The Pilanesberg National Park has improved its anti-poaching and conservation operations through the use of modern technology, including digital communication systems that boost efforts to protect vulnerable wildlife and rangers.
Pilanesberg transitioned from a basic, analogue two-way radio system to a state-of-the-art Digital Mobile Radio (DMR) solution by Hytera. Hytera's partner Altron Nexus (now named Sentiv after a management buyout), donated a Hytera HR106X DMR repeater and Hytera H-series DMR devices equipped with GPS tracking as well as a Hytera Smart Dispatch Plus software platform to Pilanesberg's Anti-Poaching unit, led by Field Ecologist Steve Dell, Hytera said.
"This represented a significant change because previously the reserve relied on ageing analogue radios that only supported voice communication, with a single repeater resulting in limited coverage across the reserve and no advanced features. Because of the analogue system and single receiver, there were parts of the park that had unreliable, or non-existent, communication. The DMR upgrade introduced a second repeater linked via a microwave connection that has resulted in seamless, reliable, almost park-wide coverage," Hytera said in a statement.
Hytera's H-series technology includes smart, automated features designed for fast incident response, including a Man Down Alert that detects if a user has fallen or is motionless, automatically sending an emergency alert and location to the control room. A one-touch panic button alerts with real-time location to ensure immediate support. Live GPS tracking helps teams monitor ranger movements and respond quickly when needed. Digital voice and data technology supports clear, efficient communication, including text messaging and voice recording. Up to 256-bit encryption protects sensitive communications.
Pilanesberg is a 56,000 hectare nature reserve with mountainous areas that previously lacked any signal for communications. This means that rangers in the park conducted 24-hour security operations under harsh conditions without the security of robust communication. This presented a risk, Hytera noted.
Since adopting Hytera's DMR system, rangers have the security of a robust communication system. Hytera's DMR system has assisted field ecologists and rhino protection rangers to obtain an advantage over poachers entering the park and destroying wildlife and the country's natural habitat.
"Reliable communication is the backbone of effective conservation and anti-poaching efforts, whether it's protecting rhinos, managing fires, supporting technical teams or ensuring the safety of our staff in the field or conducting air operations. Upgrading to a digital radio network has significantly boosted our conservation operations," said Dell.
"The park is hilly with mountains and valleys, and the digital network has ensured almost-total coverage. Very importantly, it has enabled real-time tracking. Tracking is vital - if someone is out in the field, needs assistance or cannot talk for whatever reason, the control room always has real-time visibility. Anything can happen in very remote areas. If needed, the emergency alerts result in instant support, dispatching help to exactly where the radio is located. Importantly, using the system is simple and uniform. The improved communications have significantly boosted our overall conservation efforts and operations."
Franco Stronach, Head of Indirect Channel at Hytera South Africa, said "Hytera is empowering conservationists in parks across the country, including Pilanesberg, The Kruger National Park, Timbavati Game Reserve and Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve. It has been important for us to see beyond just the practical utility of the equipment, which in itself is world-leading. For us, the difference being made is Hytera's embodiment of social responsibility, a business priority to make a meaningful impact in a sector of the country that holds special cultural significance."