The FOEN Hydrology Division’s basic monitoring network now comprises some 260 gauging stations on surface waters. In addition to lake water levels, river discharge is measured at 200 sites.
Systematic recording of the fundamental parameters of water levels and discharge dates back to the mid-nineteenth century. The long-standing measurement series provide a basis for a wide variety of applications, such as flood protection or investigation of the effects of climate change.
As the data is now rapidly accessible, it can be of great importance to decision makers under extraordinary conditions. In order to guarantee availability of the data, state-of-the-art technology is used for measurement and transmission and flood-proof constructions are maintained.
The discharge monitoring stations are calibrated through 5-6 discharge measurements each year. To ensure trouble-free operation, each station is checked by a local observer on a weekly basis.
More information on discharge measuring methods
The hydrology in Switzerland
Beschreibung der Messmethoden ab S. 47
Further information
Last modification 03.09.2021
