Title
Electric Power Research Institute's (EPRI) Research on Behavioral Technologies
Publication Date
2001
Publication Title
Behavioral Technologies for Fish Guidance: American Fisheries Society Symposium
Start Page
115
End Page
124
Editors
Coutant CC;
Publication Place
Bethesda, MD
Publisher
American Fisheries Society
Abstract
Laboratory and field evaluations of behavioral fish protection devices sponsored by the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) since 1987 are reviewed. Devices evaluated include strobe lights, mercury lights, incandescent lights, transducer-based sound systems, and infrasound generators. Responses of nearly 40 fish species (anadromous salmonids, Alosa species, and a variety of riverine species) have been evaluated in cage and field studies conducted at sites throughout North America, as well as in laboratory studies conducted at university and private research facilities. Results have varied by species, device, and location. In general, strobe lights have been effective with the largest number of species. Transducer-based sound systems have been particularly effective with Alosa species but less effective with most other species. Results of tests with other light types have been equivocal and appear to be influenced strongly by site-specific conditions. Infrasound device, tested by EPRI during cage tests failed to elicit responses in riverine fishes.