About OSU's Hatfield Marine Science Center: The center is a research and teaching facility located in Newport, Ore., on the Yaquina Bay estuary, about one mile from the open waters of the Pacific Ocean. It plays an integral role in programs of marine and estuarine research and instruction, as a laboratory serving resident scientists, as a base for far-ranging oceanographic studies and as a classroom for students. In addition to Oregon State researchers and students, its campus includes research activities and facilities from five different state and federal agencies.

Shifts in water temperatures affect eating habits of larval tuna at critical life stage, study finds

Small shifts in ocean temperature can have significant effects on the eating habits of blackfin tuna during the larval stage of development, when finding food and growing quickly are critical to long-term survival.

New Zealand blue whale distribution patterns tied to ocean conditions and prey availability

Oregon State University researchers who recently discovered a population of blue whales in New Zealand are learning more about the links between the whales, their prey and ocean conditions that are changing as the planet warms.

Public urged to refrain from approaching seal pups on Oregon beaches

The public is urged to refrain from approaching seal pups on Oregon's beaches. Young seal pups are at risk from well-meaning people who mistakenly try to rescue them.

Sales of OSU whale license plate support study of Oregon whales and more

Nearly 10,000 Oregonians have purchased gray whale license plates since they went on sale a year ago, providing critical support for Oregon State University researchers studying gray whales that frequent Oregon’s waters.

 

Oregon State announces plan to develop student housing in Newport

Oregon State University announced plans Tuesday to develop and construct new student housing in Newport to support the university’s Marine Studies Initiative.

Rare blue whale skeleton raised from Yaquina Bay so preservation work can move ahead

After more than three years of rest in the Yaquina Bay in Newport, the skeleton of a 78-foot blue whale was brought back to dry land this week so it can be preserved and prepared for a public display.  

Underwater robotic gliders provide key tool to measure ocean sound levels

At a time when ocean noise is receiving increased global attention, researchers at Oregon State University and NOAA have developed an effective method to use an underwater robotic glider to measure sound levels over broad areas of the ocean.

OSU researchers to use $3.3 million NSF grant to study impacts of tiny plastics on aquatic life

Oregon State University researchers will use a $3.3 million grant from the National Science Foundation to study tiny plastics and their potential impacts on aquatic life.

Using drones, GoPros to track gray whale behavior, and spot their poop, off Oregon Coast

Using drones deployed in the air and GoPros underwater, Oregon State University marine ecologist Leigh Torres recently completed her fourth field season documenting previously unseen behaviors of gray whales – and gathering their poop – off the Oregon coast.

How long does a whale feed? New data gives insight into blue and fin whale behavior

Researchers using electronic tags were able to monitor blue and fin whales off the coast of Southern California over multiple weeks, providing new insight into the feeding behaviors of the two largest whale species. The researchers also found evidence of differences in the feeding intensity and habitat use of males and females of both species.

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