Ocean science breakthroughs happen all year long. Sometimes, these breakthroughs are quite literal.
This February, several Bigelowians spotted the R/V Clarice in its winter berth at Brewer South Freeport Marine. The vessel was repositioned in late December to be closer to sampling locations in Casco Bay, cutting back on transit times during unpredictable winter weather.
Leadership Giving Officer Michael Vilarello spotted the snow-capped vessel in the marina on a sunny afternoon. Five days later, Research Associate Peter Craig got a closer look at the Clarice surrounded by ice.
Fortunately, the boat wasn’t encased for long. The good folks at Love Point Oysters captured a US Coast Guard vessel breaking up the ice surrounding the boats the very next day.
If you’re currently in coastal Maine, stay safe during the winter storm this weekend. And take heart: spring is just 28 days away!
Credits: Michael Vilarello, Peter Craig, Love Point Oysters
