|
Our main study area is Jeffrey's Ledge,
although we also collect data in other areas. Jeffrey's
Ledge (and all the "blue" in the map above) is part of the Gulf of
Maine. The Gulf of Maine is bounded by Massachusetts, New Hampshire,
Maine, New Brunswick and Nova Scotia on land, and George's Bank and Brown's Bank
out at sea. These banks form the outer rim of the Gulf of Maine. The
Gulf is filled with marine life and houses one of the most productive fisheries
in the world. Jeffrey's Ledge
is about 33 miles long, and water depths range from around 98 feet to 220
feet. The water around the Ledge is relatively deep, from 300-600
feet. The steep edges of Jeffrey's Ledge cause upwelling currents, which
bring a tremendous amount of nutrients to the surface, creating a favorable
habitat for plankton, fish, whales and other marine life. The Ledge has
mostly a rocky, muddy bottom, and is a favorite habitat for fish such as
herring, mackerel and pollock (which are favorite foods for some of our local
whale species).
More info
on Jeffrey's Ledge |
|
