- PLEASE NOTE:
THIS IS VERSION 1.0 OF THE PLAN. PUBLISHED 1 MARCH 2005.
- SUBSEQUENT TO THE ISSUING OF THIS VERSION, SOME ASPECTS OF THE PROJECT HAVE CHANGED.
- PLEASE REFER TO THE FULL WEBSITE FOR CURRENT DETAILS ON ANY ASPECT OF THIS PLAN.
- SUBSEQUENT TO THE ISSUING OF THIS VERSION, SOME ASPECTS OF THE PROJECT HAVE CHANGED.
Version 1.0
Prepared by Robert W. Schmieder, PhD, KK6EK
Expedition Leader
1 March 2005
CORDELL
EXPEDITIONS
4295
Walnut Blvd.
Walnut
Creek, CA 94596
(925) 934
3735 (voice and fax)
OVERVIEW
A multi-disciplinary expedition to Kure Atoll, the northernmost Hawaiian atoll, will be carried out during Sept-Oct, 2005. This document describes the plan for the project, and will be referred to as the “PLAN.” This document is available at www.cordell.org/htdocs/KURE. This document is in constant revision, and currently contains several sections that are not yet completed. The radio operations of this expedition are referred to as the “DXpedition.”
The goals of the 2005 Kure Atoll Expedition project are:
1. Conduct amateur radio operations
2. Implement an advanced real-time internet-based communications system (DXA)
3. Carry out scientific observations and activities.
The first goal is to set up four complete amateur radio stations on Kure, and conduct radio operations for approximately two weeks. The goal of these operations is to make as many contacts with other amateur stations worldwide as possible, maximizing the number of different stations and optimizing the distribution of contacts across the amateur bands and across geographical regions. The motivation for this is to participate in the worldwide activity of amateur radio, using it as a tool for fraternity and information. We will make about 100,000 total radio contacts during the expedition, and will get international coverage by the media.
The second goal is to implement an advanced system for enhancing the radio amateur’s experience by providing real-time feedback and interactivity with the expedition. The system, called DXA, is described in various documents available at: www.cordell.org/htdocs/DXA. DXA will make use of a satellite internet connection and a highly interactive website containing a database and will be freely available using any browser. This innovative technology is expected to change procedures and expectations of future amateur radio expeditions.
The third goal is a set of scientific investigations, collaborations with other organizations, including the State of Hawaii, various museums and universities, and Cordell Expeditions. Currently, three projects are planned:
· Observation and documentation of ant populations (Pheidole megacephala)
· Collection of a representative set of marine organisms
· Photo-documentation of the shipwreck Paradise Queen
The ant study is described in APPENDIX 1. This project will be done in collaboration with Cynthia Vanderlip of the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources, Division of Forestry and Wildlife. Ms. Vanderlip will be resident on Kure during our stay. She has also requested, and will receive from this group, support for ongoing construction and maintenance projects.
The marine organisms will be distributed to collaborators in several institutions, including the University of Hawaii, the University of California (Berkeley), the Los Angeles County Museum of Natural History, and the National Museum of Natural History.
Photo-documentation of the Paradise Queen will be done in collaboration with the Hans von Tilberg, Northwestern Hawaiian Islands Coral Reef Ecosystem Reserve.
The Kure Expedition project is being managed by Cordell Expeditions, a nonprofit research group based in Walnut Creek, California. The group has fielded expeditions to remote sites for 25 years, and provided the scientific basis for the Cordell Bank National Marine Sanctuary. The Kure expedition team will be an international group of highly experienced radio amateurs and field scientists.
It is policy of this project to observe and operate within all permits, regulations, and recommendations of the various agencies with interest in Kure Atoll, with particular attention to minimizing impact on the ecosystem. Safety and minimal impact to the Kure Atoll environment have priority in this operation.
CONTENTS
PREVIOUS
SCIENTIFIC EXPEDITIONS
CONTEXT OF
PREVIOUS DXPEDITIONS
DX MAGAZINE’S
MOST-WANTED DXCC LIST 2004 (Publ. Feb. 2005)
POSITION ON
DX MAGAZINE’S MOST-WANTED DXCC LIST 1996-2004
POSITION ON
GERMAN DX FOUNDATION DXCC MOST-WANTED LIST 2005
THE
ISLANDS-ON-THE-AIR (IOTA) PROGRAM
HAWAII
DEPARTMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES
PARTICIPANT’S
AGREEMENT AND WAIVER
APPENDIX 1 –
PROPOSAL FOR INVESTIGATION OF THE ANTS
BACKGROUND
KURE ATOLL
Location. Kure Atoll is located at 28º25' N 178º25' W. It is the most remote of the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands, and is the northern-most coral atoll in the world. Kure is 91 km west-northwest of Midway Atoll, at the end of the chain of “Leeward Islands,” the oldest islands of the Hawaiian chain. Measured from Nihoa Island, about 100 miles off the northern tip of Kaua`i, the Leewards stretch for just under 1,100 miles to Kure Atoll.
Geology. Kure Atoll emerged between 6 and 25 million years ago, and probably rose to an elevation of over 12,000 feet. Most of the Leewards, including Kure, have been eroded flat by the sea and wind, but a few tough volcanic cores endure. There are over 18 islets, shoals, and half submerged reefs in the chain, with a total area of 3400 acres. Additional seamounts extend another 500 miles northwest of Kure Atoll. This undersea chain not claimed by any country.
Description. Kure Atoll is a nearly circular coral reef 10 km in diameter. Three islands emerge from the atoll: Green Island in the south, Sand Island in the mid of the eastern reef, and Core Island in the north. Green Island is about 1.5 miles in length (northeast to southwest) and about 0.75 miles wide. The highest elevation on Kure (about 20 ft.) is found on Green Island. The island is composed of sand and coral. There is one house and a disused radio base. A small airstrip is used infrequently by the coastguard and by scientific workers. The second largest island is Sand Island, about 0.9 by 0.5 miles in area, and up to 9 ft high.
Source:
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History. Kure Atoll was discovered in 1823 by Captain Benjamin Morrell, Jr. of the schooner Tartar, who claimed Kure to have an abundance of sea turtles and sea elephants. In 1827 the Russian ship Moller, under Captain Stanikowitch re-discovered the atoll. Later, it gained the reputation of being the “shipwreck isle” because numerous ships ran aground on the reefs at Kure, and crews were stranded on the atoll for up to nine months at a time, eating monk seals, turtles, and seabirds to survive while they constructed smaller craft to make the long passage back to the settled Main Hawaiian Islands. On September 20, 1886, the ship Waialeale arrived at Kure and James Boyd took possession of the island in the name of King Kaläkaua and the Hawaiian Kingdom. The ship's crew built a shack and left provisions and water tanks for shipwrecked sailors. In 1894 the island was leased for guano mining, but no mining was ever done. Kure Atoll was acquired by the United States as part of the Territory of Hawai‘i on July 7, 1898. In 1909, President Theodore Roosevelt made Kure part of the Hawaiian Islands Bird Reservation, reserving the atoll for the Department of Agriculture as a preserve for native birds.
Name. The ancient name of Kure Atoll is Kanemiloha`i, which refers to the brother of Pele. He was left on this island as a guard when Pele came to Hawaii from Kahiki. When he re-discovered it in 1837, Capt. Stanikowitch it "Cure Island" to honor a Russian navigator.
Administration. Kure Atoll is part of the city of Honolulu and Oahu County. There are no permanent residents on Kure. Human presence includes a summer (7-10 week) camp of two seal researchers with the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), one State DLNR technician, and occasional special-purpose visitors and researchers.
Several agencies have management responsibility over the marine resources of the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. Since 1993, Kure has been managed by the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR). The State of Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR)/Division of Aquatic Resources (DAR) has management responsibility for all marine resources out to 3 nm from all emergent lands, with the exception of Midway. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service administers two National Wildlife Refuges that protect all islands (excluding Kure), all reef areas at Midway, and all other reef areas to a depth of 10 fathoms. The National Marine Fisheries Service is responsible for monitoring and protecting monk seals and other marine mammals as well as sea turtles and fisheries resources within the U.S. Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). Waters and submerged lands from the seaward boundary of Hawaii state waters out to a mean depth of 100 fathoms are designated as a Reserve Preservation Area within the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands Coral Reef Ecosystem Reserve (NWHICRER).
The lagoon
There is an opening into the reef on the southwest side. The lagoon has maximum depth of less than 20 ft. While it is mostly free of dangers, parts of wrecked ships move around due to currents and wind.
Coral. Currently Kure Atoll has almost 80,000 acres of coral reef habitat. However, Kure is the northernmost coral atoll in the world. Its location is essentially at the Darwin Point, which marks the location where an atoll sinks faster than its coral can grow. Kure’s coral is still growing slightly faster than the island is subsiding, but further north and west, the Emperor Seamounts are completely submerged, since the seamounts lie in water too deep and cool for coral growth. As Kure Atoll continues its slow migration atop the Pacific Plate, it too will eventually slip below the surface and become a deep seamount.
Source:
Invertebrates. Despite its northern location and relatively cool waters, the aquatic habitats of Kure house a diversity of corals and large invertebrates such as echinoderms, crustacea and mollusks. Twenty eight species of stony corals have been documented at Kure.
Fish. The lagoon and near-shore reefs support large schools of dolphins, jacks, sharks, goatfish, and chub, as well as dragon morays, knifejaws, masked angelfish and rare native grouper. Recent aquatic surveys have identified rare fish species and behaviors seldom seen in the Main Hawaiian Islands.
Seals. Kure Atoll is an important pupping and resting area for Hawaiian Monk seals. The Kure Atoll sub-population of monk seals apparently declined during the 1960s due to increased human disturbance from the Coast Guard station, but has been increasing in recent years. The monk seal population size at Kure is currently about 100-125 animals.
Birds. The island is a nesting area for shearwaters, petrels, tropicbirds, boobies, frigatebirds, albatrosses, terns and noddies. It is also a wintering area for a variety of migratory bird species from North America and Asia.
Plants: In 1923, when the first botanists surveyed the atoll, Kure's vegetation was still predominantly native. However, the construction of a radar reflector in 1955, and the installation of a Coast Guard LORAN station, a 625-foot radio tower, and a 4000-foot runway that was maintained around the clock from 1960 to 1993, greatly altered the flora on Kure. Today, we find few of the original endemics that were common up until 1960. Additionally, there are a host of nonnatives that have thoroughly invaded the island and, in areas, completely converted the flora to a mix of pantropical weeds. Nonetheless, Kure still supports large stands of many native plants, some of which are found in very few other places.
Source:
Among the most prominent plants on Kure is the weed Verbesina encelioides, a member of the sunflower family. The plant grows to 5 feet tall, and has almost entirely taken over more than half the area of Kure and other atolls, including Midway. V. encelioides presents a significant problem of habitat degradation for seabirds and native plants from decrease of potential nesting habitat and inhibition of native plant growth.
Source:
The ants. Recent observations have shown that the “big-headed ant” Pheidole megacephala has become widespread on Green Island. Gordon Nishida and Beth Flint recorded 26,500 ants per square meter at selected sample sites. While this may not be an accurate indication of the average for Green Island, it is indicative of the large numbers of this ant on Green Island. The ants are not native to the Hawaiian Islands; that is, they are an introduced species.
The ants constitute a significant threat to the natural ecosystem on Kure. They successfully attack and destroy most other insects, and are often successful in killing new-hatch chicks and possibly other juvenile megafauna. In addition, by supporting the scale insects that attacks the flora, the ants facilitate destruction of habitat used by other fauna such as the Bonin petrel (BOPE).
The position of the ant in the Kure ecosystem is complex. According to Nishida, the ants feed on the nectar of a scale insect that breeds on the aggressive, introduced plant Verbesina encelioides, which has also overrun the island. The ants protect the scale from parasites and predators. As the V. encelioides populations are reduced by the scale, it moves onto the native naupaka (Scaevola), leaving the typical blackening caused by a fungus growing on the "honeydew" produced by the scales.
Source:
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The Loran station. Kure was the location of one of the Loran transmitting stations. This system was used for oceanic navigation based on triangulation computed from time delays of radio signals from several stations. Development of the Global Positioning System (GPS) made the Loran system obsolete, and the station was closed in 1992. The towers were subsequently dismantled.
Source:
The airstrip. The airstrip on Kure is not operational, but could be put into service for an emergency. It is approximately 4000 feet long.
Source:
Wrecks. Several wrecks are located on or in the vicinity of Kure Atoll. The largest wreck is located in the northwest corner. It is of a Taiwanese vessel of 10,000 tonnes, running on the reef in 1980. Some of Hawaii’s oldest known shipwrecks, such as the USS Saginaw (1870) and what may be the whale ship Parker (1842) lie undisturbed at Kure Atoll. A more recent wreck is that of the fishing vessel Paradise Queen. Kure is a low and inconspicuous feature, only unreliably located by historic charts of the past, a submerged and often unseen hazard.
Debris. Other issues facing the atoll include threats from marine debris. The atoll lies in the path of a major Pacific current, resulting in tons of fishing nets and debris washing up on the reefs and beaches. The debris poses an entanglement hazard for monk seals, turtles, seabirds, fish, and lobsters. In 2003 alone, 2700 pounds of marine debris was removed from Kure, including 997 pounds removed from accumulation study areas that were cleaned of all marine debris just the year before. These accumulation study areas, called High Entanglement Risk Zones (HERZ), are important indicator areas for how quickly marine debris is accumulating in areas that are known to be frequented by monk seals.
Source:
PREVIOUS SCIENTIFIC EXPEDITIONS
The NOWRAMP Expeditions
During Sep-Oct 2000, two research vessels, the Rapture and the NOAA Ship Townsend Cromwell, provided logistical support for the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands Reef Assessment and Monitoring Program (NOWRAMP) expedition to assess the condition and health of the remote coral reef ecosystems of the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. The 50 scientists and educators on board spent 57 ship days collecting data from 11 islands, shoals, and atolls, crossing over 2400 miles of ocean. The collaborative effort involved all key federal and state management agencies (USFWS, NOS, NMFS,), and numerous other agencies.
A second multi-agency expedition to the NWHI was completed in October 2001 aboard the Townsend Cromwell and American Islander. Land-based GPS ground control monuments were established, water-based benthic habitat characterizations were conducted, shallow-water bathymetric data gathering operations were conducted, feature photo-identification activities were conducted, and gravimetric measurements were gathered.
Work done at Kure included (see sources):
• 30 hours of GPS data at a new station on Green Island
• GPS data at five (12) Photo ID locations on Green Island
• GPS data on two (2) North-South and two (2) East-West orientation lines
• Bathymetry data gathering on all predetermined positions except those outside reef crest
• Water level point on Green Island
• Gravity data at five (5) sites on Green Island
• Benthic habitat data at 130 water stations.
Source:
Rapture (178 ft.):
Townsend Cromwell (163 ft):
2001 Expedition:
The 2002 Ocean Futures Society Expedition
During July-Aug, 2002, the Ocean Futures Society carried out a major filmmaking expedition to the NOHI, including Kure. Led by Jean-Michael Cousteau, with Don Santee as Expedition Leader, the group spent 30 days on the Searcher, a 97-foot motor vessel from Honolulu. The film that resulted from the project, Voyage to Kure, is being prepared for airing on KQED.
Photo:
Ocean Futures Society
Photo:
Ocean Futures Society
Source:
The 2004 NWHICRER Hi'ialakai Expedition
The newly commissioned National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration research vessel Hi'ialakai completed its first mission with a successful, comprehensive, five-week survey of marine ecosystems in the waters of the remote Northwestern Hawaiian Islands Coral Reef Ecosystem Reserve (NWHICRER). NOAA is an agency of the U.S. Department of Commerce. The research cruise, which began Sept. 13, 2004, was Hi'ialakai's maiden voyage. This was a collaborative, multi-agency venture involving NOAA's National Ocean Service, National Marine Sanctuary Program, Northwestern Hawaiian Islands Coral Reef Ecosystem Reserve, NOAA Fisheries, Bishop Museum, the State of Hawaii and the University of Hawaii. During the 35-day cruise, 18 researchers conducted assessments, monitoring and mapping operations throughout the waters and reefs within the reserve as well as in adjacent waters managed by the State of Hawaii and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Researchers collected data on the abundance and diversity of fishes, algae, corals and other invertebrates on these reefs, while remote tethered camera arrays recorded habitat types in deeper waters.
Source:
PREVIOUS RADIO EXPEDITIONS
There have been many amateur radio operations from Kure, most carried out by amateur radio operators attached to commercial, military, or governmental operations. Unfortunately, we do not have a complete list of these operations. Here we describe briefly those we do know about. We would warmly solicit additions and corrections.
The 1961 KH6EDY operation
Source: Courtesy of K8BHG
The 1969, and 1973-74 W5LE operation
Leslie (Gene) Lewis, currently W5LE, carried out two operations from Kure:
As KH6NR/KH6 November, 1969. A 1-week operation with Don Chilcote, KH6GKV
As KH6HDB 1973-74.
QSL manager for the DXpedition was Mary Ann Crider, WA3HUP.
Source:
The 1978 N4ZC/KH6 operation
Source: Courtesy W9AU
The 1979 KH6LW operation
Source: QSL courtesy VK3OT There is also a report of an operation by KH6LW/KH7 on 15 m on July 4, 1989
Source:
The 1981 WBØICS operation
In July 1981, WBØICS carried out an operation on 20m. QSL manager was WB6FBN. In the QSL picture, the outlines of the LORAN-C station, deactivated in 1992, are evident.
Source:
The 1989 KH6JEB operation
Source: Courtesy of YO6DDF
The 1990 KD7P/NH7 operation
Source: Courtesy K8CX
The 1997 Midway/Kure DX Foundation DXpedition K7K
A joint scientific/radio operation including fish and wildlife scientists and the members of the Midway-Kure DX Foundation's 1996 Midway team was carried out in 1997. The team included four scientists from the U. S. Department of Fish and Wildlife and the following radio operators: Kimo Chun KH7U, Andy Chesnokov UA3AB, Michael Goode N9NS, Randy Martin KØEU, Burt Myers WØMY (ex WØRLX), Erik Sjölund SMØAGD, Frank Smith AHØW/OH2LVG, and Yuji Yoshitani JA3IG/K1NT. The team flew to Midway, then took the ship S. S. Midway to Kure Atoll.
K7K QSL-Card
Antennas used during the operation included Force-12 C-3's, Force-12 80 and 160 meter verticals, Force-12's new WARC-7 tribander, HF2V verticals, a Cushcraft A3WS and the German-made Titanex 40-80-160 meter vertical. The team also enjoyed the benefits of the SMØAGD 20-meter Special, a vertical quickly assembled by Erik SMØAGD from the broken remnants of one of the beams destroyed during the reef landing.
Sensitive to the ecological concerns of Kure, including beaches covered with plastic and glass garbage that continuously floats ashore, the K7K team undertook to assist the fish and wildlife scientists with their clean-up work. Team members, when not on-the-air, worked side-by-side with the F&W personnel to clear several meadows of a non-indigenous bush-weed that has become a menace to Kure's ground-nesting birds. The team left some equipment in storage on Kure.
After leaving Kure, the team returned for a 2-night, one-day stay on Midway where they made approx. 3,000 QSOs as K4M before returning to Kauai and onward to their respective homes. As chairman of the Midway-Kure DX Foundation, Frank AHØW and Yuuji Yoshitani JA3IG/K1NT also worked out an arrangement with officials on Midway whereby two permanent HF stations will be installed in Midway's hangar to include two fully-equipped ICOM HF stations and Force-12, Cushcraft and other antennas. [The status of this equipment is not known to the author]. Contact for Frank R. Smith (AHØW, OH2LVG) is cqdx@primenet.com. Contact for the MKDXF is mkdxf@aztec.asu.edu.
QSL's for the 1997 Kure Atoll, K7K, trip may be requested directly from Mr. Frank Smith, AHØW, 5933 W. Grovers Ave. Glendale, AZ 85308-1101, U.S.A. Please send a self-addressed envelope with sufficient postage or IRC(s).
Source:
CONTEXT OF PREVIOUS DXPEDITIONS
DX MAGAZINE’S MOST-WANTED DXCC LIST 2004 (Publ. Feb. 2005)
Source:
|
Rank |
DXCC |
Name |
1 |
P5 |
North
Korea |
|
2 |
VU4 |
Andaman and Nicobar Islands |
|
3 |
BS7 |
Scarborough Reef |
|
4 |
VU7 |
Lakshadweep |
|
5 |
7O |
Yemen |
|
6 |
3Y/P |
Peter One Island |
|
7 |
KP1 |
Navassa Island |
|
8 |
KP5 |
Desecheo Island |
|
9 |
3Y/B |
Bouvet Island |
|
10 |
KH7K |
Kure
Atoll |
POSITION ON DX MAGAZINE’S MOST-WANTED DXCC LIST 1996-2004
Source:
POSITION ON GERMAN DX FOUNDATION DXCC MOST-WANTED LIST 2005
Source:
|
Rank |
Name |
|
|
1 |
KH7K |
Kure
Atoll |
|
2 |
BS7H |
Scarborough
Reef |
|
3 |
3Y P |
Peter I
Island |
|
4 |
VU4 |
Andaman
Island |
|
5 |
KP1 |
Navassa
Island |
|
6 |
VU7 |
Laccadive
Island |
|
7 |
ZL8 |
Kermadec
Island |
|
8 |
KP5 |
Desecheo
Island |
|
9 |
VP8 SO |
South
Orkney Islands |
|
10 |
3YB |
Bouvet
Island |
THE LARGEST DXPEDITIONS
Source:
|
QSOs |
QSO/day |
QSO/op-day |
||||
|
1 |
D68C |
168,722 |
18 |
26 |
9373 |
360 |
|
2 |
ZL9CI |
96,004 |
19 |
11 |
5052 |
459 |
|
3 |
K1B |
95,127 |
9 |
12 |
7927 |
881 |
|
4 |
A52A |
82,087 |
10 |
12 |
8008 |
684 |
|
5 |
K5K |
80,841 |
9 |
15 |
8982 |
598 |
|
6 |
VKØIR |
80,673 |
14 |
20 |
5762 |
288 |
|
7 |
TI9M |
79,495 |
11 |
14 |
7226 |
516 |
|
8 |
FOØAAA |
75,107 |
8 |
12 |
9388 |
782 |
|
9 |
TXØDX |
72,654 |
8 |
9 |
9081 |
1009 |
|
10 |
XRØX |
68,910 |
10 |
12 |
6891 |
574 |
|
11 |
PWØT |
65,089 |
14 |
10 |
4649 |
464 |
|
12 |
3YØPI |
62,500 |
22 |
8 |
2840 |
355 |
THE ISLANDS-ON-THE-AIR (IOTA) PROGRAM
Kure is designated OC-020 in the IOTA program. It is currently (early 2005) credited to 32.5% of the IOTA members, and therefore is not high on the most-wanted-IOTA list.
Source:
THE EXPEDITION
TRANSPORTATION
The expedition plans to use a vessel
based in Hawaii, the Searcher. The vessel is owned and operated by the
Medical Foundation for the Study of the Environment, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit
organization. It is 97 ft. LOA, 230 GT. Its radio callsign is WDA6100. Vessel
ID No. 1103056. MMSI No. 366828690.
Contact information: searcher@hawaii.rr.com. (808) 225-8982 (cell) (808) 254-0306 (fax).
|
|
|
|
||
|
The Searcher |
Jonathan Littenberg, Skipper |
|
||
|
|
|
||
|
|
|
||
Pictures taken in Honolulu, Feb. 2005 by Kimo KH7U and Bob KK6EK
WEATHER
The Central Pacific Hurricane season runs from June
1 to November 30. During the hurricane season, a Tropical Weather Outlook is
issued four times a day. Although the greatest likelihood for hurricanes is
during the hurricane season, the Central Pacific Hurricane Center (CPHC) continually
monitors for the threat of tropical systems throughout the year.
We will have access to a considerable amount of
predictive and current information about the weather in the vicinity of Kure.
We believe this information will be sufficient to enable decisions on
operations to maintain safety and optimize the performance. An example of the
resources available to us via the internet connection we will establish using
our DXA system is this image of the northern Pacific ocean.
Source:
Source: Central Pacific Hurricane Center
SITE FACILITIES
Building
There is one building remaining from the Naval and Loran facilities, shown here. This building is occupied by the resident naturalist and staff. However, we have been promised the use of one of the rooms for radio, living, or other needs. There are minimal cooking facilities, including propane stove, plates and flatware, and furniture.
Food
We plan to bring all the food for the entire stay on Kure when we land. If the vessel is able to stand offshore during all or part of this time, we might be able to return to the vessel for particular food, particularly if some of it has been kept in the freezer. It is also possible that the vessel could prepare the food for some of the days.
Water
We have a 200 gal/day water-maker which we plan to bring onto Kure. While this is far in excess of our minimal needs, it is felt by the crew that this capability will make conservation unnecessary, and will enhance the comfort of the team and the other staff on Kure, enabling everyone to function more efficiently.
Fuel
We estimate that about 150 gallons of fuel will be necessary to power the generators during our stay on Kure. We will probably ship this onto the island in 55-gallon drums, supplemented with jerry cans. It is undetermined at this time whether we will have gasoline or diesel generators.
Radio stations
After consultation with Cynthia Vanderlip, we plan to locate our radio stations at the locations marked on the photo below. The stations will be set up in any of a variety of tents for protecting the radios and providing shade for personal gear not stored in the building. The tents are lightweight synthetic fabric construction. We will take particular care to sanitize these tents before shipping to Kure.
Each of the four radio stations will have at least the following equipment:
Ø Radio
Ø Amplifier
Ø Computer, with wireless radio link
Ø Electronic test equipment, such as power meters
Ø Table, chair, lights
Ø Coax cables to the antennas
Ø Antennas
The picture at right shows a typical radio station (this station was used on the 2002 XRØX DXpedition).
Antennas
The antennas will be mostly verticals or vertical arrays. The left-hand picture, taken from the K5K DXpedition, shows a typical antenna of this type. These antennas range from 15 to 90 feet high, and are erected by simply pulling them up, held by guys. Each station will have several of these antennas or arrays.
Satellite communications equipment
In addition to the amateur radio equipment in each of the four stations, we will have an “earth station,” providing 2-way communications with a satellite providing access to the internet. The right-hand picture above shows a typical dish antenna for this kind of installation. The antenna is about 8 ft. in diameter, and is pointed at the satellite. We have not yet determined the particular model antenna we will take to Kure. The full system is described in more detail below.
SITE OPERATIONS
Radio operations
[see separate section below]
Scientific operations
In addition to the radio operation, we will carry out a series of scientific projects. In particular, we will collaborate with the resident naturalist, Cynthia Vanderlip, on an investigation of the ants on Kure. This project has particular importance to the ecosystem on Kure, since the ants are an imported tramp species that is very aggressive, destroying most other insect fauna and even attacking newly hatched seabird chicks. A detailed proposal describing this activity is provided in APPENDIX 1.
Recreational activities
The team expects to enjoy diving, walking, reading, and using the DXA internet facilities. No organized activities, other than the scientific work, are planned. It is planned that during part of the time the team will assist the resident naturalist in upgrading and repairing the field station on Kure. Among other work, we are aware of the need for developing the electrical wiring of the main building and the construction of a small building for a composting toilet. We will also construct a latrine for the team’s use during our stay.
MEDICAL AND EMERGENCY
The Expedition will have a medical doctor as a team member. He will have two responsibilities:
(1) Guide the team to stay healthy
(2) Respond to medical events.
Ensuring health and safety
The first of these involves advising the team in advance on how to prepare for the expedition, and how to stay healthy while on Kure. This includes proper eating and exercise, and prophylactic medications.
Illness or death
The second responsibility above involves responding with first-aid to minor injuries, providing medications to treat conditions such as flu and viral infections, and responding to trauma such as abrasions and lacerations that might be occasioned by equipment, diving, or simple falls.
A serious medical emergency might require major medical response. The situation may be treatable by the expedition doctor, say in the case of a broken bone, dislocation, or fibrillation. In the case of a coronary, life-threatening trauma, diving accident, or similar emergency, we will activate an appropriate response by outside service. For instance, a combination of vessel pick-up at Kure and transfer to Midway, followed by aircraft evacuation might be necessary. We will have all the contact points and procedures available to us on Kure, and of course there will be considerable communication capability.
MINIMIZING IMPACT
Sensitivities
Kure is typical of many small islands in having a history of abuse and introduction of alien species. The condition of Kure at present, with about half of its area overrun with the weed Verbesina encelioides and a rapidly expanding population of the destructive ant Pheidole megacephala, motivates strong corrective action, and this is being led by the naturalist Cynthis Vanderlip and various agencies. One of the greatest fears is the importation of additional alien species, perhaps riding on packing, equipment, or in foodstuffs.
Besides the terrestrial flora and fauna, the small population of monk seals may be very sensitive to human intrusion. The seals haul out on the beaches at Green Island. Among other dangers are interference with parent-pup relationships.
Although the bird populations would normally be sensitive to human occupation, at the time of our visit the albatross will be gone, minimizing impact on that group.
Marine resources such as fish and invertebrates, being part of the food chain supporting the monk seals, could be considered sensitive, although we are not aware at this time of any intrinsic sensitivities of particular organisms.
Procedures
A condition of the landing permit, issued by the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources, is that we cannot bring onto the atoll any cardboard, paper sacks, or unpainted wood. Therefore, we will take appropriate measures to pack all our equipment in plastic or metal containers that can be thoroughly disinfected. In addition, we will follow the detailed instructions of the authorities in the preparation of the equipment and supplies, such as having it frozen for 48 hours before departure.
In order to avoid contact with the monk seals, we will avoid walking on the beaches, except for landing and to install equipment in approved places. The radio antennas, which need to be near the water, will be installed to the extent possible away from any seal occupation.
When possible, antennas will be installed to minimize impact on the local vegetation and soil. So for instance, it may be desirable to use the Loran antenna pad for one of the stations, even though it is not the most desirable location for radio propagation.
Radio antennas and supporting guys will be provided with flags to help prevent bird strikes, if advised by the resident naturalist.
The team will be instructed to minimize walking in unmarked areas at night, to minimize impact on burrowing birds and their nests.
In these, and all other operations, the policy of this organization is to give first priority to safety of people, equipment, and the environment, and second priority to radio and scientific operations. Thus, we may find it necessary to modify our procedures, should we find they are not consistent with the policy just stated.
Ecological protocols
Cynthia Vanderlip has provided this group with a copy of the draft memo Ecological Protocols for the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands (May 25, 2004). This document gives guidelines for procedures to be used when visiting the NWHI. It will be policy of this group to be aware of these protocols and to observe them to the extent requested by Ms. Vanderlip. The entire document will be included in the Handbook for Participants. Here we extract salient sections from the memo, to indicate our cognizance of, and agreement with, the guidelines. This summary neglects certain details and subtleties; the extract here is not meant to define the policy but only to indicate the nature of it and this group’s agreement with it.
ECOLOGICAL PROTOCOLS (abridged)
Cynthia
Vanderlip
Department of Land and Natural resources
Division of Forestry and Wildlife
Introduction
One of the most important ways you can contribute to the conservation of the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands is by not introducing alien species during your visit.
Preparing the packing area
1. Close off the packing area and set off an insecticide fumigant the night before packing.
2. Sweep, vacuum, and mop the packing area.
3. Continuously monitor the packing area after cleaning.
4. Wear quarantined shoes or shoe-covers during packing.
5. Keep pets and other animals out of the packing area.
6. Spray insecticides around entranceways and in areas that open into the work area.
7. Remove seeing plants from outside the packing area.
Containers
Unacceptable: cardboard boxes, paper bags, bare wood containers
Acceptable: plastic storage containers with sealable lids, metal containers with sealable lids, painted wooden boxes. Box construction should not provide voids that might harbor insects or seeds.
Packing
Do not leave containers open while packing. Wrap breakable items in new bubble wrap or cloth. Remove cardboard and paper packing.
Clothing
New footwear and gloves are required. New clothing is preferred but not required. Store “island-specific” clothes and gear in airtight containers when not being used in the field. Dry washing in clothes dryers, not on clotheslines.
Gear
Treat the following items in the same way as clothing: daypacks, fanny packs, camera bags, binocular straps, eyeglass straps, nets and collecting bags, bedding, cots, tents, luggage, foam, scuba gear including fins, masks, snorkel, gloves, booties, wetsuits, BCs, weight belts, survey and collecting equipment, gear bags, goodies bags, regulators.
Freezing food and supplies
Freeze food and supplies at least 48 hours prior to departure. Pack supplies in well-sealed containers. Do not freeze glass or canned goods containing liquids. Plastic buckets with sealing gaskets work well. Freeze all dry foods, toilet paper, sponges, paper towels, plastic bags, gloves, boat tools, land tools, books and other paper products, office supplies.
Prohibited foods
Tomatoes, raw sunflower seeds, alfalfa seeds, mustard seeds.
Diving protocols
Rinse and dry all diving gear and ancillary equipment, using a bleach and fresh water mixture. Small boats and similar equipment should be washed and dried for two weeks prior to use on Kure. The equipment should be tented and bombed with a spray insecticide.
RADIO OPERATIONS
Radio callsign
The Expedition will use the radio callsign K7C, which was reserved using the .
Operations
We have received the following preliminary simulation of the maximum useable frequency (MUF) and darkness duration (along the path Kure/Europe) from Carl K9LA. A variety of detailed simulations such as these will be carried out in the course of this project.
Operating frequencies
The Expedition will select a set of primary operating frequencies, selected to avoid conflict with other possible operations, and to be on or near the standard frequencies used by major DXpeditions. The following table is indicative of these frequencies, but is only provisional. THIS LIST IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE.
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Kure 2005 Suggested frequencies [Expedition transmits this
frequency, listen up (generally)] |
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CW |
SSB |
Comments on SSB frequencies |
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1826.5 |
--- |
. |
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3502 |
3785 |
Up for USA, down for EU/world |
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7002 |
7055 |
Up, also above 7225 for USA |
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10106 |
--- |
. |
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14052 |
14155 |
Up 14175-14185 & above 14240 for USA generals.
Avoid the SSTV frequencies at 14230 |
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18072 |
18145 |
. |
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21052 |
21225 |
Up 21230-21240 & above 21350 for USA generals.
Avoid the SSTV frequencies at 14230 |
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24892 |
24945 |
. |
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28042 |
28445 |
. |
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50106 |
50106 |
. |
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RTTY frequencies as appropriate. Please check your packetcluster. |
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THE DXA SYSTEM
Overview
DXA is a web-based system that will provide enhanced user access to an amateur radio DXpedition and similar event. The core components of DXA include a reliable satellite communications channel, and a central site with a database that can store and update content that can be served to users (DXers). This capability will enable a wide variety of innovative services and features that the DXer will find useful and interesting. The DXA concept is illustrated in the following diagram.
Motivation and goals
One of the central goals of DXA is to provide an enhanced and shared experience for DXers by implementing a highly interactive, dynamic website. Currently DXpedition websites are generally limited to presenting basic information such as schedule, team members, operating frequencies, and images of the remote site. Interactivity is very limited; usually the only feature is a log server, in which the DXer enters his callsign and the server shows him what contacts (“QSOs”) are in the log.
A recent survey of DXers (NP4IW, N7CQQ, ON4UN, ON6TT, ON5NT, ON4WW, PA3DUU, PA5EA, LA9HE, HB9AHL, HB9AFI, HB9BHW, HB9BCK, OE9AHJ, DJ9ZB) supports the suggestion that a significant advance in interactivity through an improved website would be most welcome in the DXing community. Based on this preliminary endorsement of the concept, we are assembling this capability, and will use it for the first time on the K7C Kure DXpedition.
The central goal is to make a qualitative advance in the web site as a tool for enabling user participation in the remote operation. We seek to draw the DXer into the DXpedition, enabling him to not only feel part of it, but also to be an active participant, together with other users and the DXpedition team. Some of the specific goals of this project are:
· Give the visitor a sense of participation
· Increase the chances of the DXer successfully making a radio contact
· Reduce interference on the air
· Reduce and eliminate logging errors
· Supply new kinds of content for the DXpedition
· Create a community among visitors
· Provide a variety of types of information about the DXpedition.
We believe that successful development of DXA will result in a new standard for DXpedition interactivity, and will be used by all future major DXpeditions. Assuming it can be developed in a generalized format, the system could be used for other events, such as scientific expeditions, sporting events, rescue operations, and educational functions.
Appearance
At the time of this writing, the look and feel of the DXA main website is not yet determined. The following screen shot is not a design; it is meant to indicate the kinds of content that will be presented on the site..
Core features
The central concept of DXA is that it will emphasize dynamic and interactive content. Some kinds of content that can be implemented with DXA are:
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· QSO-logged indicator · Commercial advertising · Data and images from the DXpedition · Data generated by users · Guestbook · Log server · Making donations |
· Ordering souvenirs · Pre-recorded images, sounds, and graphics · Real-time DXpedition information · Statistics · Team operations · User-specific data and graphics · Voting and requests |
A specific example of a feature that DXA can provide is the QSO-logged indicator (shown in the table at the bottom center of the figure above). This is a set of band-mode lights on the DXer’s computer screen. When a valid QSO is logged by the DXpedition, the DXA system will automatically “switch on” the appropriate light. This happens within a few seconds after the QSO is logged. A yellow light means the QSO is logged. When the logs are processed and the QSO is confirmed, the light will turn green. A red light means that a logged QSO was determined to be invalid, and invites the DXer to make another contact.
Implementation of the DXA satellite link
The satellite data link is a critical part of the DXA system. There are many options for the antenna, modem, and satellite service. It is assumed that a system will be implemented that gives us direct access to the internet from Kure. An attractive system is the Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT). One of the most common (300,000 in use worldwide) VSATs the Hughes PES 3000 Personal Earth Station. The Kure SATCOM station will provide direct internet access up to 64 kbps for 4 serial ports. The antenna we will need will probably be about 3m diameter.
IRIDIUM:
SATCOM:
PES 5000:
INMARSAT.
Digital Ship:
The Hawaii –based part of the team is also interested in developing a ham-frequency-only link form Kure to Honolulu. A preliminary design for the system is indicated in the following drawing [by Pat Guerin NH6UY, Feb. 2005]:
SERVICES TO THE DXER
Real-time information
Online services
e-mail confirmation of contacts
Donations
POST-EXPEDITION FOLLOW-UP
Presentations
Members of the Kure team will attend the major amateur radio conventions, including those at Visalia and at Dayton in the spring. It is likely that we will be invited to make presentations on the expedition at these, and perhaps other, conventions. In all of these presentations, we will appropriately acknowledge the sources of support of the project, and also indicate the fragile nature of the environment on Kure Atoll. We believe that public information should include more than the radio operations and results; it should also inform about the nature of the site.
Souvenirs
We plan to create and market a souvenir package, which we call the “Kure Kit.” It will contain the following items:
· Souvenir QSL card
· CD/DVD containing pictures, logs, the K7C book, and other content
· 12-month calendar with pictures of the team
· Software for special features of the DXA system
· Coupons valid for discounts with sponsoring organizations
The CD/DVD will contain the audio of the purchaser’s QSOs with the DXpedition, added at time of purchase.
Book
We have not yet decided whether to produce a book describing this project. Previous books by KK6EK about 3YØPI, XRØY/Z, VKØIR, and XRØX provide a pattern for such a book, but it would probably give emphasis on DXA.
SCIENTIFIC WORK
In addition to the radio operations, the Expedition plans to carry out a limited program of scientific research. This work will be done in collaboration with scientists and administrators with interest in Kure Atoll.
The
following projects are planned for this expedition:
Observation of ant populations
Previous work has found that there are large numbers of the
“big-headed” ant Pheidole megacephala on Kure. The ant is found
in many tropical and subtropical regions, introduced in New World tropics. It
is a tramp species with a potentially devastating impact on native fauna. It
is a serious threat to biodiversity through the displacement of most native
invertebrate faunas, a pest of agriculture as it harbors phytophagous insects
(scale) that reduce crop productivity, and it is a domestic pest.
We plan to document
our observations of these ants, particularly the locations of high
concentrations. However we do not plan to make any significant collections or
disturbances of the ants. We will work with Cynthia Vanderlip, the resident
ecologist in this project.
Sources:
=
Collection of marine organisms
We will make a representative collection of marine organisms, including algae and invertebrates, to be taken in shallow water using hand collection. Scuba may be used to obtain subtidal specimens. A total of less than 10 kg of specimens will be taken. The collection will be divided between the State of Hawaii, the University of California (Berkeley), and the Los Angeles County Museum of Natural History.
Source:
Photo documentation of the wreck of the Paradise Queen
According to Hans von Tilberg, the Paradise Queen, an 87-foot fishing vessel, ran aground on Green Island and was wrecked in 1998. Currently it is in many pieces scattered in two main areas, each with 3-4 major pieces, located at N: 28.3913 W: 178.2891. Tilberg indicates that any documentation of the wreck would be an aid to management. Our plans include documenting the wreck with still and video images. It is not planned to recover any pieces. The information obtained will be passed to Tilberg, or his representatives.
PERSONNEL
PROJECT MANAGEMENT
This project is managed by a Board of Directors consisting of the following
Alan Maenchen AD6E
Robert Schmieder KK6EK
Garry Shapiro NI6T
Robert Schmieder KK6EK acts as Expedition Leader. Most team-wide actions are by concurrence of the Board. However, as described under “POLICIES” (below), the Expedition Leader has ultimate authority and responsibility of the safe and appropriate operation of the project.
Financial and scientific aspects of the Expedition are managed under the auspices of Cordell Expeditions, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization operating under the laws of the State of California and the United States. Founded in 1977 by Dr. Robert Schmieder, the organization has a 25-year history of organizing and carrying out expeditions to remote sites, especially islands and submerged oceanic sites. The group is experienced in the operation of scientific teams. Cordell Expeditions was responsible for creating the Cordell Bank National Marine Sanctuary, the inclusion of the Pt. Sur area within the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, and the first comprehensive description of Rocas Alijos, Baja. Cordell Expeditions is strongly oriented toward protection and conservation. Six of its expeditions have been documented in published books.
THE TEAM
1. Alan Eshleman K6SRZ – Expedition Doctor
2. John Kennon N7CQQ
3. Franz Langner DJ9ZB
4. Kathryn Levenson K6DZL
5. Alan Maenchen AD6E
6. Mike Mraz N6MZ
7. Max Mucci I8NHJ
8. Robert Schmieder KK6EK – Expedition Leader
9. Garry Shapiro NI6T
10. Ward Silver NØAX
11. Charles Spetnagel W6KK
12. Radio operator TBD
13. Radio operator TBD
ONSITE NATURALIST
14.
Cynthia
Vanderlip, Hawaii Department Of Land And Natural
Resources
ADVISORS AND PERMITORS
David Smith, State of Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources
Hans Von Tilberg, Northwestern Hawaiian Islands Coral Reef Ecosystem Reserve
VESSEL (The Searcher)
Jonathan Littenberg
PARTICIPANTS
Alan Eshleman K6SRZ
I was first licensed as novice KN6SRZ in 1956, when I was twelve years old. I got my General in 1957 and spent my on-air time chasing DX with a Globe Scout, SX71, and low-hanging long wire. Later I discovered that chasing girls could also be fun so I sold my gear and bought a motor scooter. Except for a few months when I operated from W1ET--the Dartmouth College club station--I was inactive from 1962 until 1996.
Since rediscovering ham radio, I spend my time chasing DX (332 worked and 331 confirmed) and contesting. I prefer CW, but can also be found on SSB, RTTY, and PSK31. I don't have much space for antennas at my present QTH, but have managed to get onto the low bands by creative wire-stringing. I'm proudest of making DXCC on 80 meters to complete 5BDXCC.
In April 2004 I was part of the T33C (Banaba) DXpedition, operating CW and serving as expedition physician. Ive also operated from Tarawa (T30CA) and Christmas Island (T32CK).
I’m board certified in internal medicine. Prior to medical school, I earned a doctorate in botany at the University of Hawaii where my research helped track the distribution of toxic heavy metals in the Hawaiian environment.
I'm a member of the Northern California Contest Club, The Redwood Empire DX Association, and the East Bay Amateur Radio Club. I'm also the trustee for W6PZ (the call kindly granted by the family of the Late Fred Gallien), the Trinity County Contest Club. W6PZ goes on the air each October for the California QSO party. This year I’ll have to observe the California Party from Kure!
John Kennon N7CQQ
John, 57, was licensed in 1970 at the age of 23 as WA6CZA. Today, he is working his way to the top of DXCC (phone) but is hampered by actually going to the DXCC location he needs. He participates in contests and field days. He has participated in DX contests from Bora Bora. (FO8DX 1997) and Jamacia in 2002. In addition he has First (1998) and Third (1997) place in the Nevada QSO parties winning again in 2004 as a member of the N7X Area 51Team in 2004. John was a team member of the 1999 California QSO Party “Top California Multi-Multi Expedition K6Z.” John is also a DXpedition organizer QLS Manager and participant for FOØCI (Clipperton Island 1992), FO8DX and FOØKEO (Bora Bora 1997), TI/N7CQQ (San Jose, Costa Rica 1998), FOØAAA (Clippertion Island again 2000 – Team Leader - QSL Manager), D68C (Comoros Island 2001), XRØX (San Felix Island 2002 – QSL Manager), 6Y5/N7CQQ (Jamaica Island 2002), 3B9C (Rodriguez Island 2004), VP2MQQ and VP2MW (Montserrat Island 2004).
John is a member of the Southern California DX Club, Area 51 Contest Club, Central Arizona DX Association, Clipperton DX Club, and NCDXF. In all, John has visited 33 DXCC countries and operated from 11 countries. He is a low band enthusiast, sometimes operates 6 meters and prefers SSB. Other call signs he has held are: WA6CZA, KA7CQQ, FOØKEO, FOØAAA, TI/N7CQQ, VP2MQQ and N7CQQ.
John has a modest station using an ICOM IC-756 PRO transceiver and Alpha 76A amplifier. He has a LM-470 tower for 10, 6, 220, 2, and 440. He also has a 100’ guyed tower with a TH-7 beam that also supports a 160 meter sloper, and 80 meter inverted Vee. Lastly, there is an 80’ tower that supports a 40 meter and 80 meter Vee antenna as well as a Cushcraft A3WS antenna. His station towers are visible at the corner of US 95 and Nevada Highway 163 in Nevada
Professionally, John was the Payroll and Accounting Supervisor at Southern California Edison's Mohave Generating Station in Laughlin, Nevada. He retired early in 1996, after 26 years, because of (?) De-regulation at age 49. John now works as a Deputy Sheriff Bailiff at the Searchlight, Nevada and Laughlin, Nevada Justice Courts. He has one grown child and three grandchildren. He has an A. A. from Riverside City College, Riverside, California and was studying for his B. S. at University of Nevada at Las Vegas when he retired.
Franz Langner DJ9ZB
QTH: Ettenheim, South West Germany. Profession: Electronic technician, working for LITTON now Northrop Grumman, Freiburg. Licensed since 1964.
Member: DARC, NCDXF, INDEXA, GDXF, EUDXF, CDXC, HIDXA, SSIDXC, RRDXA, SDXG.
Awards: DXCC, 5BDXCC, 5BWAZ.
DXpeditions: 4W1ZB, JY8ZB, TA2DX, C5ABL, OE6XG/A, J2ØCP, J20/A, 3A3WPX, T70A, HBØBOE, C31LY, VK9ZR (Mellish Reef & Willis Is.) PYØSK, PYØSR, KB6IRD/KHØ, FOØXX, PA3CXC/STØ, ET3DX, E31A, E3ØBA, E3ØGA, 9E2A, 3XA8DX, J5Z, 6O1Z, 5U7Z, XRØX.
Author: "DX World Guide" book, "DX-Jahrbuch 2001"
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Kathryn Levenson K6DZL
Kathryn is a teacher in Biology and Geology at Maybeck High School, Berkeley. She received her B.A. from U. C. Santa Barbara. After completing graduate work at Harvard in anthropology and archaeology, her lifelong passion for meeting people of other cultures and viewing distant landscapes led her from academia to ecotourism and expedition travel. With 14 years of experience with some of the largest adventure travel firms in the business, Kathryn founded TOP GUIDES to realize her own ideals. In TOP GUIDES, she brought together the most exceptional leaders to develop unique tours, provide the highest quality of personal service to her guests, and exemplify the highest goals of environmentally and culturally responsible tourism. She has served as the Environment Chairperson for PATA Norcal (Pacific Asian Tourism Association for Northern California) and a founding member of PIRT (Partners in Responsible Tourism).
Kathryn holds certification as Wilderness First Responder and CPR for the Professional Rescuer. As K6DZL, she handles emergency communications for the Contra Costa Sheriff. On the Kure project, Kathryn will implement the public information program using the innovative DXA system, expected to provide high visibility to the project.
Alan Maenchen AD6E
First licensed in 1962 while in high school (Livermore CA) as WN6BID upgraded to General in 1963 and became WB6BID ... really good CW call sign! Graduated from San Jose State University in 1970 and was immediately drafted. To avoid indentured servitude in the Army, I "volunteered" for the Navy. That turned out to be a life saver in more ways than one. Since I knew a little CW, I was sent to radio school. After listening to CW 8 hrs/day 5 days/week I got up to 24 WPM and ran down to the FCC in San Diego and upgraded to Extra.
My first (and only) duty station was NCS Philippines (NPO) where I worked as a RTTY and CW op for three years. I met my wife there, got married and we had our first child, Anna in 1971. That same year I "retired" from the Navy and tried to get my career started in Electrical Engineering. However, no company would hire me since I was out of school for four years and had no experience. Thus, I went back to San Jose State and got an MSEE degree.
Since then I haven't had any trouble finding work. I was QRT since high school. About 1980 I got interested in the hobby again and bought a QRP rig (Argonaut 509) and started chasing DX with 5W and a low dipole. That was pretty discouraging so I built an amp with a 4CX1500B that took the 5W up to 1500W. That was better. Next I installed a roof mount TH3 and the world opened up. It was great! A few yrs later I ran the city permit gauntlet and put up a 72' crank-up.
The present station is an FT920,
TL922. Antennas are a 40CD2 and C31XR. With a better station, I got bored
chasing DX and started contesting. I still haven't won a contest and don't
really expect to, but I find it very challenging. The Northern California
Contest Club has given me years of help and camaraderie (see: I took over
the administration of the California QSO Party (see Part of the
TI9M expedition (see
Mike Mraz N6MZ
N6MZ's major DXpeditions include VKØIR Heard Island 1997, ZK1XXP North Cook 1997, KH9/N6MZ Wake Island 1998, 9M6OO Spratly 1999, and XRØX San Felix Island 2002. He has also operated from SV5, FR, FT5X, ZK1/s, 9V, VR2, G, ON, BV, 9M6, CE.
Retired from the high-tech field where he held various positions in engineering and marketing, N6MZ decided that DXpeditioning was much more fun than working for a living. He's now a consultant to one of the major amateur radio manufacturers. He earned a BSEE degree at Ohio State, where W8JK (sk) tried to teach him electromagnetics and radio astronomy.
Max Mucci I8NHJ
Born in 1958 and first licensed in 1974 as IW8XAC. Upgraded to full HF
privileges in the subsequent examination.
My first QSL is a letter of thanks my grandfather received from
Guglielmo Marconi because of his help in some experiments. As a youngster
unable to build large antennas and run enough power to ensure a big signal, I
learnt and practised the techniques needed to work DX. During the Seventies I
completed the major awards (WAC, 5BWAC, WAZ and DXCC) running QRP and enjoying
low bands, but my dream still was to have plenty of aluminum on the roof and to
be on the other side of the barricade. During the Eighties there was a lack of
activity owing to the studies (Master in Information Technology), the work and
the girls. In the early Nineties I bought, all together, a new house, an
IC-781, a cubical quad and a PA, and the game became tough.
Always needing to put myself to the test, I convinced Monica, EL2PP to
let me bring Liberia on CW during the CQ WW and, between a machine-gun fire and
a refuelling of the generator, I achieved the 2nd world place in the SO LP
category. My dreams were fulfilled when I enjoyed the pile-ups from 1AØKM, JT1Y
and E3ØGA. My biggest effort so far has been K5K, the successful expedition to
Kingman Reef in autumn 2000. More operations followed, including XRØX (San Felix) and the very
successful S05X (Western Sahara) expedition, during which we tested a few new
data-processing to radio supporting activities. The low bands and CW are my
primary interest and preferred mode. Currently I work as IT Consultant and
Chief Executive of my own company. I achieved some interesting work-related
certifications like CISCO CCDA. I am also a scuba-dive instructor.
Awards: DXCC Honor Roll, Mixed, CW, Phone, 5BDXCC, 5BWAZ, WAZ CW QRP,
IOTA
Clubs And Association Memberships: ARI, INORC, Mediterraneo DX Club
Bob Schmieder KK6EK
Bob is the founder and Expedition Leader of Cordell Expeditions, a nonprofit research group begun in 1977. The group is responsible for the field work that led to the designation of the Cordell Bank National Marine Sanctuary. First licensed in 1962, currently Extra Class KK6EK. He has been active in Islands on the Air (IOTA), having activated five "New Ones": Farallons, NA-178; Guadalupe, NA-179; Roqueta, NA-183; Northern California Group, NA-184; and Central California Group, NA-187. Other calls he has held are XF1/KK6EK, VP8CPK, 4K1/KK6EK, CEØ/KK6EK, and VK6EKK. DXpeditions include 3YØPI (Peter I), XRØY/Z (Easter Island), VKØIR (Heard Island), XRØX (San Felix Island).
Author of 7 books derived from his expeditions. Fellow of the Explorers Club and former Chairman of its Northern California Chapter. Life member of the Central Arizona DX Association. Honors: Schmieder Bank (a rocky bank in the eastern Pacific), Codium schmiederi (an alga), Erylus schmiederi (a sponge), Pharia pyramidata schmiederi (a starfish), and Megomphalus schmiederi (a gastropod). Over the past 30 years, he has been listed in almost every Who's Who in the world. Owner and operator of a research vessel, the Cordell Explorer.
Professionally a physicist, with more than 100 technical publications. Member of the Technical Staff at Sandia National Laboratories for 25 years, where he did research on laser/matter interaction, combustion physics and chemistry, plasma device simulations, simulation of collective dynamics of complex systems, and nanotechnology. In 1997 he left Sandia to found a startup company, NanoLogic, Inc. The company is developing intellectual property for incorporating nanotechnology in computers.
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Garry Shapiro NI6T
First licensed in 1956 at age 13 as KN2RQC. Upgraded to General a few months later. Never completed first DX QSO (with HP1EH)---ran out of shack screaming with joy. Built gear with miniscule allowance. Upgraded to Extra in 1959 for no particular reason. Completed Bachelor’s (RPI ‘63) and Master’s (Stanford ‘67) degrees in Electrical Engineering—and DXCC (’63). Began EE career in Silicon Valley in aerospace, then data communications and finally semiconductors.
Lured away from radio by the pleasures of the ‘60’s and license lapsed; failed to notice. Re-licensed in ’82 as NI6T after a ham friend casually asked if I could still copy CW-- I could--but the home QTH in a canyon was not encouraging for DX. The DX fire lit again in ’89 while operating mobile on a fishing trip; started hanging out on ridgetops, building antennas, boring friends.
Invited on Contest DXpedition in ’92 (T32) for CQWW RTTY; the bonefishing was excellent, as well. Member of ’95 Conway Reef (ARRL DXpedition of the Year), and of ’99 Rodrigues I. DXpeditions. Co-led (with N4XP) ’00 Kingman Reef DXpedition.
Major DX interests include low bands, WARC’s, RTTY. Preferred mode is CW.
Awards:
DXCC Honor Roll (Mixed, CW, Phone)
5BDXCC with 160, 17 and 12m endorsements
5BWAZ
WAZ CW, WAZ Phone
Memberships:
ARRL
NCDXF
INDEXA
NCCC
Ward Silver NØAX
Ward Silver NØAX is a long-time contester and DXer, enjoying high-rate operating from HC8N, KH6RS, NH6T, K3LR, W7RM, NK7U, and others. His specialty is CW, with the occasional limerick and lyrical parody thrown in as a bon mot from time to time. He was first licensed in 1972 as WNØGQP, but overcame the burden of that call by enrolling in the WØEEE Radio Club at the University of Missouri-Rolla.
Professionally, he is an electrical and systems engineer, teacher, and writer. Readers of QST and DX Magazine will recognize his by-line from the "Contest Corral," "Hands-On Radio," and "DX Puzzler" columns that appear in each issue. He is also the editor of the ARRL email newsletter "Contester's Rate Sheet" delivered to more than 12,000 ARRL members every other week and shared by many more. Ward's book, Ham Radio for Dummies was published by Wiley Press in 2004, is now in its second printing, and he is hard at work on Two-Way Radios and Scanners for Dummies scheduled for release in August 2005. On the air, he is on the DXCC CW Honor Roll, needing only four more entities to have worked 'em all, and is in the rarified air of QRP DX-ers with 307 countries in the log.
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Charles Spetnagel W6KK
Charlie was a member of the 1992 FOØCI Clipperton, and the 2002 XRØX San Felix DXpeditions. He has operated from Cayman Islands 93 & 94 (ZF2JI), Baja California 1995 (6E2T), Bora Bora 1997 ( FO8DX), Guadeloupe 1998 (FG5BG), US Virgin Islands 2000 (WP2Z), Netherlands Antilles 2001 (PJ2/W6KK), and Montserrat 2004 (VP2MKK). He has been a team member at W6BA, N6AW and W6KP contest stations in Southern California for CQWW and ARRL contests.
Charlie is a member of the Southern California DX Club, Southern California Contest Club, Northern California DX Foundation, and life member of the ARRL. He is on the DXCC Honor Roll with 338 confirmed needing only 7O and holds 5BDXCC with 12 and 17meter endorsements. Previous calls include WB6SLI, N7QQ, ZF2VT, FOØSPE, FG/W6KK KP2/W6KK, PJ2/W6KK and VP2MKK.
Charlie is employed by an electric utility as a telecommunications supervisor.
SUPPORT TEAM
THE PACIFIC DX GROUP
For several years, the Pacific DX Group, based in Hawaii, was planning an expedition similar to the present one. The team leaders were Kimo Chun KH7U and Patrick Guernin NH6UY. The plan called for a team of about 15 radio operators, using the radio callsign KH7K. The plan called for a combination team flight to Midway and gear shipment by boat from Honolulu. Unfortunately, the plan was delayed due to excessive cost. In November, 2004, Cordell Expeditions contacted Kimo and Pat, and inquired about the possibility of carrying out the project, essentially along the lines originally planned by them, but with different transportation and possibly different participants. They generously elected to endorse the present group to carry out the operation and since then have provided extraordinary support and coordination to the revised project.
During Feb. 4-9, 2005, several members of Cordell Expeditions (Robert Schmieder, Garry Shapiro, Kathryn Levenson) visited Hawaii, to interact with the PDXG people (Kimo Chun KH7U, Patrick Guernin KH6UY, Mike Gibson KH6ND, Walt Niemczura AH6OZ). The group will contribute significantly to the equipment and planning of the project.
Sources:
EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM
We plan to develop an interactive educational program to enable real-time communication with the expedition by schools and similar educational groups. Besides the radio operations, we believe there will be interest in the research activities, particularly the investigation of the ant populations. This will be organized by Kathryn Levenson.
EQUIPMENT
DXA DEVELOPMENT
FUNDRAISING
QSL MANAGER
QSL manager for the Kure DXpedition will be:
K7C KURE DXPEDITION 2005
%K4TSJ
Box 1
Watkinsville, GA 30677
SCHEDULE
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14-Sep-2005 |
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|
15-Sep-2005 |
|
Boat Day |
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16-Sep-2005 |
Lv Hono |
1 |
|
|
17-Sep-2005 |
Sail |
2 |
|
|
18-Sep-2005 |
Sail |
3 |
|
|
19-Sep-2005 |
Sail |
4 |
|
|
20-Sep-2005 |
Sail |
5 |
|
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21-Sep-2005 |
Sail |
6 |
|
|
22-Sep-2005 |
Arr Kure |
7 |
Setup |
|
23-Sep-2005 |
Kure |
8 |
Setup |
|
24-Sep-2005 |
Kure |
9 |
Radio |
|
25-Sep-2005 |
Kure |
10 |
Radio |
|
26-Sep-2005 |
Kure |
11 |
Radio |
|
27-Sep-2005 |
Kure |
12 |
Radio |
|
28-Sep-2005 |
Kure |
13 |
Radio |
|
29-Sep-2005 |
Kure |
14 |
Radio |
|
30-Sep-2005 |
Kure |
15 |
Radio |
|
1-Oct-2005 |
Kure |
16 |
Radio |
|
2-Oct-2005 |
Kure |
17 |
Radio |
|
3-Oct-2005 |
Kure |
18 |
Radio |
|
4-Oct-2005 |
Kure |
19 |
Radio |
|
5-Oct-2005 |
Kure |
20 |
Radio |
|
6-Oct-2005 |
Kure |
21 |
Radio |
|
7-Oct-2005 |
Kure |
22 |
Radio |
|
8-Oct-2005 |
Kure |
23 |
Radio |
|
9-Oct-2005 |
Sail |
24 |
Teardown |
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10-Oct-2005 |
Sail |
25 |
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11-Oct-2005 |
Sail |
26 |
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12-Oct-2005 |
Sail |
27 |
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13-Oct-2005 |
Sail |
28 |
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14-Oct-2005 |
Sail |
29 |
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15-Oct-2005 |
Arr Hono |
30 |
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16-Oct-2005 |
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17-Oct-2005 |
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18-Oct-2005 |
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BUDGET
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EXPENSES |
K$ |
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Boat (incl. food) |
77 |
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Equipment |
5 |
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Antennas and coax |
3 |
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Generator |
5 |
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Fuel |
2 |
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Water, etc. |
1 |
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Postage for QSLs |
6 |
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Sat link and DXA expenses |
6 |
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Total expenses |
105 |
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INCOME |
K$ |
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Participants ($5K
ea) |
60 |
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Pacific DX Group |
2 |
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NCDXF |
15 |
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Other donors |
10 |
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QSLs |
10 |
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Souvenirs |
2 |
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DXA |
6 |
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Total
income |
105 |
FINANCIAL OPERATIONS
Bank account
The account for the expedition is:
U.
S. Bank
2890 N. Main St.
Walnut Creek, CA 94597
Routing Number *****2676
Account Number ********7719
Checks
Make checks payable to:
Cordell Expeditions/Kure 2005
Expedition
Mail to:
CORDELL EXPEDITIONS
4295 Walnut Blvd.
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
Donations to a nonprofit
All revenue is considered a “donation” to the work of Cordell Expeditions. As such, it is tax deductible to the extent you are allowed such deductions.
IRS 501(c)(3) Nonprofit Employer ID Number 94-2692114
State of California Org. Number 9786509
PayPal
Donations can be made using PayPal. A temporary link is on http://www.cordell.org/htdocs/KURE/
LEGAL
PERMITS
Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources
The Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources manages Kure Atoll as a wildlife sanctuary. In preparation for the planned 2004 expedition to Kure Atoll, the Pacific DX Group (PDXG) obtained a landing permit from the Department of Land and Natural Resources, State of Hawaii. It is reproduced below.
During February, 2005, members of the Expedition visited David Smith, DLNR manager for Kure Atoll, and obtained preliminary approval for landing, based on the model of the PDXG permit. Based on this meeting, we have simply requested a transfer of the permit from the PDXG to Cordell Expeditions.
Source:
Elsewhere in this PLAN we have described the sensitivities of Kure Atoll to alien species, and the protocols established by the resident naturalist Cynthia Vanderlip. We interpret the permit from the DLNR as requiring conformance of this operation to those protocols and other policies established by Ms. Vanderlip. It will be the policy of this group that no activity be planned or carried out that would violate any known protocol, and that all activities are strictly controlled by Ms. Vanderlip.
Source: “Ecological Protocols for the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands,” Cynthia Vanderlip, DLNR, May 25, 2004.
Hawaii Department of Aquatic Resources
The State of Hawaii requires a scientific collecting permit for any researcher or educational or research institution to collect aquatic life or to use certain fishing gear or methods, for scientific research, that are prohibited or restricted by regulations. Reports usually required as a condition of permit. We are pursuing this permit.
Source:
Northwestern Hawaiian Islands Coral Reef Ecosystem Reserve
The Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) held public hearings to discuss proposed establishment of a marine refuge in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands in Hawaii Administrative Rules (HAR) Chapter 13-60.5, entitled "the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands Marine Refuge." The meetings were held statewide during the period from July 21-29, 2004.
The proposed marine refuge would establish long-term conservation measures and implement an entry permit program for the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands (NWHI) within the jurisdictional boundaries of the State of Hawaii. The proposed refuge would strengthen coordinated management in the region by supporting appropriate research, monitoring, enforcement, restoration, and marine debris removal. Fishing by hook-and-line methods would still be allowed in some specified areas. These proposed rules may minimally affect some fishing vessels currently operating within State waters in the NWHI.
The following figure shows the area affected by this proposal.
We have been informed that no permit is needed from the NWHICRER [Hans van Tilberg, 8 Feb 2005]. However, this Expedition will adopt as policy to operate in accordance with any and all relevant rules and regulations established or proposed for the NWHI.
Source:
Proposed rules:
Draft Rule 13-60.5
POLICIES
“The Expedition”
In this document, the term “Expedition” means “The 2005 Cordell Expedition to Kure Atoll, Northwestern Hawaiian Islands.” This term means the entire project, including preparation and post-expedition activities, not just the actual voyage to Kure Atoll or just the onsite activities at Kure Atoll. Various terms will be taken as synonymous with “Expedition,” such as 2005 Kure Atoll Project, Kure Expedition, KA Expedition, etc.
“The Voyage”
The term “Voyage” refers specifically to the portion of the Kure Project that is the actual voyage to and from Kure Atoll, and the time onsite. The Expedition is planned to depart from, and return to, Honolulu, Hawaii. The planned dates are 16 Sept. 2005 –15 Oct. 2005. Various terms will be taken as synonymous with “Voyage,” such as 2005 voyage to Kure Atoll, voyage to Kure, Kure voyage, KA voyage, etc.
“Participants”
The term “Participants” includes all persons participating in the Voyage under the auspices of Cordell Expeditions (excluding the vessel crew and external scientific observers, if any). Other persons who act in a supportive or supplying role may be called “Team Members,” “Supporters,” “Sponsors,” and similar terms. Participation in this Expedition is only by invitation from the Board. Replacement of any Participant by another must be approved by the Board.
Authorities
Participants agree to be bound by the rules, decisions, and directives of the Expedition Leader, or his representative, including the other members of the Board. Members of the Board are authorized to make decisions and take actions so long as there is no reasonable likelihood that such decisions or actions would be counter to existing policies or the expected positions and policies of the Expedition Leader. Decisions and actions taken by the Expedition Leader cannot be appealed.
Cancellation
In the event that there are insufficient financial resources, the Expedition Leader is empowered to cancel the Voyage and terminate the Expedition. In this event, personal donations and borrowed equipment will be returned, purchased equipment will be disposed by the Board, and financial obligations will be paid from the cash reserves. Any residual monies, after payment of expenses associated with termination, will be disposed appropriately by the Board. Acceptable disposal includes distribution to the participants, returning to donor organizations, and forwarding to another project.
Disputes
Any member of the Expedition may bring any issue to the attention of any member of the Board. That member should consult the Board for resolution. In matters related to safety, mission goals, financing, and public relations, the decision of the Expedition Leader will prevail.
Documents
The following documents will be required for Participants:
q Medical and emergency form (basic medical and emergency information)
q Liability waiver for Cordell Expeditions
q Policies document for Cordell Expeditions (this document)
q Radio license (if operating radio)
q Scientific collecting permit (if separate from the Expedition permit).
These documents will be provided prior to departure on the Voyage.
Donations
Donations from individuals other than Participants will be held until the Voyage is complete. Donations to the KA Project through Cordell Expeditions are tax-deductible and will only be used for the KA Project. In the event the Expedition is cancelled by the Board, these donations will be returned. Noncompletion due to Act of God or other circumstances beyond the control of the Board will not automatically require return of the donations.
Expedition property
Equipment borrowed for the Expedition will be returned at the conclusion of the Voyage. Equipment donated to Cordell Expeditions remains the property of Cordell Expeditions. Equipment purchased using Expedition funds will be disposed by the Board. By default, property not otherwise disposed becomes the property of Cordell Expeditions.
Costs
Participants will make a donation to Cordell Expeditions of $5000.
The donation includes all costs associated with the Voyage, from the date and point of departure (Honolulu, Hawaii) to the date and point of return (Honolulu, Hawaii), with the following exceptions:
q Exceptional personal supplies, such as medical, food, liquor, sleeping, electronics.
q Emergency services beyond first aid, such as medical consultation, drugs, post-voyage hospitalization
q Extraordinary transportation, such as evacuation, optional preplanned return
q Film, video and recording tapes, digital camera chips, notebooks,
The donation is payable in installments: $2500 upon acceptance by the Participant of the invitation from the Board, and the balance according to a schedule set by the Board..
The donation is not refundable. If a Participant wishes to withdraw, an acceptable replacement participant could take his or her place, and the payments can be applied to the replacement. Responsibility for finding the replacement rests with the Participant, but the Board my also provide a replacement and the refund, so long as there are no vacancies (i.e., the team is 13). Replacements must be approved by the Board.
If the Expedition is cancelled by the Board, all residual monies will be returned to the Participants. Specifically, if the Board or Expedition Leader, or the vessel or other authority requires premature termination of the Voyage, only residual monies will be returned. In no case will the Expedition be liable for refunds in excess of its current financial resources.
Financial management
Finances will be managed by the Expedition Leader, within the context of Cordell Expeditions. A separate bank account has been opened for the Project, and will be closed upon its completion. Residual monies left at the completion of the Expedition, if any, will be distributed by the Board.
Intellectual property
Photographs, video, sound recordings, field notes, sketches, drawings, paintings, and similar materials produced in connection with the Expedition are the property of the creator, who holds the copyright under the law of the United States. The Expedition is granted the right to freely copy any or all such materials for purposes of enhancing its programs, together with the right to royalty-free use in publications, programs, and similar promotional activities. The Expedition does not have the right to distribute such materials to third parties without consent of the copyright holder. Use of such materials by any member of the Project is subject to the consent of the copyright holder.
Liability
All participants in the Expedition will mutually exempt every other participant and organization, specifically including the Board and organizers of the KA Expedition and Cordell Expeditions, from any liability whatsoever. This waiver will include losses due to schedule changes, accidents, loss of possessions, medical conditions, ocean-related activities such as diving emergencies and sea creature attack, sunburn, insect and animal attack on land, unscheduled service requirements, food poisoning, electrical shock, and all other losses, regardless of nature and origin.
Personal communications
Participants will be allowed a reasonable amount of access to the communications facilities for personal communications. However, this is to be regarded as a privilege, and kept to absolute minimum. This privilege may be revoked by the Expedition Leader.
Personal property
Some personal gear and materials will be shipped and used in common with the Expedition. The owner of such gear and materials assumes the responsibility for controlling and protecting such gear and materials. Personal property remains forever the property of its owner; that is, it will not be disposed.
Personal satisfaction
Among the primary goals of the KA Expedition is personal satisfaction of the Participants. The Expedition will be managed and executed with special regard to personal satisfaction, and to mechanisms for enhancing it.
Political
Kure Atoll is under the jurisdiction and protection of the state of Hawaii, and is the object of ongoing research activities by various organizations. Therefore, the Expedition will be brought into alignment with the policies and objectives of the appropriate governmental, scientific, and regulatory organizations. The Expedition will respect the rights, interests, and authorities of all persons with legitimate interests in Kure Atoll.
Provisions
Participants will provide the following:
q Travel to/from the point of departure (Honolulu, Hawaii)
q Personal clothing, food, liquor, etc.
q Personal sleeping gear (sleeping bag, pillow, etc.)
q Personal computer, digital media, camera, film, processing.
Responsibilities
The Participant is directly responsible for safety and security of the equipment and personnel of the Expedition. At all times he or she must act in accord with the goals and procedures established by the Board and other authoritative agencies. He or she is also responsible for securing his personal property, and taking all reasonable actions to similarly protect the persons and property of the Expedition, the vessel, and the environment at Kure Atoll.
Safety
The overriding consideration in all plans and operations will be safety of personnel and property. While some risk is inherent in an exploratory venture such as this, we will make no plan and take no action that involves significant risk to life, limb, or property. Plans for emergencies and contingencies will be an integral and priority part of this project.
Scientific property
Cordell Expeditions is the owner of scientific materials resulting from the KA Expedition. These include biological specimens, soil, water, and rock samples, logged data such as radio logs, meteorological and bathymetric records, photographs, videos, sound recordings, and similar materials that are primarily scientific data, historical materials, either records or artifacts, and all other similar materials that are reasonably part of the scientific record of the Expedition. The creator or supplier of such records has the right to freely copy the materials (at personal expense) for any use not inconsistent with the basic scientific nature of the Expedition.
Site resources
The Expedition will take exceptional measures to prevent damage to any resource on Kure Atoll. It will be our policy that any activity that is likely to cause significant impact to a sensitive resource at Kure will be terminated unless and until such impacts can be prevented or appropriately ameliorated.
Withdrawal and termination
Any Participant may withdraw from the Expedition at any time, and may refuse to participate in any activity at any time, without need of stated reason. The Expedition Leader may exclude any Participant from any activity for clear stated cause, which can include prior failure to perform expected duties. The Expedition Leader may terminate any Member’s participation in the Expedition for reasonable cause. A terminated Participant may be refunded part or all of his fees, at the discretion of the Expedition Leader, with the concurrence of the Board.
I have read, understood, and agree to be bound by
all the provisions of this document.
Participant
___________________________________________
Date
___________________________________________
Witness ___________________________________________
Date
___________________________________________
PARTICIPANT’S AGREEMENT AND WAIVER
Participant.
I, ________________________________, have voluntarily joined with other
individuals to participate in an Expedition to Kure Atoll, in the State of Hawaii,
Pacific Ocean. The project is defined and described in a document referred to
as the “PLAN,” and posted on the website of the Expedition, http://www.cordell.org. This action is taken
with my full awareness of the requirements, limitations, and risks of the
project.
Policies. I
have read, understood, and agree to be bound by the Policies for the Expedition
as set forth in the PLAN.
Travel. I
agree that I am solely responsible for arranging and funding my personal
travel, equipment, services, fees, accommodations, incidental travel, and all
related expenses to and from Honolulu, Hawaii. I understand that the actual
Voyage from Honolulu to Kure Atoll is dependent on many factors that may be out
of control of the Expedition, and I accept responsibility for reasonable
flexibility in my schedule should modification become necessary.
Costs. I
understand that all of the costs of the Voyage will be paid for by the
Expedition funds. I agree to contribute up to $5000 to this fund in the form of
a personal donation to Cordell Expeditions. I understand and accept the fact
that this money is non-refundable, except that should I be unable to
participate I have the option of finding a replacement.
Emergencies.
I agree to provide the Expedition with information for emergencies before
departure. I agree to be responsible for the cost of transporting me from any
place visited during the Expedition to a suitable medical facility should I
become ill or injured, and for subsequent medical and transportation costs
related to that illness or injury. I will be responsible for reasonable
incidental expenses incurred by others on my behalf in the event of such an
emergency. I have the option of covering this responsibility with an appropriate
insurance policy.
Waiver of Liability. I agree that I will not seek compensation of any kind for any loss
that I may incur during the period of this Expedition from any participant or
combination of participants in this Expedition, or from Cordell Expeditions,
Robert W. Schmieder, or the Board of Directors for the Kure Atoll Expedition.
This provision covers all incidents of any type, regardless of cause. It is my
intention to hold all persons and organizations involved with the Expedition
fully free and blameless forever, regardless of detailed causes and effects.
Binding. My
agreement with these provisions, and the actions associated with and implied by
this agreement, will be binding on all persons who would seek to represent my
interests, including my heirs and counsel.
___________________________________ Participant
____________________________________Date
___________________________________ Witness
____________________________________Date
CORDELL EXPEDITIONS
THE ORGANIZATION
Cordell Expeditions is a tax-exempt, nonprofit research association operating under the laws of the State of California (Org. Number 9786509) and the U. S. Department of Internal Revenue (Section 501(c)(3), Employer ID number 94-2692114).
Founded in 1977, the group has
carried out a series of research expeditions every year since 1978. The work
involves exploring and describing remote sites, principally offshore submerged
marine sites that support extensive biological communities. The motivation for
the work is to carry out field work to generate primary information about the
sites, so that they can be protected and rationally managed.
The first project of Cordell
Expeditions was to explore and describe Cordell Bank, a shallow rocky feature
about 50 nautical miles NW of San Francisco, California. As a result of this
10-year project, the U. S. Department of Commerce designated it as the Cordell
Bank National Sanctuary.
Other expeditions by the group have
been to the Farallon Islands, Noonday Rock, and Fanny Shoal (northern
California); the coast near Pt. Sur (California); Rocas Alijos and Guadalupe
Island (Baja California); Peter I Island (Antarctica); Roqueta Island (Mexico);
Galapagos (Ecuador); Easter Island/Salas y Gómez (south Pacific); Heard Island
(South Indian Ocean); and San Felix island (Chile).
Books that resulted from the these expeditions (all by R. W. Schmieder) include:
Ecology of an Underwater
Island
Edward Cordell and the
Discovery of Cordell Bank
Rocas Alijos. Scientific
Results from the Cordell Expeditions
3YØPI Peter I Island: The
1994 DXpedition
DX-Aku: Messages from the Easter Island Expedition
VKØIR: The 1997 Heard Island
Expedition
XRØX: The 2002 San Felix
Island Expedition
The work has resulted in the discovery of more than 20 new species, significant uncharted topographic features, and many first observations of environmental conditions. Altogether more than 1000 new records (range and depth extensions, and first observations) have been recorded. A large collection of specimens, and photographic archive, and a large number of popular articles are additional results of the expeditions.
Cordell Expeditions is also involved with ongoing research programs associated with educational institutions, including Diablo Valley College, the California Academy of Sciences, St. Mary’s College, and the Shorebird Nature Center in Berkeley. Additionally, the expeditions have embraced radio science, with extensive involvement in amateur radio used on expeditions, particularly to remote sites such as oceanic islands.
HONORS
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Southwest Ohio DX Association: DXpedition of the Year (1994, 1995, 1997) |
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QST: Best Magazine Article: Peter I 1994, Heard Island 1997 |
Chiltern DX Club: Certificate of Merit for Heard Island DXpedition 1997 |
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Central Arizona DX Association: Honorary Lifetime Membership KK6EK 1997 |
International Underwater Foundation: Environmental Enrichment Award 1995 |
Underwater Photogaphic Society: OPEN VIDEO Second Place 1985 |
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Named Geographic feature: Schmieder Bank (off Pt. Sur, California) |
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Named new species and subspecies: Armina cordellensis Gosliner Codium schmiederi Silva Erylus schmiederi Austin Forcepia (Forcepia) elvini Lee Guitarra abbotti Lee Halcelia bozanici Hendler |
Homalopoma cordellensis McLean Paratimea alijosensis Hendler Pharia pyramidata schmiederi Hendler Thor cordelli Wicksten |
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
[This section will be completed as the project develops]
Funds
Foundations
Clubs
Individuals
Equipment
Radios
Amplifiers
Antennas
Services
QSL manager
QSL printing
Souvenir manager
Website
Facilities
Storage
Practice
Staging
Vessel
Commercial
DXA development
DXA operation
DXA advertising
Satellite communications
Legal
Permits
Financial
Fundraising
Funds management
Consultation
Radio operations
Scientific operations
APPENDIX 1 – PROPOSAL FOR INVESTIGATION OF THE ANTS
Study Proposal
INVESTIGATION OF PHEIDOLE MEGACEPHALA ON KURE ATOLL
Prepared for Cynthia Vanderlip,
Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources
Division of Forestry and Wildlife
by
Robert W. Schmieder, PhD
Cordell Expeditions
24 Feb 2005
SUMMARY
This document is a preliminary and exploratory proposal for investigating the populations of the tramp ant Pheidole megacephala, a destructive pest endangering the ecosystem on Kure Atoll, Northwestern Hawaiian Islands.
BACKGROUND
Recent observations have shown that the “big-headed ant” Pheidole megacephala has become widespread on Green Island, Kure Atoll, Observations by Gordon Nishida and Beth Flint recorded 26,500 ants per square meter at selected sample sites. While this may not be an accurate indication of the average for Green Island, it is indicative of the large numbers of this ant on Green Island. The ants are not native to the Hawaiian Islands; that is, they are an introduced species.
The ants constitute a manifest threat to the natural ecosystem on Kure. They successfully attack and destroy most other insects, and are often successful in killing new-hatch chicks and possibly other juvenile megafauna. In addition, by supporting the scale that attacks the flora, the ants facilitate destruction of habitat used by other fauna such as the Bonin petrel (BOPE).
The position of the ant in the Kure ecosystem is complex. According to Nishida, the ants feed on the nectar of a scale insect that breeds on the aggressive, introduced plant Verbesina encelioides, which has also overrun the island. The ants protect the scale from parasites and predators. As the V. encelioides populations are reduced by the scale, it moves onto the native naupaka (Scaevola), leaving the typical blackening caused by a fungus growing on the "honeydew" produced by the scales.
Considering the manifest threat of the ants, a program of control or eradication may be indicated. However, the very limited area of Green Island, the adjacency of marine ecosystems, and the presence of endangered megafauna such as the Monk seals and BOPE demand that such a program be carefully planned and executed. Preliminary to decisions on such an action, additional observation and documentation of the infestation and potential consequences of control or eradication are desirable.
THE 2005 CORDELL EXPEDITION
During Sep-Oct, 2005, this organization will carry out a 2-week stay on Kure. This provides an opportunity to collect information on the existing populations of Pheidole megacephala, and to test ideas about control and/or eradication. The team consists of 12 persons experienced in field work. While the major activity of the expedition is radio science, the team will devote a portion of its effort to supporting the work of the naturalists on Kure, and participating in collaborative studies such as that described in the present proposal.
GOALS
The goal of this work is to obtain sufficient information about the extant populations of Pheidole megacephala on Green Island, Kure, to allow decision-making for a plan of control or eradication.
Information that is of interest includes:
Ø Distribution of P. megacephala, including densities on Green Island
Ø Association of P. megacephala with other species, especially Verbesina encelioides and the scale insects on common flora
Ø Potential presence of ant species other than P. megacephala
Ø Response of P. megacephala to selected baits
Ø Response of P. megacephala to loss of scale insects
Ø Effectiveness and effects of selected formicides
Available human resources are inadequate for a comprehensive study of all these aspects. In this document we make a judicial selection of tasks that could be performed by the Cordell group in collaboration with the resident naturalist (Cynthia Vanderlip) and with the approval of appropriate agencies.
PROPOSED TASKS
The following tasks are among many that could be carried out during the 2005 Cordell Expedition to Kure. It is proposed that the primary responsibility for these tasks rest with the resident naturalist, and that the Cordell group provide manpower and documentation. It is not proposed that all of these tasks be done, but that a selection of such tasks from this or another list be defined and carried out.
1. Mapping of colonies of Pheidole
megacephala and relevant community species
It is proposed to carry out a relatively systematic survey of the ant populations, using a GPS unit to record locations and photography to record habitat. Particular effort would be made to examine relatively inaccessible locations, such as areas overgrown with dense vegetation. The emerged area on Green Island is about 200 acres, or about 800,000 sq. m. A 10m grid over the entire island would therefore require 8,000 samples, which is too ambitious for this project.
We propose instead to identify the major habitat types, and make descriptive observations with resolution appropriate for the habitat. Thus, we might define 10 habitat types, and examine two or three 50x50m areas of each habitat type, producing 20-30 descriptions of the ant populations, covering all habitat types. The assumption will then be that the ant populations are similar for each type, and therefore an areal extrapolation to the entire island will be a reasonable estimate of the total population.
2. Response of P. megacephala
to selected bait
It is proposed to place selected bait at selected locations and document the response of P. megacephala to the bait, especially the formation of trails that might indicate the locations of nests and the possible overlap of foraging areas of adjacent colonies. The locations will be selected based on previous knowledge of high-density populations. Documentation will be descriptive and diagrammatic, with semi-quantitative estimates of the numbers of ants observed. These observations will be done day and night to obtain information about the diurnal behavior of the ants.
3. Search for other ant species
It is proposed to collect individual amts at the bait stations, and preserve them for verification of species. Using a dissecting microscope, preliminary identifications can be made during the occupation on Kure. If a species other than Pheidole megacephala is encountered, a concentrated search of the location of collection could be done to document the extent of the new species. The experiments described by E. O. Wilson, in which the bait was alternately shaded and exposed, resulting in alternating attraction of different species, may not elicit attraction of potential alternate species, since we have no knowledge of what species might be present. However, an equivalent test could be made by placing bait in different exposures, and documenting any differences in attracted ants.
4. Response of P. megacephala
to habitat destruction
It is proposed to test the response of Pheidole megacephala to destruction of habitat, particularly destruction of flora that support the scale. One procedure would be to identify an area with a particularly vigorous ant population, and one that is clearly supported by scale. Complete clearing of the vegetation (presumably Verbesina encelioides) would be done manually. The response of the ants would be documented immediately following clearing, and periodically during the occupation in the fall of 2005. This would be followed by observation of the ant populations during later visits by Kure officials.
5. Response of P. megacephala
to selected formicides
It is not known whether agency options for control or eradication would permit the use of formicides, and this organization (Cordell Expeditions) is cognizant of the sensitivity to toxics in the environment at Kure. Therefore, the following proposal is offered without knowing previous positions or sensitivities, and it is understood that it may not be an option.
It is proposed to test the response of Pheidole megacephala to selected formicides. This would be done by placing formicidal bait at selected locations, and observing the ant populations over a period of weeks.
The selection of the formicide is crucial. Among several compounds commercially available, one, namely hydramethylnon, appears to be appropriate for consideration in this case. The chemical is marketed under trade names AC 217,300, Amdro, Combat, Maxforce, and Wipeout. It was developed by Prof. David Williams and colleagues. Some information from the commercial sources of this product is appended to this proposal.
Considerable information about the safety and toxicity of hydramethylnon are available (e.g., ). A general description of its use and risks is appended to this proposal. Two aspects stand out in these descriptions:
(1) Hydramethylnon shows almost no toxicity to fauna other than ants and related insects. That is, it is very safe, when used according to directions, with birds, mammals, and other fauna.
(2) Hydramethylnon degrades rather rapidly in the environment. Its soil half-life is generally between one week and one month, even faster in water. It does not accumulate in vegetation, and does not contaminate groundwater.
These factors indicate that hydramethylnon may be an acceptable risk to use in an ant control/eradication program at Kure, and based on that, we propose to deploy formicide-baited stations at selected locations, and document the response of the ant populations. If more than one acceptable formicide is available, we proposed to deploy stations with different fomicides and document any difference in response of the ants.
DOCUMENTATION
The Cordell group is experienced in field work and documentation, and will compile all relevant information about the field work done during the 2005 expedition. This will include description of the experimental procedure, the materials and methods used, the observations, and a statistical analysis of the results. Interpretation of the data in terms of the ecology of Kure, and any recommendations for future study or actions, will be left to the resident naturalist and the agencies managing the terrestrial environment at Kure.
RESOURCES
Cordell Expeditions will not ask for compensation for the work described here. However, there are two practical limits to the effort:
(1) Out-of-pocket expenses associated with purchase of chemicals, baited stations, traps, etc, should be borne by the appropriate agency with authority at Kure.
(2) The amount of time associated with this effort cannot severely impact the primary activities of the Cordell group. That is, the group has responsibilities to its sponsors to deliver its primary objective, and the work described in this proposal cannot significantly reduce that obligation. This proposal is meant to describe work that can be done by the Cordell team while not otherwise engaged. The effort might be an hour per day, per person, although this may be highly variable, depending on conditions.
CONTACT INFORMATION
This proposal was written by Dr. Robert W. Schmieder, following a meeting with Cynthia Vanderlip in February 2005. As such, it is unsolicited and subject to change. Revision of this proposal, for instance to more narrowly focus the goals, can be done. Please contact Dr. Schmieder at:
Dr. Robert W. Schmieder
%Cordell Expeditions
4295 walnut Bovd.
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
(925) 934 3735
Cordell Expeditions is a 501(c)(3) organization. Its activities can be seen at www.cordell.org.
REFERENCES
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