CROCTRACK

Team Name

Explorers

Team Members

Project Description

CrockTrack: Enhancing Public Safety in the Northern Territory

Introduction

The Northern Territory (NT) is home to a significant population of saltwater crocodiles, which pose a danger to residents and tourists. The goal of this project is to leverage technology and data to develop a comprehensive solution that enhances public safety and minimizes the risk of crocodile encounters. Our approach incorporates crowdsourced data, AI-powered detection systems, GPS tracking, and innovative safety measures to create a robust and effective crocodile management platform.

Problem Statement

Crocodile encounters in the NT have been a growing concern due to the increasing population of saltwater crocodiles. Current monitoring efforts, though valuable, are limited in their ability to provide real-time, actionable data to the public. The challenge is to design a platform that leverages available data and technology to enhance public safety by providing timely information and reducing the risk of crocodile encounters.

Proposed Solution

Our solution is a multi-faceted platform that integrates various technologies to detect, monitor, and prevent crocodile encounters. The key components of the solution include:

1. Camera and TensorFlow Integration

Overview: High-risk zones will be equipped with cameras that utilize TensorFlow, an AI-powered machine learning framework, for real-time crocodile detection. These cameras will be strategically placed in areas where crocodile activity is most likely.
Functionality: TensorFlow will analyze the camera feeds to identify crocodile movements, differentiating them from other animals or objects. Once a crocodile is detected, the system will trigger an alert.
Implementation: Cameras will be low-power, high-resolution, and capable of functioning in various lighting conditions, including at night.
2. GPS and Auto-Notification System

Overview: A GPS-based tracking system will be integrated to locate individuals within a 200-meter radius of a detected crocodile.
Functionality: When a crocodile is detected, the system will automatically send notifications via the mobile app or SMS to alert people in the vicinity. This ensures timely warnings to prevent close encounters.
Considerations: To address areas with weak cellular connectivity, satellite-based GPS solutions will be explored to maintain the effectiveness of the notification system.
3. Crowdsourcing for Data Collection

Overview: The mobile app will feature crowdsourcing capabilities, allowing users to report real-time crocodile sightings, including location tags, photos, and descriptions.
Functionality: User-reported sightings will be verified and integrated into the platform’s database, enriching the overall data set.
Incentives: A reward system will be introduced to encourage accurate and timely reporting from the public.
4. Radar and Sonar Detection

Overview: Radar and sonar systems will be deployed in water bodies and along coastlines to detect crocodiles underwater.
Functionality: These systems will complement the camera feeds, providing additional data on crocodile movements in areas where visibility is limited.
Integration: Data from radar and sonar systems will be combined with AI algorithms to predict crocodile movements and issue alerts.
5. Mobile App as a Central Hub

Overview: A user-friendly mobile app will serve as the central hub for all crocodile-related information and alerts.
Functionality: The app will provide real-time updates, safety tips, and an interactive map showing crocodile hotspots. It will also feature an emergency contact option for reporting sights or seeking help.
Accessibility: The app will be available on multiple platforms, ensuring accessibility for a wide range of users.
6. Artificial Barriers in High-Crowd Areas

Overview: In areas with high foot traffic, eco-friendly artificial barriers will be constructed to prevent crocodile entry.
Functionality: These barriers will be equipped with sensors to detect if a crocodile attempts to breach them, triggering immediate alerts.
Design: The barriers will be designed to blend with the natural environment while ensuring durability and effectiveness.
7. Public Awareness and Education

Overview: A comprehensive public awareness campaign will be launched to educate residents and tourists about crocodile safety.
Functionality: This will include informational signage in high-risk areas, social media outreach, and educational content within the mobile app.
Objective: The goal is to ensure that everyone is informed about how to stay safe and what to do in the event of a crocodile encounter.

Data Story

The survey data of crocodile sightings in the Northern Territory provides detailed daily records of crocodile captures within the designated Crocodile Capture Zones. This dataset includes yearly cumulative totals for each zone, offering valuable insights into crocodile activity patterns, monitoring high-risk areas, and informing public safety measures by correlating sightings with capture data. This information can enhance predictive modeling and contribute to more effective crocodile management strategies.

The Crocodile Capture Zones in the Northern Territory provide data on crocodile capture locations within broad geographic areas, though specific trap coordinates are not publicly disclosed. Daily capture records are available and summarized annually for each zone on NR Maps. This data helps inform the public about high-risk areas, supports risk management by assessing cumulative capture trends, and can be integrated with crowdsourced information to improve the accuracy of crocodile sightings and risk assessments.