Advances sensors power councils real-time water quality monitoring

Teledyne Valeport, a UK-based manufacturer renowned for precision oceanographic and hydrographic instrumentation, has supplied a suite of advanced sensors to support South Hams District Council’s real-time river and estuary monitoring initiative in Devon.

Central to the deployment are Teledyne Valeport’s miniCT, self-calibrating pH sensor, and Hyperion fluorometers, each selected for their reliability, rugged construction, and compatibility with remote telemetry systems. These sensors are strategically installed at locations selected in collaboration with local community groups to deliver continuous, high-resolution environmental data to a publicly accessible dashboard, scheduled for launch in late 2025.

The miniCT sensor integrates a high-accuracy platinum resistance thermometer (PRT) with a digital conductivity module, enabling precise measurement of temperature and electrical conductivity. These parameters are essential for calculating salinity and assessing water quality dynamics in estuarine environments, whilst also delivering accurate water temperature data. 

The pH sensor features an autonomous calibration protocol, significantly reducing maintenance cycles and operational costs. Its robust design ensures long-term deployment in variable freshwater and brackish conditions, providing reliable data on the water pH level, an important indicator of ecosystem health and long-term change.

The Hyperion fluorometer offers high performance optical measurements for a range of parameters, in this case fDOM (fluorescing dissolved organic material), and turbidity. Hyperion optical sensors deliver high-sensitivity measurements critical for tracking water quality. The instrument is fully compatible with industry-standard dataloggers and telemetry platforms.

Amy Thompson, Innovation & Product Manager at Teledyne Valeport, commented: “This collaboration with South Hams District Council exemplifies how advanced sensor technology can support data-driven environmental stewardship. By providing real-time, actionable insights, our instruments help inform timely responses to water quality challenges, benefiting both ecosystems and communities.”

As public concern over water pollution intensifies, this initiative highlights the role of high-performance instrumentation in enabling transparent, science-based decision-making. Teledyne Valeport’s contribution demonstrates the importance of robust, field-proven technology in safeguarding the UK’s aquatic environments.