WWJ Closeup, April 2026

COLIN KIRK
Regional Sales Manager
Solinst Eureka LLC
Austin, Texas

WHICH WATER QUALITY PROBES ARE MOST POPULAR IN THE GROUNDWATER INDUSTRY AND WHY?
Multi-parameter sondes like the Manta line of sondes from Solinst Eureka. They’re favored because they measure multiple parameters (pH, EC, DO, temperature, turbidity), are rugged for well deployment, support datalogging/telemetry, and meet regulatory accuracy requirements.

HOW DOES CUSTOMER FEEDBACK DICTATE PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT OR IMPROVEMENT?
Customer feedback identifies performance gaps, usability challenges, and unmet needs. We prioritize any issues, regulatory demands, and feature requests to guide research and development. Field data drives sensor accuracy improvements, durability upgrades, and integration capabilities.

WHAT’S THE LATEST IN WATER QUALITY PROBE TECHNOLOGY?
Cloud connectivity, analytics and predictive alerts, self-cleaning or modular sensors, and real-time multi-parameter measurement with enhanced durability and anti-fouling performance.

WHICH QUESTIONS ARE YOU HEARING MOST FROM GROUNDWATER PROFESSIONALS?
How accurate and stable are the sensors long-term? What maintenance and calibration are required? Can it integrate with telemetry? How does it perform in harsh or fouling conditions? What’s the total cost of ownership? Is it compliant with regulatory standards?

GREATEST CHALLENGE FACING WATER QUALITY PROBE MANUFACTURERS?
Long-term sensor stability in harsh, fouling-prone groundwater environments. Biofouling, mineral scaling, drift, and calibration demands reduce data reliability and increase maintenance costs.

BEST PART OF YOUR JOB?
Seeing reliable data drive decisions protecting aquifers, guiding remediation, and safeguarding drinking water. Knowing your instruments help hydrogeologists detect contamination early and manage groundwater sustainably makes the technical challenges worthwhile and meaningful. I like knowing that I’m doing my part to help protect the world’s most vital natural resource.