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Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill Response | |||
Updated May 14, 2010 BackgroundOn Tuesday, April 20, an offshore oil-drilling platform, Deepwater Horizon, exploded in the Gulf of Mexico near Louisiana. The rig, owned by Transocean Ltd, was under contract to British Petroleum (BP). Submerged at the bottom of the Gulf, the rig continues to discharge up to 5,000 barrels (210,000 gallons) per day. BP, the United States Coast Guard and the Minerals Management Service are the lead response agencies on the oil spill. For information, please visit www.deepwaterhorizonresponse.com. In Florida, the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has been designated the lead state agency for responding to potential impacts of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill along Florida's shoreline. FWC InvolvementThe FWC, working with DEP, county governments, water management districts and several federal agencies is conducting pre-impact wildlife assessments, which include taking water samples and testing for contamination in sediments, fish and shellfish along Florida's coastline and into the Gulf of Mexico. The FWC also is evaluating critical habitat, shorebird and sea turtle nesting areas and other wildlife. These assessments will assist wildlife managers to determine potential impacts. Fisheries InformationAll Florida Waters Open to Fishing - The state’s recreational and commercial fisheries have not been affected by the oil spill. The only closed areas are well offshore in federal waters where oil has been spotted. Fishing continues to be open in the vast majority of Gulf of Mexico waters, and all related saltwater fishing regulations remain in effect. Fishing Closure in Federal Waters - NOAA Fisheries Service is enacting emergency regulations to close a portion of the Gulf of Mexico (Gulf) exclusive economic zone (EEZ) to all fishing, in response to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Oil Spill Claims Information Vessels of Opportunity (boats) Program - BP will be hiring fishermen to help clean up from the spill and deploy boom in the Gulf of Mexico. Interested fishermen should call 281-366-5511. Wildlife InformationShorebirds Shorebirds and seabirds are particularly vulnerable to disturbance during nesting season. Here are some guidelines to follow for any beach cleanup during nesting season. Sea Turtles Sea turtles nest at night on the Gulf coast of Florida from May through August. Hatching of sea turtle nests also occurs at night from July through October. Here are some guidelines to follow for any beach cleanup during nesting and hatchling season. U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Information FWS Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill Response online information Wildlife Rehabilitation and Volunteer InformationThe FWC appreciates the interest expressed by many in volunteering for wildlife rehabilitation. Tri-State Bird Rescue and Research and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service are overseeing the wildlife-rehabilitation response along the Gulf coast. Please see the guidelines for becoming an oiled-wildlife rehabilitator. Frequently Asked QuestionsThe FWC has compiled a list of answers to questions citizens may have about what they should do to prepare for or respond to the landfall of oil on Florida beaches. News Releases
Business Survey #2The Florida State Emergency Response Team is Florida's official responder for emergency events such as the Deepwater Horizon incident. This team includes business and industry volunteers to help government and business leaders plan for recovery after an event. The team is following up on its earlier survey by conducting a second, confidential survey of Florida business owners. The information gather from the survey is critical to decisions that will be made to assist businesses affected by this event.
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Our mission: Managing fish and wildlife resources for their long-term well-being and the benefit of people.
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