NOAA Teacher at Sea
Jeff Lawrence
Onboard NOAA Ship Rainier
May 22 – June 2, 2006
Mission: Hydrography survey
Geographical area of cruise: Alaska
Date: May 28, 2006
Weather Data from Bridge
Visibility: 7.0 miles
Wind direction: 210 deg. SSW
Wind Speed: 8 knots
Sea level pressure: 1006 mb
Present weather: overcast with light rain
Temperature: 48 deg. wet/dry 48 deg.
Science and Technology Log
Today is the first full day at Biorka Island, the ship anchored here yesterday afternoon. In the background is Mt. Edgecumbe a volcano on Kruzof Island. On the journey from the Wrangell Narrows we encountered some small swells but overall a smooth trip. It takes many parts to make a whole when it comes to keeping a ship the size of RAINIER running. Engineers and Stewards are the people aboard RAINIER who keep the ship moving. The engineers work about the ship fixing any problems that arise, do general maintenance, and keep the RAINIER in ship shape condition. There are 4 stewards aboard the RAINIER and have the most important job, which is feeding the crew of the RAINIER. To keep up moral on a ship it is important to feed the crew quality meals that satisfy their appetites after a busy day at sea. The stewards aboard the Rainier are:
- Chief Steward: Sergio Taguba
- Chief Cook: Doretha Mackey
- 2nd Cook: Floyd Pounds
- 2nd Cook: Raul Quiros
The same day I flew into Petersburg and boarded RAINIER Milton Ellison from Michigan arrived to begin his new job as a general vessel assistant (GVA). He has spent 8 years in the Navy and several more years in the civilian workforce. Milton has signed on to finish up retirement with NOAA. There are ten crews members aboard the RAINIER that make up Electronics and Engineering departments. NOAA provides many opportunities for those eager to experience new adventures.
Personal Log
We are anchored in Hot Springs Bay, another beautiful view of the Alaskan coastline. Mt. Edgecumbe is in the distant background giving spectacular panoramic views of the area. The crew was able to visit the hot springs in the area last night. Today we will run lines around Biorka Island in the launch boats.
Questions of the Day
What is the name of the large volcano on an Island just to the northwest of Biorka Island near Sitka? Is the volcano active or dormant? How high is the volcano in elevation (ft.)? What is the latitude and longitude of this volcano? What is the highest peak volcano in Washington State? How high is it? What ship in the NOAA fleet is named after it?