Project critical to boater safety on Lake Martin
The Alabama Marine Police have granted LMRA authority to place hazardous area markers when and where underwater hazards are located. LMRA currently maintains more than 400 buoys on Lake Martin. Most markers are floating six-foot tall white buoys with orange markings and the orange diamond indicating “hazard”. These buoys are anchored by stainless steel cable and 100-lb. concrete anchors. Some hazards are marked by a pole marker with similar orange and white markings.
Buoy placement is performed by a team of LMRA volunteers using a pontoon boat rigged to handle the process. The cost of the buoy program is paid by LMRA member dues and donations and constitutes 65 percent of the LMRA budget. Buoys contain a buoy number that identifies the GPS location and most buoys contain an LMRA decal that provides the phone number to call if the buoy washes ashore. Some of the buoys are mounted with a solar light which has a one-mile visibility at night. LMRA plans to increase the number as part of it’s “Light up Lake Martin” project
LMRA has prepared a “Buoy Guideline” designed to educate boaters about the significance of buoys and how to approach them. By heeding the guidelines, the boater will be better able to enjoy safe boating on Lake Martin.
No Wake and Boats Keep Out Buoys
Permit requirements
Often, lake property owners and marinas inquire about the placement of a “No Wake” or “Boats Keep Out” buoy. LMRA considers these as “private” buoys. Approval of these buoys is at the discretion of Alabama Marine Police (AMP) and a permit is required. Concern for safety is the primary reason that approval may be granted. When approved, LMRA will purchase and place the buoy. Generally, there will be a charge for “Private” buoys. (Currently, the charge for a non-lighted buoy is $250.)
To request an application, contact ALEA Marine Patrol at 334-676-6005 or marinepatrol@alea.gov.