Oceana To Use ROVs at Gulf Oil Spill

Oceana launches its 2010 Gulf of Mexico Expedition to study the “long-term impacts” of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. This research focuses on the health of our food chain. Oceana uses ROVs to investigate underwater environments. We need to know if the oil spill harms fish. You don’t want to eat toxic fish!

Oceana is going to use “remotely operated vehicles (ROVs)”, divers, and satellites to investigate the effects of oil in the Gulf, focusing on the profound impact that pollution has on marine ecosystems. They want to investigate the effects on the coral, fish, shark, and other marine species, as these organisms are vital indicators of environmental health. With the oil spill posing a significant threat to biodiversity, the research aims to assess not only the immediate damage but also the long-term consequences on the ecological balance. By utilizing advanced technologies and collaborating with marine biologists, Oceana hopes to gather comprehensive data that will inform conservation efforts and policy-making to protect these vulnerable species and their habitats. This initiative underscores the importance of understanding human-induced environmental changes and the need for immediate action to mitigate detrimental effects on marine life.

Oceana to use ROVs : Then Report Back

Then they will report on their findings but at least we will know what’s up.  BTW, according to Oceana, 200 million gallons of oil spiiled into the Gulf since the explosion.  Now watch a BP commercial knowing that number in your head.  Thanks Oceana.

Oceana will also document areas that may be in danger if the oil is captured by sea currents and transported towards southern Florida. In addition, Oceana will document areas that may be in danger if another oil spill occurs in this area in the future. To date, an estimated 200 million gallons of oil has spilled into the Gulf since the explosion.

Disaster on All Fronts

“The Deepwater disaster is a horrible experiment on the Gulf of Mexico ecosystem,” said Pastor. “Oceana’s expedition will help to answer important questions about what is happening under the water in the Gulf.”

Oceana’s scientists from both sides of the Atlantic begin their work in the Florida Keys. They sail into the Gulf. Dr. Michael Hirshfield leads the team as the senior vice president for North America and chief scientist at Oceana. The scientists collaborate with professional divers, underwater photographers, and videographers. They use two ROVs. One can descend up to 3,280 feet and film in high-definition. This equipment helps them analyze the oil spill’s magnitude and its effects on sensitive habitats and marine species. Oceana also tags several shark species, including whale and hammerhead sharks. They monitor their migration patterns and study how they avoid oil-contaminated areas. Additionally, the team collects samples of water, fish larvae, plankton, and adult fish.

“Most of the public’s attention has been on the visible oil on the surface of the Gulf and the beaches and marshes,” said Dr. Hirshfield. “Oceana wants the public to understand the impacts of the unseen, underwater oil that is damaging marine wildlife and habitats in the Gulf. In addition, this damage will likely continue to do so for years to come.”

Oceana to Collaborate with National Aquarium

During the expedition, Oceana will collaborate with the National Aquarium as well as several U.S. universities, including the University of Miami. Oceana will also release reports in the coming weeks that describe the impacts of oil on marine species.

To learn more about the expedition, visit http://www.Oceana.org. You will find detailed information about their ongoing projects and initiatives that protect our oceans. Discover Oceana’s campaign to stop the expansion of offshore drilling. This expansion threatens marine life and coastal communities. Go to http://www.Oceana.org/stopthedrill. Your involvement raises awareness and advocates for crucial policy changes. Support ocean conservation efforts. Help keep our oceans vibrant and healthy for future generations.