Around the Americas for science, education, and conservation

Building upon the success of the 2009-2010 Around the Americas expedition, Captain Schrader and crew will once again create a dynamic floating science and exploration lab aboard the 64' S/V Ocean Watch as it circumnavigates the Americas from March 2017-December 2018. We are outfitting the vessel for this expedition to gather critical data and images. Expedition technology includes Internet of Things instrumentation, sensors, drones, "360°" cameras…and a designated berth for scientists to support specific research initiatives.

With our science and conservation partners, we are developing an innovative research agenda that will include conducting acoustic research in the Arctic, raising awareness of threats to migratory shorebirds along the flyways, and mapping ocean DNA by collecting ancient salt deposits in Antarctica.

In addition to its science goals, the expedition will cultivate the next generation of ocean stewards by engaging students and communities throughout the Americas through compelling storytelling, citizen science, and grassroots conservation efforts.

Our presentation will recap the scientific research projects of the previous expedition, review the science initiatives for next years expedition, and describe how this unique platform could support new or planned scientific initiatives.

Speakers: Mark Schrader, Dawn Curtis Hanley, and Rob Lippincott, Around the Americas/Team Ocean Watch