Mount Desert Rock (MDR), a small island off the coast of Maine, has a rich history, transitioning from a lighthouse station to a vibrant marine research center. This Mdi Rock, as it’s often referred to by locals, now houses the Edward McC. Blair Marine Research Station, operated by College of the Atlantic. Its unique location and diverse ecosystem make it an ideal site for studying marine life and the impacts of climate change.
A Prime Location for Marine Studies
The waters surrounding Mount Desert Rock are teeming with life due to upwelling, a process that brings nutrient-rich waters to the surface. This creates a highly productive ecosystem, attracting a variety of marine mammals. Humpback whales, fin whales, North Atlantic right whales, harbor porpoises, dolphins, and seals are frequently sighted in the area. This abundance of marine life initially drew researchers to MDR in the 1970s, recognizing its potential as a research hub.
Allied Whale, the marine mammal research division of College of the Atlantic, partnered with the US Coast Guard to establish a seasonal research base on MDR. The island became instrumental in developing photo-identification techniques for whales, a crucial tool for long-term population studies. After decades of collaboration, College of the Atlantic acquired the island in 1996, solidifying its commitment to marine research. The research station was subsequently named after Edward McC. Blair, a significant benefactor of the college and Allied Whale.
Ongoing Research and Expanding Horizons
Research on mdi rock continues to flourish. The Gulf of Maine Stable Isotope Project (GOMSIP), and its successor GOMSIP II, utilize MDR as a base to investigate the effects of climate change on the diet and health of local whale species. This research is particularly critical given the rapid warming of the Gulf of Maine, posing significant threats to marine life, especially the endangered North Atlantic right whale.
Beyond whales, researchers are also studying the seal colony on MDR. Observations of shark bites on seals, likely due to shifting shark populations in the warming waters, have led to expanded research on shark behavior and populations in the region. In 2022, an acoustic receiver was deployed to track tagged sharks, furthering our understanding of these apex predators. College of the Atlantic envisions MDR as a multidisciplinary research station, expanding beyond marine mammals to encompass a broader range of ecological studies.
Life and Sustainability on “The Rock”
Four main buildings stand on the rocky ledges of mdi rock: a boathouse equipped for research vessels, a historic lighthouse offering panoramic views, a generator shed slated for conversion into a wet lab, and a house accommodating up to 20 researchers with classrooms, living spaces, and a radio room. The station strives for self-sufficiency. Power is primarily generated by gas with battery storage, and plans are underway to transition to solar energy. Rainwater is collected and stored for non-potable use, and a future desalination system is proposed to provide drinking water.
Izik Dery’s Photographic Glimpse of Mount Desert Rock
Mount Desert Rock stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and dedication in advancing marine research and conservation. Its ongoing evolution promises to yield crucial insights into the dynamic marine environment and the challenges it faces.
