HMSC Research Seawater System
Project Description
The Hatfield Marine Science Center (HMSC) has a sophisticated seawater distribution system providing reliable access to high-quality seawater, which is needed for a variety of research experiments, outreach and education programs. The seawater must be supplied in large quantities by a robust, clean and reliable system that filters, transports and returns seawater to the Yaquina Bay.
The existing system has served well past its expected life and is starting to experience failures. The highest priority for the seawater distribution system is to replace the causeway/pier and pump system. The causeway supports the electrical and piping necessary to deliver water from the main pumps to the holding tank two times daily.
Access to clean seawater within HMSC’s research laboratories is critical to the research mission. It is also critical to OSU’s partnerships with federal, state and private research partners. The benefit of these partnerships is immense, providing further research opportunities, insights and prestige.