A new electric research boat is now running from Discovery Pier in Traverse City. The Freshwater Research and Innovation Center is using it for hands-on research and workforce training on the Great Lakes.
The Freshwater Research and Innovation Center (FRIC) in Traverse City has started using a new electric rigid inflatable boat. This 24-foot vessel, built by Vita Power, is now tied up at Discovery Pier Marina. It is already out on the water for research and training. The marina has charging stations, so the boat can run often without emissions.
This boat gives FRIC a steady way to do fieldwork while its main research building on West Grand Traverse Bay is still being built. The move fits with Traverse City's push for sustainability and shows the region's growing focus on clean energy and protecting the environment. These goals match up with recent State of Michigan water initiatives.
Hands-on training and research
FRIC is using the new boat to give students and workers real-world training for water jobs. The open deck leaves plenty of space for research teams and divers. The center console makes room for equipment and sampling tools. The boat also works with an Outland Technology remotely operated vehicle, so teams can inspect, sample, and use sensors both above and below the water. This setup helps build the region's workforce and supports programs from local partners like the Farmington Public Schools board and other area schools.
The boat is meant to test and show off new technology in real Great Lakes conditions. It can handle sampling, environmental checks, and dive support from one flexible platform. These jobs match what the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) says is needed for water quality and resource management across the state.
Facility and equipment details
The 24-foot (7.3-meter) boat arrived earlier this month and is now working from Discovery Pier. Its electric motor, charged at the dock, cuts down on emissions and noise during research trips. The open deck can hold all kinds of gear, from dive equipment to ROV launch systems, so it can handle many field tasks. Traverse City officials have pointed out the value of these upgrades in public meetings and project updates.
With the main research building still going up, the boat is now FRIC's main tool on the water. Its use shows a bigger shift toward electric power and sustainability in research. This trend was reported earlier as part of Michigan's approach to new technology and infrastructure.
Local impact and next steps
The new boat will help FRIC keep up research, workforce training, and tech testing on the Great Lakes. Working from Discovery Pier, the center can give people hands-on experience in real conditions, getting them ready for jobs in water science and related fields. This project also fits with Traverse City's economic and environmental plans, as shown in recent city council decisions and public notices.
As the main facility gets closer to opening, FRIC's move to electric-powered gear puts it ahead in sustainable research. Using advanced boats and remotely operated vehicles will likely let the center do more and better freshwater studies, helping both local communities and the wider Great Lakes region.
By choosing electric marine technology, FRIC is showing it is serious about sustainability and new ideas. Bringing in new equipment before the main building is done sets a strong example for other research groups working on the Great Lakes and beyond. This matches the goals of city and state agencies.
