Efficient Fish Transfer: How to Safely Move Fish from Dams

Transferring fish from dams to safe areas is a delicate but essential process. Fish migration plays a crucial role in maintaining ecosystems, and dams often create obstacles that fish cannot easily navigate. To protect fish populations and support their natural movement, specialized systems are in place to safely transport fish over or around these barriers. Understanding how fish transfer works and why it’s important can help us appreciate the technology behind it.

The key to successful fish transfer is ensuring the fish are moved without injury or stress. Solutions like the Whooshh Fish Transport System (WFPS) use a series of flexible tubes combined with gentle pressure and water mist to guide fish safely over dams. This innovative approach allows for a smooth transfer, significantly reducing the risk of harm compared to traditional methods. 

The Technology Behind Fish Transfer

Transferring fish over dams used to involve labor-intensive methods like trapping and manually moving fish upstream. These older techniques were not only time-consuming but also stressful for the fish. Modern systems like Whooshh Innovations’ WFPS have transformed the process. The system uses AI-powered scanners to identify fish species, size, and origin, allowing it to sort the fish based on specific criteria, such as distinguishing between wild and hatchery-raised fish.

Once scanned, the fish are moved through the flexible tubes by pressure differentials and a light mist of water. The fish travel through the tubes quickly and safely, reaching their destination in seconds. This method not only saves time but also protects the fish, making it a highly efficient solution for fish transfer.

Why It’s Important to Sort and Protect Fish

In addition to simply moving fish, it’s important to protect native species and control invasive populations. Fish transfer systems like the WFPS can separate native species from invasive ones, ensuring only the right fish are transferred. Invasive species can disrupt local ecosystems, competing for resources or preying on native fish populations. By using advanced AI technology, systems like the WFPS make it easier to manage fish populations and keep ecosystems balanced.

These systems are not just efficient but also environmentally responsible. By ensuring that only the right fish are transferred, we can help sustain native populations while protecting the environment from the negative effects of invasive species.

Is Fish Counting Possible with Whooshh Innovations?

On the other hand, fish counting plays a vital role in conservation efforts, but it can often be an inaccurate and labor-intensive process. Whooshh Innovations offers an advanced fish counting solution through their FishL Recognition™ system. This AI-powered system can count fish, identify their species, and collect data on their size and condition—all without requiring direct handling of the fish.



By using high-definition cameras and AI technology, the system captures up to 18 images of each fish, allowing for accurate identification and measurement. The collected data is invaluable for monitoring fish populations and ensuring the health of aquatic ecosystems. With Whooshh Innovations, fish counting is faster, more accurate, and less stressful for the fish, making it a valuable tool for fisheries management.

Conclusion

Fish transfer is an essential process for supporting fish migration and maintaining healthy ecosystems, especially around dams. Modern systems like the Whooshh Fish Transport System have made the process more efficient and less stressful for fish. Through advanced technologies like AI-powered scanning and sorting, we can ensure fish are transferred safely while protecting native species. With tools like FishL Recognition™, fish counting is now more accurate and accessible than ever.