Automating Crest Stage Gages With Continuous Monitoring Instruments

Crest stage gages are typically used to gather data from ephemeral streams or waterways that are subject to infrequent, but severe flooding. Increasingly, crest stage gages are becoming a cost-effective means of gathering peak flow data, which can then be used in a variety of applications, such as emergency planning, engineering design, and stormwater permitting.

When selecting a level-measuring device, first choose an absolute (non-vented) sensor, such as the Rugged TROLL 100 instrument or Rugged TROLL 200 instrument. A gauged (vented) sensor will flood if the peak flow elevation exceeds the height of the vent tube.

The Rugged TROLL 100 is deployed on a suspension wire. Optionally, the Rugged TROLL 200 can be deployed on direct-read cable to access data without removing the instrument or with stripped and tinned cable to access data via telemetry (using RS485 or SDI- 12 communications).

You will also need a Rugged BaroTROLL® instrument running concurrently with the Rugged TROLL instrument to compensate for barometric effects on the data, if required. Select a safe location nearby where the Rugged BaroTROLL will not be submerged during peak flow.