A 63-foot research vessel, the L.L. Smith Jr., and numerous small craft are available for field sampling on Lake Superior and inland lakes. Present research activities include studies on the occurrence and control of exotic species in Lake Superior, effects of chemicals on aquatic organisms and ecosystems, biological evaluations of contaminated sediments in the Great Lakes, monitoring water and air quality of the Lake Superior region, analysis of trace levels of organic and inorganic pollutants, and health effects from consuming contaminated Great Lakes fish. In addition to research, the Institute is active in the publication of results. Papers are regularly presented at scientific meetings and published in professional journals. LSRI scientists have written and published six toxicity research data books which have a worldwide distribution.
All programs combine classroom presentations with daily field and laboratory activities.
Many of the field trips include sampling cruises aboard LSRI's L.L. Smith Jr. research vessel. Participants in the programs range from elementary school students to senior citizens, and include high school honors students, Native Americans and professionals in veterinary medicine. In this way, students gain valuable research experience and earn money to help finance their educations. Student research opportunities exist primarily in conjunction with research projects funded by state and federal agencies. The types of opportunities vary according to expertise of staff and availability of funds within those areas.