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The Origin of the Sheila B. and its Role in Marine Science
The creation of the unique research vessel, the Sheila B., can be traced back to the mid-1990s when California State University Monterey Bay (CSUMB) was established. As a new member of the Moss Landing Marine Laboratories (MLML) consortium, CSUMB recognized the need for a high-capacity, shallow draft boat to support marine science research in Elkhorn Slough. This led to the request for MLML Marine Operations to purchase and maintain a pontoon boat for this purpose. However, Marine Ops personnel saw the opportunity to provide a more robust vessel with a wider range of capabilities.
The Search for the Perfect Vessel
In the summer of 1999, the search for the ideal vessel began with the brainstorming of bid specifications and market research. The William E. Munson Company emerged as a reputable builder of durable, customizable workboats and was chosen for the project. By August 2000, the contract was signed and the Sheila B. was delivered to MLML Small Boat Operations in June 2001.
From Leatherback Sea Turtles to Marine Science Breakthroughs
Around the same time, a former MLML Vertebrate Ecology lab student and their NOAA colleagues approached the team with funding and a mission to study Leatherback Sea Turtles in Monterey Bay. Despite initial challenges, the team successfully captured and tagged a free-ranging Leatherback from the research vessel John H Martin in September 2000. However, it became clear that the vessel was not suitable for this task. Undeterred, the team returned with a floating platform and chartered the research vessel Ed Ricketts, a lobster boat with better waterline access. This experience highlighted the need for a better tool and techniques.
The Evolution of the Sheila B.
The Sheila B. showed potential for the task at hand, but it was not specifically designed for it. The landing craft design of the vessel allowed for great waterline access, and the NOAA crew and MLML Operations staff began experimenting with capture methods specific to the design. Through trial and error over the next few years, they developed techniques and made vessel modifications to streamline the process and improve safety for both turtles and crew.
Innovative Modifications for Marine Science Research
One of the key modifications was the addition of hydraulic rams to the bow door, designed by the talented and resourceful fabricator, Tom Carr. This provided the necessary stability for the door during open water operations. Tom also designed and installed a “bow walk” to position science crew members at the front of the vessel for net handling during captures. He also fabricated an a-frame with secondary mount points on the center of the deck, allowing for the lifting of animals for weighing. Thanks to financial support and motivation from Upwell, newer versions of this work have been further improved with the installation of a deck mount scale for easy measurement of this parameter.
Continuing to Push the Boundaries of Marine Science
The Sheila B. continues to play a crucial role in marine science research, thanks to its unique design and constant evolution. It is a testament to the dedication and ingenuity of the MLML team and their commitment to providing the best tools for the pioneers of the future in marine science.
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Wow, I never knew about the Sheila B. Research Vessel! Can’t wait to learn more about its important role in uncovering upwellings.