When did the first automatic still-well water gauges come into use in the UK?

The first automatic still-well water gauges were introduced in the UK during the 1830s, marking a significant advancement in hydrological measurement technology. Prior to this innovation, measurements of water levels were often conducted manually, which were not only time-consuming but also prone to human error. The automatic gauges allowed for consistent and accurate monitoring of water levels over time, facilitating better data collection for hydrological studies and management.

The adoption of such technology in the 1830s laid the groundwork for subsequent developments in hydrology and water management practices, leading to more sophisticated solutions in the following decades. This period was characterized by the burgeoning interest in scientific approaches to engineering and environmental monitoring, making it a pivotal moment in the history of hydrographic surveying and hydrology.