Ludington Biological Station

Ludington Biological Station was established in 1956 to support sea lamprey research, monitoring and control efforts. We work with state, tribal and other federal agencies to monitor progress towards fish community objectives for sea lampreys in each of the Great Lakes, but also to develop and implement actions to achieve these objectives. Activities are closely coordinated with state, tribal and other federal and provincial management agencies, non-government organizations, private landowners and the general public.

Our Species

The work of the Ludington Biological Station focuses on sea lamprey control. Sea lampreys are native to the Atlantic Ocean. In the 1800s, sea lampreys entered into the Great Lakes system via manmade locks and shipping canals. Sea lampreys were first observed in Lake Ontario in the 1830s. Niagara Falls served as a natural barrier preventing sea lampreys from entering the other Great Lakes, but modifications to the Welland Canal in the early 1900s provided sea lampreys a path to invade the other lakes. In 1921 sea lampreys were first observed in Lake Erie and quickly spread into Lakes Michigan, Huron and Superior.

Visit Us

Ludington Biological Station is not traditionally open for public visits or tours but may offer tours and information about sea lamprey research and management in the Great Lakes. We request that you call ahead to set up an appointment with our staff. This will ensure that our staff are prepared to visit with you and your group.

Latest News

Biologists remove adult sea lamprey from a trap on the Manistique River in Michigan
Science and Technology
Combating sea lamprey in the Great Lakes with new technologies
From land to waterways, we work alongside partners to combat self-sustaining populations of invasive species, such as sea lamprey. Our invasive species efforts are a critical component in native species conservation and our research is essential in our conservation outcomes.
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Get Involved

If you’d like to get involved with sea lamprey control, you can find job openings and apply for employment at USAjobs.gov, find volunteer opportunities at volunteer.gov or look for us at outreach events to learn more about what we do.

Location and Contact Information