oceanography
70% of our earth is covered in water, yet we’ve only scratched the surface of truly knowing the world’s oceans. Scientists discover new things about it almost daily. Kitsap is the perfect place to be for this badge — not only do we have the Sound in easy access, it’s only a short drive to the Pacific Ocean. There is such a diversity of oceanic plant and animal life here, and so many different micro-climates from estuaries to furious waves. All contribute to the health of our waters, and ultimately our own individual health.
Requirement 6b1 – Oceanographic Research Ships
Because of the uniqueness of Puget Sound, we have several ships that include it in their research. You’ll need to contact the individual ship to arrange a tour.
US Coast Guard Polar Sea – Contact their public affairs officer (listed on the page).
National Science Foundation’s Clifford A. Barnes – This research vessel operates through an agreement with the UW, and tours need to be arranged through the school.
Office of Naval Research’s Thomas G. Thompson – Another research vessel made use of by the UW. They have a great interactive virtual tour (no, that doesn’t count as visiting!). A lot of photos on the ship’s page.
Mt. Mitchell – An Alaskan-based research vessel, currently in Puget Sound. (Track the research vessels’ positions at SailWX.)
Requirement 6b2 – Oceanographic Institutes
Blake Island Field Station, Seattle Pacific University.
Shannon Point Marine Center, Western Washington University, Anacortes.
School of Oceanography, University of Washington, Seattle.
An excellent site for Oceanography in general is Water Science for Schools, a project of the United States Geological Service.
December 13th, 2009 at 8:18 am
[...] nuclear power is. Requirements vary, but hopefully include a vist (difficult post 9-11). Oceanography – Requires a 500-word report or a 5-minute speech. Yuck. Otherwise, very interesting badge. [...]