Murray Darling Basin PIT data analysis project

Impact summary

The protection of biodiversity and ecosystem processes is a priority for natural resource management in Australia. The construction of dams & weirs in Australian rivers has led to a dramatic decline in native fish populations and aquatic biodiversity generally by reducing opportunities for fish to complete important spawning and re-colonising migrations. In 2001, the Murray-Darling Basin Commission (now MDBA) initiated a program to improve fish passage to over 2000 km of the Murray River, from the sea to Hume Dam by constructing 14 new fishways. A monitoring and assessment program was established to determine if the reinstatement of the passage was providing benefits to fish communities in the Murray-Darling Basin.
A key component of the monitoring program was the installation of a ‘state-of-the-art’ PIT monitoring system. The system required the installation of antennas within each completed fishway and presently tracks the movements of over 40,000 PIT-tagged fish in the southern connected basin. The system became fully operational in February 2012 and has been logging fish movements along the river ever since. A key component of the system was the development of a cloud-based database, FishNet, which, each minute, receives data from each of the tracking stations. The database has been constructed with a number of in-built queries that can summarise fish movements on a range of spatial and temporal scales. This provides the opportunity to examine fish movements in relation to any number of environmental variables in order to examine causal relationships.
A series of recent discussions between KarlTek, NSW DPI and Charles Sturt University explored the potential to perform detailed modelling on existing data to determine relationships between fish movement and river operations. Preliminary discussions included fish ecologists (Dr Jason Thiem and Dr Lee Baumgartner) and us, identifying the best combination of variables that might lead to a practical outcome for water delivery. It concluded that fish movement data, from each site, could be summarised into a daily total number of successful fishway “ascents” across a number of species (carp, golden perch, silver perch, Murray cod). These daily summaries would be overlayed with discharge and temperature information. Thus for any given day, between Feb 2012 and Sept 2016, there would be a certain combination of flow, temperature and Julian date combinations related to successful fishway ascents.
The research questions are 1. How to characterize the fish movement?; 2. How to predict the fish movement? and 3. Whether we can use a mathematical formula to calculate the possibilities of certain types of fish appearing at a given site with given environmental variables?
Based on these questions, we will conduct a two-stage modelling process to identify the best combination of variables that predicted the ascent of fish at any given site.
Firstly, a characterisation model would be developed, which essentially identifies the best combination of variables that are associated with fish ascents at any given site. This is about determining if a relationship exists, and which variables are important in fish ascents.
Secondly, a predictive model would be built to predict fish movements by statistically modelling observation variables such as flow, temperature and Julian date among all sites, as well as latent variables such as environmental factors. Using this model, we are able to answer the questions such as how many fishes will move if temp is XX, and flow is XX on any given day.

Research and engagement activities leading to impact

Research Activities
1.Fish Data Collection and Extraction

.Over 40,000 native fish have been PIT tagged and monitored using a state-of-the-art PIT monitoring system installed across the Murray-Darling Basin.

.A cloud-based database, FishNet, receives and processes data from tracking stations to analyze fish movements in relation to environmental variables.

.Data from FishNet is extracted and pre-processed to improve the quality of the dataset.

2.Model Development

.Conduct a literature review to identify the specific requirements of this project and develop a suitable model.

.Characterization and predictive models have been developed to identify and predict fish movement patterns based on variables such as flow, temperature, and Julian date.

.These models help in understanding and predicting fish movements, aiding in optimizing river operations for better fish passage.

3.Data Analysis and Findings

.Analysis of PIT data has revealed significant insights, including species-specific detection rates, multi-site journeys, and the presence of orphan tags.

.Visualization of data analysis results to provide actionable insights for decision-makers.

.The study has provided recommendations for future tagging activities, PIT system
installations, and data integration with other monitoring efforts to understand fish activities based on tagging data.

Engagement Activities

1.Workshops and Stakeholder Collaboration

.Workshops involving key stakeholders like the Murray-Darling Basin Commission (MDBA) and KarlTek Pty Ltd were conducted to discuss their requirements for this project.

.Collaborative efforts with stakeholders such as NSW DPI and Charles Sturt University have been integral in identifying practical outcomes for fish movement data.

2. Consultations with Experts

.Preliminary discussions with fish ecologists such as Dr. Jason Thiem have helped in determining the best combination of variables for modeling fish movements.

.These consultations have been crucial in refining research questions and methodologies for the project

Research outputs associated with the impact

1. Derived Dataset

A comprehensive dataset derived from the PIT monitoring system, detailing the movements of over 40,000 native fish tagged and monitored across the Murray-Darling Basin.

2. Presentation

A detailed presentation summarizing the project's findings, methodologies, and implications, delivered at a conference.

3. Project Report

A comprehensive report documenting the project's objectives, methodologies, data analysis, findings, and recommendations. This report serves as a key resource for stakeholders and future research initiatives.

4.Published Paper

A peer-reviewed paper published in a scientific journal, outlining the research conducted, models developed, and significant insights gained from the study of fish movements in the Murray-Darling Basin.

5.Supervision of an International PhD Student

Leveraging the experience and knowledge gained from this project, most of the project team members have supervised an international PhD student, Thanasak Poomchaivej, from the industry. This supervision has contributed to advancing research in the field and enhancing academic-industry collaboration. Thanasak Poomchaivej is currently making significant progress in his studies.

Researcher involvement

Xiaodi Huang, Lee Baumgartner, Zhenquan Li, and Wayne Robinson

Outcomes of research leading to impact

1. Enhanced Fish Data Collection and Analysis
The research facilitated the detailed analysis of a comprehensive dataset derived from tracking over 40,000 native fish using a state-of-the-art PIT monitoring system across the Murray-Darling Basin over a decade. This dataset has provided valuable insights into fish movements and behaviors, significantly enhancing the understanding of aquatic biodiversity and ecosystem processes.

2. Development of Predictive Models
The creation of characterization and predictive models has enabled the identification of key variables influencing fish movements. These models have proven instrumental in predicting fish movement patterns based on environmental factors such as flow, temperature, and season. This predictive capability supports the optimization of river operations, enhancing fish passage and contributing to the restoration and management of native fish populations.

3. Improved River Management Practices
The research findings have informed better river management practices. Recommendations for future tagging activities, PIT system installations, and data integration with other monitoring efforts ensure that the collected data is robust and comprehensive. This has led to more effective and adaptive management of river systems to support fish migration and biodiversity. The research also addresses key questions such as how many fish should be tagged over the coming years and which fish species should be tagged.

4. Knowledge Dissemination and Stakeholder Engagement
The research outcomes have been widely disseminated through presentations at conferences, comprehensive project reports, and a peer-reviewed paper published in a scientific journal. This dissemination has facilitated the sharing of valuable insights and methodologies with the broader scientific community, stakeholders, and policymakers.

5. Capacity Building and Collaboration
The supervision of an international PhD student, Thanasak Poomchaivej, by the project team has fostered academic-industry collaboration and contributed to the development of future research leaders in the field. This collaboration has strengthened research capacity and facilitated the application of research findings in real-world scenarios.

6. Practical Applications and Future Directions
The research has led to practical applications, such as the implementation of improved tagging activities and the installation of additional PIT systems. These actions are expected to enhance the monitoring and management of fish populations. Additionally, the research has set the stage for future studies and monitoring programs that will continue to build on the findings and recommendations provided, ensuring ongoing improvements in the protection of biodiversity and ecosystem processes in the Murray-Darling Basin.

Beneficiaries of the impact

1. Environmental and Conservation Agencies

Agencies like the Murray-Darling Basin Authority (MDBA) and the New South Wales Department of Primary Industries (NSW DPI) benefit significantly from the enhanced data and insights into fish movements. This information empowers them to make informed decisions for better natural resource management and more effective biodiversity conservation efforts.

2.Scientific and Research Community

The broader scientific community gains invaluable knowledge from the comprehensive dataset, predictive models, and published research. These contributions enhance the global understanding of aquatic ecosystems, laying a solid foundation for future studies in ecology and environmental science.

3.Local and Regional Water Management Authorities

Regional authorities responsible for river operations and water management can optimize their practices based on the predictive models developed in the project. This optimization leads to improved fish passage and healthier aquatic ecosystems, ultimately supporting sustainable water management strategies. The project specifically addressed key questions scientifically, such as the benefits of tagging fish in the Murray River over a decade, the necessity of continuing fish tagging, optimal tagging quantities over the years, and which fish species should be tagged.

4.Commercial and Recreational Fishing Industries

Both commercial and recreational fishing industries benefit from the improved fish populations and healthier river ecosystems. Sustainable management practices ensure the long-term viability of fish stocks, which is crucial for the economic stability and growth of these industries.

5. Indigenous Communities

Indigenous communities that rely on healthy river ecosystems for cultural, subsistence, and economic activities experience tangible benefits from the improved management and conservation of fish populations and aquatic biodiversity.

6. Educational Institutions and Students

Educational institutions, including Charles Sturt University, derive significant benefits from the project's findings and methodologies. These serve as valuable teaching resources, enriching the educational experience for students. Additionally, the supervision of international PhD students, such as Thanasak Poomchaivej, contributes to building research capacity and nurturing future leaders in environmental science.

7.Policymakers and Government Bodies

Policymakers and government bodies gain access to robust scientific data and evidence-based recommendations. This information informs the development of policies and regulations aimed at preserving aquatic biodiversity and managing water resources effectively.

8. Local Communities

Local communities living near the Murray-Darling Basin directly benefit from healthier river systems. These systems support recreation, tourism, and overall quality of life. Enhanced fish populations also contribute to local food security and economic opportunities, further enriching the community's well-being.

Details of the impact achieved

1. Enhanced Data Collection and Monitoring

The comprehensive analysis of data from state-of-the-art PIT monitoring systems, tracking over 40,000 native fish across the Murray-Darling Basin, has yielded detailed insights into fish movements, behaviors, and migration patterns. This has significantly contributed to a deeper understanding of aquatic biodiversity.

2. Development and Implementation of Predictive Models

Characterization and predictive models have been developed, enabling the identification of key environmental variables influencing fish movements. These models predict fish passage success based on factors like flow, temperature, and season, optimizing river operations to support fish migration and ecosystem health.

3. Improved River Management and Fish Passage

Actionable recommendations from the research have improved river management, including future tagging activities and additional PIT system installations. These measures have enhanced fish passage, reduced migration barriers, and improved overall river ecosystem health.

4. Knowledge Dissemination and Stakeholder Engagement

Research findings have been disseminated through detailed presentations, comprehensive project reports, and a peer-reviewed publication in a scientific Q1 journal. This dissemination ensures that valuable insights and methodologies reach stakeholders, policymakers, and the scientific community, promoting informed decision-making and collaboration.

5. Capacity Building and Academic Advancement

Supervision of international PhD student Thanasak Poomchaivej has advanced research in the field, fostering academic-industry collaboration and developing future research leaders.

6. Practical Applications and Future Directions

Practical applications include improved tagging activities and strategic PIT system installations, enhancing fish population monitoring and conservation efforts. The research has also paved the way for future studies and monitoring programs to build on its findings and recommendations.

7. Policy and Management Influence

Robust scientific data and evidence-based recommendations from the research have informed policy development and river management strategies. This influence ensures effective measures for protecting and managing aquatic biodiversity.

8.Community and Industry Benefits

Improved fish population and river ecosystem management have benefited local communities, commercial and recreational fishing industries, and Indigenous communities. These groups have experienced economic opportunities, cultural benefits, and improved quality of life due to healthier river systems.

Impact date	10 May 2018 → 30 Sept 2019
Category of impact	Economic Impact, Environmental Impact
Impact level	Regional