Floating nests rafts are a solution to this problem. They rise and fall with the water levels so loons can cope more easily. They also provide an alternative since shore line development or recreational use of lakes has limited nesting locations. Floating nests also help protect loon nests from raccoons and other predators.
The dome covering on the rafts also protects the nest from eagles and other predators from the sky.
Loon rafts can be beneficial, but they are not a replacement for natural nesting sites. They are only used in areas where nesting sites have been lost and where successive nests have been unsuccessful. They can do more harm than good if used in areas where loon can nest successfully on their own.