I-LIDS

SRCLA currently owns and operates Internet Landing Installed Device Sensors (I-LIDS) at the 4 public accesses on the Chain of Lakes: Highway 23, County Road 71, MN-22, and Long Lake. I-LIDS is a self–contained, solar-powered system installed at boat launches to prevent the spread of Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) through video capture and remote inspection of boats and trailers entering the lake. When a boat approaches, I-LIDS plays an audio message to educate boaters about ways to prevent the spread of AIS. The audio messages remind boaters to clean, drain, and dry their boats. I-LIDS also records a video of the launch and retrieval of boats from the lake, which provides a platform for law enforcement to follow up with AIS violations. If any plants or animals are seen on the boat/trailer/vehicle, a pictorial snapshot is forwarded to the Stearns County Sheriff.  The main goal isn’t to catch violators, but to help remind boaters to take the time to inspect their boats and make sure they are not entering or leaving our lakes with AIS attached. I-LIDS is an onsite solution to capture boater activities to ensure compliance with the Aquatic Invasive Species clean-off laws, so the Chain of Lakes can be protected from the extensive impact of new exotic species.