Boaters to Receive AIS Information by Radio

Posted Sunday, August 30, 2009, at 9:29 PM

Zebra mussels on toy boat

The Iowa Great Lakes Water Safety Council and the Iowa Department of Natural Resources will test an Information Radio System during Labor Day week. The main purpose for this low power AM broadcast is to advise boaters driving into the Iowa Great Lakes area about the threat of Aquatic Invasive Species. Other uses could include weather information and a fishing report.

The test is expected to cover the Iowa Great Lakes in Dickinson County from August 24th until after Labor Day. The test broadcast can be heard by tuning an AM broadcast radio to 1620 KHz. This test will help determine if there is adequate coverage along highways entering the area. The test message is about 5 minutes long and is set to repeat.

Communicating aquatic invasive species information with boaters coming into the area has been a challenge. If successful, this system could relay information critical to stopping the transportation of aquatic invasive species into our lakes. If a system were permanently installed, highway and boat ramp signs would be installed to alert boaters to this important information.

The test transmitting equipment is being provided by the Emmet County Emergency Management Agency from their emergency information system.

Questions or comments about this Information Radio System can be directed to the Water Safety Council at Email watersafety@watersafetycouncil.org

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Phil Petersen

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Phil is a native of Spencer and spent his youthful summers exploring boating and swimming on the Okoboji Lakes. With lifelong ties to the Iowa Great Lakes, Petersen's volunteer work in water quality and water safety issues is an extension of his love for the area. An electronic technology degree from Iowa State University led Petersen to Chicago and Motorola Communications, where he spent 38 years in management and directorship positions. All the while, Peterson maintaining his connection with the lakes through summer sojourns. Petersen is a board member of the Iowa Great Lakes Water Safety Council, Okoboji Protective Association, Friends of Lakeside Laboratories, Okoboji Yacht Club, and the Dickinson County Taxpayers Association. He is also a Fellow of the Radio Club of America. Phil and his wife live in Okoboji.

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