Edge-computing stream water level through the Stage Cam Box: software and preliminary test

Monitoring headwater streams poses a persistent challenge in hydrology due to their remote locations and highly variable conditions. Traditional methods often fall short in such environments. To overcome these limitations, we developed the Stage Cam Box (SCB), a compact, autonomous sensing unit designed for continuous water level monitoring using image-based techniques. The SCB operates by analysing the visible portion of a high-contrast target installed in the streambed, allowing for non-contact, real-time water level estimation. This technical note presents a detailed description of the software as well as preliminary experimental results in adverse sunlight conditions. This work supports the development of scalable, low-cost sensor networks for high-resolution, autonomous hydrological monitoring in previously inaccessible headwater regions.