Coastrider vessel enhances water quality research in Varsinais-Suomi, Finland
The Coastrider research vessel, equipped with various automated measuring instruments, is now extensively operated by Turku University of Applied Sciences. This summer, it will traverse the coastal areas of Varsinais-Suomi multiple times, following the same routes carefully. The vessel aids in assessing the condition of water bodies, navigating through narrow bays, avoiding obstacles, and moving into clearer waters. A powerful outboard motor propels the boat swiftly from one research site to another, while water circulates through the equipment, and data on water quality is automatically recorded.
“This method accumulates a significant number of measurement points compared to traditional water sampling,” says Matias Scheinin, a specialist at Turku University of Applied Sciences. The Coastrider is Finland’s first vessel of its kind.
Regular, multi-year, and comparable studies enhance understanding of water dynamics, especially following interventions to reduce nutrient runoff. For instance, measuring the water quality before and after the construction of wetlands can indicate the effectiveness of such actions. Additionally, routine measurements provide valuable insights into how dredging near summer cottages affects water conditions and how long it takes for recovery.
The Coastrider operates smoothly in shallow and constrained waters, which is critical for investigating water quality beyond just clear aquatic regions. Previously unnoticed significant nutrient runoff areas may now be identified for targeted water protection efforts.
Coastrider also measures the presence of greenhouse gases, such as methane and carbon dioxide, in nutrient-rich waters, which have been rising due to climate change. Research has shown a clear correlation between water eutrophication and increased greenhouse gas emissions, with notable concentrations detected in recent studies along the Varsinais-Suomi coast. The research involves the municipalities of Turku, Kaarina, and Naantali.