Future of fisheries research underway in northern Michigan
DNR and Moran Iron Works mark major progress on cutting-edge research vessel.
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ONAWAY - The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and Moran Iron Works (MIW) are celebrating a new stage in the construction of the R/V Steelhead II, a state-of-the-art research vessel designed to strengthen fisheries research and conservation across Lake
Michigan.
On Sept. 22, DNR project lead Captain Patrick O'Neill and some of his team toured the vessel at MIW's Onaway facility, where the hull has been laid out with all three levels set. The walk-through offered a first glimpse of the vessel's scale and layout.
"It was neat to see the full footprint of the project come to life," said O'Neill. "Walking through where our researchers will stand and run tests gave us a strong sense of how the vessel will function in action. We were all impressed--though there's still plenty of work to be done before spring."
The R/V Steelhead II is scheduled to begin sea trials next year, with a goal of launching into Lake Charlevoix once the ice clears in spring 2026. The new vessel will replace the aging S/V Steelhead, which has supported the DNR's fisheries research programs for more than five decades.
Close collaboration has been a hallmark of the project. O'Neill noted that the DNR and MIW teams meet every two weeks, with architects and engineers conducting milestone site visits to ensure smooth progress.
"Moran has been a pleasure to work with," O'Neill added. "They truly want to deliver a vessel that meets our needs, and project manager Tyler James has been outstanding at keeping communication flowing."
Tyler James, Project Manager for Moran Iron Works, shared an update on the vessel build.
"Moran Iron Works with support from our many great partners have now progressed passed the 50% point on vessel construction. The Michigan DNR continues to be a great partner during this vessel build. They continue to be engaged with the project to support the overall vision in providing a superior vessel that supports the research they perform for many years to come. A special thank you to everyone who has participated in the success of this vessel to this stage, he said. “The MDNR, Superior Boats, Sterling Marine, Gregory Schultz Marine Services, Johnson & Wood, and many others. We look forward to the next half of the vessel build."
The R/V Steelhead II is being constructed with cutting-edge technology, including advanced stabilization, modern laboratories, and enhanced safety systems. The vessel represents a long-term investment in Michigan's natural resources and a commitment to sustainable fisheries management for the next 50 years.