To protect the birds, Mark Mariano uses an expensive arsenal of high-tech tools to keep the birds off the toxic lake.
Mariano told Insider that he gave himself the title of "Waterfowl Protection Specialist."
"We invented that title, but it fits," he told Insider.
He uses aerial drones, a drone boar, and a handheld laser to help keep the birds off the water. Each tool works best for a different species of bird.
One of his favorite tools is a $5,000 Swarovski scope, which can spot the birds before they even get wet.
"If we can get, keep 'em from landing. That's always the best," Mariano explained.
During the peak season, someone like Mariano will go up to the area at least once an hour to ensure birds are safe.
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