The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has selected a WESMAR V2-34 hydraulic bow thruster for its 95ft research vessel ‘SPENCER F. BAIRD’, during a recent overhaul.
The SPENCER F. BAIRD is a research vessel tasked with stocking fish and conducting population assessments on Lakes Huron and Michigan. The work is part of a four-decade effort by the US Fish and Wildlife Service to restore depleted lake trout populations in the US Great Lakes.
After five years of demanding service the vessel recently underwent an overhaul that included complete exterior repainting, the WESMAR bow thruster installation, its five-year survey, and other miscellaneous maintenance. The contract was awarded to Great Lakes Shipyard in Cleveland, Ohio.
The SPENCER F. BAIRD project has now been completed and the vessel is back with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
The vessel’s Captain David L. Bohn reported he had not had much of a chance to use the new WESMAR thruster due to winter layup until 1 April (depending on the weather), but that his first impression is that the WESMAR thruster seems to be in line with their expectations.
“I normally use the thruster for docking and manoeuvring in tight places but we do have it available and standing by when we are working nets, should the need arise. I am looking forward to giving it a good trial this season," said Captain Bohn.
Bob Sentz Vice President at WESMAR says, “WESMAR thrusters are on work boats around the world. Generally they are used for manoeuvring around crowded marinas and other moorages, and as added safety for boats and crews during docking, holding tight during loading and off loading, and for added safety to the boat during high wind situations. On the fishing grounds they help avoid other nets and boats during fishing operations, often maneuvering in extremely tight quarters.
WESMAR’s dual prop counter rotating design adds up to an additional 40% thrust compared to single prop thrusters, without taking up additional space.
