Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory (CRREL)

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Improved ice removal patent

Dr. Emily Asenath-Smith displays an ice laminate grown on a surface using her patented invention, “Vertical draw system and method for surface...

02

New cold weather facilities

Olivier Montmayeur, a research mechanical engineer at U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center Cold Regions Research and Engineering...

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National OHWM Data Sheet

The National Technical Committee for Ordinary High Watermarks (OHWM), made up of researchers from the U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development...

04

Testing new oil cleanup method

Kate Trubac, a Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory research general engineer, oversees an in-situ burn experiment conducted with the...

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05

Mapping at the speed of light

A unique team of experts uses Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) to scan areas to create incredibly detailed maps of them.

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About CRREL

The Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory is solving challenges in all climates, particularly Earth’s coldest regions.

Welcome

At ERDC’s Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory (CRREL), we’re developing innovative solutions for science and engineering challenges in extreme environments. Learn about what we do and how you can join us.

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Video by Marisa Gaona, Desiree Kapler

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U.S. Army Watercraft and Ship Simulator Generating Critical Data for Port of Nome Stakeholders (Branded)

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Engineer Research and Development Center

Feb. 26, 2026 | 3:56

The Port of Nome is undergoing a major modernization effort with the goal of providing a safe, reliable, and efficient transportation system for commerce, national security, and tourism.

As a crucial regional hub for the Seward Peninsula and western Alaska, this project in partnership with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ (USACE) Alaska District addresses the port's current depth limitations to better serve the community, the region and the military.

The project requires a design modification that will enlarge the harbor's outer basin and create a new deep-water basin at minus 40 feet, enabling safer access for larger-class vessels.

To validate the new design, district engineers and Alaska Marine Pilots sought out the assets and expertise of the U.S. Army Watercraft and Ship Simulator at the U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC).

The initial simulations tested the proposed designs under real-world conditions, ensuring the safety and efficiency of the final selection. The most recent simulations brought the group back to ERDC to confirm the initial phased approach to the project.

Watch to learn more about ERDC’s role in furthering the success of this project and what it means for its USACE and Port of Nome stakeholders.

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