13. Introduction to 1979-1980 Proposal: This proposal covers a most important and challenging period in the operation of the Mid-Pacific Marine Laboratory, namely the transition from the current manner of operation, as reflected in the FY 79 budget, in which the MPML relies on Holmes and Narver for its life-support system, to the future status in which the laboratory must be self-sustaining in all aspects of its operation. This transition is scheduled to occur in mid-1980. Although it is impossible to identify all the exigencies which may arise, we have attempted to do so in the FY 80 budget and the supporting narrative sections of the proposal. The proposal is different in another way as well. It introduces the plan that in the future the MPML will seek closer ties with appropriate agencies in Micronesia and-will seek funding from agencies in addition to the U. S. Department of Energy, while at the same time continuing to provide a facility for th- D.O.E. activities in the Marshall Islands and for continuing scientific research, both pure and applied, on all aspects of the natural history of the physical and biotic environments of atolls. These plans, of course, are dependent upon a successful transition to the stand-alone capability of the MP:& during the latter half of 1980. The management of the MPML has relied heavily on assistance from the D.0.E.'s Pacific Area Support Office and Holmes and Narver in estimating the scope of work and costs involved for converting the MPML facility to a self-sustaining mit. A final thought, especially appropriate to this proposal, is that the name of the laboratory should be changed to the Mid-Pacific Research Laboratory to