Lake Erie Research Vessel Argo
The R/V Argo is operated by the New York DEC Lake Erie Unit based at the Dunkirk Fisheries Station. It's primary function is to conduct annual assessments of Lake Erie's fish stocks to provide information necessary to manage the lake's resources. Most of the sampling programs are carried out in conjunction with the other fishery management agencies around Lake Erie. Vessel time is also available to other researchers with compatible interests.
The Argo is a full displacement hull designed primarily for trawling, but capable of carrying out a wide variety of sampling tasks. The vessel is rigged for stern trawling with split winches and net drum, and features an enclosed shelterdeck where the fish processing can be carried out in relative comfort. The shelterdeck also houses a 12" Crossley gillnet lifter and secondary steering station. The area also provides a dry area for sounders and computers during hydroacoustic surveys.
Specifications
LWL- 42 ft, beam- 16 ft, draft- 5ft
Gross Tonnage- 36 tons
Year Built- 1986
Builder- Goudy & Stevens, East Booth Bay Harbor, ME
Designer- Napier Co., Arbroath, Scotland
Main Engine- 6466A 250hp Lugger
Auxillary- Northern Lights 20kw/220v/3ph
Fuel Capacity-1156 US gal.
Cruising Speed- 8.0 knots
Accommodations- 4 persons overnight
Navigational Equipment
Furuno 24mi radar
VHF (1) Icom
Northstar 941 GPS
Northstar 800 Loran interfaced with color Furuno GD-170 video plotter
Sitex HE-32 MKII variable beam fish finder
Eagle ultra nav. fish finder
Wood Freeman auto pilot compass unit
Sampling Equipment
YSI digital thermometer
Simrad EY500 split-beam scientific echosounder
0.5m and 1m plankton nets
2m YOY smelt scoop
Vacuum filter for water sampling
Accu Weight, 20kg x 20g, digital scale
Standard Trawling Gear and Gillnets
Three bottom trawls
Wilcox oval doors, 2'x3'
French Midwater trawl, 6x6m opening w/35 sq. ft. head and footrope kites
Midwater trawl doors, 8 sq. ft.
For More Information
Contact:
Lake Erie Fisheries Research Unit
(716)366-0228 or email fwfishle@dec.ny.gov
