Pegelstandort

A Pegelstandort is a location where a measuring instrument is installed to determine the water level, forming a basic unit of a hydrological monitoring network. In German-speaking regions it describes gauging stations on rivers, lakes, and coastal systems. The data collected at Pegelstandorte support flood forecasting, river management, navigation, water resources planning, and environmental monitoring.

Locations are chosen to provide representative information about hydraulic conditions while minimizing distortions from backwater effects, structures, or access issues. A typical Pegelstandort includes a gauging device (such as a stilling well with a staff gauge, or non-contact sensors), a depth sensor (pressure transducer, ultrasonic or radar), a data logger, power supply, and telemetry for remote transmission. Measurements are usually continuous and reported as water level relative to a defined datum; many sites also use a rating curve to convert levels to discharge.

The data from Pegelstandorte are used for real-time flood warning, forecast models, and long-term hydrological analysis. They support river basin management, ecological assessments, and climate research by providing time series of water levels and, where available, discharge estimates. Regular maintenance, calibration, and quality control are essential to ensure accuracy, with metadata recording the station’s location, datum, sensor type, measurement interval, and any calibrations or repairs.

Access and standards: Pegelstandorte are operated by national or regional hydrological authorities, often within a larger network. Data are frequently published through official portals in real time or near real time, with standardized formats and units to enable comparison and integration with other hydrological datasets.