Elizabeth A. Thomson News Office A proposed expedition next month in waters off the coast of Washington state would use robotic submarines and buoys that talk to one another to gather information that could ultimately aid the cleanup of oil spills in this and similar areas. The scientists involved hope to learn more about the tidal mixing of river and ocean waters. The experiment, planned to run from June 10 through July 5 pending approval from the National Marine Fisheries Service, involves the transmission of brief pulses of sound. As a result, the scientists have worked closely with marine biologists to ensure that there is no potential for injury to marine mammals. Characterized by vigorous mixing, the front stirs nutrient-rich water up into the surface layer, attracting a variety of plants and animals.
Fronts are therefore important to the food chain.
But while scientists understand that the mixing along a front supports an abundance of life, there are uncertainties about the way in which the water mixes in the first place. Understanding the mixing at the front may help protect Haro Strait and similar environments. The experimental site itself is a very busy waterway adjoining the straits of Juan de Fuca and Rosario, along which numerous tankers carry Alaskan oil. If a tanker ruptures anywhere in this area, emergency crews would have to act wisely to save marine life. They can only do so if they understand how waters in the strait move and mix the spill.