Underwater program comes to shore

The IU Underwater Science Program has received a $58,264 contract from California State Parks to conduct underwater research at Lake Tahoe in California.\nThe study will focus on Tahoe's Emerald Bay, which was designated a National Natural Landmark in 1969. The bay's floor is home to many boats, launches and barges that sunk over 100 years ago, according to the California Parks Web site.\nThough no longer functioning above the surface, these underwater antiques are valuable natural resources, said Charles Beeker, director of the IU program. Beeker also said California understands the importance of such historical pieces and wants to preserve them.\nThis will not be the first time California Parks has used IU research, he said. The Underwater Science Program has actually been working at Tahoe for years.\nIn cooperation with Beeker and the Underwater Science Program, the first California state shipwreck park was established at Emerald Bay in 1994. Securing a grant for the upcoming study was not an easy task, but the University has a considerable reputation with the Parks.\n"We're good at what we do," Beeker said. "When this type of work comes up they think IU."\nBeeker said he will conduct preliminary work this summer that will include examination of the site as well as photographs and video. Next summer, he will use electronic survey equipment for a thorough examination beneath the surface.\nThis site will also be a valuable experience for underwater archaeology students.\nBeeker said students will learn to use the electronic survey equipment, a remote operation vehicle, and land survey equipment. They will also take photographs and moving video for use on the Web.\nHe said students are willing and eager to become involved with this new project that will offer a rare learning opportunity.\n"Diving students will get a chance to use hundreds of thousands worth of equipment at a real site," Beeker said. "It's not normal for students to get such a good opportunity as undergrads to do meaningful research with cutting edge technology"