Tracking is done from boats, planes, and fixed datalogging stations.
Studies focus on obtaining a better understanding of the physical effects of water velocities, dam operations, and other factors on the distribution, movements, and habitat use by anadromous and resident fishes. The time span between contacts for the various study objectives ranges from minutes to months. The CRRL is also mapping the direction and magnitude of water velocities near several dams by using vessel-mounted acoustic Doppler current profilers. These studies use extensive arrays of fixed datalogging receivers and mobile tracking with boats and planes to determine the rate of movement and passage routes of fishes at dams. Fixed receivers with multiple antennas and frequency scanning capabilities are strategically placed along the periphery of the dams to learn whether migratory fishes pass through the turbines, spill gates, or bypass facilities.