The 115 foot WEATHERBIRD II was purchased and partially refitted as a research vessel in 1989 with private funds by the Bermuda Biological Station for Research, Inc. It replaced a smaller, less capable research vessel. This project will supply funds for the ship's continued conversion into a more capable research vessel. Funds will be used to add a deck house for laboratories, install a bow thruster of improved maneuverability, convert unused voids into additional state rooms and improve habitability. The project will be under the direction of Howard S. Barnes, Assistant Director for Operations. He is fully qualified to direct this project having considerable experience in similar work including direction of the earlier refit.
