Submitted by Anonymous on Mon, 02/27/2012 - 16:20

Hi Ms. Herrmann, I loved the video of the snails and limpets! I never knew they could move so enthusiastically, and it's interesting to learn about how acidification would affect them. The midges sound like fascinating little insects too with how specially adapted they are--it seems so strange that they have to be kept in a freezer to survive, but I guess that makes sense! Do people ever get stuck away from the station because of brash ice when they go out on the zodiacs? I know you have those special bins with materials in case you get trapped on an island, but I can't remember if that is only for extreme bad weather or what. I saw that there was a major fire at the King George Island station. Was this something you'd heard about? It made me think of you and everyone else at McMurdo. Unfortunately, I won't be able to hear your presentation on Friday! I will be on my way to Florida for an extended spring break. I'll be back by the time you return though, so I'm sure there will be lots to see then as well. Mila

Nell Herrmann

Hi there,I'm glad you enjoyed the video. I found that behavior really interesting too. The emergency caches (holding tents and stoves) are out on the islands just in case a storm blows in or something happens that prevents people from being able to come home; I haven't heard any stories of people using them because of brash ice, but I suppose that's always a possibility. I had a moment or two yesterday where I wasn't sure we'd be able to get in or not. It took us almost an hour to get through an area that usually takes less than ten minutes to travel. I was really glad Lily was along; as an experienced boat handler and brash ice warrior she knew exactly what to do.
Yes, I heard about the fire at the Brazilian Station. One of the Portuguese scientists who is here at Palmer now has worked at that station and was very worried and upset about the situation. We all feel terrible about what happened there.
The presentation will be archived, so you can always watch and listen at a later time. Maybe that's something we can do during a Polar Ambassadors meeting once I get home. Have a wonderful time in Florida and I look forward to seeing you when I get home! :)
-Ms. Herrmann