Boating Equipment
Below is a list of equipment required for each voyage. The storage location of each item is noted. The locations have combination and key locks. Access is granted to certified boaters only. An equipment checkout sheet is not required for these items.
Storage Locations
| Registration Box | Boat Box | Boat Shed |
|---|---|---|
 |
 |
 |
| Outside Lab Manager’s Office (116) |
Across from Main Office (102) |
Next to Loading Dock |
Boat Registration
The registration cards for each boat can be found in the registration box located under the boat & truck checkout board adjacent to the lab manager’s office (room 116). There is one card for each boat. The cards should be placed in a dry box while on the boat. They must be returned to the box after the voyage is complete.
Personal Flotation Devices
The boat must be equipped with one PFD per person. If you are using the kayaks, you must wear the PFD at all times. There are several different styles available. They are hanging on the right as you enter the boat shed.
Fire Extinguisher
A fire extinguisher is not required for the kayak trips. Extinguishers are mounted on the Chamberlain, Seahunt and Whaler. The Jon Boat does not have a mounted extinguisher. Extra extinguishers are located in the boat shed next to the PFDs.
Whistle or Horn
These are required on all vessels. They can be used to hail other boats if they are not monitoring the VHF radio. These are stored in the dry boxes located in the boat shed on a shelf to the left.
Visual Distress Signals
These are to be used in an emergency ONLY. Firing a flare when not in distress could result in a Class D felony charge, six years in prison, up to $250,000 in fines and reimbursement of all costs the Coast Guard incurs as a result of the false distress. Check the dates to ensure the flares are not expired. They are stored in the dry boxes located in the boat shed on a shelf to the left.
Tool Kit
There are three different tool kits be available for use on the boats. If these tools get wet, please rinse them and spray them with anti-corrosive spray located in the boat shed in the orange dry boxes on the shelf.
Anchor & Line
At least 100 feet of line should available for use with the anchor. Two anchors maybe required in some situations.
For more information on anchoring, visit http://www.boatingbasicsonline.com/course/boating/7_4.php
The Chamberlain and Whaler each have one anchor under the front hatch. Additional anchors can be found in the boat shed underneath the work bench.
Kayak Seats & Paddles, Oars and Boat Hooks
The kayak seats, paddles, and wooden oars are located in the green metal cabinet on the right side of the boat shed. The boat hook is located in the bin with the paddles.
First Aid Kit
The first aid kits are stored in the boat box across from the main office. The kits contain general first aid supplies and a list of emergency phone numbers. The kits should be put in a dry box during boat operation. If supplies are used, please notify the lab manager.
Potable Water
Water can be the key to survival in an emergency. Don’t leave home without it!
VHF Radio & Cell Phone
The VHF radios are stored in the boat box outside of the main office (Room 102). They should be charged at least 24 hours prior to launch. There are two different models available. Make sure you get the correct antenna for your radio when collecting your gear. The antennas should be stored unattached to prevent damage to the antenna. The dry bags used to protect them during operation are also stored in the box. At least one cell phone is also required on the boat. This is the best way to reach the lab manager. For more information on VHF operation, visit http://wireless.fcc.gov/marine/fctsht14.html.
Other Equipment Available
The following equipment is not required for boat operation, but may be helpful in conducting research. All of the equipment below must be checked out prior to use. Consult the Lab Manager for storage locations.
Navigation Aids
Charts of various local waterways are available from the lab manager. The Chamberlain has a combination GPS⁄depth finder.
Depth Finder
The Lowe jon boat and Whaler are both equipped with depth finder.
Nets
Plankton, dip & seine nets are available for sampling organisms. They should be rinsed well with fresh water immediately after use.
Gloves, Boots and Waders
These items can be very helpful, but be careful of the oyster beds because they can damage the equipment. These items must be washed with water and a scrub brush after use to remove salt and pluff mud. Report any equipment damage to the lab manager.
Buckets
The buckets are located in the wet lab. There are a limited number of buckets, so please be considerate and return them immediately after use.