Development and Application of a Next-Generation Radio Telemetry System

Studies that track large numbers of animals or require coordination between many detection zones spread over a large area may benefit from a centralized telemetry system.  One system—the Multi-Integrated Telemetry Acquisition System (MITAS)—was developed in the early 2000s and consisted of a centralized computer that monitored whole-system performance and stored data in near real-time.  However, outdated electronic components rendered the system less-adaptable to the modern world; numerous electronic components also made the system relatively difficult to configure for new study sites.  Our objectives were to update the MITAS with modern electronics, make the system more easily adaptable, and ultimately use the system to evaluate juvenile fish passage and survival at Foster Dam in central Oregon.  The new MITAS integrates a network of up to 50 receivers—analog signals are decoded locally and sent through Ethernet cable, Wi-Fi, or 4G to the central computer, which then analyzes system performance and transmits compiled data to researchers.  Problems at individual nodes are automatically identified and alerts are emailed so that issues can be fixed promptly to minimize data loss.  This presentation will share our insights and lessons learned during development of the new MITAS for its application at Foster Dam and elsewhere.