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Why do we need an underwater remote operated vehicle ?
An underwater remote operated vehicle will transform how we find and fight Starry Stonewort — saving time, effort and lake health.
Currently, Starry Stonewort has only been confirmed in the Rush Lake Channel, and WAPOA, in collaboration with partner agencies, is working hard to contain and monitor it. We need your help to expand these efforts so that Starry Stonewort and other aquatic invasive species don’t cause long-term damage to our lakes. That’s why we’re raising funds to purchase a remotely operated underwater vehicle (ROV), a powerful tool that will make our detection and response work faster, safer, and more effective.
Why an ROV Enhances Our Efforts
Expanded toolkit: An ROV adds important capacity beyond divers and manual efforts—allowing more frequent, efficient surveys.
Year-round monitoring: It works under ice and in low visibility, giving us data even when divers can't safely go down.
Time-saving & cost-effective: Divers currently spend 7+ hours per site including decontamination. The ROV reduces volunteer time and allows more sites to be surveyed.
Precision tracking: GPS integration means pinpointing infestations accurately and supporting efficient treatment planning.
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Local leaders Michael and Kay, who are already spearheading Starry Stonewort detection and removal, will train a team of certified operators. The ROV will be fully insured and maintained for long-term, reliable use.
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Unfortunately, no. The DNR’s ROV is in high demand and can only be operated by DNR personnel. They do not lend the unit to local associations.
By owning our own ROV, we’ll be able to respond quickly — when and where it’s needed most — without waiting for state equipment availability.
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Our priority is the Whitefish Chain. Just like the DNR, we don’t plan to lend the ROV out. However, if future capacity allows, we may consider supporting nearby lakes with both the ROV and trained operators.
Help Us Protect the Lakes We Love
Every donation brings us one step closer to owning this critical piece of equipment, and one step closer to staying ahead of Starry Stonewort.
Whether you give $25 or $2,500, your support will have a direct impact on our ability to protect the lakes we cherish for generations to come.
And thank you to the to the many dedicated volunteers and supporters who have helped WAPOA invest significantly in AIS prevention and early detection. Together, we are protecting our lakes before invasive species take hold. Your help keeps our lakes thriving today and for generations to come.