9532009 JONES Oregon State University (OSU) will operate the R/V WECOMA during 1996 as a general oceanographic vessel in support of NSF- sponsored projects. The R/V WECOMA is a 185' general research vessel constructed in 1975 and owned by the National Science Foundation. The vessel underwent a mid-life refit and general upgrade in 1994. OSU operates the WECOMA under a charter agreement with NSF. The ship is scheduled for 180 operating days in 1996, of which 104 days are in support of NSF-sponsored programs. The remaining 76 days are in support of Navy programs. The cruises will be mainly in the north pacific off the US west coast. 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.
