Alaska Fisheries Science Center

7600 Sand Point Way Northeast

BIN C15700, Building 4

Seattle, Washington 98115-0070

May 5, 2008 F/AKC1: th

## Commanding Officer

**NOAA Ship *Oscar Dyson***

**CRUISE INSTRUCTIONS: DY0809, ECHO INTEGRATION-TRAWL SURVEY OF
WALLEYE**

> **POLLOCK ON THE BERING SEA SHELF**

1.0 [SCHEDULE - AREA OF OPERATIONS]{.underline}

Scientists from the Alaska Fisheries Science Center (AFSC) will conduct
an echo integration-trawl (EIT) survey of walleye pollock (*Theragra*
*chalcogramma*) on the eastern Bering Sea (EBS) shelf from Port Moller,
Alaska, to Cape Navarin in the Russian EEZ aboard the NOAA ship *Oscar
Dyson* from 1 June to 31 July 2008 for a total of 60 sea days (see
figure in Appendix 1). Permission has not yet been granted by the
Russian government to conduct research in the Russian EEZ. The cruise
will begin and end in Dutch Harbor, Alaska.

2.0 [VESSEL ITINERARY]{.underline}

May 30-31 Embark scientists in Dutch Harbor.

Jun 1 Leg 1: Sphere calibration of acoustic systems in Captains Bay

> (1200-1800). Transit to survey start in Bristol Bay.

Jun 2-18 Echo integration-trawl survey of the EBS shelf. Transit to

Dutch Harbor.

Jun 19 Inport Dutch Harbor.

Jun 20 Transit to survey resume point.

Jun 21--Jul 9 Leg 2: Echo integration-trawl survey of the EBS shelf.
Arrive Dutch Harbor 0900 July 9. Overnight in Dutch Harbor.

Jul 10 Leg 3: Sphere calibration of acoustic systems in Captains

> Bay (1200-1800). Transit to survey resume point.

July 11-29 Echo integration-trawl survey of the EBS shelf and the Cape

> Navarin area, Russia. Intervessel comparison with *Miller* *Freeman*.

Jul 30 Sphere calibration of acoustic systems in Captains Bay

> (1500-2100).

Jul 31 End of cruise. Scientists debark.

3.0 [SCIENTIFIC OBJECTIVES]{.underline}

The primary objectives of the cruise are to:

1.  collect echo integration data and trawl data necessary to determine
    the distribution, biomass, and biological composition of walleye
    pollock on the eastern Bering Sea shelf and in the Cape Navarin
    area;

2.  collect pollock target strength data with hull-mounted or lowered
    transducers for use in scaling echo integration data to estimates of
    absolute abundance;

```{=html}
<!-- -->
```
3.  calibrate the ER60 acoustic system using standard sphere calibration
    techniques;

4.  collect physical oceanographic data (temperature and salinity
    profiles, and chlorophyll samples) at selected sites (Appendix 1),
    continuously collect sea surface temperature and salinity data, and
    collect periodic water samples from the pumped system;

5.  assess the effect of light intensity and light penetration on the
    distribution and behavior of walleye pollock in the eastern Bering
    Sea;

6.  conduct an inter-vessel comparison study with the NOAA Ship *Miller*
    *Freeman* during leg 3.

7.  conduct inter-vessel comparison experiments with an acoustic buoy
    system.

8.  conduct a seabird census survey. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
    scientists will conduct this work (Appendix 2);

9.  conduct trawl hauls (AWT and Methot) to ground truth multi-frequency
    echo integration data collection.

10. Conduct a marine mammal census survey. National Marine Mammal
    Laboratory scientists will conduct this work (Appendix 3). Details
    will be provided as soon as they are determined.

Secondary objectives of the cruise include scientific research requested
by AFSC and other investigators. Detailed descriptions of ancillary
projects associated with this cruise will be provided as soon as
possible. Significant changes to these projects that affect vessel
operations will be communicated as soon as they are known.

4.0 [OPERATIONAL PLANS]{.underline}

Prior to the Leg 3, the vessel should be trimmed to the extent possible
and the draft marks recorded, while simultaneously collecting PosMV
(pitch/roll) data. Vessel trim draft marks should also be recorded at
cruise end - again with the PosMV recording to the SCS system. To reduce
vessel motion and thus improve the quality of the inter-vessel
comparison data, we request that the vessel use the roll tank when sea
conditions warrant.

4.1 The primary EIT survey operations will be conducted during daylight
hours (approximately 17-18 hours per day). Acoustic data will be
collected continuously along a series of parallel transects with a
Simrad ER60 echo integration system incorporating centerboard-mounted
transducers at 18, 38, 70, 120, and 200 kHz. The vessel must not operate
other echo sounders or acoustic equipment that interfere with collection
of scientific acoustic data. The need for ADCP information is currently
under review. If required, the ADCP will be operated using a sequential
trigger system. The bow thrusters, Doppler speed log and bridge Furuno
depth sounder should all be secured, as they degrade the quality of
acoustic data. Transect spacing will be 20 nm. Trackline endpoints will
be provided as soon as they are available. Ship speed is expected to
average 12.0 knots in favorable conditions.

Regular nighttime operations will require participation of the deck
crew. These will include collection of target strength data, additional
trawling, CTD deployments and other requested special scientific
projects.

EIT survey operations require that an Aleutian wing trawl (AWT) and an
83-112 bottom trawl without roller gear are loaded onto the net reels.
Codend liner mesh size will be 1.25 in. for both nets. A second AWT and
83-112 will be stowed on board the vessel as backup gear. The backup AWT
will be equipped with a small mesh (0.5-inch) liner. Fishbuster doors
will be used with all trawls. We request that the chief boatswain keep a
trawl gear logbook to record any modifications made to trawl gear during
the cruise. Small fishes and macrozooplankton will be sampled using the
Methot and Marinovich trawls.

Midwater and bottom trawl hauls will be made to identify echo sign and
provide pollock samples and other biological data. An average of 2-3
trawl hauls per 24 hrs is anticipated. On occasion, trawling will occur
more frequently. Preservation of some Methot samples will require
formalin, other Methot samples will require use of the -80 C freezer.
Work with live euphausiids collected during special Methot tows will
require use of the controlled environment room and access to pumped
seawater from a hose or tap. Haul duration will be kept to the minimum
necessary to ensure an adequate sample. Biological data collected from
each haul will include species composition by weight and number, sex
composition, length frequencies, whole fish and ovary weights,
maturities, and otoliths. For reference, Table 1 provides a list of
species captured during the summer 2007 EIT survey.

4.2 Pollock target strength measurements will be made on an
opportunistic basis. These measurements are used to validate the
relationship between pollock length and target strength. Data will be
collected when certain conditions (i.e., low fish densities, single
species, unimodal size composition, appropriate depth range) are
encountered. Collecting target strength data typically involves repeated
passes over an aggregation of fish at a vessel speed of less than 3
knots. One or two trawl hauls are made to provide species composition
and biological data. When calm seas are encountered along with the
above-mentioned conditions, a second approach to collecting target
strength data may be attempted: with the vessel stopped, a "drop TS"
assembly containing a 38-kHz transducer will be lowered to a depth just
above the fish sign.

4.3 Three standard sphere calibrations of the centerboard-mounted
scientific acoustic systems (18, 38, 70, 120, and 200 kHz) are planned:
at the start and end of the cruise and at the start of Leg 3.
Calibrations will take place in Captains Bay. This requires anchoring
the vessel at the bow and stern and suspending a calibration sphere
assembly directly beneath the vessel's centerboard. A CTD cast will be
conducted prior to each calibration*.*

4.4 Conductivity-temperature-depth (CTD) data may be collected with the
vessel's Seabird Seacat system at trawl locations and at other selected
locations, including collection of water samples from Niskin bottles.
Preservation of some CTD samples will require the -80 C freezer.
Filtration of water samples from the CTD for chlorophyll will be done
using the rig provided by FOCI (already on board), but may require use
of the ship\'s laboratory vacuum system as a backup. Temperature and
depth profile data will be collected with a Seabird SBE39
micro-bathythermograph attached to the trawl headrope. Vertical
temperature profiles may be collected at selected locations along
transects by using expendable bathythermographs (XBTs). The Scientific
Computing System (SCS) is configured to log data from various sensors
during the cruise. During the intervessel comparison experiment, we
request that the PosMV GPS data stream be collected at a 5-Hz collection
rate to provide pitch/roll/heave data. At all other times, we request a
1-Hz data collection rate.

4.5 Small, self-contained light meters will be attached to a rail on the

ship\'s flying bridge and to the sled for the 3rd wire trawl sonar in
order to measure light at the surface and at depth. Mounting hardware
will be provided, and equipment will be mounted and downloaded
periodically by trained MACE personnel. This project should not impact
science operations, or place an additional burden on the deck crew.

4.6 During leg 3 of the survey, an inter-vessel comparison will be
conducted with the NOAA ship *Miller Freeman*. The *Miller Freeman* will
be simultaneously conducting transects on a parallel course at a
distance of 0.5 nm. For some transects, the *Miller Freeman* will be to
port -- for others, to starboard. Transect starts, break, resumes, and
ends will be coordinated between the bridges of the two vessels.
Transect spacing for the *Oscar Dyson* is fixed. Transect spacing for
the *Miller Freeman* will vary because its position to port or starboard
of the *Oscar Dyson* will be randomized. During the survey, dedicated
inter-vessel comparison experiments with the *Miller Freeman* will be
conducted in selected areas of high fish density. One vessel will follow
behind the other at a distance of 1.0 nmi and a horizontal offset of 0.1
nmi. The leader choice for each dedicated transect will be randomized.
This follow-the-leader configuration will also be adopted when the two
vessels are in transit to the survey area. Also during Leg 3, data will
be collected with the ADCP system in an attempt to observe behavioral
changes as the vessel passes over fish. We do not anticipate using the
ADCP during Legs 1 and 2.

4.7 The *Oscar Dyson* and *Miller Freeman* together will participate in
an experiment involving a free-floating buoy containing echosounding
equipment. The buoy will be deployed and recovered by the *Oscar Dyson*
on an opportunistic basis. The duration that the buoy is at liberty will
vary between 2-6 hours. The scientist in charge will be aboard the
*Oscar Dyson*. Detailed discussions of each buoy deployment will occur
between the scientist in charge and the field operations officers of
both vessels immediately before each deployment. After the buoy is
released and its trajectory determined, the vessels will follow each
other, running a racetrack course past the buoy keeping roughly equal
spacing between vessels. During each pass, the estimated distance at the
closest point of approach (CPA) between the buoy and vessel, time of
CPA, and vessel speed will be recorded by a scientist stationed on the
bridge to assist where needed. Nearly continuous visual and radar fixes
will be taken on the buoy after it is deployed. Because the acoustic
buoy operates at 38 kHz, the vessel must not operate other echo sounders
or acoustic equipment, which may interfere with collection of scientific
acoustic data.

5.0 [SCIENTIFIC PERSONNEL]{.underline}

5.1 The principal investigator is Neal Williamson phone (206) 526-6417,
email [Neal.Williamson@noaa.gov](mailto:Taina.Honkalehto@noaa.gov) FAX
206-526-6723, AFSC, Seattle, WA.

5.2 The Chief Scientist has the authority to revise or alter the
technical portions of the instructions provided that, after consultation
with the Commanding Officer, it is ascertained that the proposed changes
will not: 1) jeopardize the safety of personnel on the ship; 2) exceed
the time allotted for the project; 3) result in undue additional
expense; or 4) alter the general intent of the cruise instructions.

5.3 All scientific personnel are required to have a completed NOAA
Health Services questionnaire aboard before embarking. Clearances are
valid for 2 years for scientists under age 50 and 1 year for age 50 and
over.

5.4 Scientific Staff:

Leg 1

> [Sex]{.underline}/
>
> [Name]{.underline} [Nationality]{.underline} [Position]{.underline}
> [Organization]{.underline}

Neal Williamson M/USA Chief Scientist AFSC

Sarah Stienessen F/USA Fish. Biologist AFSC

Abigail McCarthy F/USA Fish. Biologist AFSC

William Floering M/USA Fish. Biologist PMEL

Scott Furnish M/USA IT Specialist AFSC

Darin Jones M/USA Fish. Biologist AFSC

Marty Reedy M/USA Seabird observer USFW

Nathan Jones M/USA Seabird observer USFW

Mikhail Stepanenko M/Russia Fish. Biologist TINRO

Susan Yin F/USA Mar. Mammal Biol. NMML

TBN F/USA Mar. Mammal Biol. NMML

TBN F/USA Mar. Mammal Biol. NMML

Leg 2

> [Sex]{.underline}/
>
> [Name]{.underline} [Nationality]{.underline} [Position]{.underline}
> [Organization]{.underline}

Paul Walline M/USA Chief Scientist AFSC

Mike Guttormsen M/USA Fish. Biologist AFSC

Stan Kotwicki M/USA Fish. Biologist AFSC

Scott Furnish M/USA IT Specialist AFSC

Abigail McCarthy F/USA Fish. Biologist AFSC

Denise McKelvey F/USA Fish. Biologist AFSC

TBN -/USA Seabird observer USFW

TBN -/USA Seabird observer USFW

Mikhail Stepanenko M/Russia Fish. Biologist TINRO

Susan Yin F/USA Mar. Mammal Biol. NMML

TBN -/USA Mar. Mammal Biol. NMML

TBN -/USA Mar. Mammal Biol. NMML

TBN -/USA Marine Scientist BSIERP

TBN -/USA Marine Scientist BSIERP

Leg 3

> [Sex]{.underline}/
>
> [Name]{.underline} [Nationality]{.underline} [Position]{.underline}
> [Organization]{.underline}

Alex De Robertis M/USA Chief Scientist AFSC

Chris Wilson M/USA Fish. Biologist AFSC

Taina Honkalehto M/USA Fish. Biologist AFSC

M. Elizabeth Conners F/USA Fish. Biologist AFSC

Rick Towler M/USA IT Specialist AFSC

Darin Jones M/USA Fish. Biologist AFSC

Liz Labunski F/USA Seabird observer USFW

TBN -/USA Seabird observer USFW

Mikhail Stepanenko M/Russia Fish. Biologist TINRO

TBN -/USA Mar. Mammal Biol. NMML

TBN -/USA Mar. Mammal Biol. NMML

TBN -/USA Mar. Mammal Biol. NMML

AFSC - Alaska Fisheries Science Center, Seattle, WA

BSIERP - Bering Sea Integrated Ecosystem Research Program.

NOAA -- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

NMML -- National Marine Mammal Laboratory, Seattle WA

TINRO - Pacific Research Institute of Fisheries and Oceanography

Vladivostok, Russia

USFWS -- U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

PMEL -- Pacific Marine Environmental Laboratory

6.0 [EQUIPMENT]{.underline}

> 6.1 Scientific gear was loaded and mounted onto the vessel prior to
> its departure from Seattle in February 2008. Two 83-112 bottom trawls
> will be transferred (via FTS) from a chartered commercial fishing
> vessel to the Oscar Dyson on or about May 31.

6.2 Acoustic Equipment Quantity Vessel Project

Simrad ER60 system 1 \-- X

Backup Simrad ER60 system 1 \-- X

Simrad ES18 transducer 1 \-- X

Simrad ES38B transducer 1 \-- X

Simrad ES70 transducer 1 \-- X

Simrad ES120-7C transducer 1 \-- X

Simrad ES200-7C transducer 1 \-- X

Standard target & suspension

assembly \* \-- X

GPS (with NEMA 183 to ER60) 2 X \--

ES60 Bridge sounder (50/200 kHz) 1 X \--

Furuno FE-700 fathometer 1 X \--

Simrad SM2000 system 1 \-- X

Simrad ME70 system 1 \-- X

Acoustic buoy system 1 \-- X

Lowered transducer system (with

Simrad ES38DD transducer) 1 \-- X

6.3 Trawling Equipment^1^ Quantity Vessel Project

Aleutian wing trawl with

accessories (e.g., 1.25\"

and 0.5\" mesh liners) 2 \-- X

83-112 bottom trawl w/o

roller gear 2 \-- X

Dandylines (10 fm x ½ in.) \* \-- X

Dandylines (30 fm x 5/8 in.) \* --- X

Fishbuster door with accessories 2 set \-- X

Spare webbing & twine \* \-- X

Spare hardware \* \-- X

3rd wire Simrad FS-70 net sonar w/ winch

and accessories 2 X \--

Simrad ITI net mensuration system 2 X \--

Furuno CN24-40 headrope transducer 1 X \--

Tom weights (500 lbs. each) 4 items \-- X

Tom weights (250 lbs. each) 4 items \-- X

Methot net with accessories 2 \-- X

Marinovich trawl w/ restrictor 1 \-- X

Miscellaneous supplies \* \-- X

6.4 Oceanographic Equipment Quantity Vessel Project

Seabird CTD System 2 X X

ADCP with PC computer \* X \--

> Seabird SBE39 2 \-- X
>
> XBTs \* \-- X

6.5 Biological Sampling Equip. Quantity Vessel Project

Fish lab conveyor system 1 X \--

Catch sorting and weighing table 1 X \--

Dynamometer 2 \-- X

Marel M60 60 kg scale (electr.) 2 \-- X

Marel M60 6 kg scale (electr.) 2 \-- X

> Platform scale (mechanical) 2 \-- X

Fish baskets 30 \-- X

Biological supplies (misc.) \* \-- X

6.6 Computing equipment Quantity Vessel Project

IBM compatibles (w/XP Op.System) \* \-- X

Dell PowerEdge MACEBASE Server 1 \-- X

Printers \* \-- X

Scientific Computing System (SCS) 1 X \--

Fisheries Scientific

> Computer System (FSCS) 1 X X

Note: \"\*\" indicates amount not specified.

^1^ Trawling equipment specifications may be updated prior to the
cruise.

6.7 The Chief Scientist shall be responsible for complying with MOCDOC
15, Fleet Environmental Compliance #07, Hazardous Material and Hazardous
Waste Management Requirements for Visiting Scientists, released July
2002. The MOCDOC website address is:

[http://205.156.48.106/]{.underline}

By federal regulations and NOAA Marine and Aviation Operations policy,
the ship may not sail without a complete inventory of all hazardous
materials by name, and the anticipated quantity brought aboard, MSDS and
appropriate neutralizing agents, buffers, and/or absorbents in amounts
adequate to address spills of a size equal to the amount of chemicals
brought aboard, and a chemical hygiene plan. The Chief Scientist shall
account for the amount of hazardous material arriving and leaving the
vessel.

7.0 [RECORDS AND REPORTS]{.underline}

7.1 An electronic Marine Operations Abstract (MOA) will be created to
log all operations via daily transfers of position data from the ship\'s
SCS system to MACE. An appropriate logging interval will be chosen for
automated track position data. Specific events (and frequency) to be
recorded will be decided at the beginning of the cruise. Globe software
will be available to log operations data as a backup. All times should
be recorded as Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).

7.2 The data set requested by the Chief Scientist from the ship will
include the following:

1.  Electronic files (MOA) from the SCS of all operations logged during

> the cruise.

7.2.2 Backup media (e.g., DVDs) with all sensor data

> logged to the Scientific Computer System (SCS).

7.3 Data Disposition: The Chief Scientist will represent the AFSC lab
director for data disposition. A single copy of all data gathered by the
vessel will be delivered to the Chief Scientist for forwarding to the
AFSC lab director, who in turn will be responsible for distributing data
to other investigators desiring copies.

7.4 Operational Reports: Pertinent reports per MOC OPORDER 1.3 will be
completed and forwarded.

7.5 Additional Reporting: Any injuries or fatalities to, or incidental
catch of, marine mammals as a result of activities of this project,
shall be reported within 24 hours to Robyn Angliss, Deputy Director,
National Marine Mammal Laboratory, at 206-526-4032, e-mail
robyn.angliss@noaa.gov.

8.0 [ADDITIONAL INVESTIGATIONS AND PROJECTS]{.underline}

8.1 Additional Investigations: Any other work done during the cruise
period will be subordinate to the main project and performed so as not
to interfere with that outlined in these instructions. The Chief
Scientist will determine the priority of additional work relative to the
main project.

8.2 Ancillary Projects:

8.2.1 Definition: Ancillary projects are secondary to the objectives of
the cruise and should be treated as additional investigations. An
ancillary project does not have representation aboard and is
accomplished by the ship\'s personnel.

8.2.2. Ancillary Projects: Ancillary tasks will be accomplished in
accordance with the NOAA Fleet Standing Ancillary Instructions.

9.0 [MISCELLANEOUS]{.underline}

9.1 Navigation Control: Primary control during the project will be GPS,
supplemented by radar, visual, etc. NEMA 183 data stream suitable for
the ER60 must be provided from the GPS.

9.2 Pre- and post-cruise meetings will be held between the Commanding
Officer and the Chief Scientist. The pre-cruise meeting will identify
day-to-day project requirements with regard to overtime and logistic
support in order to best utilize ship personnel resources. If serious
problems are identified during the post-cruise meeting, the Commanding
Officer shall notify the marine center by the most direct means
available. The Chief Scientist shall document identified problems in the
Ship Operations Evaluation Form.

9.3 At the start of the cruise, the Chief Scientist together with the
Boatswain will record trawl ID and net liner ID numbers for those trawls
on the reels. If at any time a backup trawl is used, ID numbers for the
backup will also be recorded. At the end of each Leg, the Chief
Scientist, Boatswain and FOO will assess the condition of each trawl and
provide the AFSC Net Shed with a status report.

10.0 [COMMUNICATIONS]{.underline}

10.1 Daily email via the Internet will be maintained between the AFSC
and the *Oscar Dyson*. Radio contact will be maintained when possible. A
scientific progress report will be sent to AFSC via email or other means
when requested by the Chief Scientist. An AFSC cellular telephone will
be used for scientific communications where possible.

10.2 Because it is sometimes necessary for the scientific staff to
communicate with other research vessels, commercial vessels, and
shore-based NOAA facilities, the Chief Scientist or his designee may
request the use of radio transceivers aboard the vessel. The acoustics
lab has a VHF radio and a station license. Scientific personnel will
occasionally use the lab radio for communications and will notify the
bridge before doing so.

10.3 The *Oscar Dyson* is equipped with Iridium, Wavetalk, INMARSAT (a
telephone/ teletype satellite communication system), and Rapifax. The
scientific staff will be obligated to pay for any incoming or outgoing
calls on these systems. Iridium is estimated at about \$0.34/minute.
INMARSAT is estimated at \$6.02 per minute for voice and \$4. per minute
for telex.

10.4 Communication with the commercial fishing fleet provides
information that allows scientists to direct their efforts more
efficiently. The bridge will notify the Chief Scientist or his designee
whenever such communication is received.

The *Oscar Dyson's* home port is Kodiak, Alaska. The telephone numbers
for contacting the vessel are as follows:

IRIDIUM voice 011-881-676-310-050

INMARSAT B 011-872-336 995 910 (Voice Line 1)

INMARSAT B 011-872-336 995 920 (Voice Line 2)

INMARSAT B 011-872-336 995 911 (Fax)

For all areas outside Dutch Harbor:

CO 206-403-8433

XO 206-295-0775

OOD 206-295-0550

Dutch Harbor Only

CO 907-359-1801

XO 907-395-1802

> DYSON OOD: 907 359 1916
>
> DYSON BRIDGE: 907 358 1917

While the ship is at sea, email (text only) to scientific personnel
should be addressed to mace.oscar.dyson@noaa.gov

For further vessel specifications, please visit the Oscar Dyson website
<http://www.moc.noaa.gov/od/>

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

CAPT Michele Bullock, NOAA Dr. Doug DeMaster

Commanding Officer Science and Research Director

Marine Operations Center, Alaska Fisheries Science Center

Pacific 206-526-4000

[APPENDIX 1]{.underline}

CTD sampling

[Goal]{.underline}:

Collect a systematic, representative set of
conductivity-temperature-depth (CTD) observations during MACE EBS
acoustic surveys, to complement temperature traces from midwater and
bottom trawls conducted on acoustic and trawl surveys in the EBS. Use a
sampling strategy that is likely to encourage collection of these data
in the same way on future surveys and minimize the impact on other
survey operations.

[Procedure]{.underline}:

1.  In the course of approximately one daylight day of ship-time over
    the entire survey, have ship's survey tech conduct CTD a cast at or
    near the nominal locations listed at the end of this document. These
    stations are of high priority, i.e., the ship should stop and do the
    station during the daytime if it does not make logistical sense to
    pick the station up during nighttime ops instead. CTDs may be
    deployed along the survey trackline nearest the nominal location.

2.  Also, conduct a CTD cast sometime during each night, in addition to
    the high priority CTD stations listed. The exact location of
    nighttime CTDs is not critical; the night-break/day-resume transect
    point is a good location. Try to fill in "holes" in the plot of high
    priority stations. Don't bother doing a nighttime CTD within 20nmi
    of another CTD.

3.  During each CTD cast, make sure that conductivity, temperature,
    pressure, and fluorescence data are collected on the downcast. On
    the upcast, ask the survey tech to trip a Niskin bottle on every
    other cast at the top or bottom of the cast (i.e. cast 1, collect a
    water sample at the bottom of the cast; cast 2, no water sample;
    cast 3, collect a water sample at the top of the cast; etc.) and
    collect a salinity sample from the Niskin for later analysis (see
    Notes).

4.  At the end of the cruise, the survey tech should provide copies of
    the CTD files along with other shipboard data (SCS, MOA, etc.)

[Notes]{.underline}:

1.  If we go to mother Russia: do at least 3 CTDs in these waters at the
    northern end of survey transects. These would be high priority
    stations, in addition to nightly CTDs.

2.  We will be routinely collecting water samples to calibrate the
    submersible fluorometer (extracted chlorophyll) during DY0809.

3.  Salinity samples should be collected in PMEL sample bottles provided
    and held for later analysis. These samples should be collected from
    the Niskin bottle in the following manner. First, make sure the
    Niskin closed properly and did not leak (if it did not close
    properly, note this on the CTD sheet and don't collect a sample).
    Second, rinse the empty salinity sample bottle and cap (tall, clear,
    numbered bottles with screw caps in the grey plastic boxes from
    PMEL) two or three times with sample seawater from the Niskin.
    Third, fill the sample bottle from the Niskin and seal the cap
    tightly. Fourth, note the sample bottle number on the CTD sheet, so
    it can be traced to cruise, date, location, station or cast number,
    and sample depth, etc. Fifth, place the sample bottle back in the
    box. The samples can be stored at room temperature until after the
    cruise.

Questions? Call Patrick Ressler, 206-526-4785

[Nominal High-Priority daytime CTD locations:]{.underline}

  ----------------------- ----------------------- -----------------------
  Latitude                Longitude               Station details

  56.866                  -164.046                PMEL M-2 mooring

  57.857                  -168.874                PMEL M-4 mooring

  54.997                  -165.166                Groundfish station A-05

  54.399                  -165.728                Groundfish station
                                                  AA-04

  54.663                  -165.739                Groundfish station Z-04

  56.664                  -168.896                Groundfish station F-19

  56.664                  -170.116                Groundfish station F-21

  57.000                  -170.792                Groundfish station G-22

  58.664                  -170.439                Groundfish station L-21

  59.335                  -171.202                Groundfish station N-22

  59.915                  -171.918                Groundfish station P-23

  58.687                  -174.934                Groundfish station L-28

  58.999                  -175.020                Groundfish station M-28

  60.331                  -178.096                Groundfish station Q-32

  60.998                  -176.969                Groundfish station S-30

  61.614                  -175.780                Groundfish station U-28

  If Russia                                       

  62.328                  -177.299                

  62.333                  -179.481                

  61.570                  -181.295                
  ----------------------- ----------------------- -----------------------

High priority CTD locations on an example EBS shelf trackline

![](media/image1.png){width="7.424305555555556in"
height="5.261111111111111in"}

[Appendix 2]{.underline}

Kathy Kuletz, Ph.D.

Migratory Bird Management

To: Neal Williamson,

Thank you for the opportunity to include seabird observers on board the
Oscar Dyson during the 2008 echo integration-trawl survey on the Bering
Sea shelf. The region covered during this cruise was surveyed for
seabirds in the 1970s and 1980s during summer months. The extensive
coverage of the Bering Sea shelf region during this cruise, with
associated oceanographic and biological data, makes this cruise a
priority for obtaining current data on seabird species distribution and
abundance. The 2008 cruise, together with the seabird data collected
during the 2007 and 2006 seasons, will provide valuable comparisons to
historic data in the North Pacific Pelagic Seabird Database (NPPSD).

It is the goal of the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) to update
the data in the NPPSD. The NPPSD, in conjunction with associated
oceanographic and biological data, will provide a long-term dataset for
researchers and managers investigating ecosystem changes in the Bering
Sea. With support from the North Pacific Research Board, the USFWS has
initiated an at-sea seabird monitoring program. This program will
utilize vessels of opportunity, and NOAA has offered the support of
research vessels when space is available.

Two USFWS seabird observers will conduct observations on an
opportunistic basis when the vessel is underway. Observers will be
equipped with all necessary field gear, including a laptop computer with
integrated GPS for data recording. In most cases, one observer will
operate from the bridge for several hours at a time, and observers will
rotate duties. Following established protocol, observers will conduct
surveys during daylight hours and will record all marine birds and
mammals within a set transect width, typically out to 300m on one side
of the ship. For each observation, the data entry program provides
latitude/longitude, time, and environmental variables that can be
altered in the date entry file as needed.

The seabird observation files will be proofed and entered into the NPPSD
following the cruise. A preliminary report will be provided to the NOAA
Chief Scientist, and will include observation effort, maps of seabird
transects and key species distribution, and number of sightings by
species.

Sincerely,

Kathy Kuletz

[Appendix 3]{.underline}

Nancy Friday, Ph.D.

Cetacean Assessment and Ecology Program

National Marine Mammal Laboratory

To: Neal Williamson,

Thank you for the opportunity to include cetacean observers on board the
NOAA ship *Oscar Dyson* during the Alaska Fisheries Science Center
(AFSC) Midwater Assessment and Conservation Engineering's (MACE) 2008
acoustic-trawl survey on the Bering Sea shelf. It will be beneficial to
add the 2008 survey data to data collected on past MACE acoustic-trawl
surveys in 1999, 2000, 2002, and 2004. The extensive coverage of the
Bering Sea shelf region during this cruise, with associated
oceanographic and biological data, makes this cruise a priority for
obtaining current data on cetacean species distribution and abundance.

Sightings of right whales (*Eubalaena japonica*) have been very rare in
the North Pacific in the 1900s, since they were hunted to near
extinction in the 1800s. They have been considered one of the world's
most depleted species of large whale. However, since 1996, small numbers
of right whales have been sighted consistently in the eastern Bering
Sea. After a group of right whales was photographed in 1996, the
National Marine Fisheries Service focused research on documenting the
number of animals in that region, and has attempted to obtain
photo-identification, biopsy, and acoustic data on the whales. As part
of this effort, in 1997, 1999, 2000, 2002, 2003, and 2004, cetacean
scientists from the National Marine Mammal Laboratory (NMML) were placed
on the NOAA ship *Miller Freeman* during MACE's acoustic-trawl survey to
conduct a line-transect survey along the acoustic survey tracklines. If
right whales were seen in favorable sea conditions, they were approached
in a RHIB to collect identification photographs and video. In addition,
valuable distributional information was collected on other cetacean
species throughout the study area, and photographic and biopsy
collection was conducted on key species such as killer whales (*Orcinus
orca*) and humpback whales (*Megaptera novaeangliae*), if time allowed.
The goal for the 2008 cruise is to conduct a similar cetacean
line-transect survey along the acoustic tracklines, and to collect
photographic and biopsy data on cetaceans, with a priority for any right
whales that are seen, on a not-to-interfere basis with the acoustic
trawl survey. The cetacean sightings data will be used to estimate
abundance and, in conjunction with abundance estimates from past MACE
acoustic-trawl survey data, trends in abundance. The cetacean
distribution data, in conjunction with associated oceanographic and
biological data, will provide data for modeling habitat use by different
cetacean species on the eastern Bering Sea shelf.

The line-transect survey will be conducted on the flying bridge using
two 25x150 power (Big Eye) binoculars. Stands for the binoculars will be
secured to the deck by *Oscar Dyson* personnel, prior to vessel
departure in Dutch Harbor. A computer will be stationed between the two
observers, with a cable from the ship's GPS to input the ship's
position. During the acoustic-trawl survey, the cetacean survey will
take place, weather permitting. Two observers will scan for cetaceans,
while a third will operate the computer. Observers will rotate positions
at coordinated intervals, with scheduled breaks (including meal times).
During inclement weather, one person will stand watch from the bridge,
if permitted.

The cetacean survey leader will consult with the pollock survey chief
scientist to determine if these is time for photo-identification and
biopsy work based on the pollock survey schedule on a not-to-interfere
basis. If time is available and the cetacean leader identifies a
cetacean group or individual that should be sampled, he or she will
consult with the chief scientist for permission to stop the ship and
conduct the photo-identification/biopsy work. Photo-identification and
biopsy sampling should preferably be conducted from a RHIB, but if
weather does not permit or if a RHIB is not available or approved, it is
possible to work from the bow of the *Oscar Dyson*. The RHIB or ship
driver will approach target animal(s) slowly with guidance from one of
the cetacean scientists to position the boat in the optimal photo or
biopsy position. The cetacean team will obtain photographs and biopsies
as quickly as possible, but may need time if the animals are difficult
to work with. Operations will be terminated when data collection is
finished, or when they are asked to stop by the chief scientist because
of time constraints or by the ship captain for safety reasons. The
cetacean leader will carry appropriate permits for conducting cetacean
research.

Three personnel are required and will be determined by NMML staff. They
will be on duty whenever the ship is running a trackline or transiting
in a straight line, as weather permits. Survey equipment (approximately
2 pallets including Big Eyes and stands) will be shipped to Dutch
Harbor, AK and be delivered *Oscar Dyson* by FTS. If biopsy samples are
collected, they will be placed in small vials containing DMSO. Acetone
will be used to clean the biopsy tips. A very small amount of freezer
space is required for biopsy samples.

Sincerely,

Nancy Friday

![](media/image2.wmf){width="6.893055555555556in"
height="8.908333333333333in"}

![](media/image3.wmf){width="6.893055555555556in"
height="8.940277777777778in"}