Wildfire Depth Sensor

• Dimensions: 

  • Body 6.35 cmx30.48 cm 

  • Needles 3 mmx17 mm

• Temperature sensors:

  • 6 k-type thermocouples (accurate up to 1100 C)

• Materials:

  • Body and Needles are high grade steel for optimum protection

The Soil Burn Severity sensor helps to quickly determine damage caused to soil after a wildfire event. By monitoring soil temperature during the fire, a burn severity map can be compiled with the collected data, and reclamation efforts can begin sooner.

This device is designed to be buried in front of a fire and can collect data for about two weeks, at which time data should be collected and the battery re-charged with the included cable. For installation, we recommend using a 5in augur to minimize soil and duff disturbance. Because of the changes a wildfire causes, it can be difficult to locate the sensor after the event if it is not well marked. We advise driving a t-stake into the ground near the site and saving the GPS location.   

The High temperature Soil depth sensor measures soil temperature at 6 depths to obtain an accurate soil temperature profile. Temperature is measured at depths of 1,2,3,4,6 and 8cm using k-type thermocouples. Data is collected and stored on a microSD card, which also can be used to easily configure data intervals and data format.  This sensor is completely contained and operates off of a rechargeable battery with a single charge lasting approximately 14 days, at a data collection interval of 2 seconds. With temperature data, fire intensity as well as soil water repellency and soil nutrient flux can be determined. This sensor allows for faster response and reclamation following devastating fire events.