In 2012, DWR developed the agricultural water measurement regulations, pursuant to SBx7-7, which required agricultural water suppliers serving over 25,000 acres to measure and report the volume of water delivered to customers and bill, at least in part, based on quantity of water delivered. Davids Engineering was engaged in response to these regulations in 2011 and 2012 to pilot test alternative turnout measurement methods. These tests revealed common challenges for flow measurement, including very small head differentials between supply canals and irrigated fields and very wide ranges in water delivery rates. The RemoteTracker system, which consists of a portable, self-locating, data logging and wireless enabled velocity sensor paired with a comprehensive database for district turnout and customer management, was developed specifically to address these challenges and was ultimately selected for implementation at seven Sacramento Valley water suppliers, serving a total of over 250,000 acres.

Davids Engineering has provided comprehensive support for RemoteTracker implementation, including turnout and field mapping, site surveying and inspections, and operator training and technical support. The RemoteTracker system provides benefits beyond compliance with DWR regulations, including increased water management efficiency, improved methods for managing droughts and water supply cuts, and reliable district-wide data that has been successfully used to obtain funding for other infrastructure modernization and water efficiency projects.