Colleagues,

On behalf of the College of Natural Resources & Sciences, I am excited to announce that the University’s new research vessel now has a name, the R/V North Wind.

The vessel’s name refers to the physical process that defines this region, driving the Pacific current, and contributing to ocean upwelling which provides our mild climate and rich fisheries. It drives the ocean swells that generate our rugged coastline and provides a steady stream of storms and moisture that lead to our temperate, wet climate, feeding our forests and grasslands.

In late October, the College of Natural Resources & Sciences launched a broad community survey with nine proposed names for the new research vessel. Nearly 2,000 students, staff, alumni, and community members responded to the survey, supplying 5,190 votes. This is a very robust level of participation and we are grateful to all those who took the time to contribute.

Thanks to this feedback, and in consultation with Tribal organizations, the R/V North Wind was chosen from the selection of name proposals. The name celebrates the region and speaks to the University’s strengths in natural resources and sciences, and meets U.S. Coast Guard and general maritime industry standards.  

We look forward to welcoming the R/V North Wind upon its arrival to Humboldt in February 2025. The new vessel will continue the University’s legacy of hands-on learning, supporting undergraduate and graduate marine research. 

Thank you for the collaborative effort in selecting a name that honors our natural resources and the University’s devotion to studying them.  

Eric M. Riggs 
Dean of the College of Natural Resources & Sciences