Science and Exploration

Research and exploration provide crucial information to ensure future generations will continue to experience the mystique of Thunder Bay's underwater treasures. The sanctuary is undertaking a complete inventory of Thunder Bay's shipwrecks. In cooperation with the Institute for Exploration and other partners, the sanctuary scientists conducted a sidescan sonar survey of the deepwater shipwrecks, followed by an investigation by remotely-operated vehicles of the discovered and known wrecks. Other field projects have brought scholars and students from various institutions to Thunder Bay to conduct research projects like video documentation and site mapping of different wrecks. Check out the Expeditions page to join scientists as they explore the depths of Lake Huron and the Notes from the Field page to view the latest fieldwork in Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary.