Oregon State University (OSU) will operate the R/V WECOMA during 1993 as a general oceanographic vessel in support of NSF- funded research projects. The R/V WECOMA is a 177' general research vessel owned by the National Science Foundation and constructed in 1975. The vessel will undergo a mid-life refit and general upgrade in 1993/1994. OSU operates the WECOMA under a charter agreement with NSF. The ship is scheduled for 197 operating days in 1993, of which 138 days will be in support of NSF-sponsored programs. The cruises will be in the north and south pacific ocean for TOGA, JGOFS, COARE, HOTS and individual programs. This vessel is part of a fleet used by NSF to support oceanographic research. Most oceanographic research requires highly specialized equipment that must be permanently installed on a ship for which the ship must be specifically designed. This equipment also requires highly trained crew members for maintenance and operation. These vessels do not operate in the same manner as general cargo or fishing vessels, therefore, NSF supports the operation of a variety of vessels specifically dedicated to oceanographic research that are operated by universities and research institutions around the country.
