Implementing HydroCorrect on a Larger Scale: Lessons Learned and Future Plans
NYCDEP Implements HydroCorrect Software on a Larger Scale
In a groundbreaking move, the New York City Department of Environmental Protection (NYCDEP) has expanded the implementation of the HydroCorrect software to a larger scale after successful results in the pilot phase. The software, designed to automatically fix data anomalies in water quality monitoring, has proven to be a game-changer for the department.
During the pilot phase, data from problem sites were automatically corrected, saving valuable time for the staff. Encouraged by the results, NYCDEP onboarded an additional 60 sites with 200-time series, and eventually decided to implement the software for all data. The software’s ability to detect anomalies and suggest corrections has significantly improved the efficiency of data review processes.
One notable incident involved a turbidity spike on a diversion line, which prompted a quick response from the water quality department. The spike was found to be a result of maintenance work rather than a water quality issue, highlighting the software’s capability to differentiate between normal and abnormal data. As NYCDEP continues to work with the Aquatic Informatics support team to fine-tune the rules for individual sites, the goal is to automate the correction process for 90% of the data.
The successful implementation of HydroCorrect not only improves data quality and reporting accuracy but also allows NYCDEP staff to focus on higher-value tasks. By reducing manual data review and correction processes, the software enables the department to make better-informed decisions and allocate resources more efficiently.
As NYCDEP looks towards the future, the goal is to have a fully automated system that cleanses data and provides alerts only for significant anomalies that require human intervention. The department is confident that HydroCorrect will continue to deliver positive results and drive innovation in water quality monitoring practices.
