That’s a Wrap: 2024 Water Quality Monitoring Reveals Consistent Violations
After seven months of 24/7 duty, one of the DRA’s data sondes gets prepped for the long winter break.
By Hannah Camel, DRA staff scientist
As fall swiftly transitions into winter, our 2024 monitoring season has come to a close. On Thursday, November 21st, we carefully removed both of our YSI data sondes from the river. These sensors, which have been continuously collecting critical water quality data since their deployment on April 7th, are now on their way back to YSI for their annual cleaning, maintenance, and calibration.
This process is a critical step in ensuring the accuracy and reliability of our data collection efforts. The YSI sondes are sophisticated tools, equipped with sensors to monitor key water quality parameters such as temperature, dissolved oxygen, pH, and turbidity. Over months of exposure to flowing water, sediment, and biological growth, the sensors can experience wear and drift that may compromise their precision. Routine maintenance ensures they remain in top condition for the next monitoring season.
Commitment to Excellence
As the sondes make their way to YSI’s facilities, our team will shift focus to analyzing the data collected over the 2024 season. This data will be compiled into our annual water quality report, which is anticipated for release in February or March of next year. The report will provide insights into the river’s current conditions and help guide our ongoing efforts to ensure its health and sustainability.
Looking ahead, the sondes will return to us in time for the next monitoring season, freshly calibrated and ready for redeployment in the spring. Until then, our team will continue to advocate for the Deschutes River’s well-being and prepare for the upcoming monitoring season. As always, we are deeply grateful to our supporters, donors, and partners. Your dedication and generosity make it possible for us to continue this vital work. Stay tuned for updates as we dive into this year’s data and begin preparations for the 2025 monitoring season.
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