Abstract: A method is disclosed that enables a media gateway controller to optimize the selection of a media gateway from which to acquire call-related resources, in a multi-gateway environment. In accordance with the illustrative embodiment, the controller sets a high utilization threshold and a low utilization threshold for each media gateway it controls, for the purpose of receiving a notification when a threshold is crossed. As resources are utilized, removed from service, or become available for use, the media gateway recalculates the resource utilization of one or more predetermined resources and notifies the controller if a threshold for a particular resource has been crossed. The controller, in turn, uses the current threshold states as part of the selection of media gateway to serve one or more subsequent calls. The disclosed method can increase the probability of selecting a media gateway with sufficient resources for a successful call completion on the first attempt.