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As we approach autumn and the time when boat hoists and docks are removed for winter storage precautions should be taken to minimize damage to shoreline vegetation. If tires cannot be attached to hoists and the hoist rolled to the shore, barges are normally used.  Forklift barges are flat-bottomed vessels designed for inland lakes to perform heavy lifts of hoists and dock sections. Barges typically have a stable work platform, hydraulic arms that extend for raising and lowering, winch systems for positioning, and hydraulic legs to stabilize the barge when needed, even in soft lake bottoms.  The telescoping forks on the barge allow lifting and gentle placement onto near-shorelines.

There are several reputable boat/hoist installation/removal contractors that work on our twin lakes.