OCEANOGRAPHY IN THE UNITED STATES 359 



could be studied to determine the murine factors of estuaries and bays involved 

 in the survival of salmon and other species of fish and shellfish utilizing this 

 environment. It has been recognized for many years that, while the stream 

 or fresh water environment has frequently been the dominant natural influence 

 in determining the abundance of the salmon si>ecies, at times unknown factors 

 in the sea have seriously limited their abundance. The knowledge of how 

 these marine envoronmental factors actually determine salmon survival will 

 permit much wiser management of the stocks in the future. 



The abundance of halibut, various species of cod, herring, shrimp, and crabs, 

 as well as clams and other shellfish, is likewise intimately connected with varia- 

 tions of the marine environment in bays, channels, and estuaries along the 

 Alaska coastline. The study of these factors and interrelationships will be of 

 great assistance to the Department of Fish and Game of Alaska in the conduct of 

 fisheries management. 



Following is a brief outline of expenditures necessary to meet this objective. 



STAFF AND EQUIPMENT 



For the expanded program it is anticipated that two marine scientists with 

 a technical assistant, and a boat captain with five crew members, would be re- 

 quired. A capable research vessel, docking and servicing facilities for the ves- 

 sel, saltwater ponds and aquaria, other marine laboratory facilities, and resi- 

 dence housing for the oceanographic staff at the station would also be required. 

 The total cost of new equipment and facilities would be about $360,000. The 

 annual expense for operations and salaries would be about $110,000. 



A 75-foot boat capable of operating along the Alaskan coast in most weather 

 would be adequate. It should have sufiicient cabin and messing accommoda- 

 tions for the staff and crew, as well as laboratory, gear, and deck working space. 

 A new boat built to spt^cifications would be desirable, although there may be 

 available some suit)1us ship that could be adapted to the program. Cost, about 

 $100,000 (if new). 



DOCK AND SERVICING FACILITIES 



The existing high-tide dock at Kitoi should be extended into deeper water so 

 that the research vessel can tie up at any time and receive and discharge per- 

 sonnel, equipment, and supplies. In addition to the dock, fuel storage and ware- 

 house facilities are also required so that the ship may refuel and store equip- 

 ment when not in use. Total cost about $60,000. 



LABORATORY AND SALTWATER SUPPLY EQUIPMENT 



Saltwater aquaria and rearing ponds with adequate pumping and supply 

 pipeline will make possible studies on living specimens with water of any desired 

 salinity. The salt water intake will be in deep water at the end of the dock 

 and sea water will be pumped to the saltwater laboratory. Cost of construction 

 of concrete rearing ponds, installation of pumps and pipeline, and equipment 

 for laboratory : about $100,000. 



RESIDENCES FOR STAFF 



Residences at the station for staff members while working at the home base, 

 and for families of married staff members will have to be provided. Bachelor 

 quarters will be available from the State budget. It is anticipated that five 

 residence units of two- or three-bedroom classification will be required. These 

 will have to be livable during all 12 months of the year. Estimated cost of 

 construction and furnishing five residences will be $100,000. 



OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE EXPENSES (ANNUAL) 



For fuel, operation, and maintenance of vessel, dock, and service facilities, salt 

 water laboratory, and residences ; annual cost about $20,000. 



STAFF SALARIES AND EXPENSES (ANNUAL) 



For nine adidtional i>ersonnel including scientific staff and vessel crew, the 

 total annual salaries and expenses would be about $85,000. 



