An interdisciplinary team of scientists will set out from where the Columbia River meets the Pacific, and head westward, conducting an underwater exploration of Canyon, Continuing the Lewis and Clark Trail. The canyon is a virtually unexplored biological haven, and because of its active tectonic setting, has the potential for possessing fluid / methane seeps. The discovery of new organisms has the potential to contribute to new biotechnology products and pharmaceuticals. Methane seeps, once fully characterized, could potentially provide a new source of energy.

Explorers will first survey the Astoria Canyon with two types of echosounders used to map the seafloor, sidescan and multibeam sonars, creating a preliminary map of the area. They will then return to investigate interesting targets with an advanced remotely operated vehicle (ROVs) with an array of remote sensing and sampling tools, including high resolution video, filling in visual imagery. Finally, they will take biological and geological samples, and make measurements of the chemical properties of areas of interest. In the spirit of the Lewis and Clark’s historic expedition 200 years ago, we will explore expanses not yet seen, discover new species, and document all findings for posterity.

Timeline
22 June-2 July 2001
Astoria port call

Equipment
Ron Brown: 274-foot NOAA oceanographic research vessel
Commercial fishing vessel and survey vessel
ROPOS: Remotely Operated Vehicle
Side scan sonar

Berth Space
Brown: 5 officers, 20 crew, and 33 scientists

Collaborators
National Marine Fisheries Service Northwest and Southwest Fisheries Science Centers, Pacific Marine Environmental Laboratory, Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary, Washington State University Vancouver, Oregon State University, Los Angeles County Museum, Hatfield Marine Science Center

(top)