Help us upgrade the osprey nest webcam!

Dunrovin has been using commercial-grade outdoor cameras for many years. Unfortunately, much of our technology is aging and in need of service, repair, or replacement. The both nest and ranch cameras have been replaced with used devices in the past two years. The used equipment has served us well, while also keeping costs down.

Now that the recently replaced nest camera has developed problems and is no longer responsive, we are forced to seek out a replacement for that camera. The Axis cameras we have been using for the nest and ranch cam locations (same model/type) are several generations old, causing even working used cameras to be of limited value as a replacement option.

There are a variety of manufacturers and camera options available. We have standardized on Axis cameras due to their high quality optics, robust design, reliability, and ease of remote control. We may explore other options, but are also keen to stay with the Axis product line due to its historic value for our specific broadcast requirements and our extensive stock of camera-specific mounting hardware and parts we’ve built up over the years.

A new generation of Axis PTZ cameras is available, with the latest model featuring built-in IR lights (like the river camera), 31x zoom (greater than the current nest cam), and laser focus assist (for faster focusing). These cameras cost about $3,000 each. (Compared with a newer, but similar model to what we currently have which is about $2,000.)

As we explore the technology options, we invite our members and viewers to chime in on what they want from a new camera and pitch-in (if possible) on this capital expense.

Our cost to rent a lift and do maintenance is $600, so we try to take care of as much maintenance as possible during the spring and fall shoulder seasons. If we choose to replace the nest camera before next spring, we need to make sure our money is spent wisely, which is why we hope to replacement both the nest and the ranch cameras with upgraded options.

We invite your comments and participation in this process.