Low Voltage Electric Guidance and Deterrence Systems for Fish

Technology

Our Low Voltage Electric Guidance and Deterrence System are designed to generate a mild electric field in the water with a specific distribution and intensity. The electric field is pulsed DC, which operates in the frequency range of 10Hz to 10kHz and has an intensity of 0.1 V/cm to 0.6 V/cm. The electric field is graduated and its intensity increases as the fish attempt to continue their migration through the deterrent. As the fish approach the system, the mild electric field they encounter functions as a behavioral deterrent. If they chose to continue their migration through the deterrent, the system evokes an involuntary avoidance reaction (turning and swimming away from the electrodes) without causing paralysis. For that reason, the system can be used for upstream and downstream moving fishes.

Achieving such a mild, yet effective electric field is possible because our technology involves vertical electrodes that are precisely arranged in relation to each other. The rows of electrodes are either suspended from cables (most often used for shallow flashy streams) or a bottom-up systems that are anchored to the bottom and held upright using floats (most often used for deeper ecosystems). A minimum of two rows of electrodes (one positive and one negative) are used for the simplest barriers, but multiple rows can be added in special applications to produce an even wider and more graduated electric field. 

A control system placed on the bank monitors and modulates the electric field as desired. It also allows for two-way communication with the barrier via cellular or satellite network. Remote monitoring and field adjustment can be carried out 24/7. 

Low footprint and ease of installation

Our systems do not require extensive on-site engineering and can be rapidly deployed in most situations. A medium size system (< 100 feet in length) can often be installed in 2-3 days with a crew of three. This can easily facilitate not only permanent installations, but also mobile, seasonal systems that can be moved around and deployed as needed. Experimental tests at new locations are also easy to conduct because of minimal site preparation required.  

High efficiency

The Low Voltage Electric Guidance and Deterrence System have been shown to be highly effective under natural, real-life conditions. For example, tests on invasive carp in Minnesota showed 95% or higher efficacy in blocking the migrating carp, despite multiple and aggressive attempts by the carp to swim through the barrier during high-water conditions. In addition, a novel application of the Low Voltage Electric Guidance and Deterrence System with Active Fish Crowding process allowed for autonomous removal of over 80% of the migrating carp. The efficacy of Low Voltage Electric Guidance and Deterrence System has been verified through rigorous testing and research conducted by independent scientific institutions in the USA and Europe, including the U.S. Geological Survey and the University of Minnesota.

Low Power Consumption

Instantaneous energy consumption for our systems is typically 300W - 1,000W. In remote locations without on-site power, they can be operated using solar panels and batteries, or portable generators.

Minimum maintenance and high longevity

Our systems are designed in ways that allow debris to pass through them, because the electrodes can move out of the way when hit by floating objects. This greatly minimizes labor associated with maintenance and cleaning. In typical applications, maintenance is conducted once a year. In typical installations, electrodes require replacements every 4-6 years. 

Applications

Our systems have many applications for protecting native fishes and for managing invasive ones:

Excluding fish from entering hydroelectric power plant installations

Excluding fish from entering irrigation canals or drinking water intakes

Assisting with fish migrations by guiding them towards fish ladders and other passage technologies

Excluding fish from industrial construction sites

Blocking seasonal migrations of invasive fish and removal of invasive fish using guidance and Active Crowding Technology. 

Our Experience and Commitment to Excellence

Our team has been involved in dozens of deployments of electric barriers as dedicated fish protection systems across the globe for the last 15 years. We also participated in numerous research and testing projects, many of which resulted in peer-reviewed publications. Our team comprises dedicated and enthusiastic engineers and biologists. We take an individual approach to address the unique challenges and requirements for each facility and site, with the aim of maximizing the effectiveness and efficiency for fish protection and management. Our unconventional approach allows us to take on difficult challenges and provide the best possible solutions based on electric field technology.