A.W. Research Laboratories, Inc.

Aerial Lakeshore Analysis (ALA)

A.W. Research Laboratories (AWRL) has conducted Aerial Lakeshore Analyses (ALA) for over 500 lakes throughout the United States. Our clients have used ALAs for designing, maintaining, and updating their lake monitoring programs. The ALA effectively targets limited monitoring funds towards areas most likely to influence water quality.

The cornerstone of our Aerial Lakeshore Analysis is the use of low altitude remote sensing imagery to identify and document locations of nutrient and toxic pollution. Every 300-500 feet of shoreline is photographed with visible, infrared, and several hyper-spectral bands. Our analyst then processes and interprets the image data. Implementing state of the art protocols, we are able to pinpoint non-complying septic systems, point and non-point runoff and toxic sources with 95% accuracy.

The client receives a residence by residence report that provides the following information:

· Sources of point and non-point septic, runoff, and toxic influence to the lake

· Violations according to the local shoreline or county ordinance

· A list of recommendations or “best management practices” to correct any of the problems discovered

Ideally, ALAs are conducted in the spring or summer, when aquatic growth tends to be high, but lake visibility remains relatively clear. Depending on the goals of the client, other seasons may also be appropriate or ever preferred to the spring/summer schedule.