Water monitoring
Zednet gathers data from logging devices (via GSM) installed
at preselected points in the water distribution system. Common
measurements include flows, pressures, water levels (in canals,
boreholes and reservoirs), pump status, river gauging, water
quality and rainfall.
The Zednet service is internet-based, therefore eliminating the
requirement for on-site software installation. Raw data are stored
on servers which can be client or cloud based and can be accessed
from anywhere, via the web, using any recent internet browser.
Alarms can also be configured, facilitating the sending of SMS
messages or emails when undesired events such as storage dam
overflows or minimum canal flows occur. Zednet also has the
ability to carry out auto reporting, sending email updates daily,
weekly or monthly at a specific time.
It is anticipated that with the significant requirements for monitoring
as described earlier, individual farmers will also greatly benefit
from Zednet.
The system provides increased ability to manage water distribution
from the comfort of one’s office. It also provides an accurate
proof of water use that could settle water disputes, and improve
relationships amongst users of a shared resource. Improved
monitoring leads to improved management, an increasingly vital
requirement in the water use sector.
Improving management capabilities
Zednet is improving the management capabilities of its existing
users. Water User Associations are using the service to manage
weekly water orders and to ensure that delivery is according to
the requirements. Zednet has been linked to the WAS (Water
Administration System) in some cases, and is enhancing the use
of the system. There are also cases where Zednet has been linked
to the “Mike” Real Time monitoring systems. According to Kobus
Harbron form the Vaalharts WUA, they have had great success
with the 13 logging devices already installed in the scheme and
the collaboration of the Zednet software with the WAS works well.
Tienie Prinsloo from the Great Fish River WUA also confirmed
the convenience of remotely monitoring the water level at various
dams and canals within the scheme.
Logger installation
with Zednet configuration in the
Vaalharts Irrigation Scheme
Logger installation
with Zednet configuration in the
Vaalharts Irrigation Scheme
Monitoring point in the
Vaalharts Irrigation Scheme