History
BACKGROUND & CHALLENGES
REMOTE AUTOMATION
In July 2019, Remote Automation was called into a fishery that experienced a catastrophic fish kill due to an overnight oxygen crash caused by algal die-off. This event exposed critical gaps in water quality monitoring, stock control, and emergency preparedness. Contributing environmental pressures include climate change, increased nutrient loading, high fish stocking levels, and weed removal practices that reduce natural oxygenation.
Initial Response
Remote Automation implemented immediate short-term measures:
- Purchased emergency petrol air pumps.
- Started weekly oxygen monitoring with handheld DO meters.
- Conducted chemical water analysis.
- Used blue dye and barley straw to control algae.
- Reassessed weed removal practices.
These steps improved awareness and began building data profiles of water conditions across venues.
Monitoring System Overhaul
Realizing manual monitoring was insufficient, Remote Automation partnered with Manchester University and a water data company to deploy:
- 4G-enabled floating monitoring units measuring temperature and DO levels.
- A centralised dashboard for real-time data access and alerts.
- Shared access with members to increase situational awareness.
Chemical probes were also used to track nitrates and phosphates, aiding pollution mitigation and enforcement actions.
Preventative Measures
Remote Automation implemented land and water-based strategies:
- Floating vegetated islands and buffer zones to absorb nutrients.
- Marginal planting and barley straw deployment in inflow areas.
- Mechanical aerators (venturis, paddles, splashers) powered by mains electricity were feasible.
Due to the cost and limitations of mains power, especially in remote venues, a solar aeration project was launched.
Solar Aeration Development
After failed attempts with water-moving solar aerators, Remote Automation pivoted to air-diffuser systems:
- A solar-powered setup with battery storage and timer-controlled air pumps was created.
- Low-energy, multi-head diffusers proved reliable and effective.
- Systems are monitored and operated remotely via app dashboards.
A back-up system using small petrol generators ensured continuous operation during solar downtimes.
REMOTE AUTOMATION
Emergency Case Study
In 2023, a venue suffered a rapid oxygen crash. Remote Automation responded by:
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- Deploying emergency aeration systems within hours.
- Rotating between generator and battery power for 24/7 operation.
- Installing a second solar system to stabilize conditions.
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This rapid response saved 95% of the stock, validating their preparedness.
REMOTE AUTOMATION
Ongoing Improvements (2024–2025)
Remote Automation refined and expanded its infrastructure:
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- Upgraded to LiFePO4 batteries and newer solar panels.
- Achieved 24/7/365 operation in most venues.
- Developed remote dashboards for all aerators (solar and mains).
- Implemented full automation: aerators now start/stop based on real-time DO readings without human input.
REMOTE MANAGEMENT BENEFITS
- Aerator systems are fully monitored and controlled remotely.
- Dashboard centralisation allows quick status checks and adjustments.
- Power and run-time data are available for proactive management.
Through innovation, investment, and partnerships, Remote Automation transformed water quality and fishery management. With real-time monitoring, automated aeration, and scalable emergency systems, fisheries operate resiliently, sustainable fisheries — and continue to support other organizations in adopting similar solutions.