ALGALITA PROJECT

Over the last few years I have been very conscious of and concerned about the giant garbage patch making its way around the Pacific. The Japanese tsunami has only added to that. I called Jeanne Gallagher who heads the Argalita Project which has, for the last few years, been sending out research and clean up expeditions regarding this and personally have learned a great deal. It appears that with the lessening of government and organization grants, the research is threatened by the lack of funds. They have two legs of research vessels planned for this spring and summer. If anyone is interested in joining them, I will add attachments to this post to let you know who and how to contact them. The expeditions are not cheap. For those who cannot take part, tax deductible contributions to this very worthy organization would be greatly appreciated I am sure. In late May they are holding a symposium in Japan that I hope to attend and will gladly share any information I derive from it. Right now, this organization needs our financial support so whether it is $5.00 or $2500., anything little bit helps. To get any further info feel free to contact Jeanne Gallagher

Her email address is: opsadmin@argalita.org

Steve

Nat_Geo_Article_Letterhead.doc

Call_for_Sponsors_Letter_2_8_12.doc

Feb_2012_TDF_Press_Release.doc

Here are two additional documents regarding the Argalita Project. Most of you are probably already aware of the issue as it has received a large amount of press in the papers and TV news worldwide.

Steve

JOIN THE HISTORIC 2012 ALGALITA/5 GYRES JAPAN TSUNAMI EXPEDITION

Algalita Marine Research Foundation, 5 Gyres Institute and Pangaea Explorations LLC offer an unprecedented opportunity to scientists, educators and interested parties to sail through the projected debris field left in the wake of two of nature's deadliest forces....a massive earthquake and devastating tsunami. Join our research expedition through the North Pacific Ocean sailing aboard Pangaea Explorations Sea Dragon .

May 1, 2012. The first leg is scheduled to leave from Kwajalein Atoll in the Marshall Islands through an area of the North Pacific Gyre referred to as the “Western Garbage Patch” where little research has been conducted on plastic pollution. Following arrival in Japan on May 23, there will be a week layover in Japan.

May 30, 2012 The second leg is scheduled to begin May 30, traveling due east from Japan to Hawaii crossing the Tsunami Debris Field, arriving on Maui, Hawaii, July 1.

Nine crew spaces are available on each Leg.

Requirements: Personal medical insurance must be in place prior to any point of departure. Valid Passport/Visa

Cost Per Person: Leg 1 - $9,500. Leg 2 - $15,500. A deposit of $4,000 and $5,000, respectively, is required at the time of registration. Proceeds from the fare will support Algalita’s and 5 Gyres’ cooperative research and science-based educational outreach.

Cost includes: Berth space, meals and participation in scientific activities throughout the Expedition.

Cost exclusions: Land lodging, including the layover in Japan. Transportation to and from vessel points of departure or arrival.

The 2012 voyage is open to anyone 18 years and older, regardless of sailing experience. Participants will travel with four professional crew members and will be expected to earn their sea legs and rough hands by hauling in lines and hoisting sails. They will also conduct research side-by-side with scientists, whether operating a trawl or collecting and cataloging plastic marine pollution material and sea life.

CONTACT JEANNE GALLAGHER AT ALGALITA MARINE RESEARCH FOUNDATION WWW.ALGALITA.ORG

OPSADMIN@ALGALITA.ORG 562-598-4889

WE WELCOME SPONSORS

Sponsor_Benefits_Options_Letterhead_2_8_12.doc