): Pascal Pirlot; Nils Fikentscher; Markus Noack

Linked Author(s): Markus Noack

Keywords: In-situ measurement; Alpine headwaters; Low-cost sensors

Abstract: Low-cost sensors (“SmartRocks”) were deployed in the Partnach river in the Bavarian Alps in Germany, collecting hourly measurements of the temperature, pressure, electrical conductivity (EC) and turbidity at various locations over a four-months period starting in July 2025. The temperature and EC-sensors of the SmartRock reported values similar to those of high-end devices. Absolute pressure, after correction for atmospheric variations, was used to compute the water depth. Turbidity measurements were less precise due to the high sensitivity to light exposure and algal growth. Sturdy garden anchors facilitated a secure deployment on the steep, coarse riverbed, while enhancements to the sensor casing improved resistance to bed-load transport. The battery provides an operating life of at least four months. The present contribution showcases the reliability of the low-cost “SmartRock” sensor to furnish accurate and continuous data as complementary solution to conventional hydrological monitoring in high -altitude water streams.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.64697/iahr.proc.ise2026.abs.295

Year: 2026