Agua Salud
The Agua Salud Project seeks to understand and quantify the ecological, social, and economic services provided by tropical forests a seasonal climate. The Panama Canal’s central role in world commerce focuses global attention on ecosystem services provided by tropical forests in the Panama Canal Watershed (PCW) where the focal research site is located. Carbon storage, clean and plentiful water, and biodiversity conservation for enhanced ecosystem function and ecotourism are just a few of the services. Agua Salud is a collaboration between the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, the Panama Canal Authority, Panama’s Environment Authority and other partners.
The Agua Salud project focal research site receives an average of 2700mm of rain per year. Day-time temperatures reach an average of 32°C, with night-time lows of approximately 23°C. The meteorological year is divided into two parts: a pronounced dry season (approximately from mid-December to the end of April), and a wet season (May to mid-December). On average, approximately 300 mm of rain falls during the dry season. Relative humidity, soil moisture, solar radiation, evapotranspiration, wind speed and direction all show marked wet/dry season differences. On the other hand, temperature varies relatively little throughout the year.
The climate and hydrological monitoring components of the Agua Salud Project consist of a network of gauged weirs, meteorology stations, rain gauges and rainfall interception sensors. Beginning in 2015, a major expansion and improvement project was initiated in order to improve the project’s physical monitoring infrastructure. Improvements will include the construction of meteorology stations as well as the implementation of real-time data collection via telemetry.
By the end of 2015, we expect to have three new meteorology monitoring stations installed at the locations known as Celestino, Guabo and Surbal. Each of these stations will include a standard set of sensors measuring: rainfall, solar radiation (PAR and Global), Temperature, Relative Humidity, Wind speed and direction. Some stations may measure additional variables. The Celestino station, for example, will also measure Net Radiation.
Celestino Station
Location: 9.21142N, 79.72656W
For a summary of the data collected in 2014, plus long-term averages, please click bellow.
Sensors
| Parameters | Sensor Model | Methods |
|---|---|---|
| Air Pressure | Setra 278 Barometric Pressure sensor | ⬇️ |
| Net Solar Radiation | Kipp & Zonen CNR4 Net-Radiometer | ⬇️ |
| Rainfall | NovaLynx 260-250-A Tipping Bucket | ⬇️ |
| Temperature & RH | Viasala HMP60 | ⬇️ |
| Solar Radiation | Licor Li200S Pyranometer | ⬇️ |
| Solar Radiation | Kipp & Zonen PSQ1 Quantum Sensor | ⬇️ |
| Wind Speed & Direction | Young Wind Monitor 05103 | ⬇️ |
Data Download
| Parameters | Methods |
|---|---|
| Temperature | ⬇️ |
| Pressure | ⬇️ |
| Relative Humidity | ⬇️ |
| Evaptranspiration | ⬇️ |
| Solar Radiation | ⬇️ ⬇️ ⬇️ |
| Rainfall | ⬇️ |
| Wind Speed | ⬇️ |
| Wind Direction | ⬇️ |
| Net Solar Radiation | ⬇️ ⬇️ ⬇️ |
Please read our data use policy before using any data from this page.
AVA Tower
BCI is an island that was isolated from the surrounding mainland in 1914 following the damming of the Chagres River and the formation of Gatun Lake. The island, rising 137m above Lake Gatun, has an area of 1500 ha which are covered by forest that has remained relatively undisturbed for at least 100 years.
The island receives an average of 2623 mm of rain per year. Daytime temperatures reach an average of 32°C, with nighttime lows of approximately 23°C. The meteorological year is divided into two parts: a pronounced dry season (approximately from mid-December to the end of April), and a wet season (May to mid-December). On average, only 285 mm of rain falls during the dry season. Relative humidity, soil moisture, air pressure, solar radiation, evapotranspiration, wind speed and direction all show marked wet/dry season differences. On the other hand, temperature varies relatively little throughout the year.
The AVA tower was originally established in March of 2011 as part of the ForestGEO climate-monitoring program for the BCI 50 Ha plot. The tower was damaged by a tree fall in mid-2018 and all sensors were off-line until Feb. 2019. As of 2019, the tower’s meteorological sensors are part of STRI’s Physical Monitoring Program.
AVA Tower
Location: 9.1566’N, 79.84828’W
For a summary of the must recent data collected, please click bellow.
Sensors
| Parameters | Sensor Model | Methods |
|---|---|---|
| Rainfall | Campbell Sci. TB4 tipping bucket | ⬇️ |
| Solar Radiation PAR | Kipp&Zonen PQS1 | ⬇️ |
| Solar Radiation | Kipp&Zonen CMP3 | ⬇️ |
| Pyranometer | Kipp&Zonen CMP11 | ⬇️ |
| Temperature & RH | Campbell Sci. CS215 | ⬇️ |
| Wind | RM Young 05103 anemometer | ⬇️ |
Data Download
| Parameters | Frequency | Units | Methods |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature (max, min, average) | 5 min | Celsius | ⬇️ |
| Rain (total) | 5 min | mm | ⬇️ |
| Relative Humidity (max, min, average) | 5 min | % | ⬇️ |
| Solar Radiation PAR | 5 min | ⬇️ | |
| Solar Radiation Pyranometer | 5 min | ⬇️ | |
| Wind Direction (degrees) | 5 min | ⬇️ | |
| Wind Speed (km/h) | 5 min | ⬇️ |
Please read our data use policy before using any data from this page.
Barro Colorado
BCI is an island which was isolated from the surrounding mainland in 1914 following the damming of the Chagres river and the formation of Gatun Lake. The island, rising 137m above Lake Gatun, has an area of 1500 ha which are covered by forest that has remained relatively undisturbed for at least 100 years. BCI forms part of the Barro Colorado Nature Monument (BCNM).
The island receives an average of 2623 mm of rain per year. Day-time temperatures reach an average of 32°C, with night-time lows of approximately 23°C. The meteorological year is divided into two parts: a pronounced dry season (approximately from mid-December to the end of April), and a wet season (May to mid-December). On average, only 285 mm of rain falls during the dry season. Relative humidity, soil moisture, air pressure, solar radiation, evapotranspiration, wind speed and direction all show marked wet/dry season differences. On the other hand, temperature varies relatively little throughout the year.
There are three Physical Monitoring Stations on BCI: The Clearing (‘El Claro’), the Lutz Watershed Weir, the Lutz Tower and the Conrad Weir.
Data are collected using two different methods: electro-mechanical (electronic sensors, data loggers, chart recorders, etc.), and manual (rain gauges, max-min thermometers, sling psychrometers, soil samples, etc.) by a technician. In general, manual measurements have shown themselves to be the most accurate over the long-term. Wherever possible, parameters are measured both manually and electronically. The only exceptions to this rule are solar radiation (electronic only), estimated evapotranspiration (manual only), and gravimetric soil moisture (manual only).
BCI
Location: 9°10’N, 79°51’W
For a summary of the most recent data collected, plus long-term averages report, please click bellow.
Clearing
The Clearing (or ‘El Claro’ as it is know on the island) is a small grass-covered clearing located between the edge of the forest and the foundations of several former laboratory buildings. The station was established in 1972 and was the original meteorological station managed by STRI. An older station (established in 1929 and operated by the Panama Canal Authority) is located near to the shore of Lake Gatun.
The Clearing station records both manual and electronic (tipping bucket) precipitation, manual and electronic temperature and humidity, electronic barometric pressure, as well as manual potential evapotranspiration (EtGage atmometer).
Sensors
| Parameters | Sensor Model | Type | Manual | Methods |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Barometric Pressure | CS106-PTB110 | Electronic | ⬇️ | |
| Evapotranspiration | ET-Gauge | Manual | ⬇️ | ⬇️ |
| Temperature & RH | Viasala hmp45c (discontinued) Campbell Sci. CS215 | Electronic | ⬇️ | |
| Temperature, daily Max | Novalynx 210-4411 Standard Thermometer | Manual | ⬇️ | |
| Temperature, daily Min | Novalynx 210-4411 Standard Thermometer | Manual | ⬇️ | |
| Temperature, Daily Max/Min | Taylor Model 5458 Min/Max Thermometer | Manual | ⬇️ | |
| Rainfall | Campbell Sci. TB4 tipping bucket | Electronic | ⬇️ | |
| Rainfall | Novalynx rain gauge | Manual | ⬇️ ⬇️ | ⬇️ |
| Relative humidity from wet/dry bulb temperature | BACHARACH Sling Psychrometer | Manual | ⬇️ ⬇️ | ⬇️ |
Electronic Data Download
| Parameters | Frequency | Units | Methods |
|---|---|---|---|
| Air Temperature (max, min, average) | 15 min | Celsius | ⬇️ |
| Barometric Pressure (average) | 15 min | mmHg | ⬇️ |
| Rain (total) | 15 min | mm | ⬇️ |
| Relative Humidity (max, min, average) | 15 min | % | ⬇️ |
Manual Data Download
| Parameters | Frequency | Units | Methods |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rain (daily total) | daily | mm | ⬇️ |
| Temperature, Daily Max/Min | daily | Celsius | ⬇️ |
| Evapotranspiration | daily | cm | ⬇️ |
| Relative Humidity Sling Psychrometer | daily | % | ⬇️ |
Lutz Watershed And Meteorological Tower
The Lutz catchment is probably typical of the many small, steeply-sloped catchments draining away from the center of the island. It is located immediately east of the laboratory clearing. The steeply sloped (20-30°) catchment drains an area of 9.73 ha. The forest covering the catchment was mostly deforested during the construction of the Panama Canal around the turn of the century, but since then it has been allowed to regenerate.
Built in 1972, the Lutz tower was originally 42m in height. In October of 2001 the tower was raised to 48m due to the increase in height of the surrounding forest that happened during the previous 30 years.
The station consists of a vertical meteorological transect through the forest canopy with temperature/humidity sensors at 1, 20, 42 and 48m. . There are solar radiation sensors, an anemometer and an EtGage atmometer on the uppermost level of the tower. Manual measurements of max/min temperature and noon-time relative humidity are taken at the Lutz tower as well.
Gravimetric soil moisture samples are made at ten locations around the Lutz catchment. Soil samples are made at 0-10cm and 30-40cm at each location. Samples are taken every two weeks during the period June to November and weekly from December to May.
The V-notch weir located near the base of the tower measures the run-off from most of the Lutz creek catchment. Data are recorded using both a chart recorder and a pressure-base bubbler. Daily height recordings are made by a technician for calibration purposes.
Sensors
| Parameters | Sensor Model | Type | Manual | Methods |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Evapotranspiration | ET-Gauge | Manual | ⬇️ | ⬇️ |
| Gravimetric Soil Moisture | n/a | Manual | ⬇️ | |
| Relative humidity from wet/dry bulb temperature | BACHARACH Sling Psychrometer | Manual | ⬇️ ⬇️ | ⬇️ |
| Run-off | ISCO 3230 Bubbler Flow Meter | Electronic | ⬇️ | ⬇️ |
| Solar Radiation | LiCor LI200X pyranometer | Electronic | ⬇️ | ⬇️ |
| Temperature & RH | Viasala hmp45c (discontinued) CAMPBELL SCI. CS700 TIPPING BUCKET | Electronic | ⬇️ ⬇️ | ⬇️ |
| Temperature, daily Max/Min | Novalynx 210-4411 Standard Thermometer | Manual | ⬇️ | |
| Temperature, daily Min/Max | Taylor Model 5458 Min/Max Thermometer | Manual | ⬇️ | |
| Wind speed & direction | Young Wind Monitor AQ | Electronic | ⬇️ | ⬇️ |
| Wind passage | Totalizing Anemometer NovaLynx Model200-2510 | Manual | ⬇️ | ⬇️ |
Electronic Data Download
| Parameters | Frequency | Units | Methods |
|---|---|---|---|
| Air Temperature 1m (max, min, average) | 15 min | Celsius | ⬇️ |
| Air Temperature 20m (max, min, average) | 15 min | Celsius | ⬇️ |
| Air Temperature 42m (max, min, average) | 15 min | Celsius | ⬇️ |
| Air Temperature 48m (max, min, average) | 15 min | Celsius | ⬇️ |
| Relative Humidity 1m (max, min, average) | 15 min | % | ⬇️ |
| Relative Humidity 20m (max, min, average) | 15 min | % | ⬇️ |
| Relative Humidity 42m (max, min, average) | 15 min | % | ⬇️ |
| Relative Humidity 48m (max, min, average) | 15 min | % | ⬇️ |
| Solar Radiation Flux (max, min, average) | 15 min | w/m2 | ⬇️ |
| Wind Direction 45m (vect mean, std. deviation) | 15 min | degrees | ⬇️ |
| Wind Direction 48m (vect mean, std. deviation) | 15 min | degrees | ⬇️ |
| Wind Speed 42m (max, min, mean horiz speed) | 15 min | km/hr | ⬇️ |
| Wind Speed 48m (max, min, mean horiz speed) | 15 min | km/hr | ⬇️ |
| Runoff Lutz Creek (level, flow-rate, discharge) | 5 min | m3 | ⬇️ |
Manual Data Download
| Parameters | Frequency | Units | Methods |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature 1m (Daily Max/Min) | daily | Celsius | ⬇️ |
| Temperature 42m (Daily Max/Min) | daily | Celsius | ⬇️ |
| Temperature 48m (Daily Max/Min) | daily | Celsius | ⬇️ |
| Evapotranspiration 42m | daily | cm | ⬇️ |
| Evapotranspiration 48m | daily | cm | ⬇️ |
| Relative Humidity 1m | daily | % | ⬇️ |
| Relative Humidity 20m | daily | % | ⬇️ |
| Relative Humidity 42m | daily | % | ⬇️ |
| Relative Humidity 48m | daily | % | ⬇️ |
| Soil Humidity – Lutz Creek H2O by wet, H2O by dry | 1-2 weeks | % | ⬇️ |
Conrad Weir
The Conrad catchment is a more gently sloped catchment draining much of the central area of the island, including most of the 50-ha plot. The catchment is approximately 40.2 ha in size. Unlike the Lutz catchment, the forest covering the catchment was not cut during the construction of the Panama Canal.
The weir experienced several stages of development between 1993 and 1996 as additional height and wings were added to accommodate all stages of the Conrad stream. The weir consists of a 90 degree ‘V’ set into a two-stage rectangular weir. Data are recorded by a pressure-based bubbler.
Please read our data use policy before using any data from this page.
Bocas del Toro
The Bocas del Toro Field Station is located on Colon Island in Bocas del Toro province near the border with Costa Rica. To the east is the Caribbean Sea and to the west is a large enclosed bay containing extensive coral reefs and grassbeds surrounded by banana plantations, farms, and forests including extensive mangroves. The area is rapidly being developed for tourism.
Between 2002 and 2005, STRI recorded hourly values of oceanographic and meteorological data, including Solar Radiation, Rain, Ocean Temperature, Tide and Wind Speed. By mid-2005 STRI installed an automated weather station over the bay located to the west of the Field Station, and since then it has been collecting oceanographic and meteorological data at 15 minute intervals.
On April of 2015, and in cooperation with the Smithsonian MarineGEO/Tannenbaum Marine Observations Network, a multi-sensor YSI Exo 2 Sonde was installed on the platform. This sensor records the following parameters every 5 minutes:
- Algae fluorescence (Falgae)
- Chlorophyll Fluorescence (Fchlorophyll)
- Chlorophyll Mass (Mchlorophyll)
- Conductivity (Cond)
- Specific Conductivity (Sp Cond)
- Fluorescent Dissolved Organic Matter (Fdom)
- Dissolved Oxygen, uncorrected (ODO)
- Dissolved Oxygen, corrected for temperature & pressure (ODO Sat)
- pH
- Quinine Sulfate surrogate for Fdom (QSefdom)
- Salinity
- Total Dissolved Solids (TDS)
- Turbidity
- Water Depth
- Pressure
- Water temperature
Field Station
Location: 9? 21′ 02.96” N, 82? 15′ 28.27” W
For a summary of the most recent data collected, plus long-term averages report, please click bellow.
In addition, the program also collects seawater salinity and transparency (Secchi depth).
Sampling Locations
| Name | Measurements | Dec Lat. | Dec. Long |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Platform | Electronic air temperature, wind, solar radiation, rel. humidity, tide, water temperature | 9.350827 | -82.257943 |
| Mangrove A | Weekly water temperature and salinity | 9.351917 | -82.259083 |
| Mangrove B | Weekly water temperature and salinity | 9.352111 | -82.259028 |
| Mangrove C | Weekly water temperature and salinity | 9.352250 | -82.258972 |
| Reef | Weekly water temperature and salinity | 9.348500 | -82.266000 |
| Seagrass | Weekly water temperature and salinity, Electronic water temp | 9.351694 | -82.257806 |
| Dock (muelle) | Daily water temperature, salinity & DO | 9.351039 | -82.257208 |
| Aquariums (aquarios) | Electronic water temperature | 9.351635 | -82.256852 |
| Isla Cayo Agua | Daily water temperature, salinity & DO | 9.133611 | -82.040278 |
| Isla Roldan o Pastores | Electronic water temperature | 9.219722 | -82.325278 |
Parameters
Equipment & Methods
| Parameters | Sensor Model | Type | File | Method |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dissolved O2 | Manual | ⬇️ | ||
| Rainfall | CAMPBELL SCI. CS700 TIPPING BUCKET | Electronic | ⬇️ | |
| Salinity | Manual | ⬇️ | ||
| Solar Radiation | LICOR LI200X PYRANOMETER | Electronic | ⬇️ | ⬇️ |
| Temperature & RH | Campbell Sci. CS215 | Electronic | ⬇️ | ⬇️ |
| Temperature (water) | 107 | Electronic | ⬇️ | |
| Temperature (water) | Hobo Water Temperature Pro (U22-001) | Electronic | ⬇️ | |
| Temperature (water) | Manual | ⬇️ | ||
| Tide | 500-AQUATRAK | Electronic | ⬇️ | |
| Water Transparency | Secchi disk | Manual | ⬇️ | |
| Wind Speed & Direction | YOUNG WIND MONITOR AQ | Electronic | ⬇️ | ⬇️ |
| YSI Exo Sonde | Electronic | ⬇️ |
Data Download
| Parameters | Frequency | Units | Methods |
|---|---|---|---|
| Air Temperature (max, min, average) | 15 Min | Celsius | ⬇️ |
| Ocean Temperature (average) | 15 Min | Celsius | ⬇️ |
| Rain (total) | 15 Min | mm | ⬇️ |
| Solar Radiation Flux (max, min, average) | 15 Min | w/m? | ⬇️ |
| Relative Humidity (max, min, average) | 15 Min | % | ⬇️ |
| Wind Direction (vect mean, std. deviation) | 15 Min | degrees | ⬇️ |
| Wind Speed (max,min, mean horiz speed) | 15 Min | km/hr | ⬇️ |
| Water Temperature | 60 min | Celsius | ⬇️ |
| Air Temperature | Daily | Celsius | ⬇️ |
| Met. conditions | Daily | Celsius | ⬇️ |
| Dissolved Oxygen | Daily | mg/l | ⬇️ |
| Manual rainfall | Daily | mm | ⬇️ |
| Salinity | Daily | ppt | ⬇️ |
| Water temperature | Daily | Celsius | ⬇️ |
| Secchi Depth | Daily | m | ⬇️ |
Bocas Biological Censuses
In 1999, STRI initiated a mangrove, seagrass and coral censuses as part of the Caribbean Coastal Marine Productivity (CARICOMP) program. CARICOMP was a network of marine laboratories, parks, and reserves in 13 islands and 9 mainland countries throughout the Caribbean basin. Member laboratories monitored physical parameters, coral reefs, mangroves, and grassbeds using a common protocol to provide data for long-term comparative studies of biodiversity and productivity in Caribbean coastal ecosystems. While CARICOMP no longer exists, the censuses continue.
STRI monitors three sites (coral, reef, and mangrove) using the Level 1 protocols in the Methods Manual near the main laboratory in Bocas del Toro (See map).
| Site | Gradient | Dec. Lat. | Dec. Long. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Isla Colón | Fringe A, CARICOMP | 9.351917° | -82.259083° |
| Isla Colón | Fringe A, CARICOMP | 9.352111° | -82.259028° |
| Isla Colón | Fringe A, CARICOMP | 9.352250° | -82.258972° |
| Isla Colón | Transition | 9.352083° | -82.259167° |
| Isla Colón | Dwarf | 9.351944° | -82.259361° |
| Isla Colón | Land | 9.352972° | -82.258111° |
| Isla Cristobal | Fringe | 9.252833° | -82.236333° |
| Isla Cristobal | Transition | 9.252722° | -82.235861° |
| Isla Cristobal | Dwarf | 9.253389° | -82.239861° |
| Isla Cristobal | Land | 9.253389° | -82.239861° |
| Isla Popa | Fringe | 9.231444° | -82.121306° |
| Isla Popa | Transition | 9.230194° | -82.121722° |
| Isla Popa | Dwarf | 9.231444° | -82.121306° |
| Isla Popa | Land | 9.231444° | -82.121306° |
| Isla Solarte | Fringe | 9.309861° | -82.202000° |
| Isla Solarte | Transition | 9.309861° | -82.202000° |
| Isla Solarte | Dwarf | 9.310722° | -82.199944° |
| Isla Solarte | Land | 9.310722° | -82.199944° |
For information regarding sample protocols, the following documents should be consulted.
Guzman et al, 2006 provide a summary of the monitoring program and review of the data collected until 2005.
Global Position System Station (Station Identifier = CN20)
In collaboration with UNAVCO, a permanent Trimble NETR9 GPS station was installed at the Bocas Marine Station in August of 2013. This station now forms part of COCONet. Data from this station are automatically transmitted by satellite to a central server and can be accessed at this Nevada Geodetic Laboratory web site. More information about that station can be found here:
Please read our data use policy before using any data from this page.
Punta Culebra
The Punta Culebra Nature Center (PCNC) is situated on Punta Culebra, in the area of Amador, just south of Panama City at the Pacific entrance of the Panama Canal. The PCNC occupies a territory of approximately 1 1/2 hectares and offers visitors an open-air museum focusing mainly on marine science and education, conservation and interpretation of marine coastal environments. In addition to the surrounding marine environment, the PCNC also has one of the few remain patches of tropical dry forest in the area.
The area of the PCNC experiences a 5-month long dry season during which only 100-200 mm can be expected. In addition, relative humidity, solar radiation, wind speed and direction all show marked wet/dry season differences. On the other hand, temperature varies relatively little throughout the year.
The station consists of a fully automated climate station recording oceanographic and meteorological data, including: Solar Radiation, Rain, Ocean Temperature, Tide and Wind Speed.
Panama Canal
Location: 8° 54’ 38.77” N, 79° 31’ 44.09” W
For a summary of the most recent data collected, plus long-term averages report, please click bellow.
Sensors
| Parameters | Sensor Model | Type | File | Methods |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature & RH | CAMPBELL SCI. CS215 | Electronic | ⬇️ | ⬇️ |
| Solar Radiation | LICOR LI200X PYRANOMETER | Electronic | ⬇️ | ⬇️ |
| Rainfall | CAMPBELL SCI. CS700 TIPPING BUCKET | Electronic | ⬇️ | |
| Wind Speed & Direction | YOUNG WIND MONITOR AQ | Electronic | ⬇️ | ⬇️ |
Data Download
| Parameters | Frequency | Downloads |
|---|---|---|
| Rain (total) | 15 min | ⬇️ |
| Relative Humidity (max, min, average) | 15 min | ⬇️ |
| Solar Radiation Flux (max, min, average) | 15 min | ⬇️ |
| Temperature (max, min, average) | 15 min | ⬇️ |
| Wind Direction (vect. mean, std. deviation) | 15 min | ⬇️ |
| Wind Speed (max, min, mean horiz speed) | 15 min | ⬇️ |
Please read our data use policy before using any data from this page.
Fortuna
Enel Green Power and Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute [STRI] have a Technical Scientific Cooperative Agreement that aims to coordinate efforts, resources and exchange of scientific knowledge oriented to achieve a better understanding of the flora, fauna, hydric resources, and other biological aspects relevant to the scientific management of the 19,500 ha Fortuna Forestry Reserve in the highlands of the province of Chiriquí, western Panama.
In support of these activities, STRI operates the forest research station “Centro de Investigaciones Jorge L. Arauz”. Research at the station began in the mid 1970’s in response to a call for greater knowledge and understanding of the possible impacts of the construction of the Edwin Fabrega (‘Fortuna’) Dam across the upper Chiriquí River, as well as the construction of an oil pipeline and highway from the Pacific coast, across the Fortuna catchment, and down to its terminal in Chiriquí Grande on the Caribbean coast.
Meteorological data have been systematically collected at the “Centro de Investigaciones Jorge L. Arauz” since 1997. Initially, the equipment consisted of an inexpensive U max/min thermometer and a plastic rain gauge. Later, the rain gauge was replace by a meteorological standard metal rain gauge. In Dec. of 2015, the equipment was upgraded with the installation of a standard instrument shelter, new high quality max/min thermometers, a hygrometer and a new rain gauge.
The station consists of two standard metal rain gauges, a max/min thermometer set, a dial hygrometer and the original ‘U’ max/min thermometer (which will be eliminated following a calibration period with the new thermometers).
Centro de Investigaciones Jorge L. Arauz
Location: 8°43’17.88″N, 82°14’15.10″W
All data and monthly summaries are available here
Sensors
| Parameters | Sensor Model | Data |
|---|---|---|
| Rainfall | NovaLynx 260-2510 Standard Rain Gauge | ⬇️ |
| Air Temperature | NovaLynx 210-4421 Min-Max Thermometer Set HOBO® Water Temp Pro v2 – Clearing HOBO® Water Temp Pro v2 – Tower | ⬇️ ⬇️ ⬇️ |
| Relative Hum. | NovaLynx 220-730 Dial Hygrometer | ⬇️ |
| Solar Radiation | Kipp & Zonen CM3 and Sp Lite2 pyranometers | ⬇️ |
Please read our data use policy before using any data from this page.
Punta Galeta
The Galeta Marine Laboratory is situated on Galeta Point, about 5 km east of the entrance to the Panama Canal. It is adjacent to Bahia Las Minas, an extensive shallow water embayment with mangrove forests, grassbeds, and coral reefs. The entire area has felt the impact of man for several centuries including Spanish excavation of parts of the reef to build fortifications, the initial French and then the U.S. construction of a canal, and the building of a cement factory and an oil refinery. There are considerable pressures for development of this area and the long-term integrity of the coastal ecosystems is unclear. On average, only xx mm of rain falls during the dry season. In addition, relative humidity, solar radiation, wind speed and direction all show marked wet/dry season differences. On the other hand, temperature varies relatively little throughout the year.
The station consists of a fully automated climate station recording oceanographic and meteorological data, including: Solar Radiation, Rain, Ocean Temperature, Tide and Wind Speed.
Panama Canal
Location: 9° 24’ 09.90” N, 79° 51’ 39.00” W
For a summary of the most recent data collected, plus long-term averages report, please click bellow.
Sensors
| Parameters | Sensor Model | Type | File | Methods |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature & RH | CAMPBELL SCI. CS215 | Electronic | ⬇️ | ⬇️ |
| Solar Radiation | LICOR LI200X PYRANOMETER | Electronic | ⬇️ | ⬇️ |
| Temperature & RH | VIASALA HMP45C (DISCONTINUED | Electronic | ⬇️ | ⬇️ |
| Wind Speed & Direction | YOUNG WIND MONITOR AQ | Electronic | ⬇️ | ⬇️ |
| Water Temperature | CAMPBELL SCI. MODEL 107 TEMP. PROBE | Electronic | ⬇️ |
Data Download
| Parameters | Frequency | Downloads |
|---|---|---|
| Air Temperature (max, min, average) | 15 min | ⬇️ |
| Ocean Temperature (average) | 15 min | |
| Rain (total) | 15 min | ⬇️ |
| Relative Humidity | 15 min | ⬇️ |
| Solar Radiation Flux (max, min, average) | 15 min | ⬇️ |
| Tide (Water Distance to Sensor head) (average) | 15 min | |
| Water Temperature | 15 min | ⬇️ |
| Wind Direction (vect mean, std. deviation) | 15 min | ⬇️ |
| Wind Speed (max, min, mean horiz speed) | 15 min | ⬇️ |
Please read our data use policy before using any data from this page.
Panama Canal Authority
The Panama Canal Authority (Autoridad del Canal de Panamá – ACP), through its Meteorological and Hydrological Branch, has generously provided STRI with much of its meteorological and hydrological data. These data are made available to scientific community at no charge. However, we ask that any use of these data in publications should include the following acknowledgement: the Meteorology and Hydrology Branch, Panama Canal Authority, Republic of Panama.
Alajuela and their major tributaries.
These data are provided by STRI via a collaborative agreement with the Panama Canal Authority. STRI makes no claim about the accuracy or completeness of the data – they are provided on an ‘as is’ basis and STRI accepts no responsibility for errors and/or inaccuracies.
Any use or publication of these data should cite the Meteorological and Hydrological Branch of The Panama Canal Authority
A real-time radar image of the Panama Canal Area is available on the ACP’s website
For a summary of the most recent data collected, plus long-term averages report, please click bellow.
Canal Watershed Water Quality Program
The ACP maintains a water quality monitoring program in the Panama Canal Watershed. The ACP monitors approximately 30 variables at 40 stations throughout the watershed. Sampling is performed monthly.
The ACP published yearly reports (in Spanish) on their website. Also, STRI has been given permission to host the raw data which can be downloaded here.
For detailed information on the station and the parameters collected, please download this file.
Data Download
| Parameters | Frequency | Methods |
|---|---|---|
| 01. Precipitation: Stations A to C | 15 min | ⬇️ |
| 02. Precipitation: Stations D to J | 15 min | ⬇️ |
| 03. Precipitation: Stations K to Q | 15 min | ⬇️ |
| 04. Precipitation: Stations R to Z | 15 min | ⬇️ |
| 05. Meteorology Station: Agua salud | 15 min | ⬇️ |
| 06. Meteorology Station: Albrook | 15 min | ⬇️ |
| 07. Meteorology Station: Corozal | 15 min | ⬇️ |
| 08. Meteorology Station: Dos Bocas | 15 min | ⬇️ |
| 09. Meteorology Station: Flamenco | 15 min | ⬇️ |
| 10 .Meteorology Station: Gamboa | 15 min | ⬇️ |
| 11. Meteorology Station: Gasparillal | 15 min | ⬇️ |
| 12. Meteorology Station: Gatun West | 15 min | ⬇️ |
| 13. Meteorology Station: Humedad | 15 min | ⬇️ |
| 14. Meteorology Station: Jagua | 15 min | ⬇️ |
| 15. Meteorology Station: Limon Bay | 15 min | ⬇️ |
| 16. Meteorology Station: Tranquila | 15 min | ⬇️ |
| 17. Meteorology Station: Vistamares | 15 min | ⬇️ |
| 18. Meteorology Station: Rancheria | 15 min | ⬇️ |
| 19. Meteorology Station: Darieles | 15 min | ⬇️ |
| 20. Meteorology Station: Culebra | 15 min | ⬇️ |
| Lake level | 15 min | ⬇️ |
| River Discharge | ⬇️ |
Please read our data use policy before using any data from this page.
Parque Metropolitano
The meteorological station at the Parque Natural Metropolitano Canopy Crane was established on Jan. 1995. Parque Natural Metropolitano (PNM) comprises an area of 270 ha and is the only natural, undisturbed park in tropical Latin America located adjacent to a capital city. The area now protected by the PNM underwent substantial ecological modification beginning in pre-Colombian times, but has remained largely undisturbed for the last 80 years during which time it has reverted from abandoned pasture to secondary dry, deciduous, lowland forest.
The upper canopy is 25-35 m high with emergent trees reaching 40m. The PNM receives an average of 1850 mm of rain per year. The meteorological year is divided into two parts: a pronounced dry season (approximately from mid-December to the end of April), and a wet season (May to mid-December).
On average, only 140 mm of rain falls during the dry season. In addition, relative humidity, solar radiation, wind speed and direction all show marked wet/dry season differences. On the other hand, temperature varies relatively little throughout the year. Data are collected from a fully automated meteorological station attached to the Canopy Crane at an elevation of 25m from the forest floor.
Parque Natural Metropolitano Canopy Crane
Location: 8°59′ 41.55” N, 79°32′ 35.22” W
Use of crane data in Publications
In order to better track the use of the canopy cranes by researchers, we would like to ask you to include this DOI somewhere in your publication. Use of this DOI is independent of the use of any DOI for specific databases. Thank you.
For a summary of the most recent data collected, plus long-term averages report, please click bellow.
For detailed information on the station and the parameters collected, please download this file
Sensors
| Parameters | Sensor Model | Type | File | Methods |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rainfall | CAMPBELL SCI. TB4 | ⬇️ | ||
| Temperature & RH | CAMPBELL SCI. CS215 | Electronic | ⬇️ | ⬇️ |
| Solar Radiation | LICOR LI200X PYRANOMETER | Electronic | ⬇️ | ⬇️ |
| Wind Speed & Direction | YOUNG WIND MONITOR AQ | Electronic | ⬇️ | ⬇️ |
| 237 | Leaf Wetness | ⬇️ |
Data Download (Currently Active)
| Parameters | Frequency | Downloads |
|---|---|---|
| Air Temperature (25m) (max, min, average) | 15 min | ⬇️ |
| Rain (Crane Top) (total) | 15 min | ⬇️ |
| Relative Humidity (Crane Top) (max, min, average) | 15 min | ⬇️ |
| Solar Radiation Flux (Crane Top) (max, min, average) | 15 min | ⬇️ |
| Wind Speed & Direction (Crane top) (vector mean WD, max & avg WS) | 15 min | ⬇️ |
Data Download (No longer in Operation)
| Parameters | Frequency | Downloads |
|---|---|---|
| Air Temperature (25m) (max, min, average) | 15 min | ⬇️ |
| Relative Humidity (25m) (max, min, average) | 15 min | ⬇️ |
| Solar Radiation Flux (25m) (max, min, average) | 15 min | ⬇️ |
Please read our data use policy before using any data from this page.
San Blas
The San Blas field station was established in 1977 and closed on June 1, 1998. The station was situated on an island adjacent to Punta de San Blas, on the Caribbean coast of Panama 120 km east of the Panama Canal, midway to the Panama/Colombia border. That island is at the western end of Kuna Yala, an indigenous reserve (also known as the Comarca de San Blas) that stretches along 160 km of the eastern coast of Panama. Smithsonian scientists started working in Kuna Yala in 1970. The field station supported short-term biological studies in addition to as well as long-term meteorological and biological monitoring. Physical Monitoring activities began at the San Blas station in 1992.
Monitoring activities included the measurement of air temperature, precipitation, solar radiation, wind speed and direction, water temperature and salinity.
Sampling Locations
| Location | Depth(m) | Dec Lat. | Dec. Long | Start | End |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Golfo de San Blas A | -6.1 | 9.55043 | -78.94667 | Apr 22,1997 | Sep 7, 1999 |
| Golfo de San Blas B | -21.3 | 9.55043 | -78.94667 | Apr 22,1997 | Jun 2, 1998 |
| San Blas Station | -0.9 | 9.55257 | -78.95226 | Sep 25, 1991 | Jun 2, 1998 |
Data Download
| Parameters | Methods |
|---|---|
| Hourly data (air & water temp, RH, rain, wind, salinity, water level) | ⬇️ |
| Monthly summary | ⬇️ |
Please read our data use policy before using any data from this page.
Sherman / San Lorenzo
The Fort Sherman/San Lorenzo (FTS) station is situated in for former US military base of Fort Sherman, north of Panama City and west of the city of Colon near the Caribbean entrance of the Panama Canal. The PCNC occupies a territory of approximately 1 1/2 hectares and offers visitors an open-air museum focusing mainly on marine science and education, conservation and interpretation of marine coastal environments. In addition to the surrounding marine environment, the PCNC also has one of the few remain patches of tropical dry forest in the area.
The area of the PCNC experiences a 3-4-month long dry season during which only 200-400 mm can be expected. In addition, relative humidity, solar radiation, wind speed and direction all show marked wet/dry season differences. On the other hand, temperature varies relatively little throughout the year.
The second crane facility is installed in a wet evergreen forest at Parque Nacional San Lorenzo on the Caribbean coast. This forest receives about 3,412 mm of rainfall per year. Hence, a steep rainfall gradient occurs between the two crane locations and the species composition of the two forests are very different. The PNSL crane is 52 meters tall with a radius of 54 meters, and can reach approximately 180 species of trees and lianas.
The station consists of a fully automated climate station recording oceanographic and meteorological data, including: Solar Radiation, Rain, Wind Speed and direction.
Panama Canal
Location: 9° 16’ 51.71” N, 79° 58’ 28.27” W
Use of crane data in Publications
In order to better track the use of the canopy cranes by researchers, we would like to ask you to include this DOI somewhere in your publication. Use of this DOI is independent of the use of any DOI for specific databases. Thank you.
For a summary of the most recent data collected, plus long-term averages report, please click bellow
Sensors
| Parameters | Sensor Model | Type | File | Methods |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wind | RM YOUNG 05103 WIND SENTRY | ⬇️ | ||
| Rainfall | CAMPBELL SCI. TB4 | ⬇️ | ||
| Temperature & RH | CAMPBELL SCI. CS215 | Electronic | ⬇️ | ⬇️ |
| Solar Radiation | LICOR LI200X PYRANOMETER | Electronic | ⬇️ | ⬇️ |
Data Download
| Parameters | Frequency | Methods |
|---|---|---|
| Rain (total) | 15 min | ⬇️ |
| Relative Humidity (max, min, average) | 15 min | ⬇️ |
| Solar Radiation Flux (max, min, average) | 15 min | ⬇️ |
| Temperature (max, min, average) Temperature (max, min, average) | 15 min | ⬇️ |
| Wind Direction (vect mean, std. deviation) | 15 min | ⬇️ |
| Wind Speed (max, min, mean horizontal speed) | 15 min | ⬇️ |
Please read our data use policy before using any data from this page.
SST Monitoring
Since 1995 STRI has maintained an array of underwater temperature sensors in the Caribbean and Pacific sides of Panama. At present, we are measuring underwater temperature at 21 locations. Water temperature is measured using Hobo U22 Water Temperature Pro v2 probes and Campbell Sci. CS 107 temperature probes.
The Hobo sensors are deployed at remote locations and retrieved with frequencies ranging from every 2 to 12 months. The CS 107 are connected to data loggers with real-time telemetry connections to central computers.
Data Download
Pacific
Gulf Of Chiriquí
| Location | Depth (m) | Dec Lat | Dec Long | Start | End | PI |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Isla Coibita | -1.2 | 7.64 | -81.70 | 03-Dec-2005 | 29-June-2014 | H.Guzman |
| Isla Parida | -2.4 | 8.13 | -82.32 | 11-Dec-2001 | 31-Oct-2012 | H.Guzman |
| Isla Canal Afuera | -2.4 | 7.70 | -81.62 | 03-Dec-2005 | 30-Oct-2012 | H.Guzman |
| Isla Roca Prospera | -15.2 | 7.78 | -81.76 | 30-Jul-2015 | C.Gomez |
2 These sensors have been taken over by STRI’s Physical Monitoring Program under S. Paton
Coiba
| Location | Depth (m) | Dec Lat | Dec Long | Start | End | PI |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Coiba Noreste-ANAM | -3.0 | 7.63 | -81.74 | 03-Dec-2005 | 28-Jun-2014 | H.Guzman |
| Isla Coiba, Frijoles | -18.3 | 7.65 | -81.72 | 08-Jun-2009 | H.Guzman1 | |
| Isla Coiba, Roca Hacha | -18.3 | 7.43 | -81.86 | 08-Jun-2009 | H.Guzman1 | |
| Isla Jicarón, Caterdral | -18.3 | 7.23 | -81.83 | 08-Jun-2009 | H.Guzman1 | |
| Isla Coiba, Bahía Damas | -4.6 | 7.42 | -81.70 | 10-Dec-2001 | 27-Jun-2014 | H.Guzman |
| Isla Jicarita | -18.3 | 7.20 | -81.80 | 08-Jun-2012 | H.Guzman1 |
2 These sensors have been taken over by STRI’s Physical Monitoring Program under S. Paton
Pearl Island
| Location | Depth (m) | Dec Lat | Dec Long | Start | End | PI |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Isla Bartolomé | 8.65100 | -79.03400 | 5-Jul-2017 | present | S. Paton | |
| Isla Chapera | 8.59100 | -79.01500 | 5-Jul-2017 | present | S. Paton | |
| Isla Isleta | -4.0 | 30-May-2018 | S. Paton | |||
| Isla Pacheca | -6.0 | 8.66000 | -79.05000 | 08-Jun-1995 | present | S. Paton |
| Isla Pedro-Pablo | -5.5 | 8.45953 | -78.85228 | 14-Dec-2005 | present | H.Guzman / S. Paton |
| Isla Saboga | -4.6 | 8.63000 | -79.05000 | 28-Dec-2017 | present | S. Paton |
| Isla San José | -4.6 | 8.25689 | -79.13389 | 14-Dec-2005 | 8-Jul-2014 | H.Guzman |
| Isla Señorita | -2.4 | 8.44222 | -79.10417 | 13-Dec-2001 | 6-Dec-2002 | H.Guzman |
2 These sensors have been taken over by STRI’s Physical Monitoring Program under S. Paton
Naos
| Location | Depth (m) | Dec Lat | Dec Long | Start | End | PI |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pier | -2.4 | 8.92 | -79.53 | 12-Dec-2012 | 24-Aug-2005 | S.Paton |
| Seawater Table | n/a | 8.92 | -79.53 | 04-Dec-2012 | S.Paton |
2 These sensors have been taken over by STRI’s Physical Monitoring Program under S. Paton
Caribean
Colón
| Location | Depth (m) | Dec Lat | Dec Long | Start | End | PI |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Galeta Channel | -3.0 | 9.40 | -79.85 | 13-Nov-1997 | H.Guzman2 | |
| Galeta Upstream on Reef | 0.0 | 9.40 | -79.86 | 18-Jul-2001 | S.Paton | |
| Galeta Downstream on Reef | 0.0 | 9.40 | -79.86 | 18-Jul-2001 | S.Paton | |
| Bahías Las Minas | -3.0 | 9.40 | -79.82 | 15-May-1997 | H.Guzman2 | |
| Isla Grande | -3.0 | 9.62 | -79.57 | 15-May-1997 | H.Guzman2 |
2 These sensors have been taken over by STRI’s Physical Monitoring Program under S. Paton
Bocas del Toro
| Location | Depth (m) | Dec Lat | Dec Long | Start | End | PI |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bocas Station Platform | -1.0 | 9.35 | -82.26 | 16-May-2002 | S.Paton | |
| Isla Colón | -1.0 | 9.35 | -82.26 | 28-Mar-1999 | 16-Aug-2001 | H.Guzman |
| Isla Cayo-Agua | -5.2 | 9.13 | -82.04 | 13-Dec-2000 | H.Guzman2 | |
| Mangrove Mud | 0.0 | 9.35 | -82.26 | 19-Apr-1999 | H.Guzman2 | |
| Seagrass | -2.0 | 9.35 | -82.26 | 25-Apr-1999 | H.Guzman2 | |
| Mangrove Inn | -4.6 | 9.33 | -82.25 | 17-Sep-1998 | 02-Apr-1999 | H.Guzman |
| Isla Solarte (Pta Hospital) | -0.9 | 9.33 | -82.22 | 02-Aug-1999 | 15-Oct-2000 | H.Guzman |
| Isla Solarte | 0.9 | 9.31 | -82.21 | 19-Apr-1999 | 29-Sep-2000 | H.Guzman |
| Isla Bastimentos | -3.0 | 9.37 | -82.20 | 23-May-1999 | 01-Aug-1999 | H.Guzman |
| Isla Roldan | -1.0 | 9.22 | -82.33 | 29-Mar-1999 | 12-Sep-2000 | H.Guzman |
2 These sensors have been taken over by STRI’s Physical Monitoring Program under S. Paton
San Blas
| Location | Depth (m) | Dec Lat | Dec Long | Start | End | PI |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| San Blas | -6.1 | 9.55 | -78.95 | 22-Apr-1997 | 02-Jun-1998 | R.Robertson |
2 These sensors have been taken over by STRI’s Physical Monitoring Program under S. Paton
Please read our data use policy before using any data from this page.
Water Quality Monitoring
Since 1975, STRI has maintained a physical oceanographic monitoring program. This program has historically consisted of sea surface temperature monitoring (SST) which is describe at another location.
In addition to monitoring SST, STRI has also monitored at different times and locations salinity, transparency, pH, etc. Ocean monitoring of salinity, transparency and dissolved oxygen was initiated in the area of the Bocas station in 1999. With the inauguration of the MarineGEO program in 2015, this program was greatly expanded in terms of the quality, quantity and spatial coverage of the monitoring. Details and data for the Bocas oceanographic monitoring program (not including the MarineGEO sponsored data) can be found on the links bellow.
In Galeta, salinity was monitored between 1986 and 2011.
Beginning in 2017, water quality monitoring was initiated at Naos Island and in the Bay of Panama.
Naos Island monitoring consists of manually obtained, spot readings between 7:30 and 9:30am, 3-5 times per week. Temperature, pH and salinity measurements are taken at the STRI Docks on the east and west sides of Naos Island. In addition, measurements are taken in the STRI’s Naos aquariums. Measurements are made with a YSI Pro Plus meter with a 4-sensor head.
Monitoring in the Bay of Panama consists of 5-meter depth profiles at seven locations, approximately once per week, using an YSI EXO 2 Sonde. The following parameters are measured: temperature, salinity, pH, chlorophyll, transparency, dissolved organic matter and dissolved oxygen.