Inland Seas Ship's Blog

Photo of Inland Seas on Cover of Technical Journal

2012-01-26T10:22:00.000-05:00

The Winter 2012 edition of the American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC) technical journal Reference Point features a sunrise photo of Inland Seas at her dock in Suttons Bay. The photo was taken by Tom Kelly about 6 am on a quiet October morning. ABYC is a professional organization made up of boat manufacturers, designers and dealers. They publish the Standards for boat manufacturing, used throughout the industry, and have extensive professional training programs for industry professionals.

Inland Seas at Strictly Sail Chicago

2012-01-26T09:41:00.000-05:00

If you are a sailor and in Chicago this weekend, check out Stictly Sail Chicago at Navy Pier. ISEA is sharing a booth with Maritime Heritage Alliance, thanks to our mutual friend Rorke Miller. We could not send any ISEA staff, but our display and literature, including the summer sailing schedule, will be there. --T. Kelly

Asian Carp Exhibit Under Construction

2012-01-25T11:42:00.000-05:00

ISEA will soon have a new exhibit in its Great Lakes Invaders series. The Asian Carp exhibit, funded by a grant from the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa & Chippewa Indians, will be completed in February.

Our Exhibit Design Consultants Angela and Erik Saxon work with ISEA's Emily Shaw on the Exhibit Content

ISEA Volunteer Ken Cerny installs the Exhibit Table (Donated by Strata Design)

Table and Back Panel in Place

Asian Carp (Bighead and Silver) Models Ready for Wall Mounting

For the latest information on the Asian carp and efforts to keep them out of the Great Lakes click on the following two links: http://asiancarp.us/ and http://www.glmris.anl.gov/

Crew Training - Critical Decisions 2012

2012-01-25T10:37:00.005-05:00

Last evening the crews from Madeline, Welcome, Champion, Manitou and Inland Seas gathered at the Center Point building in Traverse City to discuss and analyze several boating accidents that occurred to three different vessels (WingNuts, Rambler100 and Concordia). There were 26 people in attendance including representatives from the U. S. Coast Guard and the National Weather Service.

Justin Arnott of the National Weather Service in Gaylord explains the July 17, 2011 storm that blasted the Mackinac Race.

Steve Wetherbee of Northport takes the mystery out of vessel stability calculations

Thanks to the presenters Justin Arnott (NWS), Andy Sullivan (NWS) and Steve Wetherbee, and to Center Point for providing the conference room.

Follow-up recommended reading: Seamanship, The Forgotten Factor by C. A. Marchaj and Tall Ships Down by D. S. Parrot

Here are my Lessons Learned from the 2011 Capsizings:

1. Inventory all deck openings and means of closing

2. Develop checklist for post-lightning strike (click to see check list)

3. Add 3 HH VHF radios to ship: 1 in forward scuttle for bow crew, 1 for rescue boat (kept in boat),
1 for amidships- kept near 1st aid boxes

4. Add squall drill to crew training exercises (goal it to minimize time to lower sail in an emergency).

5. Review IS stability information with all captains and mates. Add stability section to IS Operations Manual.

6. Review weather information sources & interpretation with captains and mates.

7. Review location of all lifesaving gear for easy access in event of knockdown. Drill crew on gear locations (find blindfolded).

8. Add to Standing Orders: “In unsettled (squally) weather conditions, the first washboard will be fitted to each companionway to the weather deck”. Also “Keep ports closed and dogged”.

9. Add to Standing Orders: “Night operations: All deck crew shall have a handheld VHF radio, light, harness snapped into jackline, knife and whistle”.

10. Post Vessel Information Sheet by telephone in ship’s office ashore and at home. (Staple to Emergency Communications List)

11. Inspect all harnesses and replace any that do not have quick release snap shackles on one end.

Check back for additional info later. Leave comments in the box below. Thanks, Tom Kelly

Sturgeon Feeding Frenzy

2012-01-14T15:38:00.002-05:00

Here are ISEA's five little lake sturgeon feeding on bloodworms and mysis shrimps.

Learn more about efforts to rehabilitate Lake Michigan's lake sturgeon populations on February 14 when Marty Holtgren of the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians presents "Sturgeon Research in the Great Lakes and Planning for their Future" at the next ISEA Great Lakes Seminar.

Tuesday February 14

7pm

Inland Seas Education Center, Suttons Bay

Free and Open to the Public

This Week at ISEA

2012-01-09T09:50:00.001-05:00

Monday Morning 1-9-2011 at ISEA

This Week at ISEA:

Tueday 1-10-12: ISEA Great Lakes Seminar on Climate Change and Great Lakes Water Levels. 7pm at the Education Center in Suttons Bay. Free.

Wednesday 1-11-12: Great Lake Association of Science Ships meeting, Traverse City.

Wednesday 1-11-12: ISEA Volunteer Instructor Training Class #2. Free. Call ISEA to register.

Thursday 1-13-12: Great Lakes Captain's Meeting, Traverse City.

Friday: 1-14-12: Great Lakes Captain's Meeting, Travrese City.

Friday: 1-14-12: "Handy Billy" a great Maritime band will be performing live at Horizon Books on Friday, Jan. 13 at 8:30 pm - 10:30 pm. Come on down and plan to tap your toes, clap your hands, and join a sing-a-long or two. Check out Handy Billy on Facebook.

Next ISEA Great Lakes Seminar to Feature Climate Change and Lake Levels

2012-01-06T14:20:00.001-05:00

Global Climate Change and the Changing Great Lakes Levels - Presented by Drew Gronewold

Remember last January?

Suttons Bay, MI – The Inland Seas Education Association will present a seminar focusing on the changing Great Lakes levels and Global Climate Change at 7:00pm on Tuesday, January 10th, at the Inland Seas Education Center in Suttons Bay. The program will be presented by Drew Gronewold, Hydrologist and Physical Scientist with NOAA's Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory in Ann Arbor. This seminar is FREE and OPEN TO THE PUBLIC.

NOAA, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, is a federal agency focused on the condition of the oceans and the atmosphere. Groewold will be speaking about his research in the field as well as the implications from human activities.

A little bit about Drew Gronewold:
Education:
Ph.D., Duke University, Environmental Science and Policy, 2008
B.S., Cornell University, Civil and Environmental Engineering, 1995

Research Interests:
Hydrological and water quality modeling with a focus on propagating uncertainty and variability into model-based management decisions. Specific research areas include predicting runoff in ungauged basins, recreational water quality dynamics in Great Lakes Beaches, and incorporating probability theory and Bayesian statistics into watershed-scale forecasting models.

For further information contact the Inland Seas Education Association at (231) 271-3077 or on the web at http://www.schoolship.org/.

2012 Volunteer Instructor Class #1, January 4th

2012-01-06T12:43:00.000-05:00

ISEA Education Coordinator Emily Shaw leading the first session of the Volunteer Instructor Class

This first class of the Volunteer Instructor Class was an orientation to the organization and an overview of the shipboard education program. We had 30 people in attendance, of which about half were new volunteers and half were veterans.

If you would like to help to teach on the Schoolship this year, it is not too late to join us. Our 12 week class meets every Wednesday evening from 6:30 to 8:30 pm at Room 112, Great Lakes Campus of NMC. Call Emily at the ISEA office to register 231-271-3077. The complete class schedule is available by clicking here.

Thanks for a Great Year at Inland Seas

2011-12-30T11:54:00.000-05:00

A Great Thank You to all those who volunteered, donated goods and services, and contributed funds to Inland Seas during 2011. We had a great year which included sailing with our 90,000th student. We are already planning a great 2012, and I hope you will have a chance to sail and learn with us in the coming year.

Inland Seas at the Schooner Festival, September 2011. Linde photo.

Leaving St. James, Beaver Island, last year. F. Solle photo.

Hauling up the trawl.

Happy sailer/scientists, despite the rain.

If you would like to make a year-end donation to help ISEA in its work of Great Lakes Education, just click here and the rest is easy. And many thanks!

Happy New Year,
Capt. Tom and the Crew at ISEA

Building the Schooner Inland Seas Program to be Repeated Dec. 29

2011-12-28T14:41:00.001-05:00

Here is another teaser photograph from my presentation to be given on Thursday December 29 at 3pm at the Inland Seas Education Center...

Homeward Bound in the Atlantic, June 7, 1994. Rick Steenersen at the helm.

Jerry Dennis Speaks, Stone Hut Films....

2011-12-22T08:58:00.001-05:00

I think you will enjoy this video by Stone Hut Studios, with Jerry Dennis reading from his new book Windward Shore. A gift to and of the Great Lakes. Thanks Jerry and Aaron. http://vimeo.com/33752811
-Capt. Tom

ISEA Holiday Open House Today at 4 - 6 pm

2011-12-21T09:31:00.000-05:00

Please join us today at the Inland Seas Education Center in Suttons Bay for some Holiday Cheer. Drop in anytime between 4 and 6 pm. We have a collection bin here for the Leelanau Christian Neighbors Food Pantry, so bring a can of food so others can smile this Christmas. - Capt. Tom

2012 Volunteer Instructor Class to Begin January 4th

2011-12-21T09:10:00.002-05:00

Become an Inland Seas Education Association (ISEA) Volunteer Instructor and help provide students with a unique Schoolship experience. Not sure if you want to become a volunteer? Come to the introductory session to learn more about volunteering for ISEA. No experience required!

The volunteer instructor training course takes place on Wednesday evenings January 4 through March 21 from 6:30-8:30pm in room 112 of the NMC Water Studies Institute in Traverse City (715 E. Front Street). Classes include an educational presentation and hands-on activities led by ISEA staff and experienced Volunteer Instructors. If Traverse City Schools are closed due to weather, no class will be held that evening.

For more information and a complete schedule of the class, click here. To register for the class, call Emily Shaw, ISEA Volunteer Coordinator, at 231-271-3077.

On the Beach this Morning at ISEA

2011-12-20T09:27:00.000-05:00

An early morning walk along the ISEA waterfront offered up these scenes. What a gift it is to live and work here. Enjoy.

Frank Weese's Fishing Boat

Geese, swans, ducks

Capt. Tom's Skiff

Sad end for a fox

Sand Spit

Broadway Drain, to be diverted next year into the SB Wetland

Model Friendship Sloop

Thanks for sharing this walk with me....Capt. Tom

Building the Schooner Inland Seas Program to be Repeated Dec. 29

2011-12-16T09:05:00.000-05:00

I will repeat the program "Building the Schooner Inland Seas" on Thursday December 29 at 3pm in the Inland Seas Education Center. If you missed it the first time here is a second chance. --Capt. Tom

Welding on plating at the stern, fall 1993. Mark Treworgy is at the right.

How to Build a Schooner - Find out this coming Tuesday, Dec. 13th.

2011-12-09T14:34:00.001-05:00

Here is another photo from my upcoming seminar on designing, building and sailing home the 77' schooner Inland Seas. Hope you can join us on Tuesday Dec. 13th, 7pm, at the Inland Seas Education Center in Suttons Bay. --Capt. Tom

Mark Treworgy setting up frames, 1993

Note: This program will be repeated on Thursday December 29, 3pm at the Inland Seas Education Center

Where in the Great Lakes Are We?

2011-12-07T17:11:00.001-05:00

This is my favorite harbor in Lake Michigan. Inland Seas visits here each July. Where are we?

For a hint, and a look at the entire shoreline of the UP, go to the Shoreviewer web site.

-Capt. Tom

Round Goby Invades Streams

2011-11-25T08:40:00.000-05:00

See the video of round goby invasion of streams in Wisconsin. Click here! --Capt. Tom

Round Goby. Photo by Chris Doyle.

Historic Changes to the Lower Food Web of Lake Michigan

2011-11-25T08:32:00.001-05:00

If you missed Gary Fahnenstiel's presentation at the Freshwater Summit in October here is the video produced by Bob Russell: Click Here This is required viewing for anyone trying to understand what's happening in Lake Michigan. Gary Fahnenstiel works for the NOAA Great Lakes Environmental Laboratory in Muskegon. --Capt. Tom

Quagga Mussel

"Building the Schoolship Inland Seas" is Topic of December 13th Seminar

2011-11-24T07:40:00.001-05:00

Tom Kelly, ISEA's Executive Director, will present an illustrated discussion of the design, construction and sea trials of the schooner Inland Seas on December 13th at 7pm. The presentation is part of ISEA's monthly Great Lakes Seminar Series and will be held at the Inland Seas Education Center in Suttons Bay. The program is free and open to the public. Many of the delivery crew will be present to offer their remembrances of the trip from the Palm Coast, Florida shipyard to Grand Traverse Bay in 1994.

The Treworgy Yachts building crew pose in front of the hull of Inland Seas, Palm Coast FL.
Mark and Toni Treworgy are in the center.

Dry Dock Inspection Completed

2011-11-15T12:26:00.000-05:00

Yesterday the Coast Guard inspectors from Sault Ste. Marie were at Inland Seas to do the Dry Dock Hull Inspection. They inspected the hull plating, internal structures, seacocks, and drive train. We passed the inspection with no problems. They will be back for our annual in-water inspection in June.

The ship is covered now, and all systems laid up for the winter. We will continue with maintenance tasks throughout the winter months.

Liberty is also ashore at Northport Bay Boatyard. She will be covered soon.

Liberty at NBBY, Nov. 2011

-Capt. Tom Kelly

Climate Change and the Great Lakes

2011-11-11T17:08:00.001-05:00

Get the climate change facts from Don Scavia at University of Michigan. Don Scavia is Graham Family Professor and Director, Graham Sustainability Institute; Special Counsel to the U-M President on Sustainability; Professor, School of Natural Resources & Environment; and Professor, Civil and Environmental Engineering.

Prof. Don Scavia

This is a 33 minute video, so find some quality time for yourself, and you will be well rewarded for your interest.

Click here to begin the video Climate Change in the Great Lakes Region.

--Tom Kelly

Upcoming Great Lakes Seminars at Inland Seas Education Center, Suttons Bay

2011-11-08T11:36:00.004-05:00

November 8, 2011
“Meeting the Challenge of Stormwater Pollution”
Sarah U’Ren
Program Director
The Watershed Center

December 13, 2011
“Building the Schoolship Inland Seas”
Tom Kelly
Executive Director & Captain
Inland Seas Education Association

December 29, 2011
“Building the Schoolship Inland Seas”
Tom Kelly
Executive Director & Captain
Inland Seas Education Association
(repeat of Dec. 13 program)

January 10, 2012
“Changes in Great Lakes Water Levels and Global Climate Change”
Drew Gronewold
Hydrologist and Physical Scientist
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

February 14, 2012
"Sturgeon Research in the Great Lakes"
Marty Holtgren
Senior Inland Fisheries Biologist
Little River Band of Ottawa Indians

March 13, 2012
“Sea Lamprey Barrier Methods”
Michael Wagner
Assistant Professor and PERM Scientist
East Lansing, MI

Free Seminar Tonight on Stormwater Treatment Techniques

2011-11-08T11:14:00.000-05:00

Suttons Bay, MI – The Inland Seas Education Association will present a seminar focusing on stormwater treatment within the Great Lakes watershed at 7:00pm on Tuesday, November 8th, at the Inland Seas Education Center in Suttons Bay. The program will be presented by Sarah U’Ren, Program Director at the Watershed Center Grand Traverse Bay. This seminar is FREE and OPEN TO THE PUBLIC.

Outfall of Broadway Street Drain in Suttons Bay

Plume of contaminated water in Suttons Bay from Broadway Drain after rain event.

The Watershed Center is a non-profit organization located in Traverse City, dedicated to the protection of our water resources in Grand Traverse Bay. They work within the entire 1,000 square mile watershed to advocate for clean water through public education and on-the-ground projects. One such project currently underway is working towards improved runoff filtration systems in Suttons Bay and Traverse City. Land use management within the watershed is an important aspect of maintaining water quality, as poor land use practices can lead to public health concerns and degraded ecosystem health. “By managing runoff from the three largest storm drains in Suttons Bay, we hope to drastically decrease public health risks at local beaches associated with runoff,” says U’Ren.

Inland Seas' Winter Cover Installed

2011-11-05T07:24:00.000-04:00

The crew put in a long day on Friday, November 4th. We got the winter cover on and the plastic heat shrunk around the sides. Monday we will return to finish shrinking the top portion of the cover. This can be done from the inside. Then we will be ready for the icy blasts of winter.

Larry and Allen rigging the strapping that will hold the lower edge of the cover.

Bob and Jan rolling our the plastic sheet that will form the cover.

Putting heat-shrink tape around the masts.

One side of the cover has been secured. The other (stbd) side is being secured along the centerline with a wooden batten.

Port side of cover in place. The aft section was later covered with an athwart piece of plastic sheet.

Inside view with cover in place, prior to heat shrinking.

The Cover is secured for the weekend. Monday we will finish up the heat shrining from inside.

Inland Seas' Topsides Painted on November 1st

2011-11-02T10:09:00.001-04:00

We got a break in the weather on Tuesday Nov. 1 and painted the topsides and bulwarks. There was a little rain in the afternoon, but then the sun came out and we finished the day with temps. in the low 50's. The next, and probably final painting day this year will be this coming Friday when more sun is forecast.

We also removed the engine raw water impeller (in good shape) and drive belts (4 - will replace all and keep older ones for spares).

Thanks to Bob, Jan, and Larry for your help.

Jan and Bob applying the topsides "Sea Green" paint.

Tom taking it easy in the bow net.

Larry removing blocks from Libety's mast prior to refinishing.

Liberty Hauled Out at Northport Bay Boatyard

2011-10-27T11:05:00.000-04:00

Liberty was hauled out at Northport Bay Boat Yard this morning. Thanks to NBBY for their good work on our behalf. The mast will be unstepped for slushing before winter sets in (coming soon!). Thanks to Larry Good and Len Klein for getting Liberty to Northport.

Liberty was donated to Inland Seas by ISEA member David Shelby. We are planning a full season of Mini-Schoolship programs aboard Liberty in 2012 for groups up to six passengers.

Inland Seas On the Hard, Day 4 - October 26, 2011

2011-10-26T20:40:00.001-04:00

Today the crew (Capt. Tom, Allen & Bob) purged the potable water system with compressed air and flushed the head intakes and drains with red pop (non-toxic antifreeze). Yesterday Allen and Bob drained the muffler, FW pumps and filters.

We also finished sanding the topsides and began on the hull bottom. Also working on bulwarks, which have some rust that takes a bit of time to grind away and treat with two primers.

We are hoping to paint early next week. --Capt. Tom

Allen Wolfe - the well equipped schooner sander

Bob Hagerman works on preping the bottom

Almost ready for paint

Inland Seas On the Hard, Day 2

2011-10-25T03:59:00.000-04:00

Today (Monday, 10-24-11) we set up scaffolding and ladders and began refinishing work on the schooner. We got the port stopsides and rudder sanded, and some nasty rust removed and treated on the port bulwark. We also removed the MaxProp propeller. Workers today were Allen Wolfe, Bob Hagerman, Jan Hale and Tom K. Weather was sunny, low 50's and windy. Rain is forecast on Tuesday, so probably no outside work.

Allen working on bulwark

Max Prop being disassembled

Max Prop apart

Port topsides sanded and ready for paint

Inland Seas Hauled Out at Northport Bay Boatyard

2011-10-22T09:01:00.000-04:00

Friday, October 21, 2011. The Schoolship Inland Seas was hauled out for the winter at Northport Bay Boatyard. Next week we begin sanding and painting the hull. The rudder will be removed to allow service to the propeller and installation of a new stern bearing. Contact the ISEA office if you would like to help with maintenance on the ship this week. Thanks to NBBY for a great job of hauling!
-Capt. Tom Kelly

On our way to NBBY with the winter house frame already in place.

High & dry for the first time in three years.

IS's Mate Allen Wolfe and Deckhand Bob Hagerman watch the action.

A good day, and the sun just came out.
Allen, Tom, Emily, Bob, Kathy

Zebra & quagga mussels on the rudder.

Emily removing the mussels to add to the Education Center's Touch Tank.

Very Cool Limnology in Antarctica

2011-10-19T11:22:00.000-04:00

Searching for benthic life in an ancient Antarctic lake. Read about it here.

Asian Carp Found in North Dakota

2011-10-19T10:51:00.001-04:00

Silver Carp have been found in the James River in North Dakota. Read about it here.

James River Watershed

Asian Carp From Illinois

Join ISEA at the Bioneers Conference This Weekend

2011-10-14T10:35:00.000-04:00

The 10th Annual Bioneers Conference begins today in Traverse City. ISEA will have an information table there. Stop in and say hello. Don't forget the Earthworks concert tonight, 8pm at the Dennos.

Our local Great Lakes Bioneers Conference is organized in a partnership between the Neahtawanta Center and SEEDS. Bioneers come in all ages. The GLB Conference supports families through our family-friendly workshops, food, and spaces.

The Impact of Hydraulic Fracturing - Presentation Monday at Leelanau Govt. Center

2011-10-14T09:50:00.000-04:00

Dr. Grenetta Thomassey, Program Director at Tip of the Mitt Watershed Council will speak at the
Leelanau County Government Center Community Meeting Room Monday, October 17th, From 5:30 to 7:00 p.m.

Fruit, cheese and beverages at 5:00 p.m.

Free and open to the public

RSVP appreciated, call (231)256-9812 or email Karen at: khall@co.leelanau.mi.us

Dr. Thomassey will discuss:

 Where the millions of gallons of water used in each fracking well comes from

 What chemicals are added to the water for the fracking process

 Where the wastewater from fracking goes

COAST GUARD AIR STATION TRAVERSE CITY OPEN HOUSE THIS SATURDAY

2011-10-13T12:40:00.000-04:00

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. – The United States Coast Guard Air Station in Traverse City is hosting an Open House on Saturday, October 15, 2011 from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm. The Open House will highlight the Coast Guard’s mission, equipment and highly trained personnel serving the Great Lakes region as well as celebrate the remarkable achievements of 100 years of Naval Aviation. The Centennial of Naval Aviation will bring with it several aircraft rarely seen in Northern Michigan including the C-130 Long Range Patrol Aircraft, the HU-25 Falcon Patrol Airplane and the newest fixed-wing aircraft in the Coast Guard inventory, the HC-144 Ocean Sentry.

Rain or shine, meet the real-life heroes of the United States Coast Guard, the Coast Guard Auxiliary and first responders from the Grand Traverse Community. Get a close-up look at their rescue equipment and learn firsthand why they are known as the “Great Lakes Guardians.” Rescue demonstrations using the Air Station’s MH-65C Dolphin helicopter will showcase their unique capabilities at 11:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m.

Static displays will include:
MH-65C Dolphin rescue helicopter
C-130 Hercules Long Range Patrol Airplane
HC-144 Ocean Sentry Patrol Airplane
HU-25 Falcon Patrol Airplane
25’ Coast Guard rescue boat from Station Charlevoix
Coast Guard Auxiliary Airplanes
Cherry Capital Airport’s Striker 3000 Crash/Fire Rescue Truck
Civil Air Patrol Search Airplane
GT Sheriff Dive Team & rescue vessel
Red Cross First Response Vehicle
and more…

Pizza and drinks will be available for purchase with all proceeds benefiting Air Station Morale activities. This event is open to general public and completely handicapped accessible.

For more information on this event, please contact the Public Affairs Officer at Air Station Traverse City, LTJG Chris Breuer. During non-business hours, please contact the duty desk at 231-922-8212.

Early Morning at the Schoolship Dock

2011-10-11T09:34:00.000-04:00

Down-rigging continues on Inland Seas. Yesterday we removed the sails, PFD boxes, science gear, some running rigging and cleaned out the galley. Today the topmasts will come down.

Tuesday October 11, 2011

View from Aloft, 10-10-11

Former Schoolship Intern Emily Tyner to Present Seminar on Botulism

2011-10-06T12:22:00.000-04:00

What’s Happening in the Lake? Food Web and Botulism Dynamics in Northern Lake Michigan

Suttons Bay, MI – Emily Tyner of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore will present a public seminar on botulism in northern Lake Michigan. She will be focusing on recent changes in food web structure and dissolved oxygen dynamics. The program will be held on Monday October 10 at 7 pm at the Inland Seas Education Center in Suttons Bay. This seminar is free and open to the public.

The Great Lakes ecosystem has been subject to massive changes in recent years. The invasive zebra and quagga mussels have greatly altered the food web and concentrated nutrients on the lake bottom while clearing the water column of phytoplankton. This has caused a decrease in populations of native invertebrates and fish. The arrival of the round goby has also created havoc on the lake bottom. The combination of invasive mussels and gobies has resulted in an increase of botulism deaths to native fish and water birds. Emily Tyner’s research at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is attempting to determine the complex relationships within the nearshore food web and to find ways to mitigate fish and bird deaths from botulism.

Emily Tyner, a native of Ann Arbor, began her career interest in the Great Lakes as a summer intern with the Inland Seas Education Association. She is now employed by the National Park Service and is working on her Masters Degree at the University of Wisconsin Great Lakes Water Institute in Milwaukee.

You can see a new video featuring Emily Tyner and her work (and the Schoolship!) by clicking here.

Round goby, quagga mussels and algae...a sometimes deadly combination that results in botulism deaths of water birds and native fishes.

Former Schoolship Students, Now Teachers, Bring Their Students To Inland Seas

2011-10-06T08:53:00.001-04:00

Thirteen years ago Darryl Dimon and Katie Barbar sailed aboard the Schoolship Malabar as Kalkaska Middle School Students. Yesterday they returned to the Schoolship with their own classes of 7th grade Kalkaska students. "I just can't keep away from the Schoolship" said Dimon. "It's so important for students to experience their classroom lessons in real life" added Barber.

Kalkaska Teachers and Schoolship Alumnae Katie Barber and Darryl Dimon

Hauling in the Trawl

Hauling up the Anchor

"This made my day" - Capt. Tom

Final Week of Schoolship 2011 - Safety Talk

2011-10-04T10:19:00.001-04:00

Here Capt. Allen Wolfe is giving the pre-boarding Safety Briefing to students from Kalkaska Middle School. It is a perfect October morning - light wind, warm and bright. To see the entire Safety Briefing click here.

Capt. Allen Wolfe - October 4, 2011

Traverse City Record Eagle Editorial Features ISEA's 90,000th Student Achievement

2011-09-30T09:01:00.000-04:00

This mornings's Traverse City Record Eagle Editorial page featured the ISEA Schoolship and its 90,000th student. Read all about it at http://record-eagle.com/ourview/x857817/90-000-plus-Schoolship-educates-entire-generation

Suttons Bay-Leelanau Rotary Club Partnership

2011-09-29T10:16:00.000-04:00

The Suttons Bay-Leelanau Rotary Club and Rotary Charities of Traverse City have been supporting ISEA's Scholarship Program for Leelanau County Schools for years. Read about it here: http://www.rotaryannualreport.org/grant-topic/suttons-bay-rotary-club/.

Thanks Rotarians! --Capt. Tom

Foggy Morning at the Schoolship

2011-09-29T09:37:00.000-04:00

The sun rises through the fog at the ISEA Schooner Dock in Suttons Bay. Getting ready for Blair Elementary this afternoon then securing for the big blow tonight and tomorrow. T. Kelly photo.

Jerry Dennis Publishes New Great Lakes Book

2011-09-26T16:44:00.001-04:00

This from Jerry Dennis:

Dear Friends,

I'm pleased to announce the publication of The Windward Shore: A Winter on the Great Lakes, my first full-length book since The Living Great Lakes. It’s available now in bookstores coast to coast, on land and online. I hope you’ll check it out. The cover art and interior wood engravings are by the incomparable Glenn Wolff, with whom I’m always delighted and honored to collaborate. If you like the book, tell your friends!

For those of you in the area, the official launch party is this Friday, September 30, at Horizon Books in downtown Traverse City, MI. The festivities run from 6-8 pm, with Chateau Chantel wine, cheese, and a motley crew of book lovers, friends, street musicians, bewildered passersby, and my mom and dad. I’ll be talking about the book and reading a bit from it, and of course can be persuaded to sign copies of the highly collectible, virtually priceless first edition, while they last.

More about the launch party is here: http://www.horizonbooks.com/event/book-launch-party-jerry-dennis-windward-shore-winter-great-lakes

For more about the book, including a link to an excerpt and a schedule of events to come, go to my website: http://www.jerrydennis.net/

Hope you’re enjoying the change of seasons. Onward to winter!

Best Wishes,
Jerry

Leland Heritage Day - Sept. 17, 2011

2011-09-18T09:05:00.000-04:00

Thanks to all ISEA Volunteers who helped with our information display and Boat Shop exhibit.

Inland Seas Fall Sailing Schedule

2011-09-17T14:20:00.002-04:00

Schooner Inland Seas - Fall 2011 Sailing Schedule

“Great Lakes Schoolship Program”

September 9 – 11: Michigan Schooner Festival

September 12: NMC Watershed Studies Class

September 13: NMC Watershed Studies Class

September 14: Lake Shore High School, Stephensville – 2 classes

September 15: St. Francis of Assisi, Ann Arbor 7th grade – 2 classes

September 19: Traverse City West HS, German Exchange Students

September 20: Willow Hill 5th grade

September 21: Willow Hill 5th grade

September 22: Willow Hill 5th grade

September 23: Greenspire School 7th grade & Groves High School

September 27: Concord Montessori, Mancelona

September 28: Concord Montessori, Mancelona

September 29: Blair Elementary School, Traverse City

September 30: Blair Elementary School, Traverse City

October 3: NMC Ethics Class – 2 classes

October 4: Kalkaska 7th grade

October 5 : Kalkaska 7th grade

October 6: Kalkaska 7th grade

Fish Station aboard Inland Seas

90,000th Schoolship Student Aboard Inland Seas

2011-09-16T17:26:00.000-04:00

The Inland Seas Education Association welcomed its 90,000th student on board the 77’ schooner Inland Seas on Thursday September 15, 2011. The 90,000th Schoolship participant, Will, is a 7th grade student at St. Francis Assisi in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Will was given ISEA gifts and apparel and the whole class received ISEA wrist bands and shared in a big cake with an image of the schooner on the frosting. The group was led by Sister Rebecca Mierendorf.
Executive Director and Captain, Tom Kelly, said, “This is a really exciting day for Inland Seas and the students of St. Francis. We had a great sailing day on Suttons Bay with our young scientists. After 23 years it is good to see that our mission of Great Lakes education continues to be relevant and vital to the entire Great Lakes region.”

90,000th Student Will with Capt. Tom Kelly

90,000th Schoolship Student Sails on Thursday

2011-09-14T20:54:00.003-04:00

Thursday morning, 9-15-11, ISEA will host its 90,000th Schoolship student when St. Francis of Assisi Middle School from Ann Arbor sails with us. Join us for a short celebration at the dock at 12:30 when we return from the morning sail. - Capt. Tom Kelly

September Comes to Suttons Bay

2011-09-06T09:29:00.001-04:00

Early Morning at the Dock - 48 Degrees F, but sunny.

We will be getting the boat ready for the fall season this week...painting, cleaning, rigging. If you would like to help the crew, give me a call at 271-3077. --Capt. Tom

Inland Seas Visits Charlevoix and Little Traverse Bay - You can sail with us!

2011-08-13T13:09:00.000-04:00

Visit or Sail with Inland Seas this week.

Monday, August 15:

Dockside Open House (Charlevoix) tours aboard the schoolship Inland Seas in Charlevoix, Michigan, will provide an opportunity to learn about the 77-foot schooner, without leaving the dock. From 7:00–8:30pm. Free and open to the public.

Tuesday, August 16:

Making the Great Lakes Great Sail (Charlevoix) is a unique opportunity to experience the Great Lakes as you become a scientist for the day. You will gain an understanding of the health of the Great Lakes and how it is determined, as well as issues that face the Great Lakes and the plans to address these issues. From 9:00am-12:00pm in Charlevoix. Free and open to the public. Ages 5 and up.

Dockside Open House (Bay Harbor) tours aboard the schoolship Inland Seas at Bay Harbor, Michigan, will provide an opportunity to learn about the 77-foot schooner, without leaving the dock. From 7:00–8:30pm. Free and open to the public.

Wednesday, August 17:

Making the Great Lakes Great (Bay Harbor). Sorry, this trip is filled.

Dockside Open House (Petoskey) tours aboard the schoolship Inland Seas in Petoskey, Michigan, will provide an opportunity to learn about the 77-foot schooner, without leaving the dock. From 7:00–8:30pm. Free and open to the public.

Thursday, August 18:

Making the Great Lakes Great (Petoskey). Experience the Great Lakes as you become a scientist for the day. You will gain an understanding of the health of the Great Lakes and how it is determined, as well as issues that face the Great Lakes and the plans to address these issues. From 9:00am-12:00pm in Petoskey. Free and open to the public. Ages 5 and up.

These programs are sponsored by the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, in partnership with Grand Valley State’s Annis Water Resources Institute, Michigan State University Extension, Michigan Sea Grant, and BaySail.

The Inland Seas Education Association is a non-profit organization based in Suttons Bay, Michigan, dedicated to science education on the Great Lakes. Its shipboard and shore-side education programs are designed to inspire young people’s interest in science and to provide for the long-term stewardship of the Great Lakes. For further information contact the Inland Seas Education Association at (231) 271-3077 or on the web at www.schoolship.org.

News of Sea Lamprey Repellant

2011-08-09T16:58:00.000-04:00

Research at MSU has come up with a potential sea lamprey repellant. Learn more by clicking here.

Sea Lamprey caught in the Boardman River on display at the Inland Seas Education Center
Donated by the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa & Chippewa Indians who operate the lamprey trap on the Boardman River.

Inland Seas at Great Lakes Maritime Academy

2011-08-08T11:23:00.001-04:00

Inland Seas will be at the Great Lakes Maritime Academy in Traverse City until Tuesday morning.
The vessel in the foreground is GLMA's R/V Northwestern

To see a video of the recent sunken barge found by the R/V Northwestern, click here.

More Photos of the LSSU Oceanography Trip

2011-08-05T20:28:00.000-04:00

Prof. Derek approaching the Bridge

Tyler

Tom Kastle under the the "Big Mac"

Good Sailing! (Kathy K. in her new Beaver Island hat)

Capt. Tom with the ill-fated core sampler - we never did get it to work.

This Week Aboard Inland Seas...

2011-08-05T05:00:00.003-04:00

This week aboard Inland Seas we hosted the Lake Superior State Univesity Oceanography classs taught by Prof. Derek Wright. We sailed from St. Ignace on Monday and after trawling and doing a limnology station off St. Ignace,we headed under the Mackinac Bridge for Beaver Island. We spent two days a St. James, sampling on the east side of the island and at the harbor mouth.

We waited out a blow (as usual) and left on Wednesday afternoon. We had smooth downwind sailing until we got out of the lee of the island. Then big swells refracting around the island met us on the beam, producing a lot of rolling. This lasted about an hour until we got clear of the island's effects and the waves were coming up on our quarter, which made life aboard much easier. We arrived at Northport at sunset. Everyone was ready for a shower and a walk ashore.

Today was our big sampling day, with trawls at Hall Bay and Omena, and limnoloy stations at Northport Point, Omeana, and Lee Point (405 ft.). We arrived at Power Island in time for a cook out ashore, followed by a hike up to the Eagle's Nest overlook.

We are anchored tonight at Bowers Harbor. On my 4 - 5 am watch I heard owls hooting, saw several meteors, satellites, the moons of Jupiter, and millions of stars.

Gray's Reef Light

Eric and Tom Kastle at the helm

Alex and PONAR Dredge

Dr. Wright

Anchored at Power Island

Titrations continued late into the evening

Comment from Prof. Wright: "My students learned more in the first morning aboard than in a semester of class work".

-Capt. Tom

Found on the Beach Today

2011-07-26T18:39:00.000-04:00

Some photos taken today on the Lake Michigan beaches of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. I was there with my daughter Emma while she did e-coli sampling.

A few alewives and Cladophera near Platte River mouth

Dead sturgeon (~3.5 ft TL) near Otter Creek

Beached tour vessel Pictured Rocks south of N. Bar Lake

Looking NE from Platte River mouth

See Sea Lamprey Videos

2011-07-14T13:59:00.000-04:00

Click here for two new sea lamprey videos you should watch.

Inland Seas Returns From Escanaba

2011-07-14T08:57:00.002-04:00

Capt. Remy Champt brought Inland Seas home from Escanaba yesterday. He reported a rough ride for the first part of the journey, but good sailing for the remaining 12 hour crossing. Our next public program will be Friday morning's Family Ecology Sail (sold out). You can visit Inland Seas all day on Saturday July 16 at ISEA's Summer Festival.

Inland Seas at Escanaba - John McDonough photo

For a newspaper reports on one of our Escanaba programs, click here and here.

Inland Seas at Escanaba

2011-07-06T08:28:00.000-04:00

Preparing to launch message in a bottle (science is fun!)

Where are we?

Making 9+ mph on broad reach

Inland Seas arrived at Escanaba after a 12 houir, 6 minute passage from Suttons Bay. Motorsailed most of the way, but finished with a long reach up Little Bay de Noc making 9 - 11 mph with 3 lower sails. Welcomed to Esky by Maria and a committee working on the Tall Ship Festival here. Big thunderstorm hit about an hour after arrival. -Capt. Tom

ISEA Underwater Camera - DockCam - Back in Operation

2011-07-01T10:25:00.000-04:00

Visit the Inland Seas Education Center in Suttons Bay and see the ISEA DockCam in action. Our next step is to get this on our web site.

Thanks to Lee Hepner and Phil Loud for getting this system running again.

Kim Biocchi - June 23, 2011

2011-06-25T14:37:00.002-04:00

Kim left us on June 23 but her memory and the fruits of her work continue here at ISEA.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday June 30, 6 pm, at the Suttons Bay Congregational Church, followed by a gathering at the Inland Seas Education Center. All are welcome.

Click here for more photos of Kim

Little Sturgeon

2011-06-24T12:18:00.000-04:00

This young little sturgeon is one of several swimming about in the Inland Seas Education Association's viewable fishtank. Sturgeon are ancient creatures that can grow over a dozen feet in length and live for over 100 years. They are an endangered species and a rare sight.

What's Blooming in the Wetland

2011-06-22T14:52:00.004-04:00

Prairie Smoke (native to southern MI counties)

Coreopsis

Oxeye Daisy (Red Clover in background, both are exotic species)

Snapping Turtle 6-21-11

Storm over the wetland, June 22, 2011

There is more to see each week at the ISEA Wetland - 100 Dame Street, at the Inland Seas Education Center on the Suttons Bay waterfront. --T. Kelly

Past Schoolship Students/Interns - Where are they now?

2011-06-15T10:53:00.000-04:00

Well, here are two of them, hard at work yesterday (note the smiles!). They are aboard the US Geological Survey research vessel Dragonfly at Leland Harbor, just before departing for a day of sampling and underwater photography related to the botulism problem in this area. Emma Kelly (left) is a former Young Women in Science participant (and Capt. Tom's daughter) and Emily Tyner (right) is a former ISEA student and summer intern. Emma is currently enrolled at U. of Michigan in the Program in the Environment and Emily is in graduate school at U. Wisconsin at Milwaukee. Both are summer employees of the National Park Service. Emily credits ISEA with determining her career path. Emma blames it on her dad.

Astronomy Program Cancelled due to Cloud Cover

2011-06-15T10:44:00.000-04:00

Sorry, all, but the Astronomy Program scheduled for this evening has been cancelled due to increasing cloud cover and predicted rain. Check with the ISEA office for refunds or rescheduling on an upcoming sail. -Capt. Tom

Full Moon Astonomy Sail on Wed. June 15

2011-06-14T09:56:00.000-04:00

Watch the full moon rise over Grand Traverse Bay from the deck of the schoonner Inland Seas. Join former NMC astronomy professer Dick Cookman and the crew of Inland Seas for a night time sail from Suttons Bay, leaving at 9 pm. For details and bookings call 231-271-3077. Adult fee: $45

Maintenance Day on Inland Seas

2011-06-14T07:56:00.000-04:00

There is always work to do aboard the schooner. This week the crew will be painting, upgrading some safety equipment, and doing the monthly full rig inspection. The photo shows Allen Wolfe aloft doing the rig inspection on the main mast.

What's Blooming in the Wetland?

2011-06-11T10:02:00.002-04:00

Blue Flag Iris

Red Oiser Dogwood Flower Cluster

ISEA's Constructed Wetland is beginning to bloom. This week you can see blue flag iris and red oiser dogwood. More to come!

Thanks to ISEA Volunteers who helped set up the docks!

2011-06-07T14:18:00.000-04:00

My thanks to Craig Holms, Graham Kelly, Blair Robb, Pete Bentley and Philip Loud who helped put on the dock ramps and complete the fixed dock at the Education Center. Now we are ready for summer!

-Capt Tom

Welcome Zoe Allen-Wickler to ISEA

2011-06-01T14:45:00.000-04:00

Zoe Allen-Wickler joined ISEA today as our Communications Intern. She will be helping us with traditional and new media, telling our many stories to the public. Watch for her offerings in the near future.

Big Winds on Grand Traverse Bay

2011-06-01T14:22:00.001-04:00

An approaching cold front brought high winds to Grand Traverse Bay yesterday. The afternoon sail with St. Mary's of Gaylord was done with just the stays'l and reefed main. We had a peak wind of 33 knots.

Gaylord St. Mary Students After the Sail

When the storm finally arrived (about an hour after we docked), a big blast of wind toppled my dock box and the two porti-johns at Suttons Bay Coal Dock

Big winds continue today (June 1). The morning trip on Inland Seas had a peak gust of 43 knots.
- Capt. Tom

Thanks to the Traverse City Optimist Club for keeping us warm and dry

2011-05-26T15:31:00.000-04:00

Just in time for spring, we purchased five new sets of Viking heavy-duty foul weather gear for our students. Thanks to the Traverse City Optimist Club for providing the funds to make this possible. And thanks to these Suttons Bay 8th graders who modeled the new gear just before their trip on May 19. They were glad they had it once we got out on the bay! --Capt. Tom

Northwestern Michigan College Tropical Water Resources Class, 5-23-11

2011-05-25T08:00:00.000-04:00

For photos, click here! https://picasaweb.google.com/Constanza.Hazelwood/May232011?authkey=Gv1sRgCNayrYeO_v-2zQE#

Schoolship's Departure Delayed By Fog

2011-05-20T10:40:00.001-04:00

Friday morning dawned with thick fog on Grand Traverse Bay. Both Schoolships, Manitou and Inland Seas, delayed their departures until the fog lifted a little. Students from Reuther MS were aboard both vessels.

Lead Instructor Wayne Swallow explains the plankton net dockside

153 micons. What is a micron?

Captain Cheyenne and Dr. Bill wait out the fog.

Happy 17th Birthday Inland Seas!

2011-05-20T10:27:00.001-04:00

Inland Seas was launched on May 18, 1994. To celebrate this event, we shared birthday cake with students from Glen Lake 7th Grade and Indian River (Inland Lakes 7th Grade).

Our Schooner Birthday Cake, made by Hansen's in Suttons Bay

Inland Lakes 7th Graders pose with the Schooner Cake

Eager Lakers await their Schooner Cake. Stephanie is trying to keep up with demand.

Wed. May 11, 2011 - Rained Out in the Morning

2011-05-11T10:28:00.000-04:00

This is why we cancelled our programs this morning. Lots of rain and lightning!

GT Academy students get an on-shore lesson in the Great Lakes food web from Fred Utting.
GT Academy will sail with us on June 10.
We will also try to reschedule TC West 6th Grade who were scheduled on Manitou this morning.

May 3rd Schoolship: Platte River Elementary (1st Day of 2011 Season)

2011-05-10T08:43:00.000-04:00

Brrr, a cold day on the lake. But a beautiful day, and we had a great time with the 6th graders from Platte River Elementary.

Ready to measure the Secchi Disk depth (water transparency). We recorded an amazing 18 meters. Twenty years ago we were getting 6 - 8 meters.

May 5th, 2011 Schoolship with Lake Leelanau St. Mary's

2011-05-10T08:26:00.000-04:00

St. Mary's Students Steer the Schooner

Checking out the Benthos (life on the lake bottom)

May 9, 2011 Schoolship with Platte River 6th Grade

2011-05-10T07:48:00.003-04:00

Lots of Chara in the trawl, plus suckers, gobies, minnows, rock bass.

Mackerel scales and mare's tails make lofty ships carry low sails

2011-05-06T15:22:00.000-04:00

Well that's the saying, but fortunately we did not have to shorten sail this week. Just a little rain on Friday. Technically these are Cirrus uncinus, found above 26,000 ft. They are composed of ice crystals. And they are beautiful. Photo taken from the Schoolship Inland Seas, May 4, 2011.

Inland Seas' Crew Completes CPR & AED Course

2011-05-06T15:02:00.001-04:00

Thanks to Janice Lemak RN of the Leelanau Urgent Care for guiding our crew through the CPR and AED class. All ISEA sailing crew have this certification.

Inland Seas' Crew Members Practice CPR on Manikins, May 4, 2010

Saving the Great Lakes Forever” Conference kicks off May 6

2011-04-28T15:34:00.001-04:00

People from around the entire Great Lake Basin will be gathering for the 2011 Conference “Saving the Great Lakes Forever” which kicks off on Friday, May 6, at 6:50 p.m. at the historic State Theater in downtown Traverse City.

Hosted by the Flow for Water Coalition, the Great Lakes Water Studies Institute at Northwestern Michigan College and Michigan Citizens for Water Conservation, the conference will focus on learning about the abuses and threats facing the Great Lakes. The conference will also provide solutions to stop these threats and to protect the citizens, communities, local agriculture, and businesses who depend upon the waters of the Great Lakes Basin.

Friday night's kick-off will feature a presentation by Maude Barlow, internationally recognized water advocate and former Senior Advisor to the President of the United Nations General Assembly. Ms. Barlow is the author of 16 books. Her address will offer a unique perspective on how each of us living within the Great Lakes Basin need to come together to protect the waters of the Great Lakes.

A screening of the award winning documentary “Tapped”, an unflinching look at the plastic bottled water industry, will follow Ms. Barlow's presentation and the evening will conclude with an afterglow party in the “Dome” at the Park Place Hotel for networking, live music, and refreshments.

The conference continues on Saturday, May 7, at Milliken Auditorium and Scholar Hall on the campus of Northwestern Michigan College. Registration opens at 8:00 a.m. Welcome and introductions begin at 8:45 a.m.

Wenonah Hauter, Executive Director of Food and Water Watch and one of the world's leading experts on water, energy, food and the environment, will speak at 9:00 a.m. Her address will be followed by breakout workshop sessions on a variety of water-related hot topics. The event will conclude with an expert roundtable discussion: Solutions for Saving the Waters of the Great Lakes Basin.

Tickets are $25 per person for the 2-day event or $40 for two.

Tickets can be purchased on-line at http://www.flowforwater.org./

Inland Seas Annual Radio Inspection

2011-04-26T17:22:00.000-04:00

Thanks to Lee Hepner for our Great Lakes Agreement Radio Inspection. (we passed)

--Capt. Tom

A Snowy Day At Suttons Bay

2011-04-20T14:05:00.000-04:00

The topmasts are up and we are ready to reave the running rigging. However there needs to be a bit of melting first.

Ponder the ways of April...the record high temperature is 86 degrees F, the record low is 3 degrees F. We are 30 degrees above the record low. So maybe this is not so bad.

Pram Builders Graduate - and Get Ready To Set Sail

2011-04-19T14:22:00.001-04:00

The young pram builders at the Inland Seas Boat Shop received certificates of completion this past Saturday and were each given their own PFD (life jacket) and a scholarship to the Northport Youth Sailing School where they will learn how to sail the boats they built. More photos are available at ISEA's Flickr page.

Thanks to the ISEA Volunteer Boat Builder Instructors, their leader Chuck Dickerson, and the Collectors Foundation who funded this project. Thanks also to the parents, grandparents, and friends who brought the students to class each Saturday!

Hit the Beaches for the 2011 ISEA Beach Clean-Up

2011-04-18T11:23:00.001-04:00

ISEA Spring Beach Clean-Up, May 23 - May 10, 2011

Beginning this weekend, April 23rd, and until May 10th, you can help clean up the beaches of the Grand Traverse Bay region (river and stream banks are included). Just go to the ISEA web site schoolship.org and download a Beach Clean-Up data sheet. Then gather some friends and pick up and record what you find. Please recycle everything possible. We would also like to get photos of your group. Send photos to tkelly@schoolship.org. For more information on the Beach Clean-Up, call Sally Somsel at 231-946-8090.

Inland Seas Back Home In Sutton Bay

2011-04-13T10:13:00.001-04:00

Underway through skim ice

Arriving back home. We took the cover frame off in the afternoon.

Yesterday we brought the schooner back to her home port in Suttons Bay. It is sure nice to see her at the dock again. -Capt. Tom

Maritime Festival Planned for Escanaba on July 6, 2011

2011-04-08T15:44:00.001-04:00

A new Maritime Festival will take place in Escanaba this summer, featuring Inland Seas and Madeline.
Read about it in the Escanaba Daily Press.

Life Raft Inflation Video (similar raft is carried aboard Inland Seas & Manitou)

2011-04-06T17:32:00.000-04:00

This video of a Viking IBA (inflatable buoyant apparatus) shows a raft similar but larger than those carried aboard Inland Seas and Manitou. The raft in the video is a double (2 rafts connected together). Ours are single. See below. The orange squares are stability bags that fill with water and help stabilize the raft.--Capt. Tom

Last Day to Comment on the Corps of Engineers GLMRIS (to stop the Asian carp and other invasive species)

2011-03-31T09:50:00.000-04:00

This today from the US Army Corps of Engineers:

Today, March 31st, is the last day to comment on the Great Lakes and Mississippi River Interbasin Study. Don't miss your opportunity! Please encourage interested parties to give their input. The US Army Corps of Engineers greatly values the interest and comments received during this comment period, which opened on November 16, 2010. Comments may be submitted online through the GLMRIS Web site.

The GLMRIS Team looks forward to a continuous relationship with our stakeholders. Periodic newsletters will be published to update you on the study's progress. Opportunities for public involvement, new documents and other important news and events will be posted on the GLMRIS Web site (a new Involvement page will go live in April) and sent to the GLMRIS e-mail subscription list. Please, join the conversation and discuss GLMRIS topics with the Corps and other stakeholders at Facebook.com/glmris and Twitter @GLMRIS.

Tell 'em what you think! Democracy doesn't work unless the people speak.

Early Spring Work on the Schooner

2011-03-31T09:09:00.001-04:00

Allen making up a new quarter lift.

The snow covers the ground, and Suttons Bay is locked in ice, but work on the ship continued all winter. Volunteer crew members Allen Wolfe, Bob Hagerman and Dale Whalen have been busy with refinishing brightwork and science gear, splicing new lines, and repairing the steering wheel (Dale crafted a new handle to replace one that was damaged). Next week Capt. Remy and other volunteers will return and spring outfitting will begin in earnest.

Allen & Bob continue with splicing.

Dale stands beside the wheel with his new ash handle installed.

Sign Up Now for Tall Ship Birding Cruise

2011-03-29T14:19:00.002-04:00

Ruins of the Ustick Cottage on Gull (Bellow) Island

On June 5th we will sail to Gull Island in Grand Traverse Bay to see the nesting colonies of herring gulls, double crested cormorants, and Caspian terns. A guest faculty of experts will share their knowledge of these birds, the island and the fascinating history of attempted human settlement. For more information and booking, go to the Leelanau BirdFest website or call the Leelanau Chamber of Commerce at 231-271-9895.

Cormorants nesting in dead elm tree (now fallen)

Low Tide on Lake Michigan

2011-03-22T11:46:00.000-04:00

Low tide...don't I wish. These photos show our docks yesterday afternoon with the lake level at about 577.15 ft. above sea level. The long term average for Lake Michigan is 578.83 ft. The record low was in 1964 at 576.48 ft. You can keep track of the day to day changes in lake level at the NOAA Great Lakes Level Data web page.

Floating docks aground at Inland Seas, Suttons Bay 3-21-11

The dock in the background has been lifted by the ice and will have to be re-set.

Looking East along the old Coal Dock

Hoping for a wet spring, --Capt. Tom

Pram Building Continues in the Inland Seas Boat Shop

2011-03-20T12:55:00.000-04:00

On Saturday March 19, students in the Pram Building class began making the centerboard trunk and puttying the 300+ screw heads on each boat. More photos are available on our Flickr page.

Centerboard

Putty Application

A 1000 Mile Walk On The Beach

2011-03-16T08:43:00.000-04:00

Last evening (3-15-11) Loreen Niewenhuis presented photos and stories of her 1000 mile trek around Lake Michigan. Afterward she signed copies of her book "A 1000 mile Walk on the Beach" (She said she actually walked 1019 miles). We have several signed copies of her book at the Education Center if you would like one.

We had a full house for this event with over 60 in attendance. Thanks to all who came to hear Loreen.

Loreen signing her book at the Inland Seas Education Center

To learn more about Loreen's trek around Lake Michigan, go to LakeTrek.Blogspot.com

ISEA Boat Shop in Action

2011-03-14T10:00:00.000-04:00

Each Saturday morning the ISEA Boat Shop is in full swing with students, parents and ISEA Volunteer Instructors building two Opti Prams and a strip planked canoe. More photos are on ISEA's Flickr pages.

Funding for the Pram Building Class is provided by the Collectors Foundation of Traverse City. Many Thanks!

A 1000 Mile Walk On The Beach!

2011-03-11T17:35:00.000-05:00

The Inland Seas Education Association will host author Loreen Niewenhuis at 7:00 pm on Tuesday, March 15th. This program will discuss Loreen’s recent book about her 1,000 mile trek of the perimeter of Lake Michigan. The author will be available to sign purchased copies of her book after her presentation. For more info click here.

See her tonight (3-11-11) at Brilliant Books. http://www.brilliant-books.net/product/1000-mile-walk-beach

-Tom K.

Winter Lingers On

2011-03-11T09:10:00.000-05:00

Wednesday, March 9, 2011

The local bays (Northport, Omena, Suttons) remain ice covered, but there is little ice on Grand Traverse Bay.

Watch Baby Sturgeon Feeding at Inland Seas Education Center

2011-03-04T09:34:00.000-05:00

Potential Asian Carp Hotspots?

2011-03-01T17:05:00.003-05:00

On my recent visit to Chicago, I wanted to familiarize myself with potential routes for Asian carp to get to Lake Michigan. When you hear talk of "closing the locks", one of these is on the Chicago River (actually in Lake Michigan) near Navy Pier. The other is the Thomas J. O'Brien Lock on the Calumet River, #6 on the map below.

Map from: http://www.glmris.anl.gov/

As close as I could get to the Lock

Unfortunately I could not get close to the lock to take photos (and there was a push-boat heading into the lock at the time I got there, which would have added interest). Where there was once a public viewing area and restrooms, now was behind a fence with a very serious sign informing you that there is no entry, no photo taking, no note taking, map making, sketching, etc. I assume this is in response to national security concerns, not fear of environmentalists coming to dump rocks in the canal.

I also visited the mouth of the Portage-Burns Waterway, also known as Burns Ditch, at Burns Harbor (# 5 on the map). There is a nice beach here that is part of the Indiana Dunes National Seashore. To the east are the Midwest Steel and Bethlehem Steel plants, hard on the lake shore. I guess we are spoiled here in Northern Michigan.

Portage Burns Waterway looking N towards Lake Michigan

Outlet of Portage Burns Waterway at Lake Michigan.

The Portage Burns Waterway is connected to the Little Calumet River and the Cal-Sag Canal to the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal. These waterways are above (north) of the electric barrier (#7 on map).

----Tom K.

Tom Kelly to Present at the Chicago Maritime Festival, Feb. 26, 2011

2011-02-24T17:18:00.001-05:00

I will be giving an illustrated talk on ISEA and Invasive Epecies Education at the Chicago Maritime Festival on Saturday, Feb. 26, 2011. Hope you can join me there. Lots of good music and information. -Tom K.

The Belize Culture and Heritage Association will be preforming at the Chicago Maritime Festival

Platte River Elementary Students Visit the Inland Seas Education Center

2011-02-24T11:18:00.000-05:00

Today we had a visit from the Platte River Elementary School's second graders. They spent the day looking at our invasive species exhibits and doing hands-on science with our Education Director Christine Crissman and six Volunteer Instructors. Lots of excitement and energy on a winter's day!