Field Maintenance Services for a UK Meteorological and Soil Moisture Monitoring Network (COSMOS-UK)

The COSMOS-UK network was established by UKCEH in 2013, and continues to grow, a long-term network of soil moisture monitoring sites for the United Kingdom. The network provides "near-real time" soil moisture data for use in a variety of applications including farming, water resources, flood forecasting and land-surface modelling. Each site is equipped with an instrument that uses cosmic rays to sense soil moisture over an area of about 12 hectares (about 30 acres). Data from the network have the potential to transform the way that we understand and model the natural environment.

COSMOS-UK network exploits a Cosmic-Ray Neutron Sensor to measure soil moisture. The network also includes a range of research grade environmental sensors including: rain gauges; point soil moisture sensors; soil heat flux plate; soil temperature sensors; 4-component radiometer; relative humidity and air temperature sensors; barometric pressure; 3-dimensional ultrasonic anemometer; snow depth sensor; snow water equivalent and static camera. A data logger captures and forwards data in near-real time, using IP networking over cellular mobile or satellite communication links. The instrumentation is contained within 12 x 3 m fenced compounds, often on farmland or nature reserves. These monitoring sites are nearly all solar powered with associated battery packs, in remote locations. The new PPM contract will start in January 2025 and run for the next four years with an optional extension to the contract for one year. The PPM contract will require the below goods and services:

1. Annual Planned Preventative Maintenance (PPM) for up to 45 stations in 2025-2028 with optional 2029 extension in the COSMOS-UK network;

2. The associated management and supply of parts ready for installation during annual PPMs (including re-calibration, repair and replacement of sensors from third parties);

3. Minor maintenance of the compound (vegetation, post and wire fence);

4. Project management services to a recognised standard.