BGSU christens new research vessel, 'RV Ziggy'

Generous donation advances Lake Erie research capabilities

A gift from BGSU alumni Patrick L. and Debra Scheetz Ryan and the Ryan Family Foundation launches a 28-foot research vessel to help faculty and students lead national efforts to improve water quality. The boat, dubbed the “RV Ziggy,” will accelerate the University’s research presence and activity on Lake Erie through our Great Lakes and Watershed Studies research. 

Whether it is studying algal blooms, toxins, invasive species or the legacy issues associated with industrial pollution, the RV Ziggy and its twin 250-horsepower outboard motors have opened up the totality of Lake Erie to BGSU researchers.

“Support from individuals like the Ryans make it possible for us to respond to and address important societal problems and create public good,” BGSU President Rodney K. Rogers said. “The RV Ziggy will energize and extend the reach of our research on harmful algal blooms occurring in our own backyard – and through research comes the understanding and prevention of this threat to the health of humans and wildlife.”

Watch a video about the research vessel.