Underwater explorations offered on Black Lake
Wednesday, September 7, SEE-North (Science and Environmental Education-North, a Petoskey-based educational non-profit organization) and Michigan Technological University researcher Mark Gleason will offer lake residents and the public the chance for a unique exploration beneath the surface of Black Lake using an underwater Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV).
Have you ever wondered what it’s like in the deeper offshore areas of Black Lake, but are reluctant to take up SCUBA diving or can’t afford your own mini-submarine? Here is your chance to find out. Gleason will deploy his ROV in hopes of getting a close-up, revealing look at the plants, algae, invertebrates, sediments, underwater landforms and objects, human artifacts, and fish (maybe even a sturgeon!) that inhabit the depths of Michigan’s seventh largest inland lake.
The ROV consists of a waterproof video camera that is self-propelled and remotely operated using a long tether. It has two cameras that project a live view of the subsurface on a video screen, lights, and a grapple for retrieving small objects. It is similar to (although much smaller than) the ROVs used to explore shipwreck
This event, in collaboration with the Black Lake Association, will be held at the public access site in Onaway State Park. Five one-and-one-half hour pontoon boat excursions are scheduled, with departure times at 9 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 3 p.m., and 5 p.m. Participants will observe some underwater features, learn more about the Black Lake ecosystem, and, of course, enjoy the scenic surroundings of the lake. The event is suitable for both adults and children, but an adult must accompany those under 12. There is a limit of 10 people per trip.
Trips are free, but a donation of $20 per person is suggested to help support the programs of SEE-North. To make reservations (required) or for more information, call 231-348-9700.