Exploring Global Remote Sensing Products for Water Quality Assessment: Lake Nicaragua case study

Abstract

This study explores the applicability of 13 globally-derived Chlorophyll-a (CHL) products from optical satellite remote sensing to support local water quality management in Lake Nicaragua. The temporal and spatial consistency between the products was analyzed, as well as their agreement with in-situ data collected from 2011 to 2016. The Climate Change Initiative (CCI) CHL product was identified as the most stable and reliable, suggesting its suitability for monitoring Lake Nicaragua. However, the correlation of this product with in-situ measurements was weak, attributed to the sparse and inconsistent nature of the available in-situ water quality data. The hotspots analysis identified critical areas around urban and agricultural zones with high CHL concentrations, providing valuable insights for targeted management interventions. This study emphasizes the need for improved global to local remote sensing strategies, including the selection of the appropriate algorithms for the region, continuous calibration and validation with in-situ data, and the development of a robust, publicly accessible local water quality database that includes both in-situ and remote sensing data, to support effective monitoring for local water management.