Harvester operators volunteer their time and currently have 2 primary and 2 backup operators that received training from Aquarius Systems. There are several volunteers lined up for next year already too. According to Richardson, each load of harvested vegetation is approximately 275 cubic feet and weighs about 4,480 lbs.

The aquatic vegetation had been so bad the past few years that some did not even attempt to get their boats and pontoons in the water. After the second day of cutting, fishermen and recreational boaters were taking advantage of the open water to enjoy some of their favorite past times. The cut vegetation will be of great use to many as well, Dragonfly Nursery will use the vegetation as compost and farmer Brad Fougner will use the material as fertilizer next year.

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According to Jane Dauffenbach, President of Aquarius Systems, at the factory in North Prairie they make metal float. The raw material comes in and the talented staff bend it, punch it, cut it and weld it to form the mechanical harvesters which are then sold around the World.

The harvester gives the plants a little haircut which removes the heavy vegetation to make the lakes more enjoyable. It makes swimming areas useable and boating and fishing enjoyable. Plus, it is good for the fish; giving them room to swim as well leaving behind enough of the plants for habitat and food.

Operators say without the harvester, the weeds would get in the way of how people enjoy the lakes. Not only the summer, but during the ice fishing season of the season.

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