Newport [OR] News-Times

March 19, 2008

A forum held at the Hatfield Marine Science Center last week talked about the new technologies for observing oceans, and along with that the potential for new opportunities for the central Oregon coast.

According to George Boehlert, HMSC director, ocean observation is happening around the world, and it will have a major impact on coastal communities. He also said Yaquina Bay is a natural site for these activities, with its ocean access; scientific expertise of OSU, HMSC and the state and federal agencies in Newport; and public support for development of enhanced port infrastructure.

It was also pointed out that if plans move forward, an ocean observatory network off the Newport coast could be in place within five years.

So what does this mean for us average folks? "This will create new opportunities for smart people to come up with new projects and generate new ideas and products," Boehlert said. That could result an economic boost in terms of jobs through the use of existing maritime services and creating new businesses to serve specific needs arising from the venture. That is good news for all county residents.

But in addition to the economic benefit, an ocean observatory network will "stimulate a lot more science and a lot more education," Boehlert said. Scientific data on a variety of ocean conditions would become available in real time, which could take ocean research and education to a whole new level. It was said at the forum that this would provide the ability to "truly understand" things like ocean variability, hazards and climate change in response to both natural events and human activities.

Not only will scientists have access to this information, it will be available to anyone with access to the Internet - students, teachers, decision-makers and the general public will be able to learn through these undersea networks.

Lincoln County has the added benefit of a fishing industry that actively cooperates with scientific endeavors. That will be necessary in this case, since the project involves moored buoys along the coast - an element that will definitely need the endorsement the fishing community. Bob Collier, a professor with OSU's College of Oceanic and Atmospheric Sciences, told those gathered at last week's forum that "we will continue to engage marine users and work with the community through this process. We want to minimize the impact on other mariner user activities and maximize the benefits for all."

If these plans come to fruition, Newport could become a focal point in this major scientific effort - pretty exciting stuff for the future of this area. (SC)