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Saturday, May 15, 2010
Gulf Coast National Wildlfe Refuges and Federal Lands
A map of the important Wildlife preserves being threatened by the oil gushing out of the Deepwater Horizon well in the Gulf of Mexico.
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Franklin County on the web May 15th, 2010
•Apalachicola: Participates in Back to Work initiative
•Shoreline Clean-up Activities For Franklin County
•Updated: Florida businesses along the coast suing BP over loss of business
•St. George Island - Things to Do on a Getaway
•St George Island Can Revitalize You
•St. George Island, A Lovely Holiday Break
•Fishing Tournaments On Despite Oil Spill
•Pensacola to Apalachicola, Florida: A Quintessential Beach Drive
•Troubled Waters
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•Shoreline Clean-up Activities For Franklin County
•Updated: Florida businesses along the coast suing BP over loss of business
•St. George Island - Things to Do on a Getaway
•St George Island Can Revitalize You
•St. George Island, A Lovely Holiday Break
•Fishing Tournaments On Despite Oil Spill
•Pensacola to Apalachicola, Florida: A Quintessential Beach Drive
•Troubled Waters
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Oysters in the news May 15th, 2010
A look at oyster related news stories from around the world.
•Blackbaud, DNR Oyster Restoration Project
•Beaufort restaurant returns oyster shells to local waterways
•Local shrimp and oyster industries feel effects of Gulf oil spill
•NC oyster prices rise as result of Gulf oil spill
•Team building oyster reef on Daniel Island
•'Damaged' brand? Seafood industry deals with image woes from oil spill
•Gulf Oysters & Wild Shrimp Leaving US Menus Fast - Other Seafood Not So Much
•DNR Secretary to Debate St. Mary's River Oyster Sanctuary
•Oyster Shortage
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•Blackbaud, DNR Oyster Restoration Project
•Beaufort restaurant returns oyster shells to local waterways
•Local shrimp and oyster industries feel effects of Gulf oil spill
•NC oyster prices rise as result of Gulf oil spill
•Team building oyster reef on Daniel Island
•'Damaged' brand? Seafood industry deals with image woes from oil spill
•Gulf Oysters & Wild Shrimp Leaving US Menus Fast - Other Seafood Not So Much
•DNR Secretary to Debate St. Mary's River Oyster Sanctuary
•Oyster Shortage
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The Ongoing Administration-Wide Response to the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill
Deepwater Horizon Incident
Joint Information Center
Phone: (985) 902-5231
(985) 902-5240
The Ongoing Administration-Wide Response to the Deepwater BP Oil Spill
Prepared by the Joint Information Center
UPDATED May 15, 2010 5 PM
* For a full timeline of the Administration-wide response, visit the White House Blog.
PAST 24 HOURS
Secretaries Napolitano and Salazar Seek Clarification of BP’s Redress Intentions
Secretary Napolitano and Secretary Salazar sent a letter to BP CEO Tony Hayward publicly holding BP’s feet to fire. As the President said yesterday, this administration is committed to ensuring that those affected are compensated. The Secretaries reiterated that as a responsible party for this event, BP is accountable to the American public for the full clean up of this spill and all the economic loss caused by the spill and related events.
Coast Guard and EPA Approve Use of Dispersant Subsea
The U.S. Coast Guard and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced they have authorized BP to use dispersants underwater, at the source of the Deepwater Horizon leak. Oil spill dispersants are chemicals that attempt to break down the oil into small drops and prevent it from reaching the surface or the U.S. shoreline. Dispersants are generally less harmful than the highly toxic oil leaking from the source and biodegrade in a much shorter time span.
The use of the dispersant at the source of the leak represents a novel approach to addressing the significant environmental threat posed by the spill. Preliminary testing results indicate that subsea use of the dispersant is effective at reducing the amount of oil from reaching the surface—and can do so with the use of less dispersant than is needed when the oil does reach the surface. This is an important step to reduce the potential for damage from oil reaching fragile wetlands and coastal areas.
This course of action was decided upon with thorough evaluation and consideration of many factors as well as consultation with stakeholders. While BP pursues the use of subsea dispersants, the federal government will require regular analysis of its effectiveness and impact on the environment, water and air quality, and human health through a rigorous monitoring program. EPA's directive to BP, including the monitoring plan the company must adhere to in order to ensure the protection of the environment and public health, is publicly available at www.epa.gov/bpspill/dispersants.
Secretary Salazar Visits Wildlife Rehabilitations Center
Secretary Salazar visited Fort Jackson Wildlife Rehabilitation Center in Buras, La., today to examine efforts being undertaken by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and its partners to protect and rehabilitate wildlife affected by the BP oil spill. Salazar also visited the Unified Area Command facility in Robert, La., for a briefing.
Fishing Restrictions Extended; More Than 92 Percent Remains Open
NOAA Fisheries revised the federal fishery closure boundaries late on May 14. The new closure will cover is a precautionary measure to ensure public safety and assure consumer confidence of Gulf of Mexico seafood. These changes will leave more than 92 percent of the Gulf’s federal waters open for fishing, and supporting productive fisheries and tourism. More details can be found here.
Staging Area Total Grows to 17
17 staging areas are in place and ready to protect sensitive shorelines, including: Dauphin Island, Ala., Orange Beach, Ala., Theodore, Ala., Panama City, Fla., Pensacola, Fla., Port St. Joe, Fla., St. Marks, Fla., Amelia, La., Cocodrie, La., Grand Isle, La., Shell Beach, La., Slidell, La., St. Mary, La.; Venice, La., Biloxi, Miss., Pascagoula, Miss., and Pass Christian, Miss.
Progress Made in Relief Well Drilling Preparations
The Development Driller III, which will dig the first relief well, is lowering the blowout preventer stack and riser. The report depth was nearly 3,000 feet as of 7 p.m. EDT on Friday, May 14. After initial review by MMS, BP revised and resubmitted the Application for Permit to Drill the second relief well, which will be undertaken by the Development Driller II—which is on location and making preparations for initiating the drilling process.
Wildlife Hotline Taking Calls
The Wildlife Hotline has received a total of 17 calls for birds, fish, marine mammals, and reptiles which have not been confirmed. The Wildlife Rehabilitation Centers in Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida have received wildlife and have been conducting to treatment and rehabilitation.
Water Contamination Devices Installed in Everglades
A National Park Service crew installed three Semi-Permeable Membrane Devices in the Gulf Coast District of Everglades National Park to detect contamination in the water.
Mussel Watch Team is Dispatched
A NOAA Mussel Watch team has been sent to the Gulf to collect mussel samples, including oyster tissue, sediments, and water from Atchafalaya Bay, La., west to the Brazos River, Texas. The team has partnered with the Louisiana Department of Fish and Game to collect remaining sites in Louisiana, and will then work with the NMFS Galveston Laboratory to collect sites along the Texas coast. Mussel Watch is the longest continuous contaminant monitoring program in U.S. coastal waters.
NOAA Research Ship Re-Deployed to Spill Response
The NOAA Ship Gordon Gunter, previously scheduled to conduct plankton research in the Gulf of Mexico, is now providing information for oil spill related research.
By the Numbers to Date:
* Personnel were quickly deployed and approximately 17,500 are currently responding to protect the shoreline and wildlife.
* More than 600 vessels are responding on site, including skimmers, tugs, barges, and recovery vessels to assist in containment and cleanup efforts—in addition to dozens of aircraft, remotely operated vehicles, and multiple mobile offshore drilling units.
* More than 1.25 million feet of containment boom and 415,000 feet of sorbent boom have been deployed to contain the spill—and approximately 270,000 feet of containment boom and 900,000 feet of sorbent boom are available.
* More than 6 million gallons of an oil-water mix have been recovered.
* Approximately 560,000 gallons of dispersant have been deployed. More than 260,000 gallons are available.
* 17 staging areas are in place and ready to protect sensitive shorelines, including: Dauphin Island, Ala., Orange Beach, Ala., Theodore, Ala., Panama City, Fla., Pensacola, Fla., Port St. Joe, Fla., St. Marks, Fla., Amelia, La., Cocodrie, La., Grand Isle, La., Shell Beach, La., Slidell, La., St. Mary, La.; Venice, La., Biloxi, Miss., Pascagoula, Miss., and Pass Christian, Miss.
Resources:
* For information about the response effort, visit www.deepwaterhorizonresponse.com.
* For specific information about the federal-wide response, visit http://www.whitehouse.gov/deepwater-bp-oil-spill.
* To contact the Deepwater Horizon Joint Information Center, call (985) 902-5231.
* To volunteer, or to report oiled shoreline, call (866) 448-5816. Volunteer opportunities can also be found here.
* To submit your vessel as a vessel of opportunity skimming system, or to submit alternative response technology, services, or products, call 281-366-5511.
* To report oiled wildlife, call (866) 557-1401. Messages will be checked hourly.
* For information about validated environmental air and water sampling results, visit www.epa.gov/bpspill.
* For National Park Service updates about potential park closures, resources at risk, and NPS actions to protect vital park space and wildlife, visit http://www.nps.gov/aboutus/oil-spill-response.htm.
* For daily updates on fishing closures, visit http://sero.nmfs.noaa.gov.
* To file a claim, or report spill-related damage, call BP’s helpline at (800) 440-0858. A BP fact sheet with additional information is available here. For those who have already pursued the BP claims process and are not satisfied with BP’s resolution, can call the Coast Guard at (800) 280-7118. More information about what types of damages are eligible for compensation under the Oil Pollution Act as well as guidance on procedures to seek that compensation can be found here.
For information about the response effort, visit www.deepwaterhorizonresponse.com.
Key contact numbers
* Report oiled shoreline or request volunteer information: (866) 448-5816
* Submit alternative response technology, services or products: (281) 366-5511
* Submit your vessel for the Vessel of Opportunity Program: (281) 366-5511
* Submit a claim for damages: (800) 440-0858
* Report oiled wildlife: (866) 557-1401
http://www.oysterradio.com e-mail manager@oysterradio.com with comments
Joint Information Center
Phone: (985) 902-5231
(985) 902-5240
The Ongoing Administration-Wide Response to the Deepwater BP Oil Spill
Prepared by the Joint Information Center
UPDATED May 15, 2010 5 PM
* For a full timeline of the Administration-wide response, visit the White House Blog.
PAST 24 HOURS
Secretaries Napolitano and Salazar Seek Clarification of BP’s Redress Intentions
Secretary Napolitano and Secretary Salazar sent a letter to BP CEO Tony Hayward publicly holding BP’s feet to fire. As the President said yesterday, this administration is committed to ensuring that those affected are compensated. The Secretaries reiterated that as a responsible party for this event, BP is accountable to the American public for the full clean up of this spill and all the economic loss caused by the spill and related events.
Coast Guard and EPA Approve Use of Dispersant Subsea
The U.S. Coast Guard and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced they have authorized BP to use dispersants underwater, at the source of the Deepwater Horizon leak. Oil spill dispersants are chemicals that attempt to break down the oil into small drops and prevent it from reaching the surface or the U.S. shoreline. Dispersants are generally less harmful than the highly toxic oil leaking from the source and biodegrade in a much shorter time span.
The use of the dispersant at the source of the leak represents a novel approach to addressing the significant environmental threat posed by the spill. Preliminary testing results indicate that subsea use of the dispersant is effective at reducing the amount of oil from reaching the surface—and can do so with the use of less dispersant than is needed when the oil does reach the surface. This is an important step to reduce the potential for damage from oil reaching fragile wetlands and coastal areas.
This course of action was decided upon with thorough evaluation and consideration of many factors as well as consultation with stakeholders. While BP pursues the use of subsea dispersants, the federal government will require regular analysis of its effectiveness and impact on the environment, water and air quality, and human health through a rigorous monitoring program. EPA's directive to BP, including the monitoring plan the company must adhere to in order to ensure the protection of the environment and public health, is publicly available at www.epa.gov/bpspill/dispersants.
Secretary Salazar Visits Wildlife Rehabilitations Center
Secretary Salazar visited Fort Jackson Wildlife Rehabilitation Center in Buras, La., today to examine efforts being undertaken by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and its partners to protect and rehabilitate wildlife affected by the BP oil spill. Salazar also visited the Unified Area Command facility in Robert, La., for a briefing.
Fishing Restrictions Extended; More Than 92 Percent Remains Open
NOAA Fisheries revised the federal fishery closure boundaries late on May 14. The new closure will cover is a precautionary measure to ensure public safety and assure consumer confidence of Gulf of Mexico seafood. These changes will leave more than 92 percent of the Gulf’s federal waters open for fishing, and supporting productive fisheries and tourism. More details can be found here.
Staging Area Total Grows to 17
17 staging areas are in place and ready to protect sensitive shorelines, including: Dauphin Island, Ala., Orange Beach, Ala., Theodore, Ala., Panama City, Fla., Pensacola, Fla., Port St. Joe, Fla., St. Marks, Fla., Amelia, La., Cocodrie, La., Grand Isle, La., Shell Beach, La., Slidell, La., St. Mary, La.; Venice, La., Biloxi, Miss., Pascagoula, Miss., and Pass Christian, Miss.
Progress Made in Relief Well Drilling Preparations
The Development Driller III, which will dig the first relief well, is lowering the blowout preventer stack and riser. The report depth was nearly 3,000 feet as of 7 p.m. EDT on Friday, May 14. After initial review by MMS, BP revised and resubmitted the Application for Permit to Drill the second relief well, which will be undertaken by the Development Driller II—which is on location and making preparations for initiating the drilling process.
Wildlife Hotline Taking Calls
The Wildlife Hotline has received a total of 17 calls for birds, fish, marine mammals, and reptiles which have not been confirmed. The Wildlife Rehabilitation Centers in Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida have received wildlife and have been conducting to treatment and rehabilitation.
Water Contamination Devices Installed in Everglades
A National Park Service crew installed three Semi-Permeable Membrane Devices in the Gulf Coast District of Everglades National Park to detect contamination in the water.
Mussel Watch Team is Dispatched
A NOAA Mussel Watch team has been sent to the Gulf to collect mussel samples, including oyster tissue, sediments, and water from Atchafalaya Bay, La., west to the Brazos River, Texas. The team has partnered with the Louisiana Department of Fish and Game to collect remaining sites in Louisiana, and will then work with the NMFS Galveston Laboratory to collect sites along the Texas coast. Mussel Watch is the longest continuous contaminant monitoring program in U.S. coastal waters.
NOAA Research Ship Re-Deployed to Spill Response
The NOAA Ship Gordon Gunter, previously scheduled to conduct plankton research in the Gulf of Mexico, is now providing information for oil spill related research.
By the Numbers to Date:
* Personnel were quickly deployed and approximately 17,500 are currently responding to protect the shoreline and wildlife.
* More than 600 vessels are responding on site, including skimmers, tugs, barges, and recovery vessels to assist in containment and cleanup efforts—in addition to dozens of aircraft, remotely operated vehicles, and multiple mobile offshore drilling units.
* More than 1.25 million feet of containment boom and 415,000 feet of sorbent boom have been deployed to contain the spill—and approximately 270,000 feet of containment boom and 900,000 feet of sorbent boom are available.
* More than 6 million gallons of an oil-water mix have been recovered.
* Approximately 560,000 gallons of dispersant have been deployed. More than 260,000 gallons are available.
* 17 staging areas are in place and ready to protect sensitive shorelines, including: Dauphin Island, Ala., Orange Beach, Ala., Theodore, Ala., Panama City, Fla., Pensacola, Fla., Port St. Joe, Fla., St. Marks, Fla., Amelia, La., Cocodrie, La., Grand Isle, La., Shell Beach, La., Slidell, La., St. Mary, La.; Venice, La., Biloxi, Miss., Pascagoula, Miss., and Pass Christian, Miss.
Resources:
* For information about the response effort, visit www.deepwaterhorizonresponse.com.
* For specific information about the federal-wide response, visit http://www.whitehouse.gov/deepwater-bp-oil-spill.
* To contact the Deepwater Horizon Joint Information Center, call (985) 902-5231.
* To volunteer, or to report oiled shoreline, call (866) 448-5816. Volunteer opportunities can also be found here.
* To submit your vessel as a vessel of opportunity skimming system, or to submit alternative response technology, services, or products, call 281-366-5511.
* To report oiled wildlife, call (866) 557-1401. Messages will be checked hourly.
* For information about validated environmental air and water sampling results, visit www.epa.gov/bpspill.
* For National Park Service updates about potential park closures, resources at risk, and NPS actions to protect vital park space and wildlife, visit http://www.nps.gov/aboutus/oil-spill-response.htm.
* For daily updates on fishing closures, visit http://sero.nmfs.noaa.gov.
* To file a claim, or report spill-related damage, call BP’s helpline at (800) 440-0858. A BP fact sheet with additional information is available here. For those who have already pursued the BP claims process and are not satisfied with BP’s resolution, can call the Coast Guard at (800) 280-7118. More information about what types of damages are eligible for compensation under the Oil Pollution Act as well as guidance on procedures to seek that compensation can be found here.
For information about the response effort, visit www.deepwaterhorizonresponse.com.
Key contact numbers
* Report oiled shoreline or request volunteer information: (866) 448-5816
* Submit alternative response technology, services or products: (281) 366-5511
* Submit your vessel for the Vessel of Opportunity Program: (281) 366-5511
* Submit a claim for damages: (800) 440-0858
* Report oiled wildlife: (866) 557-1401
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Public urged to report breaks in boom along the Gulf Coast
Deepwater Horizon Incident
Joint Information Center
Phone: (985) 902-5231
(985) 902-5240
Spill responders are asking today for the public’s help in monitoring boom along the Gulf Coast. Boaters are requested to report sightings of broken, disconnected, or adrift boom; and encouraged to keep their distance from boom especially at night and in conditions of restricted visibility.
“Boom provides one more line of defense in protecting our favorite places along the Gulf Coast. It’s important the boom not be disturbed,” said Capt. Bill Drelling, U.S. Coast Guard deputy incident commander of Sector Mobile.
Agencies have received reports of boaters driving through boom or disturbing boom in attempts to access protected areas. Responders understand the inconvenience of not being able to access these areas; however, areas that are boomed include some of the most environmentally sensitive places along the coast. Opening or removing these booms may expose those sensitive areas to environmental harm.
Officials are also concerned boom that has broken loose or has been opened without authorization poses a navigational hazard to the boating public and commercial shipping traffic.
About 1.2 million feet of boom have been installed across the Gulf Coast with 900,000 feet in the Mobile Sector to date and another 3.5 million feet of boom is either staged, ordered or in production.
Report damaged, vandalized, adrift, or stolen boom to: 1-866-448-5816
For information about the response effort, visit www.deepwaterhorizonresponse.com.
Key contact numbers
* Report oiled shoreline or request volunteer information: (866) 448-5816
* Submit alternative response technology, services or products: (281) 366-5511
* Submit your vessel for the Vessel of Opportunity Program: (281) 366-5511
* Submit a claim for damages: (800) 440-0858
* Report oiled wildlife: (866) 557-1401
http://www.oysterradio.com e-mail manager@oysterradio.com with comments
Joint Information Center
Phone: (985) 902-5231
(985) 902-5240
Spill responders are asking today for the public’s help in monitoring boom along the Gulf Coast. Boaters are requested to report sightings of broken, disconnected, or adrift boom; and encouraged to keep their distance from boom especially at night and in conditions of restricted visibility.
“Boom provides one more line of defense in protecting our favorite places along the Gulf Coast. It’s important the boom not be disturbed,” said Capt. Bill Drelling, U.S. Coast Guard deputy incident commander of Sector Mobile.
Agencies have received reports of boaters driving through boom or disturbing boom in attempts to access protected areas. Responders understand the inconvenience of not being able to access these areas; however, areas that are boomed include some of the most environmentally sensitive places along the coast. Opening or removing these booms may expose those sensitive areas to environmental harm.
Officials are also concerned boom that has broken loose or has been opened without authorization poses a navigational hazard to the boating public and commercial shipping traffic.
About 1.2 million feet of boom have been installed across the Gulf Coast with 900,000 feet in the Mobile Sector to date and another 3.5 million feet of boom is either staged, ordered or in production.
Report damaged, vandalized, adrift, or stolen boom to: 1-866-448-5816
For information about the response effort, visit www.deepwaterhorizonresponse.com.
Key contact numbers
* Report oiled shoreline or request volunteer information: (866) 448-5816
* Submit alternative response technology, services or products: (281) 366-5511
* Submit your vessel for the Vessel of Opportunity Program: (281) 366-5511
* Submit a claim for damages: (800) 440-0858
* Report oiled wildlife: (866) 557-1401
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FLORIDA DEEPWATER HORIZON RESPONSE MAY 15, 2010
05 15 2010 Rollout for Saturday
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COAST GUARD AND EPA APPROVE USE OF DISPERSANT SUBSEA IN FURTHER EFFORT TO PREVENT OIL FROM REACHING U.S. SHORELINE
Agencies Reserve Authority to Stop the Use of the Dispersant At Any Time
Deepwater Horizon Incident
Joint Information Center
Phone: (985) 902-5231
(985) 902-524
ROBERT, LA - The U.S. Coast Guard and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today announced they have authorized BP to use dispersants underwater, at the source of the Deepwater Horizon leak. Oil spill dispersants are chemicals that attempt to break down the oil into small drops and prevent it from reaching the surface or the U.S. shoreline. Dispersants are generally less harmful than the highly toxic oil leaking from the source and they biodegrade in a much shorter time span.
The use of the dispersant at the source of the leak represents a novel approach to addressing the significant environmental threat posed by the spill. Preliminary testing results indicate that subsea use of the dispersant is effective at reducing the amount of oil from reaching the surface – and can do so with the use of less dispersant than is needed when the oil does reach the surface. This is an important step to reduce the potential for damage from oil reaching fragile wetlands and coastal areas.
“We will continue our relentless efforts to secure the source of the spill. In the meantime, we will employ every available technique we can to minimize the environmental impact on coastal habitats, communities and the marine ecosystem. This requires a responsible assessment of the risks and benefits of specific tactics,” said Coast Guard Admiral Thad W. Allen, the national incident commander for the spill.
“Based on the scientific analysis of the EPA and NOAA and review by the National Response Team, it has been determined that the use of dispersants at the subsea source is the prudent and responsible action to take along with other tactics including surface dispersant, skimming and controlled burns."
"We believe that the underwater use of dispersants could lessen the overall impact of the spill,” said EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson. “Dispersants are not the silver bullet. They are used to move us towards the lesser of two difficult environmental outcomes. Until the flow of oil is stemmed, we must continue to take any responsible action that will reduce the impact of the spill, and that is what we are doing.”
This course of action was decided upon with thorough evaluation and consideration of many factors as well as consultation with stakeholders. Because subsea use of dispersants is a novel approach, several tests were done to determine if the dispersant would be effective in breaking up the oil and helping to control the leaks.
While BP pursues the use of subsea dispersants, the federal government will require regular analysis of its effectiveness and impact on the environment, water and air quality, and human health through a rigorous monitoring program. EPA's directive to BP, including the monitoring plan the company must adhere to in order to ensure the protection of the environment and public health, is publicly available at www.epa.gov/bpspill/dispersants.
The federal government will work with caution and strong oversight and reserves the right to discontinue the use of this dispersant method if any negative impacts on the environment outweigh the benefits.
For information about the response effort, visit www.deepwaterhorizonresponse.com.
Key contact numbers
* Report oiled shoreline or request volunteer information: (866) 448-5816
* Submit alternative response technology, services or products: (281) 366-5511
* Submit your vessel for the Vessel of Opportunity Program: (281) 366-5511
* Submit a claim for damages: (800) 440-0858
* Report oiled wildlife: (866) 557-1401
http://www.oysterradio.com e-mail manager@oysterradio.com with comments
Deepwater Horizon Incident
Joint Information Center
Phone: (985) 902-5231
(985) 902-524
ROBERT, LA - The U.S. Coast Guard and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today announced they have authorized BP to use dispersants underwater, at the source of the Deepwater Horizon leak. Oil spill dispersants are chemicals that attempt to break down the oil into small drops and prevent it from reaching the surface or the U.S. shoreline. Dispersants are generally less harmful than the highly toxic oil leaking from the source and they biodegrade in a much shorter time span.
The use of the dispersant at the source of the leak represents a novel approach to addressing the significant environmental threat posed by the spill. Preliminary testing results indicate that subsea use of the dispersant is effective at reducing the amount of oil from reaching the surface – and can do so with the use of less dispersant than is needed when the oil does reach the surface. This is an important step to reduce the potential for damage from oil reaching fragile wetlands and coastal areas.
“We will continue our relentless efforts to secure the source of the spill. In the meantime, we will employ every available technique we can to minimize the environmental impact on coastal habitats, communities and the marine ecosystem. This requires a responsible assessment of the risks and benefits of specific tactics,” said Coast Guard Admiral Thad W. Allen, the national incident commander for the spill.
“Based on the scientific analysis of the EPA and NOAA and review by the National Response Team, it has been determined that the use of dispersants at the subsea source is the prudent and responsible action to take along with other tactics including surface dispersant, skimming and controlled burns."
"We believe that the underwater use of dispersants could lessen the overall impact of the spill,” said EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson. “Dispersants are not the silver bullet. They are used to move us towards the lesser of two difficult environmental outcomes. Until the flow of oil is stemmed, we must continue to take any responsible action that will reduce the impact of the spill, and that is what we are doing.”
This course of action was decided upon with thorough evaluation and consideration of many factors as well as consultation with stakeholders. Because subsea use of dispersants is a novel approach, several tests were done to determine if the dispersant would be effective in breaking up the oil and helping to control the leaks.
While BP pursues the use of subsea dispersants, the federal government will require regular analysis of its effectiveness and impact on the environment, water and air quality, and human health through a rigorous monitoring program. EPA's directive to BP, including the monitoring plan the company must adhere to in order to ensure the protection of the environment and public health, is publicly available at www.epa.gov/bpspill/dispersants.
The federal government will work with caution and strong oversight and reserves the right to discontinue the use of this dispersant method if any negative impacts on the environment outweigh the benefits.
For information about the response effort, visit www.deepwaterhorizonresponse.com.
Key contact numbers
* Report oiled shoreline or request volunteer information: (866) 448-5816
* Submit alternative response technology, services or products: (281) 366-5511
* Submit your vessel for the Vessel of Opportunity Program: (281) 366-5511
* Submit a claim for damages: (800) 440-0858
* Report oiled wildlife: (866) 557-1401
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Financial Help For Spill-Affected Businesses
In an effort to provide assistance to those individuals and businesses suffering economic losses due to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, enclosed below are details on how to file a claim with British Petroleum (BP). Information is also included on how to apply for a low interest Economic Injury Loan from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). This help for spill-affected businesses comes in response to requests to me and other Legislators from Northwest Florida employers and families.
As the responsible party of the spill, BP has repeatedly stated they will continue to provide assistance for economic damages. However, these loans through the SBA will create an additional tool to assist businesses through these difficult times, while working through the BP claims process.
In order to assist all individuals and businesses that may be affected due to economic losses, BP officials are requesting those who are or may be affected, to please contact their claims hotline at (800) 440-0858 or stop by a claims office to open an account.
Claims:
1)Are claims offices going to be established for individuals to come in a file a claim? Where will those locations be set up?
Yes, here are the locations and the anticipated opening dates in Northwest Florida:
Escambia County Open 8 am- 7 pm, 7 days a week
3960 W. Navy Blvd
Suite 16
Pensacola, FL 32507
Santa Rosa County OPENING May 14th
5668 Gulf Breeze Pkwy
Unit B-9
Gulf Breeze, FL 32563
Okaloosa County OPENING May 15th
348 SW Miracle Strip Pkwy
Suite 13
Ft. Walton Beach, FL 32548
Walton County OPENING May 16th
5008 US Hwy 98W
Unit 6&7
Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
2) Will there be more information on BP’s website to assist with filing a claim? Will an online claims form be provided on the company’s website?
BP officials are working towards providing more information on their website regarding the claims process including establishing an online claims form. However, if you are seeking to file a claim, officials ask that you contact their hotline at 1-800-440-0858.
3) It is difficult to get through via phone. Is BP going to set up more phone lines in order to allow more people to call into for filing claims?
Officials are currently seeking to add more phone lines to provide better service to those individuals seeking to file a claim.
4) What is the detailed process to file a claim?
All claimants need to contact BP’s hotline (1-800-440-0858) that is manned by the catastrophic loss division of ESIS specializing in oil spill claims.
5) Once filed, will payment from claims filed be provided continuously once the application is submitted? How long will the claims process take to acquire payment?
a. BP says payments will be made to address immediate issues associated with property damage or loss of income due to the oil spill.
b. BP believes that it is appropriate to provide interim payments to claimants who are not receiving ordinary income or project while the cleanup is underway.
c. Within 48 hours of receiving supporting documentation (e.g. tax return) the claim will be evaluated and the claimant will be notified of an advance payment for the claim.
d. The equivalent of 1 month’s income will be paid and these payments will continue until they are able to return to work or their overall claim is resolved.
e. BI claims can be handled via phone or in person. Bills will be paid or reimbursed.
f. If a claim is rejected the person will be notified in writing of non-payment.
g. Claims are currently being paid. To date, there are 768 claim accounts opened in Florida, and BP has paid $193, 899.98 towards these claims.
Economic Injury Loans through the U.S. Small Business Administration
A Disaster Loan Outreach Center will be open in Escambia County located at:
Small Business Development Center
401 E. Chase Street Suite 100
Pensacola, FL 32502
Office hours are from 8:00 am to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday.
Economic Injury Loans Questions and Answers
If your small business or private, non-profit organization has suffered substantial economic injury, regardless of physical damage, and is located in a declared disaster area, you may be eligible for financial assistance from the U.S. Small Business Administration, Small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives and certain private, non-profit organizations of all sizes that have suffered substantial economic injury resulting from a physical disaster or an agricultural production disaster designated by the Secretary of Agriculture may be eligible for the SBA's Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program. Substantial economic injury is the inability of a business to meet its obligations as they mature and to pay its ordinary and necessary operating expenses.
An EIDL can help you meet necessary financial obligations that your business or private, non-profit organization could have met had the disaster not occurred. It provides relief from economic injury caused directly by the disaster and permits you to maintain a reasonable working capital position during the period affected by the disaster. The SBA provides EIDL assistance only to those businesses or private, non-profit organizations we determine are unable to obtain credit elsewhere. The SBA can provide up to $2.0 million in disaster assistance to a business. This loan cap includes both economic injury and physical damage assistance. Your loan amount will be based on your actual economic injury and financial needs. The interest rate on EIDLs cannot exceed 4 percent per year. The term of these loans cannot exceed 30 years. Your term will be determined by your ability to repay the loan.
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As the responsible party of the spill, BP has repeatedly stated they will continue to provide assistance for economic damages. However, these loans through the SBA will create an additional tool to assist businesses through these difficult times, while working through the BP claims process.
In order to assist all individuals and businesses that may be affected due to economic losses, BP officials are requesting those who are or may be affected, to please contact their claims hotline at (800) 440-0858 or stop by a claims office to open an account.
Claims:
1)Are claims offices going to be established for individuals to come in a file a claim? Where will those locations be set up?
Yes, here are the locations and the anticipated opening dates in Northwest Florida:
Escambia County Open 8 am- 7 pm, 7 days a week
3960 W. Navy Blvd
Suite 16
Pensacola, FL 32507
Santa Rosa County OPENING May 14th
5668 Gulf Breeze Pkwy
Unit B-9
Gulf Breeze, FL 32563
Okaloosa County OPENING May 15th
348 SW Miracle Strip Pkwy
Suite 13
Ft. Walton Beach, FL 32548
Walton County OPENING May 16th
5008 US Hwy 98W
Unit 6&7
Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
2) Will there be more information on BP’s website to assist with filing a claim? Will an online claims form be provided on the company’s website?
BP officials are working towards providing more information on their website regarding the claims process including establishing an online claims form. However, if you are seeking to file a claim, officials ask that you contact their hotline at 1-800-440-0858.
3) It is difficult to get through via phone. Is BP going to set up more phone lines in order to allow more people to call into for filing claims?
Officials are currently seeking to add more phone lines to provide better service to those individuals seeking to file a claim.
4) What is the detailed process to file a claim?
All claimants need to contact BP’s hotline (1-800-440-0858) that is manned by the catastrophic loss division of ESIS specializing in oil spill claims.
5) Once filed, will payment from claims filed be provided continuously once the application is submitted? How long will the claims process take to acquire payment?
a. BP says payments will be made to address immediate issues associated with property damage or loss of income due to the oil spill.
b. BP believes that it is appropriate to provide interim payments to claimants who are not receiving ordinary income or project while the cleanup is underway.
c. Within 48 hours of receiving supporting documentation (e.g. tax return) the claim will be evaluated and the claimant will be notified of an advance payment for the claim.
d. The equivalent of 1 month’s income will be paid and these payments will continue until they are able to return to work or their overall claim is resolved.
e. BI claims can be handled via phone or in person. Bills will be paid or reimbursed.
f. If a claim is rejected the person will be notified in writing of non-payment.
g. Claims are currently being paid. To date, there are 768 claim accounts opened in Florida, and BP has paid $193, 899.98 towards these claims.
Economic Injury Loans through the U.S. Small Business Administration
A Disaster Loan Outreach Center will be open in Escambia County located at:
Small Business Development Center
401 E. Chase Street Suite 100
Pensacola, FL 32502
Office hours are from 8:00 am to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday.
Economic Injury Loans Questions and Answers
If your small business or private, non-profit organization has suffered substantial economic injury, regardless of physical damage, and is located in a declared disaster area, you may be eligible for financial assistance from the U.S. Small Business Administration, Small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives and certain private, non-profit organizations of all sizes that have suffered substantial economic injury resulting from a physical disaster or an agricultural production disaster designated by the Secretary of Agriculture may be eligible for the SBA's Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program. Substantial economic injury is the inability of a business to meet its obligations as they mature and to pay its ordinary and necessary operating expenses.
An EIDL can help you meet necessary financial obligations that your business or private, non-profit organization could have met had the disaster not occurred. It provides relief from economic injury caused directly by the disaster and permits you to maintain a reasonable working capital position during the period affected by the disaster. The SBA provides EIDL assistance only to those businesses or private, non-profit organizations we determine are unable to obtain credit elsewhere. The SBA can provide up to $2.0 million in disaster assistance to a business. This loan cap includes both economic injury and physical damage assistance. Your loan amount will be based on your actual economic injury and financial needs. The interest rate on EIDLs cannot exceed 4 percent per year. The term of these loans cannot exceed 30 years. Your term will be determined by your ability to repay the loan.
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Friday, May 14, 2010
UPDATE: Coast Guard, Minerals Management Service to continue their joint investigation into Deepwater Horizon Mobile Offshore Drilling Unit incident
NEW ORLEANS - The U.S. Coast Guard and Minerals Management Service are scheduled to continue their co-chaired investigation May 26-29 to identify the factors leading to the explosion, loss of life, sinking, and subsequent oil spill of the Deepwater Horizon Mobile Offshore Drilling Unit.
Originally scheduled to resume May 25, the joint investigation board has changed the start date to May 26.
"The joint investigation will not hold any public hearings on Tuesday, May 25, as previously scheduled, out of respect for the planned memorial for the 11 Deepwater Horizon workers that are missing," said Coast Guard Capt. Hung Nguyen, co-chair of the joint investigation.
"Both USCG and MMS panel members have a commitment to determine the causes of this incident as well as what can be done to ensure that this does not happen again," said David Dykes, of the Minerals Management Service and co-chair of the joint investigation. "We owe this to the memory and honor of the 11 missing rig workers."
U.S. Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Thad W. Allen, Minerals Management Service Director S. Elizabeth Birnbaum, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano and Department of the Interior Secretary Ken Salazar signed an order convening the joint investigation. This joint investigation is classified as a Coast Guard Marine Board of Investigation as defined with Title 46, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 4.09 and a panel investigation as defined within Title 30, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 250.101.
Mr. David Dykes, MMS, and Captain Hung Nguyen, USCG, are the co-chairs of the joint investigation.
The USCG and MMS share jurisdiction for the investigation of casualties occurring on the Outer Continental Shelf. The agencies have a Memoranda of Agreement establishing the roles and responsibilities related to each agency’s areas of expertise.
Upon completion of the joint investigation, the team will issue a single report to the MMS Director and the Commandant of the Coast Guard containing the evidence brought forward, facts established and its conclusions and recommendations. The report will be submitted simultaneously to both agencies. The Commandant of the Coast Guard and the MMS Director will jointly sign and release the final report.
The public hearing for the joint investigation is scheduled to continue May 26-29, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (CDT) at the Radisson New Orleans Airport, 2150 Veterans Blvd., Kenner, LA - Bayou Meeting Room.
A list of witnesses and additional information can be found on the Deepwater Investigation Web site.
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Originally scheduled to resume May 25, the joint investigation board has changed the start date to May 26.
"The joint investigation will not hold any public hearings on Tuesday, May 25, as previously scheduled, out of respect for the planned memorial for the 11 Deepwater Horizon workers that are missing," said Coast Guard Capt. Hung Nguyen, co-chair of the joint investigation.
"Both USCG and MMS panel members have a commitment to determine the causes of this incident as well as what can be done to ensure that this does not happen again," said David Dykes, of the Minerals Management Service and co-chair of the joint investigation. "We owe this to the memory and honor of the 11 missing rig workers."
U.S. Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Thad W. Allen, Minerals Management Service Director S. Elizabeth Birnbaum, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano and Department of the Interior Secretary Ken Salazar signed an order convening the joint investigation. This joint investigation is classified as a Coast Guard Marine Board of Investigation as defined with Title 46, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 4.09 and a panel investigation as defined within Title 30, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 250.101.
Mr. David Dykes, MMS, and Captain Hung Nguyen, USCG, are the co-chairs of the joint investigation.
The USCG and MMS share jurisdiction for the investigation of casualties occurring on the Outer Continental Shelf. The agencies have a Memoranda of Agreement establishing the roles and responsibilities related to each agency’s areas of expertise.
Upon completion of the joint investigation, the team will issue a single report to the MMS Director and the Commandant of the Coast Guard containing the evidence brought forward, facts established and its conclusions and recommendations. The report will be submitted simultaneously to both agencies. The Commandant of the Coast Guard and the MMS Director will jointly sign and release the final report.
The public hearing for the joint investigation is scheduled to continue May 26-29, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (CDT) at the Radisson New Orleans Airport, 2150 Veterans Blvd., Kenner, LA - Bayou Meeting Room.
A list of witnesses and additional information can be found on the Deepwater Investigation Web site.
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"Book a Room, Eat an Oyster"
Ironically, some visitors to St. George Island are learning that now may be the best time to book their summer getaway. Lodging providers from Apalachicola to Alligator Point are enticing guests with quick getaway deals, reduced rates or shortened cancellation deadlines designed to attract visitors who otherwise might be hesitant to come to the coast because of the recent Louisiana offshore oil spill.
It's an uphill battle and it's not been anybody's idea of a fun marketing campaign.
Lodging providers all along this stretch of Northwest Florida's Natural Coast say they have been hit hard in the last two weeks due to cancellations, slow reservations and nervous inquiries from guests about cancellation/refund policies should the coastline be impacted by oil.
What oil?
There is no oil on Franklin County beaches. The area is nowhere close to being on NOAA's trajectory map. You want to visit the coast? Now's the time. The vacation deals are out there and you're probably going to get a good seat in one of the local seafood restaurants.
Weary tourism industry officials work overtime these days trying to salvage some of summer for the State's vacation industry. In Franklin County, the message is simple: most lodging providers have policies in place, or are currently revising theirs, to protect visitors if area beaches are closed due to this potential environmental tragedy. Got a reservation? Check with your lodging provider if you have a question or need clarification about cancellation policies.
With regard to beach conditions, same message: We're ok so far but if you are planning a trip to our area and are concerned about any potential impact from the Gulf of Mexico Oil Spill, call or email your local lodging provider in order to get the most up-to-date information on your specific accommodation. In Franklin County, visit www.anaturalescape.com for a comprehensive list of Franklin County accommodations. While you’re there, sign up to receive regular TDC updates on local conditions.
And eat some seafood for heavens' sake!
In addition to the impact on local tourism related businesses, big media news coverage of the BP Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico has hurt Florida’s seafood industry. And in Franklin County, it has hurt an already struggling fishing and oystering community that is still reeling from a recent FDA attempt to shut down summer oystering.
“I am concerned about misconceptions that are circulating about the safety and availability of Florida seafood,” said Charles H. Bronson, Florida Comissioner of Agriculture in a recent release. “ Because of these false impressions, our state’s commercial fishing industry has suffered a severe economic blow."
Bronson says he wants to set the record straight.
“Florida seafood products are safe and plentiful,” Bronson says. “They have not been affected by the oil spill. More than 90 percent of the Gulf of Mexico is untouched by oil, and our commercial fishermen continue to harvest products from these clean waters.”
According to Bronson, state officials continually monitoring water samples off Florida's coast, including off Franklin County's coast.
And, so far so good.
“Franklin County seafood is just fine,” said Joseph (Smokey) Parrish, Franklin County Commission Chairman and seafood business leader. “We're taking steps to protect the bay early and we're throwing everything we got into keeping the resources safe. We're harvesting in clean waters and always will. No shrimper or oysterman that I know would ever put any product on the market that would tarnish the Apalachicola Bay oyster and seafood reputation.”
Franklin County's message? Book a room, eat an oyster...
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It's an uphill battle and it's not been anybody's idea of a fun marketing campaign.
Lodging providers all along this stretch of Northwest Florida's Natural Coast say they have been hit hard in the last two weeks due to cancellations, slow reservations and nervous inquiries from guests about cancellation/refund policies should the coastline be impacted by oil.
What oil?
There is no oil on Franklin County beaches. The area is nowhere close to being on NOAA's trajectory map. You want to visit the coast? Now's the time. The vacation deals are out there and you're probably going to get a good seat in one of the local seafood restaurants.
Weary tourism industry officials work overtime these days trying to salvage some of summer for the State's vacation industry. In Franklin County, the message is simple: most lodging providers have policies in place, or are currently revising theirs, to protect visitors if area beaches are closed due to this potential environmental tragedy. Got a reservation? Check with your lodging provider if you have a question or need clarification about cancellation policies.
With regard to beach conditions, same message: We're ok so far but if you are planning a trip to our area and are concerned about any potential impact from the Gulf of Mexico Oil Spill, call or email your local lodging provider in order to get the most up-to-date information on your specific accommodation. In Franklin County, visit www.anaturalescape.com for a comprehensive list of Franklin County accommodations. While you’re there, sign up to receive regular TDC updates on local conditions.
And eat some seafood for heavens' sake!
In addition to the impact on local tourism related businesses, big media news coverage of the BP Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico has hurt Florida’s seafood industry. And in Franklin County, it has hurt an already struggling fishing and oystering community that is still reeling from a recent FDA attempt to shut down summer oystering.
“I am concerned about misconceptions that are circulating about the safety and availability of Florida seafood,” said Charles H. Bronson, Florida Comissioner of Agriculture in a recent release. “ Because of these false impressions, our state’s commercial fishing industry has suffered a severe economic blow."
Bronson says he wants to set the record straight.
“Florida seafood products are safe and plentiful,” Bronson says. “They have not been affected by the oil spill. More than 90 percent of the Gulf of Mexico is untouched by oil, and our commercial fishermen continue to harvest products from these clean waters.”
According to Bronson, state officials continually monitoring water samples off Florida's coast, including off Franklin County's coast.
And, so far so good.
“Franklin County seafood is just fine,” said Joseph (Smokey) Parrish, Franklin County Commission Chairman and seafood business leader. “We're taking steps to protect the bay early and we're throwing everything we got into keeping the resources safe. We're harvesting in clean waters and always will. No shrimper or oysterman that I know would ever put any product on the market that would tarnish the Apalachicola Bay oyster and seafood reputation.”
Franklin County's message? Book a room, eat an oyster...
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Emergency Officials Busy Protecting Resources while Tourism/Seafood Experts Focus on Repairing Economy Damaged by Oil-spill Fear
Officials say moderate southeast winds are expected hold any oil-related impacts well away from Florida's coastline for at least the next several days. Franklin County beaches and sensitive wetlands are fine and continue to be located well away from any potential impact as identified on NOAA’s daily trajectory maps.
As federal, state and local emergency officials scramble to protect the State's environmental resources, regional tourism officials, including members of the Franklin County TDC convened in Destin May 14 to strategize with Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association (FRLA) leaders, Visit Florida marketing experts and legislators on how to reverse a statewide spiraling tourism industry damaged from negative press about the oil spill. While no firm decisions were made, the group did agree that more marketing funds were going to be needed and that the Panhandle coastal counties most hard hit would receive a weighted share of the funds to help rebuild their damaged economies.
In Franklin County, tourism leaders have already begun developing a multi-tiered marketing plan that includes heavy video and internet marketing to help the get the good word out that all is still well in Franklin County. Click here to watch Forgotten Coast TV's John Spohrer as he gives a beach report from St. George Island and talks with Dana Ingalls about how our beaches are clean and people are out soaking up the rays and enjoying the cool breezes.
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As federal, state and local emergency officials scramble to protect the State's environmental resources, regional tourism officials, including members of the Franklin County TDC convened in Destin May 14 to strategize with Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association (FRLA) leaders, Visit Florida marketing experts and legislators on how to reverse a statewide spiraling tourism industry damaged from negative press about the oil spill. While no firm decisions were made, the group did agree that more marketing funds were going to be needed and that the Panhandle coastal counties most hard hit would receive a weighted share of the funds to help rebuild their damaged economies.
In Franklin County, tourism leaders have already begun developing a multi-tiered marketing plan that includes heavy video and internet marketing to help the get the good word out that all is still well in Franklin County. Click here to watch Forgotten Coast TV's John Spohrer as he gives a beach report from St. George Island and talks with Dana Ingalls about how our beaches are clean and people are out soaking up the rays and enjoying the cool breezes.
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State Parks waive entry fees on Sunday
You can visit Florida’s state parks for free this Sunday in honor of National Military Appreciation Month. The cost of a day pass will be waived on Sunday, May the 16th at all of Florida’s 160 state parks.
All other use fees, such as overnight accommodations, tours or special events, will be charged as usual.
The free entry into the parks is only one way Florida State Parks support veterans and members of the United States Armed Forces. The park system also flies the POW-MIA flag and works closely with Operation Purple, a camp program for children of military parents.
The Orman House Historic State Park in Apalachicola is home to the only replica of the Three Servicemen statue at the Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. Other local state parks include The St. George Island State Park, The Bald Point State Park and Gorrie Museum in Apalachicola as well as the Ochlocknee River State Park in Wakulla County and the St. Joe Peninsula State Park in Gulf County.
For full list of Florida State Parks, visit www.floridastateparks.org.
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All other use fees, such as overnight accommodations, tours or special events, will be charged as usual.
The free entry into the parks is only one way Florida State Parks support veterans and members of the United States Armed Forces. The park system also flies the POW-MIA flag and works closely with Operation Purple, a camp program for children of military parents.
The Orman House Historic State Park in Apalachicola is home to the only replica of the Three Servicemen statue at the Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. Other local state parks include The St. George Island State Park, The Bald Point State Park and Gorrie Museum in Apalachicola as well as the Ochlocknee River State Park in Wakulla County and the St. Joe Peninsula State Park in Gulf County.
For full list of Florida State Parks, visit www.floridastateparks.org.
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Florida activates oil spill information hotline
The State of Florida has activated a Florida Oil Spill Information Line to provide Florida residents and visitors with up-to-date information on Florida’s response to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill.
The Florida Oil Spill Information Line is 1 (888) 337-3569.
It will operate from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., seven days a week until further notice.
The Florida Oil Spill Information Line will provide updates on the state’s oil spill response activities, as well as information on volunteer opportunities, protective tips for homeowners and businesses, and safety and health tips. Florida Governor Charlie Crist pointed out that Florida’s coastlines have not yet been impacted by this oil spill, but Floridians have a number of questions about the state’s ongoing response efforts, and the Florida Oil Spill Information Line will serve as an important resource for the latest information.
The information line number again is 1 (888) 337-3569.
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The Florida Oil Spill Information Line is 1 (888) 337-3569.
It will operate from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., seven days a week until further notice.
The Florida Oil Spill Information Line will provide updates on the state’s oil spill response activities, as well as information on volunteer opportunities, protective tips for homeowners and businesses, and safety and health tips. Florida Governor Charlie Crist pointed out that Florida’s coastlines have not yet been impacted by this oil spill, but Floridians have a number of questions about the state’s ongoing response efforts, and the Florida Oil Spill Information Line will serve as an important resource for the latest information.
The information line number again is 1 (888) 337-3569.
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BP offers two vessel of opportunity classes this weekend
BP will offer two classes on basic oil spill response this weekend in Gulf and Franklin Counties.
The class, called a vessel of opportunity class, provides an overview of safety measures that have to be taken by boats helping combat the oil spill and also of the various types of jobs that can be done to combat the oil spill if it moves into our area.
The Vessel of opportunity class is necessary if you do hope to be hired by BP to help in the oil spill response. It does not guarantee you will be hired, but people who are selected after the class will get additional training in the specific area in which they would be working.
The classes will be held on Saturday at 3 at the Capital City Bank, 504 Monument Ave in Port St Joe and on Sunday at 3 at the Armory in Apalachicola.
People can sign up at the door on a first come first served basis.
Franklin County residents who plan to take part in the vessel of opportunity program should also plan to attend a meeting with the US Coast Guard on Sunday night at 7 at the Franklin County Courthouse Annex in Apalachicola. The meeting will allow the Coast Guard to make a short presentation about the safety equipment and requirements a boat must have to participate in the Vessel of Opportunity Program and the Coast Guard will also announce the times and locations of boat inspections that will be offered on Monday.
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The class, called a vessel of opportunity class, provides an overview of safety measures that have to be taken by boats helping combat the oil spill and also of the various types of jobs that can be done to combat the oil spill if it moves into our area.
The Vessel of opportunity class is necessary if you do hope to be hired by BP to help in the oil spill response. It does not guarantee you will be hired, but people who are selected after the class will get additional training in the specific area in which they would be working.
The classes will be held on Saturday at 3 at the Capital City Bank, 504 Monument Ave in Port St Joe and on Sunday at 3 at the Armory in Apalachicola.
People can sign up at the door on a first come first served basis.
Franklin County residents who plan to take part in the vessel of opportunity program should also plan to attend a meeting with the US Coast Guard on Sunday night at 7 at the Franklin County Courthouse Annex in Apalachicola. The meeting will allow the Coast Guard to make a short presentation about the safety equipment and requirements a boat must have to participate in the Vessel of Opportunity Program and the Coast Guard will also announce the times and locations of boat inspections that will be offered on Monday.
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Plein Air Quickdraw brings out the crowds and artists
Last Saturday’s Plein Air QuickDraw was a very popular event. Twenty-one artists took part in the quickdraw by painting the Cape St. George Lighthouse and its surroundings. As the artists worked at their paintings, visitors in the park were entertained by the Panhandle Players “Take Two Players” improvisational group along with local musical group Close Up and Panama City duo Lucky Mud.
Prizes in the QuickDraw competition were awarded to James Richards for Judges’ Choice; Kirsten Andreason for Best Emerging Artist; and Natalia Andreeva, Ken Dewaard, and Lori Putnam, all Honorable Mention.
While the professional and amateur artists worked on canvases and easels, 12 young artists took part in a Sidewalk Chalk Art Competition drawing imaginative scenes in colorful chalk on the park’s sidewalks. Ayla Ashley, Bianca Huber, and Katie Dineen took top honors with their elaborate renditions of turtles, beaches, palm trees, and the lighthouse.
The QuickDraw was sponsored by the St. George Lighthouse Association, the St. George Island Visitor Center & Lighthouse Museum, and the Forgotten Coast Cultural Coalition.
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Prizes in the QuickDraw competition were awarded to James Richards for Judges’ Choice; Kirsten Andreason for Best Emerging Artist; and Natalia Andreeva, Ken Dewaard, and Lori Putnam, all Honorable Mention.
While the professional and amateur artists worked on canvases and easels, 12 young artists took part in a Sidewalk Chalk Art Competition drawing imaginative scenes in colorful chalk on the park’s sidewalks. Ayla Ashley, Bianca Huber, and Katie Dineen took top honors with their elaborate renditions of turtles, beaches, palm trees, and the lighthouse.
The QuickDraw was sponsored by the St. George Lighthouse Association, the St. George Island Visitor Center & Lighthouse Museum, and the Forgotten Coast Cultural Coalition.
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Franklin County on the web May 14th, 2010
*hiddensunshine0's photostream
*Florida businesses along the coast suing BP over loss of business
*Franklin Co. Seafood Companies File Oil Spill Lawsuit
*St. George Island Forum: Oil spill...what is the ETA to this area
*Back from St. George Island
*Paddling across St. George Sound to Dog Island from Carrabelle Beach
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*Florida businesses along the coast suing BP over loss of business
*Franklin Co. Seafood Companies File Oil Spill Lawsuit
*St. George Island Forum: Oil spill...what is the ETA to this area
*Back from St. George Island
*Paddling across St. George Sound to Dog Island from Carrabelle Beach
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Oysters in the news May 14th, 2010
A look at oyster related news stories from around the world.
*BP oil spill prompts Fishmonger’s Restaurant to suspend oyster sales
*Seafood industry promoting safety message
*Watch out sexy Oysters! The Raveonettes are gonna eat you...
*Gulf oyster, shrimp and crab supplies dwindle and prices rise
*State closes Terrebonne oyster bed
*Human Cost of Oil - Gulf Coast Oil Spill
*Aw, shucks!
*HSU group: Room for oyster expansion
*SC volunteers help state create oyster reef
*Blackbaud and DNR team up to create oyster reef
*Gulf of Mexico oil spill - Oysters and the hidden cost of fossil fuels (pictures)
*Shucking and jiving with the 'Oyster Gourmet'
*Blackbaud employees build oyster reef on Daniel Island
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*BP oil spill prompts Fishmonger’s Restaurant to suspend oyster sales
*Seafood industry promoting safety message
*Watch out sexy Oysters! The Raveonettes are gonna eat you...
*Gulf oyster, shrimp and crab supplies dwindle and prices rise
*State closes Terrebonne oyster bed
*Human Cost of Oil - Gulf Coast Oil Spill
*Aw, shucks!
*HSU group: Room for oyster expansion
*SC volunteers help state create oyster reef
*Blackbaud and DNR team up to create oyster reef
*Gulf of Mexico oil spill - Oysters and the hidden cost of fossil fuels (pictures)
*Shucking and jiving with the 'Oyster Gourmet'
*Blackbaud employees build oyster reef on Daniel Island
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The Ongoing Administration-Wide Response to the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill
Prepared by the Joint Information Center
UPDATED May 13, 2010 7 PM
* For a full timeline of the Administration-wide response, visit the White House Blog.
PAST 24 HOURS
Secretary Salazar Announces First Steps in MMS Restructuring
As the federal government continues its relentless response to the Deepwater BP Oil Spill and investigates the cause of the explosion and oil spill, Secretary Salazar directed Assistant Secretary for Policy, Management and Budget Rhea Suh and Senior Advisor Chris Henderson to oversee a restructuring of the Minerals Management Service that will ensure the independence of the agency’s inspections and enforcement mission.
Secretary Salazar also sent a letter to Congressional leaders asking for their ideas and input on his plan to reform the agency.
Officials Inspect Rig Preparing to Drill Relief Well
National Incident Commander and Coast Guard Commandant Admiral Thad Allen and Federal On-Scene Coordinator Rear Admiral Mary Landry inspected the Development Driller II, which is set to begin drilling the second relief well shortly to permanently cap the leaking well.
BP’s “Top Hat” Containment System Approaches Completion
MMS reports that BP has approached completion of the “top hat” containment system, and expects an update from BP as early as tomorrow on its operational status.
Community Town Hall Held in Port Sulpher and Dulac, La.
Representatives from the Coast Guard, EPA, NOAA, the Department of the Interior, the Department of Labor, the Agency for Toxic Substance and Disease Registry and BP participated town hall meetings in Port Sulpher and Dulac, La., to provide an update on the response to the oil spill and continue the dialogue with members of the community, local business leaders and other organizations.
Shoreline Cleanup Teams Continue to Assess Impact
Shoreline Cleanup and Assessment Teams (SCAT) surveyed 19 miles of Dauphin Island, Ala., and the Jackson County shoreline with minimal tarball findings. An additional five teams were deployed to Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge to recovery tarballs.
The Department of the Interior has deployed 568 total personnel to the affected area to assist in cleanup, wildlife protection and rehabilitation, and shoreline assessment efforts.
Unified Area Command Continues to Build Web and New Media Engagement
The Unified Area Command in Robert, La., continues to grow its public engagement via its website (www.deepwaterhorizonresponse.com), which has received more than 19 million hits since it was launched on April 23, as well as Facebook (18,277 users) and Twitter (3,707 followers). These resources contain information about response efforts, jobs, volunteer opportunities, impacts to wildlife and other important public information.
DOD Aircraft Conduct Dispersant Spray Missions
The Department of Defense’s Modular Aerial Spray System (MASS) aircraft flew multiple missions—dispensing the same dispersant chemicals being used by BP and federal responders. These systems are capable of covering up to 250 acres per flight, and flights are coordinated with the EPA and the State of Louisiana to ensure all environmental concerns are addressed. Since MASS flights began on May 1, a total of 47 missions have been flown and nearly 70,000 gallons of dispersant have been applied.
National Guard Support Continues to Build
1,304 National Guard personnel are currently supporting oil response—952 from the Louisiana National Guard are providing Command and Control and sandbagging support to St. Bernard and Plaquemines parishes, supporting marina operations and conducting HAZMAT training; 323 from the Alabama National Guard are deploying protective barriers around Dauphin Island and conducting sandbag and security operations; 25 from the Mississippi National Guard personnel are providing helicopter support and liaison officers to aid local officials with emergency response; and four from the Florida National Guard are performing liaison duties in support of the response effort to the Unified Command Center in Alabama and to its own emergency operations center in Tallahassee.
Five Oil Platforms Have Been Evacuated to Ensure Health and Safety
A total of five platforms have been evacuated in order to ensure the safety and health of rig workers. Estimated oil production shut-in is 2,300 barrels a day (0.14 percent of the Gulf ‘s oil production) and approximately 1.2 million cubic feet of gas (0.02 percent of the Gulf’s gas production).
Joint Bird Rescue Operations Are Dispatched
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services and the National Parks Services dispatched a joint boat operation to Horn Island, Miss., to recover potentially oiled wildlife and transport them to a wildlife rehabilitation center for treatment. Treatment and rehabilitation operations are also ongoing on Chandeleur Island.
By the Numbers to Date:
- Personnel were quickly deployed and approximately 13,000 are currently responding to protect the shoreline and wildlife.
- More than 520 vessels are responding on site, including skimmers, tugs, barges, and recovery vessels to assist in containment and cleanup efforts—in addition to dozens of aircraft, remotely operated vehicles, and multiple mobile offshore drilling units.
- More than 1.4 million feet of boom (regular and sorbent) have been deployed to contain the spill—and approximately 1 million feet are available.
- Approximately 5 million gallons of an oil-water mix have been recovered.
- Approximately 476,000 gallons of dispersant have been deployed. More than 217,000 gallons are available.
- 14 staging areas have been set up to protect vital shoreline in all potentially affected Gulf Coast states (Biloxi, Miss., Pascagoula, Miss., Pensacola, Fla., Panama City, Fla., Dauphin Island, Ala., Grand Isle, La., Shell Beach, La., Slidell, La., Venice, La., Orange Beach, Ala., Theodore, Ala., Pass Christian, Miss., Amelia, La., and Cocodrie, La.).
Resources:
- For information about the response effort, visit www.deepwaterhorizonresponse.com.
- For specific information about the federal-wide response, visit http://www.whitehouse.gov/deepwater-bp-oil-spill.
- To contact the Deepwater Horizon Joint Information Center, call (985) 902-5231.
- To volunteer, or to report oiled shoreline, call (866) 448-5816. Volunteer opportunities can also be found here.
- To submit your vessel as a vessel of opportunity skimming system, or to submit alternative response technology, services, or products, call 281-366-5511.
- To report oiled wildlife, call (866) 557-1401. Messages will be checked hourly.
- For information about validated environmental air and water sampling results, visitwww.epa.gov/bpspill.
- For National Park Service updates about potential park closures, resources at risk, and NPS actions to protect vital park space and wildlife, visit http://www.nps.gov/aboutus/oil-spill-response.htm.
- For daily updates on fishing closures, visit http://sero.nmfs.noaa.gov.
- To file a claim, or report spill-related damage, call BP’s helpline at (800) 440-0858. A BP fact sheet with additional information is available here. For those who have already pursued the BP claims process and are not satisfied with BP’s resolution, can call the Coast Guard at (800) 280-7118. More information about what types of damages are eligible for compensation under the Oil Pollution Act as well as guidance on procedures to seek that compensation can be found here.
For information about the response effort, visit www.deepwaterhorizonresponse.com.
http://www.oysterradio.com e-mail manager@oysterradio.com with comments
UPDATED May 13, 2010 7 PM
* For a full timeline of the Administration-wide response, visit the White House Blog.
PAST 24 HOURS
Secretary Salazar Announces First Steps in MMS Restructuring
As the federal government continues its relentless response to the Deepwater BP Oil Spill and investigates the cause of the explosion and oil spill, Secretary Salazar directed Assistant Secretary for Policy, Management and Budget Rhea Suh and Senior Advisor Chris Henderson to oversee a restructuring of the Minerals Management Service that will ensure the independence of the agency’s inspections and enforcement mission.
Secretary Salazar also sent a letter to Congressional leaders asking for their ideas and input on his plan to reform the agency.
Officials Inspect Rig Preparing to Drill Relief Well
National Incident Commander and Coast Guard Commandant Admiral Thad Allen and Federal On-Scene Coordinator Rear Admiral Mary Landry inspected the Development Driller II, which is set to begin drilling the second relief well shortly to permanently cap the leaking well.
BP’s “Top Hat” Containment System Approaches Completion
MMS reports that BP has approached completion of the “top hat” containment system, and expects an update from BP as early as tomorrow on its operational status.
Community Town Hall Held in Port Sulpher and Dulac, La.
Representatives from the Coast Guard, EPA, NOAA, the Department of the Interior, the Department of Labor, the Agency for Toxic Substance and Disease Registry and BP participated town hall meetings in Port Sulpher and Dulac, La., to provide an update on the response to the oil spill and continue the dialogue with members of the community, local business leaders and other organizations.
Shoreline Cleanup Teams Continue to Assess Impact
Shoreline Cleanup and Assessment Teams (SCAT) surveyed 19 miles of Dauphin Island, Ala., and the Jackson County shoreline with minimal tarball findings. An additional five teams were deployed to Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge to recovery tarballs.
The Department of the Interior has deployed 568 total personnel to the affected area to assist in cleanup, wildlife protection and rehabilitation, and shoreline assessment efforts.
Unified Area Command Continues to Build Web and New Media Engagement
The Unified Area Command in Robert, La., continues to grow its public engagement via its website (www.deepwaterhorizonresponse.com), which has received more than 19 million hits since it was launched on April 23, as well as Facebook (18,277 users) and Twitter (3,707 followers). These resources contain information about response efforts, jobs, volunteer opportunities, impacts to wildlife and other important public information.
DOD Aircraft Conduct Dispersant Spray Missions
The Department of Defense’s Modular Aerial Spray System (MASS) aircraft flew multiple missions—dispensing the same dispersant chemicals being used by BP and federal responders. These systems are capable of covering up to 250 acres per flight, and flights are coordinated with the EPA and the State of Louisiana to ensure all environmental concerns are addressed. Since MASS flights began on May 1, a total of 47 missions have been flown and nearly 70,000 gallons of dispersant have been applied.
National Guard Support Continues to Build
1,304 National Guard personnel are currently supporting oil response—952 from the Louisiana National Guard are providing Command and Control and sandbagging support to St. Bernard and Plaquemines parishes, supporting marina operations and conducting HAZMAT training; 323 from the Alabama National Guard are deploying protective barriers around Dauphin Island and conducting sandbag and security operations; 25 from the Mississippi National Guard personnel are providing helicopter support and liaison officers to aid local officials with emergency response; and four from the Florida National Guard are performing liaison duties in support of the response effort to the Unified Command Center in Alabama and to its own emergency operations center in Tallahassee.
Five Oil Platforms Have Been Evacuated to Ensure Health and Safety
A total of five platforms have been evacuated in order to ensure the safety and health of rig workers. Estimated oil production shut-in is 2,300 barrels a day (0.14 percent of the Gulf ‘s oil production) and approximately 1.2 million cubic feet of gas (0.02 percent of the Gulf’s gas production).
Joint Bird Rescue Operations Are Dispatched
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services and the National Parks Services dispatched a joint boat operation to Horn Island, Miss., to recover potentially oiled wildlife and transport them to a wildlife rehabilitation center for treatment. Treatment and rehabilitation operations are also ongoing on Chandeleur Island.
By the Numbers to Date:
- Personnel were quickly deployed and approximately 13,000 are currently responding to protect the shoreline and wildlife.
- More than 520 vessels are responding on site, including skimmers, tugs, barges, and recovery vessels to assist in containment and cleanup efforts—in addition to dozens of aircraft, remotely operated vehicles, and multiple mobile offshore drilling units.
- More than 1.4 million feet of boom (regular and sorbent) have been deployed to contain the spill—and approximately 1 million feet are available.
- Approximately 5 million gallons of an oil-water mix have been recovered.
- Approximately 476,000 gallons of dispersant have been deployed. More than 217,000 gallons are available.
- 14 staging areas have been set up to protect vital shoreline in all potentially affected Gulf Coast states (Biloxi, Miss., Pascagoula, Miss., Pensacola, Fla., Panama City, Fla., Dauphin Island, Ala., Grand Isle, La., Shell Beach, La., Slidell, La., Venice, La., Orange Beach, Ala., Theodore, Ala., Pass Christian, Miss., Amelia, La., and Cocodrie, La.).
Resources:
- For information about the response effort, visit www.deepwaterhorizonresponse.com.
- For specific information about the federal-wide response, visit http://www.whitehouse.gov/deepwater-bp-oil-spill.
- To contact the Deepwater Horizon Joint Information Center, call (985) 902-5231.
- To volunteer, or to report oiled shoreline, call (866) 448-5816. Volunteer opportunities can also be found here.
- To submit your vessel as a vessel of opportunity skimming system, or to submit alternative response technology, services, or products, call 281-366-5511.
- To report oiled wildlife, call (866) 557-1401. Messages will be checked hourly.
- For information about validated environmental air and water sampling results, visitwww.epa.gov/bpspill.
- For National Park Service updates about potential park closures, resources at risk, and NPS actions to protect vital park space and wildlife, visit http://www.nps.gov/aboutus/oil-spill-response.htm.
- For daily updates on fishing closures, visit http://sero.nmfs.noaa.gov.
- To file a claim, or report spill-related damage, call BP’s helpline at (800) 440-0858. A BP fact sheet with additional information is available here. For those who have already pursued the BP claims process and are not satisfied with BP’s resolution, can call the Coast Guard at (800) 280-7118. More information about what types of damages are eligible for compensation under the Oil Pollution Act as well as guidance on procedures to seek that compensation can be found here.
For information about the response effort, visit www.deepwaterhorizonresponse.com.
http://www.oysterradio.com e-mail manager@oysterradio.com with comments
FLORIDA DEEPWATER HORIZON RESPONSE MAY 14, 2010
05_14_2010_Rollout_for_Friday (2)
http://www.oysterradio.com e-mail manager@oysterradio.com with comments
http://www.oysterradio.com e-mail manager@oysterradio.com with comments
FLORIDA EXPRESSES CONCERN ABOUT DEEPWATER HORIZON INCIDENT'S ECONOMIC IMPACT ON TOURISM AND SEAFOOD INDUSTRY
-- Florida reminds residents and visitors that Florida's coasts are clean and seafood is safe --
TALLAHASSEE -- State agency leaders are concerned that people across the United States falsely believe the state has been impacted by oil from the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Florida's beaches and fishing grounds remain open to residents and visitors to enjoy. Currently, there are no impacts to Florida's more than 1,260 miles of coastline and 825 miles of sandy beaches. Winds and currents continue to keep the oil plume away from the Florida coast.
State officials want people to know that Florida's shores are clear and open for business. Florida's emergency response agencies are diligently working with BP as well as federal and local government officials to protect our state for any potential impacts the Deepwater Horizon incident may cause our state.
On May 7, 2010, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration modified and expanded the boundaries of the closed fishing area in federal waters to better reflect the current location of the BP oil spill, and extended the fishing restriction until May 17, 2010. The closure affects commercial and recreational fishing in the oil-affected area of the Gulf of Mexico, largely between Louisiana state waters at the mouth of the Mississippi River to waters off Florida's Pensacola Bay. State officials are concerned that the closure has given potential visitors the impression that all gulf waters are impacted.
Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services officials remind Floridians that all species harvested from the closure line to shore, including grouper, snapper, golden tilefish, mullet, blue crab, oysters, clams, flounder, sea trout, shrimp are safe. Stone crab season is in effect until May 15 and is also not impacted by the ban.
State agencies including the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and the Department of Health continue to collect and test water samples and shellfish to establish baseline information and to ensure there are no problems in area waters. Officials with these agencies continue to say they have no intention of halting commercial and recreational fishing in Florida until there is evidence that the action is necessary.
State officials are assuring residents and visitors they are closely monitoring the situation and if there is any change in the status of fishing in Florida, or if there are any environmental impacts the information will be immediately released.
To view more information about Florida's response to the Deepwater Horizon incident, visit http://www.dep.state.fl.us/deepwaterhorizon or follow http://www.Twitter.com/FLDEPalert
http://www.oysterradio.com e-mail manager@oysterradio.com with comments
TALLAHASSEE -- State agency leaders are concerned that people across the United States falsely believe the state has been impacted by oil from the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Florida's beaches and fishing grounds remain open to residents and visitors to enjoy. Currently, there are no impacts to Florida's more than 1,260 miles of coastline and 825 miles of sandy beaches. Winds and currents continue to keep the oil plume away from the Florida coast.
State officials want people to know that Florida's shores are clear and open for business. Florida's emergency response agencies are diligently working with BP as well as federal and local government officials to protect our state for any potential impacts the Deepwater Horizon incident may cause our state.
On May 7, 2010, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration modified and expanded the boundaries of the closed fishing area in federal waters to better reflect the current location of the BP oil spill, and extended the fishing restriction until May 17, 2010. The closure affects commercial and recreational fishing in the oil-affected area of the Gulf of Mexico, largely between Louisiana state waters at the mouth of the Mississippi River to waters off Florida's Pensacola Bay. State officials are concerned that the closure has given potential visitors the impression that all gulf waters are impacted.
Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services officials remind Floridians that all species harvested from the closure line to shore, including grouper, snapper, golden tilefish, mullet, blue crab, oysters, clams, flounder, sea trout, shrimp are safe. Stone crab season is in effect until May 15 and is also not impacted by the ban.
State agencies including the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and the Department of Health continue to collect and test water samples and shellfish to establish baseline information and to ensure there are no problems in area waters. Officials with these agencies continue to say they have no intention of halting commercial and recreational fishing in Florida until there is evidence that the action is necessary.
State officials are assuring residents and visitors they are closely monitoring the situation and if there is any change in the status of fishing in Florida, or if there are any environmental impacts the information will be immediately released.
To view more information about Florida's response to the Deepwater Horizon incident, visit http://www.dep.state.fl.us/deepwaterhorizon or follow http://www.Twitter.com/FLDEPalert
http://www.oysterradio.com e-mail manager@oysterradio.com with comments
REMARKS BY THE PRESIDENT ON THE ONGOING OIL SPILL RESPONSE
THE PRESIDENT: Good afternoon, everybody. I just finished meeting with some of my Cabinet and administration officials about the ongoing efforts to stop the BP oil spill. And I wanted to give the American people an update on these efforts, but I also want to underscore the seriousness and urgency of this crisis.
The potential devastation to the Gulf Coast, its economy, and its people require us to continue our relentless efforts to stop the leak and contain the damage. There’s already been a loss of life, damage to our coastline, to fish and wildlife, and to the livelihoods of everyone from fishermen to restaurant and hotel owners. I saw firsthand the anger and frustration felt by our neighbors in the Gulf. And let me tell you, it is an anger and frustration that I share as President. And I’m not going to rest or be satisfied until the leak is stopped at the source, the oil in the Gulf is contained and cleaned up, and the people of the Gulf are able to go back to their lives and their livelihoods.
Now, the most important order of business is to stop the leak. I know there have been varying reports over the last few days about how large the leak is, but since no one can get down there in person, we know there is a level of uncertainty. But as Admiral Thad Allen said today, our mobilization and response efforts have always been geared toward the possibility of a catastrophic event. And what really matters is this: There’s oil leaking and we need to stop it –- and we need to stop it as soon as possible. With that source being 5,000 feet under the ocean’s surface, this has been extremely difficult. But scientists and engineers are currently using the best, most advanced technology that exists to try to stop the flow of oil as quickly as possible.
Our second task has been to contain the spill and protect the Gulf Coast and the people who live there. We are using every available resource to stop the oil from coming ashore. Over one million feet of barrier boom have been deployed to hold the oil back. Hundreds of thousands of gallons of dispersant have helped to break up the oil, and about four million gallons of oily water have been recovered; 13,000 people have been mobilized to protect the shoreline and its wildlife, as has the National Guard.
This week, we also sent to Congress legislation that would provide us with the additional resources to mitigate the damage caused by this spill. And I ask for prompt action on this legislation. That would help with cleanup efforts, it would provide unemployment assistance and job training to folks whose jobs are affected by this crisis, and it would help with the region’s economic recovery. That's why this legislation is important.
It would also help ensure that companies like BP that are responsible for oil spills are the ones that pay for the harm caused by these oil spills -– not the taxpayers. This is in addition to the low-interest loans that we’ve made available to small businesses that are suffering financial losses from the spill.
Let me also say, by the way, a word here about BP and the other companies involved in this mess. I know BP has committed to pay for the response effort, and we will hold them to their obligation. I have to say, though, I did not appreciate what I considered to be a ridiculous spectacle during the congressional hearings into this matter. You had executives of BP and Transocean and Halliburton falling over each other to point the finger of blame at somebody else. The American people could not have been impressed with that display, and I certainly wasn’t.
I understand that there are legal and financial issues involved, and a full investigation will tell us exactly what happened. But it is pretty clear that the system failed, and it failed badly. And for that, there is enough responsibility to go around. And all parties should be willing to accept it.
That includes, by the way, the federal government. For too long, for a decade or more, there has been a cozy relationship between the oil companies and the federal agency that permits them to drill. It seems as if permits were too often issued based on little more than assurances of safety from the oil companies. That cannot and will not happen anymore. To borrow an old phrase, we will trust but we will verify.
Now, from the day he took office as Interior Secretary, Ken Salazar has recognized these problems and he’s worked to solve them. Oftentimes he has been slammed by the industry, suggesting that somehow these necessary reforms would impede economic growth. Well, as I just told Ken, we are going to keep on going to do what needs to be done.
And so I’ve asked Secretary Salazar to conduct a top-to-bottom reform of the Minerals Management Service. This week, he announced that the part of the agency which permits oil and gas drilling and collects royalties will be separated from the part of the agency in charge of inspecting the safety of oil rigs and platforms and enforcing the law. That way, there’s no conflict of interest, real or perceived.
We’ve also ordered immediate inspections of all deepwater operations in the Gulf of Mexico. And we’ve announced that no permits for drilling new wells will go forward until the 30-day safety and environmental review that I requested is completed. We’re also closing the loophole that has allowed some oil companies to bypass some critical environmental reviews, and today we’re announcing a new examination of the environmental procedures for oil and gas exploration and development.
Now, as I’ve said before, domestic oil drilling continues to be one part of an overall energy strategy that now includes more clean, renewable energy and energy efficiency than at any other time in our history. But it’s absolutely essential that going forward we put in place every necessary safeguard and protection so that a tragedy like this oil spill does not happen again. This is a responsibility that all of us share -– the oil companies share it; the manufacturers of this equipment share it; the agencies in the federal government in charge of oversight share that responsibility. I will not tolerate more finger pointing or irresponsibility.
The people of the Gulf Coast need our help, and they deserve nothing less than for us to stand up and do whatever is necessary to stop this spill, prevent further damage, and compensate all those who’ve been harmed already. That’s our job.
It’s also our job to make sure this kind of mess doesn’t happen again. It’s a job we’ve been doing. It’s a job we will keep doing until the well is capped and the spill is cleaned up, and all claims are paid.
Thank you very much.
http://www.oysterradio.com e-mail manager@oysterradio.com with comments
The potential devastation to the Gulf Coast, its economy, and its people require us to continue our relentless efforts to stop the leak and contain the damage. There’s already been a loss of life, damage to our coastline, to fish and wildlife, and to the livelihoods of everyone from fishermen to restaurant and hotel owners. I saw firsthand the anger and frustration felt by our neighbors in the Gulf. And let me tell you, it is an anger and frustration that I share as President. And I’m not going to rest or be satisfied until the leak is stopped at the source, the oil in the Gulf is contained and cleaned up, and the people of the Gulf are able to go back to their lives and their livelihoods.
Now, the most important order of business is to stop the leak. I know there have been varying reports over the last few days about how large the leak is, but since no one can get down there in person, we know there is a level of uncertainty. But as Admiral Thad Allen said today, our mobilization and response efforts have always been geared toward the possibility of a catastrophic event. And what really matters is this: There’s oil leaking and we need to stop it –- and we need to stop it as soon as possible. With that source being 5,000 feet under the ocean’s surface, this has been extremely difficult. But scientists and engineers are currently using the best, most advanced technology that exists to try to stop the flow of oil as quickly as possible.
Our second task has been to contain the spill and protect the Gulf Coast and the people who live there. We are using every available resource to stop the oil from coming ashore. Over one million feet of barrier boom have been deployed to hold the oil back. Hundreds of thousands of gallons of dispersant have helped to break up the oil, and about four million gallons of oily water have been recovered; 13,000 people have been mobilized to protect the shoreline and its wildlife, as has the National Guard.
This week, we also sent to Congress legislation that would provide us with the additional resources to mitigate the damage caused by this spill. And I ask for prompt action on this legislation. That would help with cleanup efforts, it would provide unemployment assistance and job training to folks whose jobs are affected by this crisis, and it would help with the region’s economic recovery. That's why this legislation is important.
It would also help ensure that companies like BP that are responsible for oil spills are the ones that pay for the harm caused by these oil spills -– not the taxpayers. This is in addition to the low-interest loans that we’ve made available to small businesses that are suffering financial losses from the spill.
Let me also say, by the way, a word here about BP and the other companies involved in this mess. I know BP has committed to pay for the response effort, and we will hold them to their obligation. I have to say, though, I did not appreciate what I considered to be a ridiculous spectacle during the congressional hearings into this matter. You had executives of BP and Transocean and Halliburton falling over each other to point the finger of blame at somebody else. The American people could not have been impressed with that display, and I certainly wasn’t.
I understand that there are legal and financial issues involved, and a full investigation will tell us exactly what happened. But it is pretty clear that the system failed, and it failed badly. And for that, there is enough responsibility to go around. And all parties should be willing to accept it.
That includes, by the way, the federal government. For too long, for a decade or more, there has been a cozy relationship between the oil companies and the federal agency that permits them to drill. It seems as if permits were too often issued based on little more than assurances of safety from the oil companies. That cannot and will not happen anymore. To borrow an old phrase, we will trust but we will verify.
Now, from the day he took office as Interior Secretary, Ken Salazar has recognized these problems and he’s worked to solve them. Oftentimes he has been slammed by the industry, suggesting that somehow these necessary reforms would impede economic growth. Well, as I just told Ken, we are going to keep on going to do what needs to be done.
And so I’ve asked Secretary Salazar to conduct a top-to-bottom reform of the Minerals Management Service. This week, he announced that the part of the agency which permits oil and gas drilling and collects royalties will be separated from the part of the agency in charge of inspecting the safety of oil rigs and platforms and enforcing the law. That way, there’s no conflict of interest, real or perceived.
We’ve also ordered immediate inspections of all deepwater operations in the Gulf of Mexico. And we’ve announced that no permits for drilling new wells will go forward until the 30-day safety and environmental review that I requested is completed. We’re also closing the loophole that has allowed some oil companies to bypass some critical environmental reviews, and today we’re announcing a new examination of the environmental procedures for oil and gas exploration and development.
Now, as I’ve said before, domestic oil drilling continues to be one part of an overall energy strategy that now includes more clean, renewable energy and energy efficiency than at any other time in our history. But it’s absolutely essential that going forward we put in place every necessary safeguard and protection so that a tragedy like this oil spill does not happen again. This is a responsibility that all of us share -– the oil companies share it; the manufacturers of this equipment share it; the agencies in the federal government in charge of oversight share that responsibility. I will not tolerate more finger pointing or irresponsibility.
The people of the Gulf Coast need our help, and they deserve nothing less than for us to stand up and do whatever is necessary to stop this spill, prevent further damage, and compensate all those who’ve been harmed already. That’s our job.
It’s also our job to make sure this kind of mess doesn’t happen again. It’s a job we’ve been doing. It’s a job we will keep doing until the well is capped and the spill is cleaned up, and all claims are paid.
Thank you very much.
http://www.oysterradio.com e-mail manager@oysterradio.com with comments
The Ongoing Administration-Wide Response to the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill
Key contact numbers
* Report oiled shoreline or request volunteer information: (866) 448-5816
* Submit alternative response technology, services or products: (281) 366-5511
* Submit your vessel for the Vessel of Opportunity Program: (281) 366-5511
* Submit a claim for damages: (800) 440-0858
* Report oiled wildlife: (866) 557-1401
Deepwater Horizon Incident
Joint Information Center
Phone: (985) 902-5231
(985) 902-5240
Prepared by the Joint Information Center
UPDATED May 13, 2010 7 PM
* For a full timeline of the Administration-wide response, visit the White House Blog.
PAST 24 HOURS
Secretary Salazar Announces First Steps in MMS Restructuring
As the federal government continues its relentless response to the Deepwater BP Oil Spill and investigates the cause of the explosion and oil spill, Secretary Salazar directed Assistant Secretary for Policy, Management and Budget Rhea Suh and Senior Advisor Chris Henderson to oversee a restructuring of the Minerals Management Service that will ensure the independence of the agency’s inspections and enforcement mission.
Secretary Salazar also sent a letter to Congressional leaders asking for their ideas and input on his plan to reform the agency.
Officials Inspect Rig Preparing to Drill Relief Well
National Incident Commander and Coast Guard Commandant Admiral Thad Allen and Federal On-Scene Coordinator Rear Admiral Mary Landry inspected the Development Driller II, which is set to begin drilling the second relief well shortly to permanently cap the leaking well.
BP’s “Top Hat” Containment System Approaches Completion
MMS reports that BP has approached completion of the “top hat” containment system, and expects an update from BP as early as tomorrow on its operational status.
Community Town Hall Held in Port Sulpher and Dulac, La.
Representatives from the Coast Guard, EPA, NOAA, the Department of the Interior, the Department of Labor, the Agency for Toxic Substance and Disease Registry and BP participated town hall meetings in Port Sulpher and Dulac, La., to provide an update on the response to the oil spill and continue the dialogue with members of the community, local business leaders and other organizations.
Shoreline Cleanup Teams Continue to Assess Impact
Shoreline Cleanup and Assessment Teams (SCAT) surveyed 19 miles of Dauphin Island, Ala., and the Jackson County shoreline with minimal tarball findings. An additional five teams were deployed to Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge to recovery tarballs.
The Department of the Interior has deployed 568 total personnel to the affected area to assist in cleanup, wildlife protection and rehabilitation, and shoreline assessment efforts.
Unified Area Command Continues to Build Web and New Media Engagement
The Unified Area Command in Robert, La., continues to grow its public engagement via its website (www.deepwaterhorizonresponse.com), which has received more than 19 million hits since it was launched on April 23, as well as Facebook (18,277 users) and Twitter (3,707 followers). These resources contain information about response efforts, jobs, volunteer opportunities, impacts to wildlife and other important public information.
DOD Aircraft Conduct Dispersant Spray Missions
The Department of Defense’s Modular Aerial Spray System (MASS) aircraft flew multiple missions—dispensing the same dispersant chemicals being used by BP and federal responders. These systems are capable of covering up to 250 acres per flight, and flights are coordinated with the EPA and the State of Louisiana to ensure all environmental concerns are addressed. Since MASS flights began on May 1, a total of 47 missions have been flown and nearly 70,000 gallons of dispersant have been applied.
National Guard Support Continues to Build
1,304 National Guard personnel are currently supporting oil response—952 from the Louisiana National Guard are providing Command and Control and sandbagging support to St. Bernard and Plaquemines parishes, supporting marina operations and conducting HAZMAT training; 323 from the Alabama National Guard are deploying protective barriers around Dauphin Island and conducting sandbag and security operations; 25 from the Mississippi National Guard personnel are providing helicopter support and liaison officers to aid local officials with emergency response; and four from the Florida National Guard are performing liaison duties in support of the response effort to the Unified Command Center in Alabama and to its own emergency operations center in Tallahassee.
Five Oil Platforms Have Been Evacuated to Ensure Health and Safety
A total of five platforms have been evacuated in order to ensure the safety and health of rig workers. Estimated oil production shut-in is 2,300 barrels a day (0.14 percent of the Gulf ‘s oil production) and approximately 1.2 million cubic feet of gas (0.02 percent of the Gulf’s gas production).
Joint Bird Rescue Operations Are Dispatched
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services and the National Parks Services dispatched a joint boat operation to Horn Island, Miss., to recover potentially oiled wildlife and transport them to a wildlife rehabilitation center for treatment. Treatment and rehabilitation operations are also ongoing on Chandeleur Island.
By the Numbers to Date:
- Personnel were quickly deployed and approximately 13,000 are currently responding to protect the shoreline and wildlife.
- More than 520 vessels are responding on site, including skimmers, tugs, barges, and recovery vessels to assist in containment and cleanup efforts—in addition to dozens of aircraft, remotely operated vehicles, and multiple mobile offshore drilling units.
- More than 1.4 million feet of boom (regular and sorbent) have been deployed to contain the spill—and approximately 1 million feet are available.
- Approximately 5 million gallons of an oil-water mix have been recovered.
- Approximately 476,000 gallons of dispersant have been deployed. More than 217,000 gallons are available.
- 14 staging areas have been set up to protect vital shoreline in all potentially affected Gulf Coast states (Biloxi, Miss., Pascagoula, Miss., Pensacola, Fla., Panama City, Fla., Dauphin Island, Ala., Grand Isle, La., Shell Beach, La., Slidell, La., Venice, La., Orange Beach, Ala., Theodore, Ala., Pass Christian, Miss., Amelia, La., and Cocodrie, La.).
Resources:
- For information about the response effort, visit www.deepwaterhorizonresponse.com.
- For specific information about the federal-wide response, visit http://www.whitehouse.gov/deepwater-bp-oil-spill.
- To contact the Deepwater Horizon Joint Information Center, call (985) 902-5231.
- To volunteer, or to report oiled shoreline, call (866) 448-5816. Volunteer opportunities can also be found here.
- To submit your vessel as a vessel of opportunity skimming system, or to submit alternative response technology, services, or products, call 281-366-5511.
- To report oiled wildlife, call (866) 557-1401. Messages will be checked hourly.
- For information about validated environmental air and water sampling results, visit www.epa.gov/bpspill.
- For National Park Service updates about potential park closures, resources at risk, and NPS actions to protect vital park space and wildlife, visit http://www.nps.gov/aboutus/oil-spill-response.htm.
- For daily updates on fishing closures, visit http://sero.nmfs.noaa.gov.
- To file a claim, or report spill-related damage, call BP’s helpline at (800) 440-0858. A BP fact sheet with additional information is available here. For those who have already pursued the BP claims process and are not satisfied with BP’s resolution, can call the Coast Guard at (800) 280-7118. More information about what types of damages are eligible for compensation under the Oil Pollution Act as well as guidance on procedures to seek that compensation can be found here.
For information about the response effort, visit www.deepwaterhorizonresponse.com.
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* Report oiled shoreline or request volunteer information: (866) 448-5816
* Submit alternative response technology, services or products: (281) 366-5511
* Submit your vessel for the Vessel of Opportunity Program: (281) 366-5511
* Submit a claim for damages: (800) 440-0858
* Report oiled wildlife: (866) 557-1401
Deepwater Horizon Incident
Joint Information Center
Phone: (985) 902-5231
(985) 902-5240
Prepared by the Joint Information Center
UPDATED May 13, 2010 7 PM
* For a full timeline of the Administration-wide response, visit the White House Blog.
PAST 24 HOURS
Secretary Salazar Announces First Steps in MMS Restructuring
As the federal government continues its relentless response to the Deepwater BP Oil Spill and investigates the cause of the explosion and oil spill, Secretary Salazar directed Assistant Secretary for Policy, Management and Budget Rhea Suh and Senior Advisor Chris Henderson to oversee a restructuring of the Minerals Management Service that will ensure the independence of the agency’s inspections and enforcement mission.
Secretary Salazar also sent a letter to Congressional leaders asking for their ideas and input on his plan to reform the agency.
Officials Inspect Rig Preparing to Drill Relief Well
National Incident Commander and Coast Guard Commandant Admiral Thad Allen and Federal On-Scene Coordinator Rear Admiral Mary Landry inspected the Development Driller II, which is set to begin drilling the second relief well shortly to permanently cap the leaking well.
BP’s “Top Hat” Containment System Approaches Completion
MMS reports that BP has approached completion of the “top hat” containment system, and expects an update from BP as early as tomorrow on its operational status.
Community Town Hall Held in Port Sulpher and Dulac, La.
Representatives from the Coast Guard, EPA, NOAA, the Department of the Interior, the Department of Labor, the Agency for Toxic Substance and Disease Registry and BP participated town hall meetings in Port Sulpher and Dulac, La., to provide an update on the response to the oil spill and continue the dialogue with members of the community, local business leaders and other organizations.
Shoreline Cleanup Teams Continue to Assess Impact
Shoreline Cleanup and Assessment Teams (SCAT) surveyed 19 miles of Dauphin Island, Ala., and the Jackson County shoreline with minimal tarball findings. An additional five teams were deployed to Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge to recovery tarballs.
The Department of the Interior has deployed 568 total personnel to the affected area to assist in cleanup, wildlife protection and rehabilitation, and shoreline assessment efforts.
Unified Area Command Continues to Build Web and New Media Engagement
The Unified Area Command in Robert, La., continues to grow its public engagement via its website (www.deepwaterhorizonresponse.com), which has received more than 19 million hits since it was launched on April 23, as well as Facebook (18,277 users) and Twitter (3,707 followers). These resources contain information about response efforts, jobs, volunteer opportunities, impacts to wildlife and other important public information.
DOD Aircraft Conduct Dispersant Spray Missions
The Department of Defense’s Modular Aerial Spray System (MASS) aircraft flew multiple missions—dispensing the same dispersant chemicals being used by BP and federal responders. These systems are capable of covering up to 250 acres per flight, and flights are coordinated with the EPA and the State of Louisiana to ensure all environmental concerns are addressed. Since MASS flights began on May 1, a total of 47 missions have been flown and nearly 70,000 gallons of dispersant have been applied.
National Guard Support Continues to Build
1,304 National Guard personnel are currently supporting oil response—952 from the Louisiana National Guard are providing Command and Control and sandbagging support to St. Bernard and Plaquemines parishes, supporting marina operations and conducting HAZMAT training; 323 from the Alabama National Guard are deploying protective barriers around Dauphin Island and conducting sandbag and security operations; 25 from the Mississippi National Guard personnel are providing helicopter support and liaison officers to aid local officials with emergency response; and four from the Florida National Guard are performing liaison duties in support of the response effort to the Unified Command Center in Alabama and to its own emergency operations center in Tallahassee.
Five Oil Platforms Have Been Evacuated to Ensure Health and Safety
A total of five platforms have been evacuated in order to ensure the safety and health of rig workers. Estimated oil production shut-in is 2,300 barrels a day (0.14 percent of the Gulf ‘s oil production) and approximately 1.2 million cubic feet of gas (0.02 percent of the Gulf’s gas production).
Joint Bird Rescue Operations Are Dispatched
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services and the National Parks Services dispatched a joint boat operation to Horn Island, Miss., to recover potentially oiled wildlife and transport them to a wildlife rehabilitation center for treatment. Treatment and rehabilitation operations are also ongoing on Chandeleur Island.
By the Numbers to Date:
- Personnel were quickly deployed and approximately 13,000 are currently responding to protect the shoreline and wildlife.
- More than 520 vessels are responding on site, including skimmers, tugs, barges, and recovery vessels to assist in containment and cleanup efforts—in addition to dozens of aircraft, remotely operated vehicles, and multiple mobile offshore drilling units.
- More than 1.4 million feet of boom (regular and sorbent) have been deployed to contain the spill—and approximately 1 million feet are available.
- Approximately 5 million gallons of an oil-water mix have been recovered.
- Approximately 476,000 gallons of dispersant have been deployed. More than 217,000 gallons are available.
- 14 staging areas have been set up to protect vital shoreline in all potentially affected Gulf Coast states (Biloxi, Miss., Pascagoula, Miss., Pensacola, Fla., Panama City, Fla., Dauphin Island, Ala., Grand Isle, La., Shell Beach, La., Slidell, La., Venice, La., Orange Beach, Ala., Theodore, Ala., Pass Christian, Miss., Amelia, La., and Cocodrie, La.).
Resources:
- For information about the response effort, visit www.deepwaterhorizonresponse.com.
- For specific information about the federal-wide response, visit http://www.whitehouse.gov/deepwater-bp-oil-spill.
- To contact the Deepwater Horizon Joint Information Center, call (985) 902-5231.
- To volunteer, or to report oiled shoreline, call (866) 448-5816. Volunteer opportunities can also be found here.
- To submit your vessel as a vessel of opportunity skimming system, or to submit alternative response technology, services, or products, call 281-366-5511.
- To report oiled wildlife, call (866) 557-1401. Messages will be checked hourly.
- For information about validated environmental air and water sampling results, visit www.epa.gov/bpspill.
- For National Park Service updates about potential park closures, resources at risk, and NPS actions to protect vital park space and wildlife, visit http://www.nps.gov/aboutus/oil-spill-response.htm.
- For daily updates on fishing closures, visit http://sero.nmfs.noaa.gov.
- To file a claim, or report spill-related damage, call BP’s helpline at (800) 440-0858. A BP fact sheet with additional information is available here. For those who have already pursued the BP claims process and are not satisfied with BP’s resolution, can call the Coast Guard at (800) 280-7118. More information about what types of damages are eligible for compensation under the Oil Pollution Act as well as guidance on procedures to seek that compensation can be found here.
For information about the response effort, visit www.deepwaterhorizonresponse.com.
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Thursday, May 13, 2010
Florida making it more affordable to buy very expensive boats
A tax cap on boat sales passed the Florida state legislature and is now waiting signature from Governor Charlie Crist, who has voiced his support for the bill.
The tax cap was passed as part of the larger Jobs for Florida Bill as a way to keep Florida from losing boat sales and service revenue to other states and countries that offer more favorable sales tax treatment.
The boat sales tax cap limits the 6 percent Florida state sales tax on a boat purchase to $18,000. The bill, if it becomes law is expected to make Florida more attractive for people contemplating buying boats over $300,000.
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The tax cap was passed as part of the larger Jobs for Florida Bill as a way to keep Florida from losing boat sales and service revenue to other states and countries that offer more favorable sales tax treatment.
The boat sales tax cap limits the 6 percent Florida state sales tax on a boat purchase to $18,000. The bill, if it becomes law is expected to make Florida more attractive for people contemplating buying boats over $300,000.
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Cabinet buys more North Florida properties
The Florida Cabinet this week agreed to buy two North Florida properties including one that will help protect the Apalachicola River.
The state will buy 552 acres in Gadsden and Liberty County which will be added to the Torreya State Park. The purchase will increase public access while protecting the water quality of the Apalachicola River.
The state also agreed to purchase 106 acres in Putnam County as an addition to Etoniah Creek State Forest and acquired a nearly 1400 acre conservation easement in Levy County within the Goethe State Forest.
The purchases were made through The Florida Forever program which was established in 1999 to conserves environmentally sensitive land, restore waterways and preserve important cultural and historical resources.
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The state will buy 552 acres in Gadsden and Liberty County which will be added to the Torreya State Park. The purchase will increase public access while protecting the water quality of the Apalachicola River.
The state also agreed to purchase 106 acres in Putnam County as an addition to Etoniah Creek State Forest and acquired a nearly 1400 acre conservation easement in Levy County within the Goethe State Forest.
The purchases were made through The Florida Forever program which was established in 1999 to conserves environmentally sensitive land, restore waterways and preserve important cultural and historical resources.
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Coast Guard will meet with local boat captains on Sunday
The US Coast Guard will hold a meeting in Apalachicola on Sunday night to meet with boat captains who plan to take part in the BP Vessel of Opportunity Program.
The Coast Guard will hold the meeting on Sunday evening at 7 PM at the Franklin County Courthouse Annex in Apalachicola.
The meeting will allow the Coast Guard to make a short presentation about the safety equipment and requirements a boat must have to participate in the Vessel of Opportunity Program.
Boats used in the program must also be inspected by the Coast Guard. The Coast Guard will hold vessel inspections in Franklin County next Monday. The time and place of the inspections will be announced at the Sunday night meeting.
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The Coast Guard will hold the meeting on Sunday evening at 7 PM at the Franklin County Courthouse Annex in Apalachicola.
The meeting will allow the Coast Guard to make a short presentation about the safety equipment and requirements a boat must have to participate in the Vessel of Opportunity Program.
Boats used in the program must also be inspected by the Coast Guard. The Coast Guard will hold vessel inspections in Franklin County next Monday. The time and place of the inspections will be announced at the Sunday night meeting.
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Apalachicola National Forest gets new Deputy District Ranger
The Apalachicola National Forest will soon have a new Deputy District Ranger.
Beginning June 7, Allen Smith will be stationed on the Apalachicola Ranger District in Bristol. Mister Smith has been working with the U.S. Forest Service for the past 24 years, most recently at the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests in Georgia.
In his new job he will assist in the management of the more than 567,000 acres of the Apalachicola National Forest.
He will replace Garth Smelser, the former Deputy District Ranger who served in the Apalachicola National Forest for three years. Mister Smelser is headed to the Lincoln National Forest in New Mexico.
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Beginning June 7, Allen Smith will be stationed on the Apalachicola Ranger District in Bristol. Mister Smith has been working with the U.S. Forest Service for the past 24 years, most recently at the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests in Georgia.
In his new job he will assist in the management of the more than 567,000 acres of the Apalachicola National Forest.
He will replace Garth Smelser, the former Deputy District Ranger who served in the Apalachicola National Forest for three years. Mister Smelser is headed to the Lincoln National Forest in New Mexico.
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Governor wants 35 million dollars from BP to pay for advertising campaign
Florida governor Charlie Crist has asked BP to fork over nearly 35 million dollars so the Sunshine State can advertise that its beaches are oil free and open for business. The Governor wants the money to be used to create an immediate marketing campaign to counter the negative, widespread and false information potential visitors to Florida are receiving about the oil spill’s impact on Florida’s beaches and waters.
So far the oil has not affected any beach in Florida or any of Florida’s seafood.
In a letter to BP, Governor Crist requested nearly 25 million dollars for an emergency campaign, established immediately and continuing through July targeting in-state, domestic and international markets. The Governor also requested an additional 10 million dollars for advertising for impacted counties which would continue through September.
Getting tourists into Florida is crucial for the state’s economy. Tourism in Florida provides 21 percent of the state’s total taxable sales, and tourism industry employment represents more than one million jobs.
In 2008, tourism returned $3.9 billion to Florida in tax revenue and generated $65.2 billion in direct economic impact.
2010.5.12 Letter to Lamar McKay
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So far the oil has not affected any beach in Florida or any of Florida’s seafood.
In a letter to BP, Governor Crist requested nearly 25 million dollars for an emergency campaign, established immediately and continuing through July targeting in-state, domestic and international markets. The Governor also requested an additional 10 million dollars for advertising for impacted counties which would continue through September.
Getting tourists into Florida is crucial for the state’s economy. Tourism in Florida provides 21 percent of the state’s total taxable sales, and tourism industry employment represents more than one million jobs.
In 2008, tourism returned $3.9 billion to Florida in tax revenue and generated $65.2 billion in direct economic impact.
2010.5.12 Letter to Lamar McKay
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GOVERNOR CRIST ANNOUNCES ACTIVATION OF FLORIDA OIL SPILL INFORMATION LINE
TALLAHASSEE – Governor Charlie Crist announced today the activation of the Florida Oil Spill Information Line which will serve as another resource to provide Florida residents and visitors with up-to-date information on Florida’s response to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill.
“Florida’s coastlines have not yet been impacted by this oil spill,” said Governor Crist. “However, understanding the Floridians have a number of questions about the state’s ongoing response efforts, the Florida Oil Spill Information Line serves as an important resource for the latest information.”
In addition, residents and visitors may call the Florida Oil Spill Information Line for updates on the state’s response activities, information on volunteer opportunities, protective tips for homeowners and businesses, and safety and health tips.
The Florida Oil Spill Information Line will operate from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., seven days a week until further notice. That number is:
1 (888) 337-3569
For more information on Florida’s response to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, visit www.dep.state.fl.us/deepwaterhorizon, follow www.Twitter.com/FLDEPalert or call the Florida Oil Spill Information Line at 888-337-3569.
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“Florida’s coastlines have not yet been impacted by this oil spill,” said Governor Crist. “However, understanding the Floridians have a number of questions about the state’s ongoing response efforts, the Florida Oil Spill Information Line serves as an important resource for the latest information.”
In addition, residents and visitors may call the Florida Oil Spill Information Line for updates on the state’s response activities, information on volunteer opportunities, protective tips for homeowners and businesses, and safety and health tips.
The Florida Oil Spill Information Line will operate from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., seven days a week until further notice. That number is:
1 (888) 337-3569
For more information on Florida’s response to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, visit www.dep.state.fl.us/deepwaterhorizon, follow www.Twitter.com/FLDEPalert or call the Florida Oil Spill Information Line at 888-337-3569.
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Oysters in the news May 13th, 2010
A look at oyster related news stories from around the world.
*Local restaurants team with DNR to recycle oysters
*Tar balls showing up in Plaquemines
*From Oysters to Oil Rigs, a Host of New Rules
*Louisiana oysters could be in jeopardy
*Feds to take larger role in Chesapeake Bay cleanup
*Shrimpers, fishermen, hotels feel oil spill's trickledown effect
*Oyster Industry Takes Hit In Wake Of Oil Spill
*Secretary Griffin to Talk about St. Mary's River Oyster Sanctuary May 22
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*Local restaurants team with DNR to recycle oysters
*Tar balls showing up in Plaquemines
*From Oysters to Oil Rigs, a Host of New Rules
*Louisiana oysters could be in jeopardy
*Feds to take larger role in Chesapeake Bay cleanup
*Shrimpers, fishermen, hotels feel oil spill's trickledown effect
*Oyster Industry Takes Hit In Wake Of Oil Spill
*Secretary Griffin to Talk about St. Mary's River Oyster Sanctuary May 22
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FWC EMERGENCY MEETING WILL FOCUS ON OIL SPILL RESPONSE
TALLAHASSEE— Commissioners of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) will hold an emergency meeting May 19 in St. Pete Beach to discuss the agency’s ongoing response to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico.
Chairman Rodney Barreto called the meeting to make sure the FWC is fully prepared to handle any potential impacts to Florida’s fish and wildlife resources. Since the oil spill incident occurred in late April, the FWC has worked closely with county, state and federal agencies to help prepare a coordinated response.
“The FWC will do everything possible to protect Florida’s fish and wildlife,” Barreto said. “We’ve called this meeting because this is an unprecedented situation. Not only could the oil spill affect our natural resources, it’s already affecting the livelihoods of our commercial fishermen, guides and charter boats and other tourism-related businesses.”
State officials and stakeholders are concerned about the mistaken impression that Florida is “closed.” In fact, it is business as usual; there are no beach closures, and all Florida waters in the Gulf remain open to commercial and recreational fishing.
The FWC has contributed to the response through a variety of activities. FWC scientists are mapping high-priority fish and wildlife habitats to help focus protective measures. They are also conducting biological assessments to establish a baseline for measuring the severity of potential impacts on fish and wildlife.
“We are moving into the best possible position to take care of our fish and wildlife resources as this crisis unfolds,” said Nick Wiley, the FWC’s executive director. “This is truly a well-coordinated team effort in Florida. We are grateful for the leadership and cooperation coming from of the Department of Environmental Protection and the Division of Emergency Management through our State Emergency Operations Center. ”
The meeting will be held at the Tradewinds Island Resorts beginning at 10 a.m. Anyone requiring special accommodations to participate should advise the FWC at least five days prior to the May 19 workshop, by contacting the FWC’s Office of Human Resources at 850-488-6411. If you are hearing or speech-impaired, contact the FWC using the Florida Relay Service at 800-955-8771 (TDD) or 800-955-8770 (voice).
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Chairman Rodney Barreto called the meeting to make sure the FWC is fully prepared to handle any potential impacts to Florida’s fish and wildlife resources. Since the oil spill incident occurred in late April, the FWC has worked closely with county, state and federal agencies to help prepare a coordinated response.
“The FWC will do everything possible to protect Florida’s fish and wildlife,” Barreto said. “We’ve called this meeting because this is an unprecedented situation. Not only could the oil spill affect our natural resources, it’s already affecting the livelihoods of our commercial fishermen, guides and charter boats and other tourism-related businesses.”
State officials and stakeholders are concerned about the mistaken impression that Florida is “closed.” In fact, it is business as usual; there are no beach closures, and all Florida waters in the Gulf remain open to commercial and recreational fishing.
The FWC has contributed to the response through a variety of activities. FWC scientists are mapping high-priority fish and wildlife habitats to help focus protective measures. They are also conducting biological assessments to establish a baseline for measuring the severity of potential impacts on fish and wildlife.
“We are moving into the best possible position to take care of our fish and wildlife resources as this crisis unfolds,” said Nick Wiley, the FWC’s executive director. “This is truly a well-coordinated team effort in Florida. We are grateful for the leadership and cooperation coming from of the Department of Environmental Protection and the Division of Emergency Management through our State Emergency Operations Center. ”
The meeting will be held at the Tradewinds Island Resorts beginning at 10 a.m. Anyone requiring special accommodations to participate should advise the FWC at least five days prior to the May 19 workshop, by contacting the FWC’s Office of Human Resources at 850-488-6411. If you are hearing or speech-impaired, contact the FWC using the Florida Relay Service at 800-955-8771 (TDD) or 800-955-8770 (voice).
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Lowering the cofferdam
Technicians lower the 100-ton containment dome to the sea bed May 7, 2010 as part of an effort to contain the leak from the Deepwater Horizon well.
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New Underwater footage of BP oil leak at the source
This video comes from BP Oil.
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FLORIDA DEEPWATER HORIZON RESPONSE MAY 13, 2010
05 13 2010 Rollout for Thursday
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Wednesday, May 12, 2010
County commission meets to discuss Area Contingency Plan
I was not made aware of the meeting, but here is a press release about it from the Emergency Management Office.
APALACHICOLA—A meeting of the Franklin County Commissioners was held at 10:00 AM today, May 12, 2010, at the Franklin County Court Annex to discuss the Area Contingency Plan (ACP) as well as the Local Contingency Plan (LCP) with Lieutenant Steve Caske of the United States Coast Guard giving the presentation. Also present were several Gulf County Commissioners, as well as the members of the media and the general public. The “Big Picture” was the thrust of the presentation. Explanations as to the make up of the Unified Command in Mobile, Ala. down to the local county Emergency Operations Center (EOC). The Unified Command has twenty (20) incident commanders and operate under the (FLOP) methodology.
This is defined under the following categories: Finance, Logistics, Operations and Planning. The sequence begins with Planning, and then moves to Operations, then Logistics, and finally Finance. As Lieutenant Steve Caske said, “ be assured that this is a unified effort from top to bottom, we are in this together”.
Initial staging areas have been established for Gulf and Franklin Counties. These are the fishery at Port St. Joe and the area adjacent to the Apalachicola River in Apalachicola. An alternative location is being considered for the Carrabelle area.
The Coast Guard strategy is defined under a Prevention Strategy first, then a Recovery Strategy. The Prevention Strategy is a two tier system. The first is Tier #1 which is called “off shore” or “beach” boom. This is where booms are placed to prevent any material from entering the bays or estuaries . These are the major areas that have been defined by the State EOC plan. These will be deployed immediately. Tier #2 are the areas that the county has defined as highest priority to protect our defined resources. Grass beds, etc. are part of this. These will be deployed after the Tier #1 booms are in place. Tier #1 booms will be deployed by contractors under the guidance of bp. They will be working in partnership the Coast Guard. The Tier #2 booms will basically be placed by locals involved in the “Vessels of Opportunity” (VOO). Once deployed, there will be daily over flights to confirm that the booms are in their proper places. If not, a team of “hot shots” in the proper boats will be sent to repair them.
Lee McRae, the bp community outreach lead, discussed briefly the requirements for being in the vessel of opportunity (VOO). It is essentially a three step program. Step #1 is to participate in a local orientation/training session. Step #2 is to register the proposed vessel for evaluation. Franklin county residents will be given first priority. Step #3 is to sign a contractual letter of agreement. There will be a training session from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM, Sunday May 16, 2010 at the armory in Apalachicola.
Also on Sunday May 16, 2010 at 7:00 PM there will be a meeting in the courthouse annex for all Captains for questions on the “Vessel Of Opportunity Program” (VOO) primarily dealing with vessel inspection requirements.
The revised Boom Protection Strategy Plan or Contingency Plan that was resubmitted to the state EOC on May 11, 2010 has been approved except for the financing.
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APALACHICOLA—A meeting of the Franklin County Commissioners was held at 10:00 AM today, May 12, 2010, at the Franklin County Court Annex to discuss the Area Contingency Plan (ACP) as well as the Local Contingency Plan (LCP) with Lieutenant Steve Caske of the United States Coast Guard giving the presentation. Also present were several Gulf County Commissioners, as well as the members of the media and the general public. The “Big Picture” was the thrust of the presentation. Explanations as to the make up of the Unified Command in Mobile, Ala. down to the local county Emergency Operations Center (EOC). The Unified Command has twenty (20) incident commanders and operate under the (FLOP) methodology.
This is defined under the following categories: Finance, Logistics, Operations and Planning. The sequence begins with Planning, and then moves to Operations, then Logistics, and finally Finance. As Lieutenant Steve Caske said, “ be assured that this is a unified effort from top to bottom, we are in this together”.
Initial staging areas have been established for Gulf and Franklin Counties. These are the fishery at Port St. Joe and the area adjacent to the Apalachicola River in Apalachicola. An alternative location is being considered for the Carrabelle area.
The Coast Guard strategy is defined under a Prevention Strategy first, then a Recovery Strategy. The Prevention Strategy is a two tier system. The first is Tier #1 which is called “off shore” or “beach” boom. This is where booms are placed to prevent any material from entering the bays or estuaries . These are the major areas that have been defined by the State EOC plan. These will be deployed immediately. Tier #2 are the areas that the county has defined as highest priority to protect our defined resources. Grass beds, etc. are part of this. These will be deployed after the Tier #1 booms are in place. Tier #1 booms will be deployed by contractors under the guidance of bp. They will be working in partnership the Coast Guard. The Tier #2 booms will basically be placed by locals involved in the “Vessels of Opportunity” (VOO). Once deployed, there will be daily over flights to confirm that the booms are in their proper places. If not, a team of “hot shots” in the proper boats will be sent to repair them.
Lee McRae, the bp community outreach lead, discussed briefly the requirements for being in the vessel of opportunity (VOO). It is essentially a three step program. Step #1 is to participate in a local orientation/training session. Step #2 is to register the proposed vessel for evaluation. Franklin county residents will be given first priority. Step #3 is to sign a contractual letter of agreement. There will be a training session from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM, Sunday May 16, 2010 at the armory in Apalachicola.
Also on Sunday May 16, 2010 at 7:00 PM there will be a meeting in the courthouse annex for all Captains for questions on the “Vessel Of Opportunity Program” (VOO) primarily dealing with vessel inspection requirements.
The revised Boom Protection Strategy Plan or Contingency Plan that was resubmitted to the state EOC on May 11, 2010 has been approved except for the financing.
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Deepwater joint investigation board concludes 2nd day of hearings
KENNER, La. - The Deepwater Horizon joint investigation board began the Marine Board of Investigation on Tuesday and Wednesday with two days of public hearings investigating the circumstances surrounding the explosion, fire, pollution and sinking of the Mobile Offshore Drilling Unit Deepwater Horizon, with multiple loss of life in the Gulf of Mexico on April 20, 2010.
The joint investigation has the powers of both convening agencies, the United States Coast Guard (USCG) and the Minerals and Management Service (MMS), and is co-chaired and staffed by representatives of both agencies. For the public hearing, the joint investigation is following the policies and procedures for a U.S Coast Guard Marine Board of Investigation contained in 46 Code of Federal Regulations Part 4 and USCG policy (available on the joint investigation Web site: www.deepwaterinvestigation.com ). The facts collected at this hearing, along with the lead investigators' conclusions and recommendations will be forwarded to Coast Guard Headquarters and MMS for approval. Once approved, the final investigative report will be made available to the public and the media. No analysis or conclusions will be presented during the hearings.
The hearings began Tuesday at 8 a.m. and continued Wednesday at 8 a.m. All witnesses who testified were sworn in and testified over the course of four sessions, with morning sessions concluding around noon and afternoon sessions re-convening around 1 p.m. The last session concluded around 4 p.m. Wednesday. Thirteen witnesses testified over the course of the two days.
The witnesses Tuesday were:
* Kevin Robb, Eighth Coast Guard District command center search and rescue coordinator
* Capt. Alwin Landry, master of the motor vessel Damon B. Bankston
* Anthony Gervasio, engineer from the Damon B. Bankston
* Paul Erickson, chief mate from the Damon B. Bankston
* Frank Patton, Drilling Engineer, MMS New Orleans District
* Eric Neal, inspector from MMS
* Bob Neal, inspector from MMS
The witnesses Wednesday were:
* Michael Saucier, MMS Gulf of Mexico Region
* Capt. Vern Gifford, Eighth Coast Guard District prevention division
* Lt. Cmdr. Michael Odom, Technical advisor for the Coast Guard Liquefied Gas Carrier National Center of Expertise
* Lt. Barbara Wilk - Investigating Officer, Coast Guard Marine Safety Unit Morgan City
* Capt. Thomas Heinan - Deputy Commissioner Maritime Affairs, Republic of Marshall Islands
* Mr. Brian Bubar – Deputy Commissioner Maritime Affairs, Republic of Marshall Islands
The initial proceedings, held May 11-12, 2010, established the foundation for the investigation. Testimony included discussion regarding the search and rescue aspects of the casualty, accounts/actions of the vessel involved in rendering assistance to the evacuated crew, and all aspects of the safety net (USCG, MMS, and Republic of the Marshall Islands’ Flag Administration).
It is expected that there will be two or three more public proceedings of the joint investigation. The dates for these meetings will depend on the availability of witnesses, and any on-scene investigation which is being conducted to support the investigation. Subsequent proceedings will examine the corporate safety culture of the Deepwater Horizon owner and operator, leaseholders as well as the recovery, examination, analysis and evaluation of the critical drilling and blow out preventer equipment.
At this time, the second public proceeding is scheduled to take place on May 25-29, 2010, beginning at 8 a.m., at the Radisson New Orleans Airport, 2150 Veterans Blvd., Kenner, La.
Witness lists will be posted by Monday, May 24, 2010 to the joint investigation Web site (www.deepwaterinvestigation.com). Raw video footage of Tuesday's and Wednesday's hearings will be available on the joint investigation Web site (www.deepwaterinvestigation.com) before the next set of public proceedings. Transcripts of all hearings will be made available to the media and public when the final report is released sometime in January 2011. The board has been given nine months from the convening date (April 27, 2010) to submit their final report to MMS and USCG.
For Deepwater Horizon joint investigation information:www.deepwaterinvestigation.com
For Deepwater Horizon oil spill response information: www.deepwaterhorizonresponse.com
http://www.oysterradio.com e-mail manager@oysterradio.com with comments
The joint investigation has the powers of both convening agencies, the United States Coast Guard (USCG) and the Minerals and Management Service (MMS), and is co-chaired and staffed by representatives of both agencies. For the public hearing, the joint investigation is following the policies and procedures for a U.S Coast Guard Marine Board of Investigation contained in 46 Code of Federal Regulations Part 4 and USCG policy (available on the joint investigation Web site: www.deepwaterinvestigation.com ). The facts collected at this hearing, along with the lead investigators' conclusions and recommendations will be forwarded to Coast Guard Headquarters and MMS for approval. Once approved, the final investigative report will be made available to the public and the media. No analysis or conclusions will be presented during the hearings.
The hearings began Tuesday at 8 a.m. and continued Wednesday at 8 a.m. All witnesses who testified were sworn in and testified over the course of four sessions, with morning sessions concluding around noon and afternoon sessions re-convening around 1 p.m. The last session concluded around 4 p.m. Wednesday. Thirteen witnesses testified over the course of the two days.
The witnesses Tuesday were:
* Kevin Robb, Eighth Coast Guard District command center search and rescue coordinator
* Capt. Alwin Landry, master of the motor vessel Damon B. Bankston
* Anthony Gervasio, engineer from the Damon B. Bankston
* Paul Erickson, chief mate from the Damon B. Bankston
* Frank Patton, Drilling Engineer, MMS New Orleans District
* Eric Neal, inspector from MMS
* Bob Neal, inspector from MMS
The witnesses Wednesday were:
* Michael Saucier, MMS Gulf of Mexico Region
* Capt. Vern Gifford, Eighth Coast Guard District prevention division
* Lt. Cmdr. Michael Odom, Technical advisor for the Coast Guard Liquefied Gas Carrier National Center of Expertise
* Lt. Barbara Wilk - Investigating Officer, Coast Guard Marine Safety Unit Morgan City
* Capt. Thomas Heinan - Deputy Commissioner Maritime Affairs, Republic of Marshall Islands
* Mr. Brian Bubar – Deputy Commissioner Maritime Affairs, Republic of Marshall Islands
The initial proceedings, held May 11-12, 2010, established the foundation for the investigation. Testimony included discussion regarding the search and rescue aspects of the casualty, accounts/actions of the vessel involved in rendering assistance to the evacuated crew, and all aspects of the safety net (USCG, MMS, and Republic of the Marshall Islands’ Flag Administration).
It is expected that there will be two or three more public proceedings of the joint investigation. The dates for these meetings will depend on the availability of witnesses, and any on-scene investigation which is being conducted to support the investigation. Subsequent proceedings will examine the corporate safety culture of the Deepwater Horizon owner and operator, leaseholders as well as the recovery, examination, analysis and evaluation of the critical drilling and blow out preventer equipment.
At this time, the second public proceeding is scheduled to take place on May 25-29, 2010, beginning at 8 a.m., at the Radisson New Orleans Airport, 2150 Veterans Blvd., Kenner, La.
Witness lists will be posted by Monday, May 24, 2010 to the joint investigation Web site (www.deepwaterinvestigation.com). Raw video footage of Tuesday's and Wednesday's hearings will be available on the joint investigation Web site (www.deepwaterinvestigation.com) before the next set of public proceedings. Transcripts of all hearings will be made available to the media and public when the final report is released sometime in January 2011. The board has been given nine months from the convening date (April 27, 2010) to submit their final report to MMS and USCG.
For Deepwater Horizon joint investigation information:www.deepwaterinvestigation.com
For Deepwater Horizon oil spill response information: www.deepwaterhorizonresponse.com
http://www.oysterradio.com e-mail manager@oysterradio.com with comments
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