WHEN: Friday, July 13, 2001
11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. PDT
Oregon State University
Hatfield Marine Science Center
2030 Marine Science Center Drive
Newport, OR 97365

On June 26, 2001, ocean scientists began exploring the submarine abyss of Astoria Canyon, just 10 miles offshore from the mouth of the Columbia River—which happens to be the most westward reach of the original Lewis and Clark expedition. These depths were virtually unexplored. The July 13 news conference will announce the findings of this exploration and provide maps and photos of the explored sea floor.

11:00 a.m.
Scott Gudes, NOAA acting administrator and Paul G. Risser, president of Oregon State University, will provide remarks at The NOAA vessel, Ronald H. Brown, the ship responsible for the supporting the expedition.

INTERVIEWS:
Scott Gudes, NOAA acting administrator;
Paul G. Risser, president, Oregon State University; Don Walsh,
Retired Navy Capt. Jeff Goodrich, Teacher-at-Sea and deep ocean explorer
Scientists participating in the mission.

10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Marine Science Center open house for interested media and members of the public.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
For more information on the Astoria Canyon exploration and to follow the mission log visit http://oceanexplorer.noaa.gov/

Visuals: NOAA ship Ronald H. Brown, research equipment (ROV submarine), newly created seafloor maps,
photos and B-Roll.

Relevant Web Sites:
NOAA's Office of Ocean Exploration

NOAA's Teacher-at-Sea Program

NOAA Ship Ronald H. Brown

NOAA's Ocean Page