Stormwater Monitoring – ToltHawk Sensors

ToltHawk Stormwater Monitoring & Alerts

Actively monitors stormwater hotspots 24×7
Alerts
Live dashboard status map
Install in headwalls, drainage basins, grades, catch-basins
Small, solar-powered, device

How it works?

ToltHawk stormwater device is installed over the target area to watch for flooding. The device uses a tiny radar to passively watch water level and flooding and therefore requires none to very little maintenance. While the device sends health-check daily, it actively monitors and reports flooding the moment it detects it. As soon as flooding or other anomalies are detected, it will send alerts to your crew and staff.

The device doesn’t require any wiring and is battery powered and requires only a few annual hours of sunlight to keep them charged.

In addition, the device can be fitted with a camera that allows your crew to make a visual verification before coming out for maintenance therefore potentially saving you time and money.

Also See: Case Study: San Rafael, Stormwater Monitoring

Can I buy the ToltHawk stormwater sensor device without a camera?

Can I enable these sensors for only part of the year?

Yes. Stormwater can be put to inactive mode during offseason.

Can I attach a rain bucket to these devices?

Yes, an optional rain bucket can be attached to these devices. However, the rain bucket attachment should be requested at the time of your order.

What is the best way of installing these over storm drains?

The most common approach for stormwater monitoring is a cantilever arm mounted to an existing or dedicated post. This setup positions the sensor directly above the drain or flow path, providing a clear view of rising water levels. Depending on site conditions, alternative mounting methods can also be used, with the key requirement being that the device is securely located above the target area to reliably observe flooding.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to install?

ToltHawk sensors are self contained units and are therefore easy to install. Typical installation is over bridges or cantilever. See ToltHawk Installation Gallery for example installations

Do I need to sign in to view data?

As the owner admin, you can decide who can view the data. If you make the location public, anyone can view the hydrograph without signing in. If you mark the location private then only users who you allow will be able to view the data..

What is the range of sensor?

The range of our sensors is between 15cm (0.5′) to 20m (65′).

Do you have an API to integrate with my existing systems?

Yes, we have a JSON API that allows you to integrate with your own system or website.

Can I download my data?

As the owner of the gauge, you can download the data in any of these formats: Excel, CSV, PDF

How long do you keep the data?

Our normal data retention policy is 10 years.

After installation, is calibration required?

Our device do not require calibration after you install it. However, its a good practice to verify the data and communication before you leave the location.

Should I setup the device before leaving the installation site?

The device automatically starts sending data when placed vertically at the installation site. All settings can then be done from your desk via a web browser. There’s no specific configuration required at the installation site.

Who can install these sensors?

Our sensor devices are easy to install and most organizations chose to install it themselves. Before installation, please read our user manual for installation suggestions and examples. Also, please check local laws for any permits requirements, and restrictions to install in public right-of-ways.

Can I change units to metric?

Yes. Units are individual preferences and you can change it under your profile.

What is the angle of beam of the radar sensor?

The radar sensor has a narrow 3°-7° angle and therefore allowing sensing area to be pin pointed.

Who can access the data?

If the owner of the location, designates that location as Public in their dashboard, anyone, signed-in or not, can view the data of that location. If you want to restrict access to the location data, you must give them permission via your settings dashboards. In that case, the user 1) must create an account and 2) owner must give them permission via settings dashboard.

How often is website updated?

Our normal measurement frequency is 15 minutes, which matches USGS’s standard. However this can be changed by the owner of the gauge (you) via website. Measurement frequency of less than 5 minutes can be drain on the device’s battery. The measured data is then stored in the device’s memory until the next Update Cycle at which point all the stored data is uploaded into the cloud for you to view. The Update Cycle can be 15minutes to 3hours depending on your configuration.