A new device for sampling submersed aquatic plants using underwater video

[...]some metrics, such as submersed plant height and morphology (e.g., branching and growth form), are not measureable with typical destructive sampling methods. Wire mesh is attached with cable ties to the metal frame around the camera platform to reduce obstruction of the camera by vegetation. A waterproof camera is affixed to the camera platform and linked via a cable to a tablet computer that remains above the surface (i.e., on a boat, dock, or ice) as the sampling device is submerged. Unlike some camera systems developed for ice fishing, the GoPro camera and iPad tablet are not permanently attached and thus can be used separately for ongoing or future work in and out of the water.