In 2002 there will be at least four research vessels going into the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands for the purpose of collecting more scientific information about the area. Rapid Ecological Assesments (REA), oceanographic studies, deep sea studies, maritime archaeology, coral and algal studies, marine mammal population evaluations and many others will be conducted. Scientific research is not only important for understanding and appreciating the complex ecosystems of this area, but it is critical in providing the information needed to manage this area and how to preserve it. 2 Expeditions are featured: NOWRAMP and HURL.\n\nExpedition Site\n