A state water trail is in the process of being photographed in the Argentine Township and Linden areas.

Virginia-based Terrain360 has been floating along the river in a modified pontoon boat that will document a stretch from Holly to Chesaning. The Tri-County Times reports that the boat was in Argentine Township recently and the company also re-did some of the river photos in the Linden area. Five cameras are mounted to the top of the boat and connected to a computer system that takes photos of the river every 50-60 feet, with a 360-degree view. The mapping is being done in stages and it’s described as being similar to Google street maps but for the river. The goal is to inspire people to get out and experience the river and help keep it clean but also see where launch sites are, along with restaurants and restrooms.

The project is being led by Ryan Crenshaw, a boat operator and waterways explorer who is a professional white water rafter guide. He typically paddles the boat and then uses the motor when there is more open space. David Lossing is chair of the Shiawassee River Water Trail Coalition and told the Times a proposal to make it a national water trail is currently with the Department of Interior.

Various groups are contributing financially toward the Shiawassee River project, which will cost approximately $9,240 for the 88 miles. When the project is complete, the public will be able to view 88 miles of the Shiawassee River. The photos will be posted online, likely later this summer, at www.terrain360.com. (JM)