1.  Map with eruption sites from our web site (add 1994 Blanco Fracture
    Zone). Map on left side, text on right:

VENTS---Understanding the effects of submarine volcanism on the ocean's
physical, chemical, and biological environments

-   Quantify dynamic processes that link the microbial biosphere with
    the chemistry and geology of submarine volcanic systems

-   Employ hydrothermal tracers to understand the patterns, roles, and
    fate of hydrothermal emissions on local to regional geographic
    scales

-   Communicate research rationale, plans, and discoveries to the public
    through outreach programs and the WWW

2002 Cruise Tasks: Time-series investigations into the evolution of
hydrothermal discharge

2.  Four panels of plume maps (T anomaly) from Axial vertically on the
    left, text on the right:

The 1998 volcanic eruption at Axial Volcano

a.  Water column observations and sampling including hydrography,
    optics, dissolved and particulate trace metals, gases,
    microbiological material

b.  Recovery/deployment of moored instruments including current meters,
    temperature sensors, optical sensors, continuous fluid samplers,
    particle samplers

c.  Water column observations are designed to complement seafloor
    observations during ROPOS cruise; mooring work is designed as an
    extension of the NeMO Net Observatory system

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3.  Figure of Cleft T anomalies on the left, text on the right:

The 1986/87/89 volcanic eruptions at Cleft Segment

a.  Annual observations since 1986; longest hydrothermal time series on
    the planet

b.  Same measurement suite as at Axial Volcano

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4.  The 1994 event in the Blanco Fracture Zone

> a\.

5.  Time requirements

Maximum needed: Minimum necessary

Axial: 9 days 8 days

Cleft: 5 days 4 days

Blanco: 5 days 3 days

Transits: 2 days 2 days

Total: 21 days 17 days

Effects of shortening the program:

a.  Insufficient ship time to continue observational program at previous
    levels, thus compromising interpretations and integrity of
    time-series work

b.  Abandonment of one time-series to maintain others

Effects of eliminating the program:

a.  Irreplaceable interruption of all three time series programs

b.  Loss of continuity between VENTS seafloor activities and water
    column observations

c.  Jeopardization of moored instruments to be deployed at Axial Volcano
    in 2001 and requiring recovery in 2002

d.  Inability to respond if a seafloor volcanic eruption occurs in the
    months preceding requested field operations

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6.  Work area---map as above with 3 work areas identified and
    tracklines: Newport-Axial-Cleft-Blanco-Newport. Text on right:

> Funding: VENTS has been a base-funded NOAA Program since early 1980s
>
> Ship requirements: *RH Brown* is most desirable for reasons of optimal
> scientific operational and berthing space, dynamic positioning for
> precise handling during deep-tow operations, SeaBeam availability,
> ease of over-the-side operations of large water-sampling gear, and
> crew support for mooring deployments and recoveries. Other UNOLS Class
> 1 vessels are similarly adequate, and smaller vessels (e.g., *RV
> Wecoma*) are marginal but acceptable.