
Manatee Protection Systems by UESI: Safeguarding Marine Life with Advanced Technology
At UESI, our commitment to environmental stewardship and innovation drives the development of our manatee protection systems in the Gulf Coast. These systems are designed to prevent injury to manatees in areas where heavy infrastructure meets delicate marine ecosystems, such as flood control gates and navigation locks. By combining engineering expertise with cutting-edge technology, we provide reliable solutions that balance progress with responsibility.
Our Mission: Protecting Manatees and Supporting Environmental Compliance
Our MPS Team at UESI was founded with a clear purpose: to design, manufacture, install, and maintain advanced manatee protection sensor systems for water control structures. These systems detect manatees that may be at risk of being crushed or trapped when flood control or navigation lock gates are in operation. Our solutions not only protect endangered species but also help organizations achieve and maintain environmental compliance, in accordance with our deep commitment to marine conservation and regulatory responsibility.
Unique Technology: PED and ADS Systems
We have developed two proprietary designs that set our manatee protection systems apart from other technologies:
- PED – Piezo-Electric-Detection System for Vertical Lift Gates
The PED system uses polyurethane bumpers clamped to the structure floor. Inside, ultra-sensitive piezo-electric tiles detect even the slightest contact, such as a manatee’s body brushing against the sensors. Unlike traditional detection systems, the PED ignores turbulence and water flow, focusing only on genuine contact. This triggers the system to immediately stop and reverse the gate, allowing the manatee to pass through safely. - ADS – Acoustic Detection System for Navigation Lock Gates
The ADS system is specially designed for navigation locks, where visibility and control are more complex. Using advanced acoustic technology, the system provides real-time detection of manatees, ensuring gates and lock systems operate safely without endangering marine life.
Both systems embody the balance between engineering innovation and ecological responsibility, a cornerstone of our coastal environmental services.
Integration with Underwater Construction and Coastal Services
What makes us unique is our ability to integrate manatee protection systems with broader underwater construction and coastal environmental services. Whether working on new infrastructure or retrofitting existing facilities, our team ensures that detection systems are seamlessly incorporated without disrupting operations. By aligning manatee protection with large-scale marine and coastal projects, we help clients safeguard wildlife while advancing critical infrastructure.
Why Choose UESI?
- Proven Expertise in environmental technology and marine engineering.
- Turnkey Solutions from design and manufacturing to installation and maintenance.
- Environmental Compliance Support to help clients meet local, state, and federal regulations.
- Commitment to Conservation, protecting manatees and other marine species with innovative sensor systems.
A Future of Safer Waters
At UESI, we believe that development and conservation can work hand in hand. Our manatee protection systems reflect this philosophy by providing effective, reliable solutions that protect endangered species while supporting essential water management infrastructure. Through our expertise in underwater construction, coastal environmental services, and environmental compliance, we deliver lasting value to clients and communities alike.