Guardian Monitor In Operation for Fishing Opener 2007


The JLPOA Guardian boat monitoring station was installed this spring - just in time for the fishing opener. The system is part educational and part enforcement. It's designed to encourage boaters to check their boats and trailers for Eurasian Millfoil and other invasive species before entering the water. Eurasian Millfoil has already been found in other lakes in the area. It takes just one small plant fragment to transfer the weed to Johnson Lake. It can quickly take over native species and chemical control is very, very expensive. Read more for details and for more pictures.

The system includes a camera directed at the public boat launch. The camera takes photographs of boaters on the landing. The images are transmitted through an internet connection to an office where they are saved and analyzed. Images capturing violations will be sent to the Burnett County Sheriff's Office for possible prosecution.




Installing the monitor tower at the edge of the landing.

The Guardian program is being made possible by generous donations from JLPOA member and grant money. To qualify for the grant, JLPOA members must volunteer a certain number of hours working on water quality issues, including water monitoring and boater education programs. Thanks to all who have invested time, money or enthusiasm for this important program.



Roy Hansen holds the sign alerting boaters to the law that requires them to inspect their boat and trailer for weeds.

Several other lake associations are installing similar monitors.





Posted: Sat - May 5, 2007 at 08:58 AM      

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Content Copyright 2004-2006, Johnson Lake Property Owners Association, Inc.