Monitoring natural water resources is essential to SCCF and benefits everyone living on the island. Lakes, ponds, and the Sanibel Slough play a critical role in water retention, habitat management, and fire control — supporting the people, plants, and animals that call the island home.

SCCF’s Marine Lab, in partnership with the City of Sanibel, currently has six sensor monitoring stations strategically distributed throughout the Sanibel Slough to track water depth and rainfall. The two original stations, installed in 2015, are located near the water control structure weirs.

In 2024, four additional monitoring stations were added to improve spatial coverage, increase data resolution, and enable enhanced remote monitoring capabilities.

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In collaboration with, and with funding from, the City of Sanibel, we have upgraded the system with advanced flow sensors designed to improve reliability and reduce maintenance needs. These upgraded systems have been installed at two locations: one in Periwinkle Park near the Beach Road weir, and the other on Sanibel Captiva Road by the Tarpon Bay weir.

Unlike the previous submerged sensors, the new sensors use radar-based measurements from units mounted approximately seven feet above the ground. This design minimizes interference from debris and reduces vulnerability to storm-related damage. The elevated installation also provides additional protection during storm surge events.

The near-real-time data generated by these stations is used by City personnel to inform the Storm Water Management Plan and supports emergency response efforts during major storm events.

SCCF Research Assistant Rachel Wynn explains, “Slough levels, weir operation, and rainfall are key factors in managing seasonal flooding, maintaining critical wildlife habitat, and reducing fire risk.”

SCCF is excited about these new monitoring towers and looks forward to continuing its strong partnership with the City of Sanibel.