What Lies Beneath: Hydrophone Recording of the Boardman River

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Greetings one and all. We have returned from a brief hiatus after the passing of Rhonda’s Dad to venture out to the Boardman River for a hydrophone recording. Hydrowhat? A hydrophone is a specialized microphone used to capture the hidden sounds of aquatic environment that happen beneath the surface of the water. Unlike traditional microphones that are designed to pick up sound waves traveling through the air, hydrophones are engineered to detect sound waves transmitted through the water. These fascinating devices work by converting changes in underwater pressure caused by sound waves into electrical signals. 

The Boardman River begins near Kalkaska, Michigan and meanders around 28 miles through Traverse City until it empties into the Grand Traverse Bay on Lake Michigan. This river is a prime example of a blue ribbon river, offering an exceptional fishing experience for anglers and a pristine habitat for its aquatic residents. One of the key factors that contribute to its blue ribbon status is the health population of brook trout. These trout thrive in the crystal clear waters and diverse ecosystem, which provides the perfect conditions for their growth and reproduction. The blue ribbon designation not only reflects the rivers outstanding water quality and well-managed surroundings ut also highlights the importance of preserving and maintaining such habitats for future generations. 

Recorded just a stone’s throw from the Scheck’s Place Trail Camp with the Zoom F6 Field Recorder and the Aquarian H2A Hydrophone, this episode is a nice look at what lies beneath the river in late winter/early spring. The Trail Camp is maintained by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and is used by equestrians seeking to traverse the Shore to Shore Riding Trail. The Shore to Shore Trail is over 220 miles long and connects Lake Huron to Lake Michigan. Primarily used by horseback riders, the trail is also open to hikers and cross-country skiers. 

I was surprised to see two hearty kayakers on the river today. They stopped at the horse watering hole to take a break as I was packing up my gear. We were all surprised to see someone else on the river and had a great conversation. They had been on the river for about 2 hours and had another hour or so before they concluded their journey at the old Brown Bridge Dam. While they were definitely getting a jump on the kayaking season, their presence signals a gentle swing towards spring and is a very welcome sign. 

Recording Details:

• Date and Time: 3/15/2023 | 3:30PM
• Location: Scheck’s Place Trail Camp, Traverse City, Michigan
• Landscape/Feature: Boardman River
• Conditions: 35F (2C), Sunny, Mild, Light Winds
• Recording Device: Zoom F6 Field Recorder
• Microphone(s): Sonorous Objects SO.1

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