ZIP has developed the OutPost automated reporting system to enable timely and cost-effective transfer of field data from landscape-scale (i.e. 1,000 ha+) predator-free projects.
The OutPost system comprises:
ZIP MagNodes, which are electronic nodes that detect the status of a trap and use LoRa (low-powered radio) technology to report the status along lines of trap nodes to a satellite base station;
ZIP satellite base station(s) that receive data from the lines of MagNodes and transmit the data to the Iridium satellite network; and
A ZIP webserver, which receives the data transmitted from the satellite network and enables users to view the data via a website customised for each project.
Applications
We are currently supplying the ZIP OutPost system for use with the ZIP PosStop, to enable the remote inspection of a network of these live capture leghold traps - which can reduce the labour costs associated with servicing the network by over 90%.
We are also using the system in conjunction with a new rat and stoat trap that we are developing. Alternatively, the OutPost system can be retro-fitted to other suitable predator traps, including wooden housed DOC200s.
ZIP warrants that the products we supply will be free of defects (in materials or manufacture) for a period of two years from the date of delivery. For more information, see our website for ZIP Products and Services - terms and conditions.
Cost
There are four different costs associated with using the ZIP OutPost system; i.e. (i) the system components; (ii) the custom webserver; (iii) installation and training; and (iv) running the service.
For illustrative purposes, an OutPost system designed around a network of 500 ZIP PosStop leghold traps, that included 550 MagNodes and 5 satellite base stations, would cost approximately $122,000 + GST to design, establish and install, and a further $450 + GST per month to run (not including your on-site costs of servicing the traps).
Further information
Any landscape-scale predator-free project is a significant undertaking. Manually servicing an extensive network of live capture traps is labour-intensive, time-consuming and expensive.
We have prepared a more detailed description of the system, including a breakdown of (i) the technical specifications of the system, (ii) its costs and (iii) the process we generally follow to work with you to evaluate its suitability and, if suitable, to plan, implement and maintain the system.
If, after reading this information, you think that the ZIP OutPost system could help you to achieve your predator-free conservation goals, please contact us at products@zip.org.nz. A member of our team will contact you to discuss your project.
POA