Atlantic Condor to host research

As it plies its frequent runs from Halifax to the Deep Panuke platform off Sable Island the supplier Atlantic Condor will now be conducting research en route. MEOPAR, the Marine Environmental Observation Prediction and Response Network, has announced that Dalhousie University researchers and students will receive weekly data from the ship that will assist in gauging the state of the ocean's health.

The ship will be fitted with an underwater holographic microscope built by 4-Deep Inwater Imaging of Halifax. The scope will capture detailed images of plankton throughout the year, helping researchers to understand seasonal and climatic variations as they relate to the health of fish stocks.

The project is one of several organized by MEOPAR with funds from various patrons including Irving Shipbuilding Inc (ISI). As part of its contract under the National Shipbuilding Procurement Strategy ISI is obliged to spend 0.5% of its contract revenues on creating a sustainable marine industry across the country.

Atlantic Condor was built by ISI in 2010 and operates for Irving-owned Atlantic Towing Ltd on a ten year contract with Encana to service the Deep Panuke gas project.

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