Arriving this summer in perfect time for the 2024 fall semester is a catamaran-style research and education vessel.
The ship will lead both educational and research voyages into the waters of western Lake Superior, the Superior Harbor, and the St. Louis River. The ship known as the Sadie Ann is named in honor of Sadie Ann Swenson and made possible by the Swenson Family Foundation.
Proposed rendering of Sadie Ann. | Photo provided by LSRI
While also in partnership with the Lake Superior Research Institute, the Sadie Ann will be managed by the UW-Superior LSRI and be staffed with a captain as well as a crew member and program manager. The program manager and captain will work together in responsibility of the management of the vessel and education programs.
The Sadie Ann is a 65-foot aluminum vessel with a capacity to be able to carry 49 people. The use of the hybrid battery propulsion system is designed to help with a reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. The main deck on the vessel will be home to both wet and dry research labs. As well as a moon pool opening, a hydraulic winch, and an A-Frame. The upper deck is home to a 310 square foot classroom with internet and communication technologies.
Planned Location for the Sadie Ann at Montreal Pier in the Superior Bay. | Photo by Daniel Young
The Sadie Ann will be available to be used by guest educators of all levels and disciplines as well as scientists and researchers from outside the university and citizens of all ages. Research Center Director, Dr. Matthew Teneyck said, “We are excited about the educational opportunities the Sadie Ann will provide for all learners.”
Organizations interested in workforce training and outreach programming will also be able to utilize the vessel and should contact Amy Eliot at her email address aeliot@uwsuper.edu.
