I chose large sewer pipes – 4” diameter 10’ long and (6) 4” caps to seal the pipes with. I cut the pipe into 3 sections. I also bought 3 large eye bolts and 3/16” washers and nuts for them.  For the anchors, I used 3 plastic coffee containers and 3 smaller containers (to weigh the buoys down). 6 medium eye bolts, washers and nuts and 12’ medium chain round out the hardware. A bag of concrete will make the coffee containers anchors.

The small weight is attached to the chain at a length as far down as possible, but not resting on the bottom of the lake. The coffee can is used as the anchor (tied to small weight with nylon rope).  I used a carabineer like clip to attach the small weight to the chain for adjustment of location. The small weight keeps the buoy upright.

I use black plastic lettering to label the buoys and black duck tape to make a loon figure to enhance the message.

When the buoys were done, I placed them about 100’ out in a circle around the ANP to warn boaters to stay back.

That didn't keep the local terns from resting on the buoys though. That buoy was tilted because the water level dropped and the small anchor was setting on the bottom.