Oct 27 2010
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has anchored its latest $55 million worth research vessel named ‘Bell M Shimada’ in San Diego. The vessel will be deployed for scientific research operations along the West Coast.
The Bell M Shimada features an advanced innovative gear developed by Sonar Systems, which can significantly reduce the noise of the engine. The research vessel also facilitates stealth operations, i.e. allowing the researchers to examine populations of fish without changing their activities. Various species of fish can also be studied by utilizing the Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) of the ship.
John Butler, Fishery Biologist, NOAA, has stated that the ROV is another method of performing fishery research without actually handling the fish. He added that this sampling method is not harmful and it also allows the researchers to take real-time video and images of the fishes.
According to Roger Hewitt, Assistant Director, Southwest Fisheries Science Center of NOAA, the ROV will be deployed along San Diego’s offshore banks, which are the major dwelling places for rockfish species. He added that the rockfish species are dwindling over several years and hence researchers are observing their resurgence, thereby offering information for a sustained healthy fish population.
These surveys have been conducted in collaboration with the sport fishing segment. According to the Sportfishing Association of California, this exploration work is significant in determining the ideal locations for fishing. The State statistics has revealed that California’s sportfishing activities have augmented the state’s economy to $2.2 billion. It was reported that before the instigation of the new research mission along the West Coast, the Bell M Shimada ship will encounter a range of shakedown cruises.
Source: http://www.noaa.gov