A.W. Research Laboratories, Inc.

Detect and Quantify Eurasian Water Milfoil

A.W. Research Laboratories, Inc. (AWRL) has used low altitude remote sensing imagery to analyze many aspects of the environment since 1974. Viewing the surrounding area from above often gives a better perspective on the different factors that are difficult or impossible to quantify from land. In addition, the unique camera systems on board the airplane “the buccaneer” enable us to view portions of the light spectrum that humans cannot see.

AWRL has conducted many Eurasian Water Milfoil detection overflights throughout the United States. The benefit of this procedure is that it allows a large area to be surveyed in a short period of time, saving time and money. The other benefit of this procedure is that it allows us to map growth, changes in location, and areas of new growth over time. Using remote sensing techniques to detect, assess, and monitor aquatic vegetation is a widely accepted procedure and cited in the book of Standard Methods.

This type of image collection and processing is accomplished by developing a spectral understanding of the proposed targets (Eurasian Milfoil) which is accomplished with the uniquely designed photon capture and camera system that precisely views the target in very narrow frequencies. By developing an understanding of both the target – in this case aquatic plants – and the background environment, AWRL can set up its camera systems with optics that will maximize reflective differences from other similar targets and background conditions in your lake.

Once the lake is flown and the special imagery is collected, the image data is returned to the lab for processing on the Water Watch™ system software. While special camera optics provide the desired target separation (in this case Eurasian Water Milfoil), the computer software further enhances the data before an interpretation is made by AWRL. Next, the Milfoil is classified by false coloring suspected areas. False coloring the image allows us to view the shapes and boundaries of the Milfoil.

The client usually receives:

· A location map and images

· The size of each suspected area and location

· A detailed treatment budget (if desired)

The photograph at right shows Eurasian Water Milfoil on a Minnesota Lake. There is a color visible range aerial photograph and a black and white of the same area. The other image is a black and white photograph with the Milfoil false colored—to better identify the shape, location, and size.

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detect & quantify eurasian water milfoil