Together we can change boater behavior and create new habits.
WaterGuards provides boater education and lake access watercraft inspection services in order to prevent or limit the introduction, establishment and spread of invasive species into our lakes and other waters. We make it easy for local government units to implement a program against invasive species.
WaterGuards Program
Our program provides the following:
Watercraft Inspectors. Trained inspectors to monitor lake accesses for invasive species and to educate boaters entering and exiting the lake.
Professional human resources management. We do reference checks, hiring, scheduling, spot checking, training coordination, and more.
Payroll Management. (as an independent contractor, WaterGuards is an LLC with its own insurance)
- All government documents (I-9, W-4, etc.), and government reporting.
- Workers comp and liability insurance covered.
- Payroll services: inspector base pay, FICA, FUTA, Social Security, and workers comp.
Data collection. Our inspectors collect and input inspection data onto the DNR survey. Data includes time of day, type of boat, how long the boat has been out of the water, last waterbody visited, and more. Reports can be requested from the DNR.
Season-end report. Hours worked and total invoice dollar amounts per month and season totals are included.
DNR training for inspectors. All inspectors are trained by the DNR.
Uniforms. We provide an official vest designating status as an authorized inspector.
Your input for an effective program
The Local Government Unit is encouraged to provide employee referrals if you wish us to employ your current lake residents or previous inspectors.
Inspector training and authorization
DNR authorized inspectors can prohibit the launch or operation of water-related equipment if a person refuses to allow an inspection, or doesn't remove water or aquatic invasive species. DNR authorized inspectors can also require a watercraft to be decontaminated prior to launching into Minnesota waters. The DNR has created two levels of authorized inspectors; level one is able to inspect watercraft visually and tactilely and deny access if necessary. Level two inspectors have the same authorizations and are also trained to use decontamination equipment at the access. WaterGuards inspectors operate as Level One or Level Two inspectors and call the Sheriff immediately if a boater is uncooperative.