A Water Monitoring Network

 

The Oklahoma Hydronet aims to create a world-class water monitoring network for Oklahoma to complement the State’s world-class meteorological network, the Oklahoma Mesonet. The monitoring system will measure water stored in soil, aquifers, and lakes and reservoirs. 

 

Drought and flooding are a constant problem for Oklahoma; the Hydronet project aims to improve the State’s drought management, groundwater management, and flood prediction and management. Many reservoirs around the state are not currently monitored for water levels.

 

Through this project, new sensors to continuously monitor water levels will be installed and a web-based data management system is being developed to serve as a communications system for the public and water managers to review and retrieve data. The system will also create maps and figures to help water managers and forecasters apply the data. 

 

Partners of the OWRC:

• National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

• Oklahoma Mesonet

• Oklahoma Water Resources Board

• University of Oklahoma

• U.S. Department of Agriculture – Agricultural Research Service