Robert O. Davies President | Central Michigan University
Robert O. Davies President | Central Michigan University
On Thursday, July 11, 2024, the Central Michigan University Institute for Great Lakes Research (IGLR) marked a significant milestone as Dr. Don Uzarski, the institute's director, officially moved into their satellite office on the second floor of the Traverse Connect Building in Traverse City, MI.
The IGLR began its journey in 2010 when Great Lakes research was identified as a key area of strength by CMU's administration following the receipt of three $10 million grants dedicated to this purpose. Today, the IGLR involves faculty from five departments within the College of Science and Engineering—Biology, Chemistry, Earth and Atmospheric Sciences, Engineering and Geography. The institute is supported by 33 faculty members, two postdoctoral fellows, seven technicians, 37 graduate students, 63 undergraduate students, one coordinator and three temporary staff and administrative personnel. The College of Science and Engineering secures an average of $3 million to $5 million annually in external funding for Great Lakes research.
The IGLR and Dr. David Ford, dean of the CMU College of Science and Engineering, are currently discussing collaboration with leaders of the Fresh Water Research Center in Grand Traverse region. The IGLR aims to join partners at Discovery Center and Pier property on West Grand Traverse Bay to utilize this location as a year-round hub for Great Lakes research. This site would also serve as a vital water connection to the CMU Biological Station on Beaver Island.
Additionally, the IGLR hopes to expand its collaboration with the Great Lakes Fishery Commission (GLFC) and the FishPass project. Uzarski was recently added to the GLFC FishPass Advisory Board – Science Team. The Science Team comprises 20 researchers from all FishPass partners including U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Michigan Department of Natural Resources, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians.
For more information on FishPass visit glfc.org/fishpass.php.
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