Brookby Foundation gives $1 million for UWM research vessel

The Brookby Foundation has committed $1 million toward our new research vessel, which will be named the Maggi Sue.

The Maggi Sue will replace the Neeskay, a converted Korean War-vintage Army T-boat purchased by UWM more than 50 years ago. The new vessel will be the most advanced research vessel ever built for the Great Lakes, with onboard technology featuring sensors that collect real-time data, interchangeable lab pods that can be swapped out based on the needs of the scientists, and a dynamic positioning system that will keep the vessel in place despite currents, wind and waves.

The Maggi Sue will also provide a state-of-the art facility for UWM students in the School of Freshwater Sciences to gain hands-on research experience on the Great Lakes. The vessel will feature wet and dry lab spaces for onboard experiments, a classroom and data visualization lab that will accommodate groups of students of all ages and sleeping accommodations that will allow scientists and crew to remain on the water for longer periods of time, gathering continuous readings without needing to return to shore.

Read the full announcement.