Proposal Number: 1016119 Institution: Oregon State University PI: P. Zerr
This proposal requests one Shipboard Scientific Support Equipment (SSSE) item for Oregon State University?s R/V WECOMA; namely a large diameter mooring block. This item will improve safety on deck and help bring the R/V WECOMA into compliance with the latest version of the UNOLS Research Vessel Safety Standards.
Broader Impacts: The R/V WECOMA supports federally funded scientific research in the Pacific in order to expand human knowledge of the ocean environment. During operations, the vessel routinely exposes graduate and undergraduate students to seagoing oceanography. Pubic outreach is also achieved through real-time satellite connectivity from ship to shore, and open house events. The WECOMA is scheduled to complete eighty five (85) NSF sponsored days in 2010.
Activities and Findings Research and Education Activities: In preparation for the implementation of UNOLS Safety Standards Appendix A, we worked with Smith Berger Marine to design a block that would work for all of our 3/8? wire rope needs. This would include mooring work with the capabilities to pass a shackle, pear link, shackle combinations as well as the proper grooving and diameter for all or our standard towing and coring needs. Findings: The block is in use and performing well. We have used the block for lowering and recovering trawl resistant OBS?s for the NSF funded Cascadia Initiative project and will be using it extensively for OOI mooring deployment and recoveries. The capability of this block allows us to greatly reduce the amount of block swapping that is needed between cruises. The block is rated and appropriately marked for Appendix A and B compliance. Training and Development: This is an equipment only grant. The equipment resides on the R/V Oceanus and is used by a variety of investigators and educators. The equipment is maintained by OSU Ship Operation and is available to all funded NSF projects. These upgrades to the capabilities of the ship and equipment pool enhance the opportunities for new discoveries and greater understanding of oceanic processes across disciplines. In addition, continuous upgrade programs ensure that the most modern and effective tools are available to new investigators and graduate and undergraduate students. Outreach Activities: This is an equipment only grant for the R/V Oceanus. Ship Operations and the R/V Oceanus have an active outreach program. This includes an ongoing tour program with Hatfield Marine Science Center (HMSC) program. This includes year around youth tours as well as adult and civic group tours. This includes large public tours and demonstrations. We also maintain a live web camera from the Oceanus (http://webcam.oregonstate.edu/wecoma/). Many classrooms and the public in general have been following our cruise progress.
