Abstract |
The mission of EPA's Ocean Survey Vessel Bold (OSV Bold) is to monitor and assess the health of our oceans and coastal waters. The information gathered by the OSV Bold allows EPA to more effectively prevent effects from numerous pollution sources, whether from land or from the ocean. Acting as a floating laboratory, the OSV Bold is helping to chart a healthier course for our oceans, so they may be enjoyed for years to come. This is the second OSV Bold Annual Report. It highlights the ships scientific survey capabilities, accomplishments, and the unique role that this vessel plays in supporting EPA's monitoring and assessment programs. In 2007, the OSV Bold supported scientific surveys over a wide variety of geographic areas and missions, including an assessment of Gulf of Mexico hypoxia, monitoring of ocean dredged material disposal sites, monitoring ocean outfalls, and assessment of critical coral reef habitats. During this period, the OSV Bold completed a total of 40 oceanographic surveys, involving hundreds of sampling locations, while spending over 270 days at sea. |