Neuston tows are designed to collect plankton on the surface. Their dimensions are 1x2 meters, and sometimes are placed together to make a double neuston. On the Oregon II, neuston nets are deployed off the starboard side of the forward deck with the forward crane which rests in a cradle during the tow. They are towed through the water so that half of the net is in the water and half is out of the water, at approximately two knots. This can be extremely challenging during less than ideal weather. Neuston tows are primary operations during Plankton Surveys aboard the Oregon II.
