Another Successful Collaboration for New England Marine Technology Groups

Recently in an effort to celebrate the 20 anniversary of the Stellwagon Bank National Marine Sanctuary (SBNMS), a program was held at the University of Massachusetts Advanced Technology and Manufacturing Center in Fall River Ma. The program was a collaboration between the Marine & Oceanographic Technology Network (MOTN), Marine Technology Society (MTS) and the USGS. The event was held to discuss current research efforts in the Sanctuary and how technology is being used to enhance results, as well as inform management decisions. Panelists presented snap shots of their research and industry representatives presented overviews of their technologies. The networking event also focused on possible collaborations. The event opened with welcoming remarks from MOTN President Harlan Doliner, and MTS New England President Chris Jakubiac. There was also an overview by SBNMS Superintendent, Craig MacDonald. The research panel covered several area of research including DTag case studies for mammal tracking, synthetic aperture sonar, the use of ROV technology for SBNMS, and USGS sea floor mapping group efforts in coastal waters. Research panel contributors included Dave Wiley, Matt Lawrence, Ivar Babb, and Bill Danforth. Industry panel discussions included real-time marine mammal monitoring with Liquid Robotic’s WaveGlider as well as the use of the Slocum Glider for SBNMS research. Carl Mancuso was also on hand from Falmouth Scientific. The keynote speaker was John Kemp from Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute who discussed the development of real-time right whale listening buoys in the Sanctuary. SBNMS also disseminated information and support material regarding the Sanctuary Management Plan. The event was well attended with final words from Maggie Merrill who was coordinator for the event.