Inland Lake Community Schools touring the M/V Spencer F. Baird. Photo Credit: David Bohn-USFWS

On May 29, the Inland Lake Community Schools of Indian River, MI visited the Cheboygan Vessel base to tour the M/V Spencer F. Baird.  In addition, students also toured two USGS vessels—the R/V Grayling and the R/V Sturgeon.  Dr. Ed Roseman guided tours of the USGS vessels, and Fishery Biologist Scott Koproski of the Alpena National Fish and Wildlife Conservation Office (NFWCO) led tours of the M/V Baird.  M/V Baird Captain Mike Perry and deckhand Dave Bohn also participated in the event. 

While onboard the M/V Baird, biologist Koproski informed students about the Service’s lake trout rehabilitation efforts.  Sea lamprey invasion and control, hatchery lake trout production, and lake trout research and management were also discussed during the tour.  Obviously, the M/V Baird stole the show.  Students learned about the M/V Baird’s primary mission—lake trout stocking—but also gained an understanding of the research capabilities of this unique vessel.  Students toured the wet-lab, saw where gill nets are retrieved and fish are processed during assessment cruises, and entered the pilot house.  They seemed most interested in the pilot house and all the neat electronic equipment it contains.  Captain Perry fielded several questions related to all the monitors, controls, and additional electronics that are located in the pilot house.  A total of 45 students and 10 adults participated in the tour.