John teamed up with Emmy Award winning producer Kit Spier to document the story of low dissolved oxygen levels in Hood Canal, Washington State.  This 14 minute segment is the first part of that story -- what's going on?  what's the downside?  what's being done?

The video opens with seldom seen underwater footage of the effects of seasonal low oxygen episodes on the marine life.  Dead fish litter the bottom, other fish have fled the safety of their homes in the depths for a risky chance at survival in the shallows.

Oceanographer Dr. Jan Newton heads a multi-agency program to determine the sources of low dissolved oxygen in Hood Canal and its effect on marine life.  She paints the background of the situation and reveals some of the scientific techniques used to monitor the dissolved oxygen levels.  Biologist Dan Hannafious takes us for a boat ride to see some of the instruments used to perform measurements in Hood Canal itself.

Part 2 of the story will address social and economic impacts of this situation and what actions need to be taken to resolve it.

For a wealth of information about dissolved oxygen in Hood Canal, the research project to understand it, and to learn about the many partners in this endeavor, visit the links below: