Submitted by Anonymous on Mon, 03/17/2008 - 09:48

Mr Kasemodel

Has there been any major casualties while on the trip? Has anyone lost any equipment? What steps are you doing to ensure a safe expedition? Is there anytghing that you are scared is going to happen like the boat sinking? Have you noticed anything that has happened to the animals that is caused by humans?

I hope you have a safe trip!!!Wink

(sorry if i suddenly put a lot of worries on your sholders)

 

Sincerily Jade, from central middle school. 

Craig Kasemodel

Fortunately, there haven't been anything major incidents but we do have the problem of equipment just refusing to work properly due to the cold. The benthic camera cannot operate in temps below zero and there is the never ending problem of everything freezing almost instantly at times due to the wind and cold. The most important thing is to be safe and dress warmly. If you are moving and working, stay warm is not a problem.
The major concern with the animals are the changes that seem to be occurring due to climate change. The science team is documenting the changes and sometimes it will take several field seasons to statistically show what those changes are in the system.