On surface of Gulf, oil is vanishing quickly
RARE GOOD NEWS: Several concerns remain; debate turns to when to scale back response
By JUSTIN GILLIS and CAMPBELL ROBERTSON NEW YORK TIMES
July 28, 2010, 9:23AM
The oil slick in the Gulf of Mexico appears to be dissolving far more rapidly than anyone expected, a piece of good news that raises tricky new questions about how fast the government should scale back its response to the Deepwater Horizon disaster.
The immense patches of surface oil that covered thousands of square miles of the Gulf after the April 20 oil rig explosion are largely gone, although there continue to be sightings of tar balls and emulsified oil here and there.
Reporters flying over the area Sunday spotted only a few patches of sheen and an occasional streak of thicker oil, and radar images taken since then suggest that these few remaining patches are quickly breaking down in the warm surface waters of the Gulf.
John Amos, president of SkyTruth, an advocacy group that criticized the early, low estimates of the size of the BP leak, noted that no oil had gushed from the well for nearly two weeks.
"Oil has a finite life span at the surface," Amos said Tuesday, after examining fresh radar images of the slick. "At this point, that oil slick is really starting to dissipate pretty rapidly."
The dissolution of the slick should reduce the risk of oil killing more animals or hitting shorelines. But it does not end the many problems and scientific uncertainties associated with the spill, and federal leaders emphasized this week that they had no intention of walking away from those problems any time soon.
The effect on sea life of the large amounts of oil that dissolved below the surface is still a mystery. Two preliminary government reports have found concentrations of toxic compounds in the deep sea to be low, but the reports left many questions, especially about an apparent decline in oxygen levels in the water.
The effect on sea life of the large amounts of oil that dissolved below the surface is still a mystery. Two preliminary government reports have found concentrations of toxic compounds in the deep sea to be low, but the reports left many questions, especially about an apparent decline in oxygen levels in the water.
And understanding the effects of the spill on the shorelines that were hit is expected to occupy scientists for years. Fishermen along the coast are skeptical of any declarations of success, expressing concern about the long-term effects of the chemical dispersants used to combat the spill and of the submerged oil, particularly on shrimp and crab larvae that are the foundation of future fishing seasons.
A combination of factors
Scientists said the rapid dissipation of the surface oil was probably due to several factors. The Gulf has an immense capacity to break down oil, which leaks into it at a steady rate from thousands of natural seeps. Although none of the seeps is anywhere near the size of the Deepwater Horizon leak, they do mean that the Gulf is swarming with bacteria that can eat oil.
The winds from two storms that blew through the Gulf, including a storm over the weekend, also appear to have contributed to a rapid dispersion of the oil. Then there was the response mounted by BP and the government, the largest in history, involving more than 4,000 boats attacking the oil with skimming equipment, controlled surface burns and other tactics.
The winds from two storms that blew through the Gulf, including a storm over the weekend, also appear to have contributed to a rapid dispersion of the oil. Then there was the response mounted by BP and the government, the largest in history, involving more than 4,000 boats attacking the oil with skimming equipment, controlled surface burns and other tactics.
Some of the compounds in the oil evaporate, reducing their impact on the environment. Jeffrey Short, a former government scientist who studied oil spills and now works for the environmental advocacy group Oceana, said that as much as 40 percent of the oil in the Gulf might have simply evaporated once it reached the surface.
An unknown percentage of the oil would have been eaten by bacteria, essentially rendering the compounds harmless. But other components of the oil have most likely turned into floating tar balls that could continue to gum up beaches and marshes, and may represent a continuing threat to some sea life. A band of tar balls three miles by four miles was discovered off the Louisiana coast Tuesday.
'One day at a time'
Thad Allen, the retired Coast Guard admiral who leads the government's response, has emphasized that boats are still skimming some oil at the surface. He said the risk of shoreline oiling might continue for several more weeks.
Still, it is becoming clear that the Obama administration, in conjunction with BP, will soon have to make decisions about how quickly to begin scaling down the large-scale — and expensive - response effort. That is a touchy issue, and not just for environmental reasons.
Still, it is becoming clear that the Obama administration, in conjunction with BP, will soon have to make decisions about how quickly to begin scaling down the large-scale - and expensive - response effort. That is a touchy issue, and not just for environmental reasons.
The response itself has become the principal livelihood for thousands of fishermen and other workers whose lives were upended by the oil spill. More than 1,400 fishing boats and other vessels have been hired to help deploy coastal barriers and perform other cleanup tasks.
Rear Adm. Paul Zukunft of the Coast Guard, coordinator of the response on the scene, said that any decisions about scaling down the effort would be made only by consensus, and only after an analysis of the continuing threat from oil in each region of the Gulf.
"I think it's going to happen one day at a time," Zukunft said.
John Dunaway
Associate Publisher – Panama City Beach
Friday, July 30, 2010
Monday, July 26, 2010
Mexico Beach Still Oil Free
Well, the Storm Bonnie fizzled out to be a pretty big nothing---that's a good thing for everybody. The biggest impact she had was it put working on the oil well off many days. I thought it was a little silly for them to remove the boom from St. Joe Bay for this storm but I guess its better to be safe than sorry.
I believe they will be resuming their work at the oil well within the next several days. At least the well was capped during this time and seems to be holding. No more free flow of oil!!
The last time I blogged the oil plume was 125 miles from Panama City, now its 160 miles---still heading AWAY from us!!!!
We've had no oil impact up to this date and its looking increasingly good that we may never have any impact!!!
Finally my phone calls asking about the oil spill have stopped and are back to calling about property!!!
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Inquiries, showings, offers have definitely increased within the last week or so. In fact, its been downright busy again!!!
I don't believe the threat of oil has had any huge impact on the real estate prices here-----it did ruin several deals-----It would be interesting to talk to those buyers now that walked away from some pretty good deals to see if they regret making that decision.
Our prices have fallen slightly since the oil well fiasco begun although I'm not sure it had anything to do with the oil.
There are some good deals out there-----you never know what someone is going to take unless you make them an offer!
Interest rates are still hovering around 5%.
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If interested in buying or selling give me a call!!
Have a great week and below are my words of wisdom for this week!
I believe they will be resuming their work at the oil well within the next several days. At least the well was capped during this time and seems to be holding. No more free flow of oil!!
The last time I blogged the oil plume was 125 miles from Panama City, now its 160 miles---still heading AWAY from us!!!!
We've had no oil impact up to this date and its looking increasingly good that we may never have any impact!!!
Finally my phone calls asking about the oil spill have stopped and are back to calling about property!!!
____________________________________________________
Inquiries, showings, offers have definitely increased within the last week or so. In fact, its been downright busy again!!!
I don't believe the threat of oil has had any huge impact on the real estate prices here-----it did ruin several deals-----It would be interesting to talk to those buyers now that walked away from some pretty good deals to see if they regret making that decision.
Our prices have fallen slightly since the oil well fiasco begun although I'm not sure it had anything to do with the oil.
There are some good deals out there-----you never know what someone is going to take unless you make them an offer!
Interest rates are still hovering around 5%.
____________________________________________________
If interested in buying or selling give me a call!!
Have a great week and below are my words of wisdom for this week!
And don't forget..............The carpet said
KNEEL DOWN AND PRAY
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Quick Oil Spill Update
The oil plume is over 125 miles from Panama City, so a little farther than that from Mexico Beach! The winds are now blowing it westward, away from us again.
The huge news, of course, is the well has stopped gushing and the relief wells, which is the permanent solution, are ahead of schedule!
There is a tropical wave near Puerto Rico, which we are keeping an eye on. Hopefully it won't turn into a tropical depression and cause a lot of wind and wave action to move the oil plume our way.
As of right now---for this coming weekend-----we are beautiful! Open for business, sugar white sand and blue green water!!!!
Mary
850-896-5222
The huge news, of course, is the well has stopped gushing and the relief wells, which is the permanent solution, are ahead of schedule!
There is a tropical wave near Puerto Rico, which we are keeping an eye on. Hopefully it won't turn into a tropical depression and cause a lot of wind and wave action to move the oil plume our way.
As of right now---for this coming weekend-----we are beautiful! Open for business, sugar white sand and blue green water!!!!
Mary
850-896-5222
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Update for Mexico Beach
There has been no oil gushing from the well going on 36 hours!!! I heard this morning the relief wells may be completed by the end of this month instead of mid August! I don't know why this has taken so long but better than never!!!
Mexico Beach has not had any oil sightings from the DeepWater oil spill and I'm becoming more and more optimistic that we may not ever have any oil impacts here!
Our beaches remain open, clean, and beautiful!!
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I don't know if there is any connection between this good news and the surge in real estate showings in the last few days but..........................There are a ton of people looking for property!!! Four properties were put under contract in the last few days and more offers are being negotiated!
We had a fantastic beginning of the year and I believe we are going to end up the summer doing extremely well even with this oil spill. As I've been saying all year-----lower prices + low interest rates = sales.
There will ALWAYS be buyers at the beach!!!!!
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If you are looking to buy and haven't yet contacted me, please feel free to call or email me anytime!
Have a great week,
God Bless,
And keep the Gulf Coast in your prayers!!
Mary
850-896-5222
http://www.maryblackburn.com/
Facebook Page
Mexico Beach has not had any oil sightings from the DeepWater oil spill and I'm becoming more and more optimistic that we may not ever have any oil impacts here!
Our beaches remain open, clean, and beautiful!!
_______________________________________________________
I don't know if there is any connection between this good news and the surge in real estate showings in the last few days but..........................There are a ton of people looking for property!!! Four properties were put under contract in the last few days and more offers are being negotiated!
We had a fantastic beginning of the year and I believe we are going to end up the summer doing extremely well even with this oil spill. As I've been saying all year-----lower prices + low interest rates = sales.
There will ALWAYS be buyers at the beach!!!!!
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
If you are looking to buy and haven't yet contacted me, please feel free to call or email me anytime!
Have a great week,
God Bless,
And keep the Gulf Coast in your prayers!!
Mary
850-896-5222
http://www.maryblackburn.com/
Facebook Page
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Update on the oil spill in Mexico Beach
The well has been successfully capped although they are still testing it to make sure it is going to "hold" (for lack of a more technical term). This, of course, is not the end all---the well still has to be plugged to stop the oil from escaping altogether. The relief wells are ahead of schedule and could be finished by the end of July to mid-august.
The skimmers are working more effeciently and if they ever get that big "whale" skimmer working I think we will have a very good handle on everything.
I don't know why its taken so long, but they have finally gotten some people working on this problem that know what they are doing!!!!
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Mexico Beach has remained oil free--the oil plume is over 140 miles from Panama City, so even farther away from us!!!
I believe we may come out unscathed in this whole mess! Our beaches are beautiful, the water clean!
We have daily fly overs and boats scouting the area daily----we have no reported oil of any kind from the oil spill!!!
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Our industry, real estate and tourism has been adversely affected due to the threat of oil hitting our beaches simply because it seemed like there was no stopping the oil gushing from the well.
Now, that there has been some containment and it looks like there is an end in sight, and we our beaches have not been impacted, I believe both industries will come back even stronger!!!
If you've been holding off waiting to see what was going to happen---you may want to get off that fence while interest rates are still so low, and sellers still motivated!!!
We have continued to show property and write contracts during all this, albeit at a slower rate than normal----I think that is about to change!
______________________________________________________
Please feel free to call me anytime!
Mary
850-896-5222
http://www.maryblackburn.com/
The skimmers are working more effeciently and if they ever get that big "whale" skimmer working I think we will have a very good handle on everything.
I don't know why its taken so long, but they have finally gotten some people working on this problem that know what they are doing!!!!
________________________________________________________
Mexico Beach has remained oil free--the oil plume is over 140 miles from Panama City, so even farther away from us!!!
I believe we may come out unscathed in this whole mess! Our beaches are beautiful, the water clean!
We have daily fly overs and boats scouting the area daily----we have no reported oil of any kind from the oil spill!!!
_______________________________________________________
Our industry, real estate and tourism has been adversely affected due to the threat of oil hitting our beaches simply because it seemed like there was no stopping the oil gushing from the well.
Now, that there has been some containment and it looks like there is an end in sight, and we our beaches have not been impacted, I believe both industries will come back even stronger!!!
If you've been holding off waiting to see what was going to happen---you may want to get off that fence while interest rates are still so low, and sellers still motivated!!!
We have continued to show property and write contracts during all this, albeit at a slower rate than normal----I think that is about to change!
______________________________________________________
Please feel free to call me anytime!
Mary
850-896-5222
http://www.maryblackburn.com/
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Weekend update Mexico Beach Fl
The winds have shifted and are now expected to push the oil plume this way (I mean east of where it is right now) over the next several days. However, the winds right now are light.
It still has a ways to get to our beaches, and there is no expectation it will reach Mexico Beach over the next 3 days------that's as far out as they predict. I believe it will take longer than that and the winds would have to continue to blow it our way for quite some time.
So for right now................our weather is gorgeous, the beach is clean, the water wonderful......come and enjoy!!!!
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Federal waters are closed out to the Cape. State waters are still open, up to 9 miles out from Mexico Beach.
I talked to some friend who went fishing yesterday---They went 35 miles out---to Federal Waters that are not closed and caught a ton of fish...................Snapper, Grouper, Amberjack!!! They had a great time!!!
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As for real estate---------yep, its slowed way down!! We are still showing property and signing contracts although not at the pace we were before the O. S. (oil spill).
The people that are looking and buying are people who feel extremely confident that now is a great time to buy---prices down, interest rates just over 4%, the oil may or may not come. If it does come, we clean it up and move on! They are buying for the long haul!
_________________________________________________________
If you are looking to purchase, give me a call and we'll get started looking!
Mary
850-896-5222
http://www.maryblackburn.com/
Sundance Realty
Facebook page
It still has a ways to get to our beaches, and there is no expectation it will reach Mexico Beach over the next 3 days------that's as far out as they predict. I believe it will take longer than that and the winds would have to continue to blow it our way for quite some time.
So for right now................our weather is gorgeous, the beach is clean, the water wonderful......come and enjoy!!!!
______________________________________________________
Federal waters are closed out to the Cape. State waters are still open, up to 9 miles out from Mexico Beach.
I talked to some friend who went fishing yesterday---They went 35 miles out---to Federal Waters that are not closed and caught a ton of fish...................Snapper, Grouper, Amberjack!!! They had a great time!!!
_________________________________________________________
As for real estate---------yep, its slowed way down!! We are still showing property and signing contracts although not at the pace we were before the O. S. (oil spill).
The people that are looking and buying are people who feel extremely confident that now is a great time to buy---prices down, interest rates just over 4%, the oil may or may not come. If it does come, we clean it up and move on! They are buying for the long haul!
_________________________________________________________
If you are looking to purchase, give me a call and we'll get started looking!
Mary
850-896-5222
http://www.maryblackburn.com/
Sundance Realty
Facebook page
Wednesday, July 07, 2010
Oil Spill update for Mexico Beach Florida
Just a quick update:
The weather has certainly been working in our favor. The winds have pushed the oil plume west instead of our way!! We are right now not seeing any oil impact at all---should be another beautiful weekend in Mexico Beach!
Federal waters are closed for fishing however--State waters still open!
Don't hesitate to call if you have any other questions!
Mary
850-896-5222
http://www.maryblackburn.com/
The weather has certainly been working in our favor. The winds have pushed the oil plume west instead of our way!! We are right now not seeing any oil impact at all---should be another beautiful weekend in Mexico Beach!
Federal waters are closed for fishing however--State waters still open!
Don't hesitate to call if you have any other questions!
Mary
850-896-5222
http://www.maryblackburn.com/
Monday, July 05, 2010
Great 4th of July Weekend in Mexico Beach Fl
We had a great weekend in Mexico Beach! All the hotels on the beach were filled as well as the majority of vacation rentals. The weather (on and off rain showers) didn't deter any of the revelers!!!
The fireworks were great---its always a great time to sit on the beach and watch all the private fireworks before and after the City show.
If you were one of the zillion people who called to make reservations at the last minute and couldn't find a place to stay-------I hope you book early next year!!!
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As for the oil-----------WE HAVE NONE!! The men/women on the beach, the boats in the water, the aerial flyovers are all looking for it and THERE HAS BEEN NO CONFIRMED SIGHTINGS OF ANY OIL OF ANY KIND in our area.
Below is a picture of the most recent trajectory map. I've put a circle where Mexico Beach to Cape San Blas is just in case some of you are not familiar with the area.
Of course, we are still anticipating some kind of effects of the oil. By the time it gets here, they say it will be
weathered, meaning non-toxic.
The one thing I can say is that we are NOT going to look anything like what it looks like in Lousiana! We are expecting tar balls, perhaps some tar mats.......If it comes on-shore, I can assure you it will be cleaned up quickly!!!!
Other than that we are taking this one day at a time!!!
As of right now, we are oil free, open for business, and as beautiful as ever!!
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The Federal fishing has been closed, meaning you can only fish in state waters---that's about 9 miles out from the beach. While my husband is a charter boat captain, I can only speak the basic language of fishing, so please call him with any specific questions when related to fishing!!! Chip: 850-527-6272.
The MBARA annual King fish Tourney is approaching quickly--the end of August.
The way it stands right now, the tournament is still on. We will have the Captain's Party at the El Governor Friday night, the 27th. The tournament will start Saturday. Awards afterwards at Marquardt's.
We are going to cancel the fish fry at Beacon Hill park just because there are too many variables to plan for it adequately now---but next year!!!!!!!
I believe there is also going to be a dance at Toucan's Saturday night!!
It's still going to be a fun weekend no matter what, so don't change your plans!
The fireworks were great---its always a great time to sit on the beach and watch all the private fireworks before and after the City show.
If you were one of the zillion people who called to make reservations at the last minute and couldn't find a place to stay-------I hope you book early next year!!!
_____________________________________________________
As for the oil-----------WE HAVE NONE!! The men/women on the beach, the boats in the water, the aerial flyovers are all looking for it and THERE HAS BEEN NO CONFIRMED SIGHTINGS OF ANY OIL OF ANY KIND in our area.
Below is a picture of the most recent trajectory map. I've put a circle where Mexico Beach to Cape San Blas is just in case some of you are not familiar with the area.
Of course, we are still anticipating some kind of effects of the oil. By the time it gets here, they say it will be
weathered, meaning non-toxic.
The one thing I can say is that we are NOT going to look anything like what it looks like in Lousiana! We are expecting tar balls, perhaps some tar mats.......If it comes on-shore, I can assure you it will be cleaned up quickly!!!!
Other than that we are taking this one day at a time!!!
As of right now, we are oil free, open for business, and as beautiful as ever!!
___________________________________________________________
The Federal fishing has been closed, meaning you can only fish in state waters---that's about 9 miles out from the beach. While my husband is a charter boat captain, I can only speak the basic language of fishing, so please call him with any specific questions when related to fishing!!! Chip: 850-527-6272.
The MBARA annual King fish Tourney is approaching quickly--the end of August.
The way it stands right now, the tournament is still on. We will have the Captain's Party at the El Governor Friday night, the 27th. The tournament will start Saturday. Awards afterwards at Marquardt's.
We are going to cancel the fish fry at Beacon Hill park just because there are too many variables to plan for it adequately now---but next year!!!!!!!
I believe there is also going to be a dance at Toucan's Saturday night!!
It's still going to be a fun weekend no matter what, so don't change your plans!
Friday, July 02, 2010
4th of July in Mexico Beach Fl
We are seeing no oil of any kind on our beaches. The Deepwater Horizon website says they have spotted oil 30 miles from Panama City. So while it is definitely getting closer it has not and will not hit our beaches this weekend!
The Whale, the massive skimmer from Taiwan, has arrived on the coast of Louisiana. It can supposedly skim 300,000-400,000 barrels of oil a day!! Finally, some real help!!!
We are continuing to daily patrol the beach, the water, the air for signs of oil.
While our weather has been extremely rainy all week (Thanks to tropical depression Alex) we still plan on having a great 4th of July. A 5K race in the morning, kids fishing tourney on the canal, and of course the fireworks. They will be shot off the pier---so bring chairs, blankets....and watch the show on the beach!!
Have a great weekend! I'll be working this weekend if you are interested in seeing any property!!!
Mary
850-896-5222
The Whale, the massive skimmer from Taiwan, has arrived on the coast of Louisiana. It can supposedly skim 300,000-400,000 barrels of oil a day!! Finally, some real help!!!
We are continuing to daily patrol the beach, the water, the air for signs of oil.
While our weather has been extremely rainy all week (Thanks to tropical depression Alex) we still plan on having a great 4th of July. A 5K race in the morning, kids fishing tourney on the canal, and of course the fireworks. They will be shot off the pier---so bring chairs, blankets....and watch the show on the beach!!
Have a great weekend! I'll be working this weekend if you are interested in seeing any property!!!
Mary
850-896-5222
Monday, June 28, 2010
Newest update for the oil spill in Mexico Beach
Below is the recent update on the oil spill and tropical depression Alex. Mexico Beach remains oil free, clean and open for business. Looks as if we are going to escape TD Alex as well!!!
On June 27 NOAA places the oil plume 57 miles from Mexico Beach and 244 miles from St. Petersburg.
Winds and currents will prevent a further eastward movement of the oil plume along the northwestern Florida coastline.
Areas already impacted, west of the Choctawhatchee Bay, will continue to receive impacts as the oil plume moves slightly northwest and closer to the shoreline.
No significant amounts of oil are within or moving towards the loop current ring and there is no clear path for oil to enter the Florida Straits within the next 5 days.
Tropical Storm Alex began to move across the Yucatan Peninsula last night and is expected to reach the Gulf of Mexico by this afternoon.
The majority of the computer models, along with the National Hurricane Center, are forecasting Alex to move towards the west-northwest and impact the coastline near the Texas-Mexico border later this week.
The system is also forecasted to slightly increase in intensity as it moves across the warm water of the Gulf of Mexico before making landfall.
All Florida Beaches Remain OPEN! Pensacola Beach is open but has been closed to swimming and wading until further notice.
Mary
850-896-5222
Facebook page
On June 27 NOAA places the oil plume 57 miles from Mexico Beach and 244 miles from St. Petersburg.
Winds and currents will prevent a further eastward movement of the oil plume along the northwestern Florida coastline.
Areas already impacted, west of the Choctawhatchee Bay, will continue to receive impacts as the oil plume moves slightly northwest and closer to the shoreline.
No significant amounts of oil are within or moving towards the loop current ring and there is no clear path for oil to enter the Florida Straits within the next 5 days.
Tropical Storm Alex began to move across the Yucatan Peninsula last night and is expected to reach the Gulf of Mexico by this afternoon.
The majority of the computer models, along with the National Hurricane Center, are forecasting Alex to move towards the west-northwest and impact the coastline near the Texas-Mexico border later this week.
The system is also forecasted to slightly increase in intensity as it moves across the warm water of the Gulf of Mexico before making landfall.
All Florida Beaches Remain OPEN! Pensacola Beach is open but has been closed to swimming and wading until further notice.
Mary
850-896-5222
Facebook page
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Pictures from the first day of summer in Mexico Beach Fl
Our beaches are still gorgeous, no oil has been sighted from the workers on the ground to the boats in the water to the spotters in the sky!!!!
Mary
850-896-5222
http://www.maryblackburn.com/
Facebook Page
Monday, June 21, 2010
Mexico Beach the first day of Summer
http://map.floridadisaster.org/GATOR/index.html
Above is a great interactive map to show the most current oil sightings and explanations. Lots of information here!!!
I believe there have been a scattered tar ball here and there between Mexico Beach and Cape San Blas but that's about all for right now. There are lots of men on the ground scouring for any signs as well as lots of boats in the water looking as well.
We had a gorgeous weekend and the water was beautiful!
Mary
850-896-5222
http://www.maryblackburn.com/
Sundance Realty
Facebook Page
Above is a great interactive map to show the most current oil sightings and explanations. Lots of information here!!!
I believe there have been a scattered tar ball here and there between Mexico Beach and Cape San Blas but that's about all for right now. There are lots of men on the ground scouring for any signs as well as lots of boats in the water looking as well.
We had a gorgeous weekend and the water was beautiful!
Mary
850-896-5222
http://www.maryblackburn.com/
Sundance Realty
Facebook Page
Tar Balls on Panama City Beach
Below is the local news in Panama City.
PANAMA CITY BEACH — Cleanup crews were stretched out along western Bay County beaches Saturday, picking up the first coined-sized tar balls and smaller tar “flecks” from the Deepwater Horizon oil spill that residents and officials have dreaded for weeks but knew were coming.
The first tar balls were noticed Friday night on the far west end of Bay County beaches, and an oil sheen was floating 5 miles offshore of Lake Powell, Mark Bowen, Bay County’s emergency services director, said Saturday.
The first oiled bird, a pied-billed grebe, also was rescued after witnesses noticed the bird had oil on its neck and was in distress, Bowen said.
Tri-State Bird Rescue, a nonprofit wildlife rescue and rehabilitation organization and BP contractor, has taken custody of the animal, county spokeswoman Valerie Lovett said. The bird has been taken to Pensacola for rehabilitation.
“This is harsh, very harsh news for people to hear,” Bowen said, but he asked the community to brace for more bad news if the wellhead near Louisiana’s coast is not capped. The spigot, a mile underneath the surface, is currently leaking millions of gallons of oil a day.
“The general trend over the summer is not favorable,” he said. “It’s our turn.”
BP crews were out early Saturday morning placing red flags near small tar bars on west end beaches for later cleanup, and other crews were later slowly combing sand between State 79 and Pier Park, stooping down to pick up small black clumps and smaller flecks the size of pinheads.
Beachgoers continued to sunbathe and play in the water, even as the orange-vested cleanup crews worked around them.
None of the area beaches have been closed for cleanup, Lovett said.
Bowen said the county has contracted privately for several additional near-shore skimmers that should arrive within days and a deep-water vessel that will arrive in two weeks.
He confirmed that the oil currently reaching local beaches had been tested by infrared spectrometer and was from the Deepwater Horizon spill.
“The release has to be stopped,” Bowen said, while indicating that skimming assets were at the sheen site off Lake Powell on Saturday attempting to collect the oil.
Bowen said a couple dozen tar balls were collected Friday night along a 2-mile stretch of beach in western Bay County, but a robust outgoing tide had swept others away by morning, although more continued to be discovered as Saturday wore on.
“This product is driven by currents and wind,” he said, indicating the elements favored Bay County over the next couple days.
Bowen said the county has collected an enormous amount of boom for deployment to protect the passes, but “I won’t tell you we have everything we need.”
Federal waters west and southwest of Panama City Beach continue to be off-limits to fishing, while federal waters south of Shell Island and all state waters in the area are open.
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection has reported that an “oil plume” was 36 miles from Mexico Beach. A lone tar ball washed ashore early Sunday on the tip of Cape San Blas in Gulf County, the farthest east the oil spill has reached.
Beachgoers are advised not to touch any of the tar goo. Reports of oil can be called into the local hotline at 850-248-6030.
PANAMA CITY BEACH — Cleanup crews were stretched out along western Bay County beaches Saturday, picking up the first coined-sized tar balls and smaller tar “flecks” from the Deepwater Horizon oil spill that residents and officials have dreaded for weeks but knew were coming.
The first tar balls were noticed Friday night on the far west end of Bay County beaches, and an oil sheen was floating 5 miles offshore of Lake Powell, Mark Bowen, Bay County’s emergency services director, said Saturday.
The first oiled bird, a pied-billed grebe, also was rescued after witnesses noticed the bird had oil on its neck and was in distress, Bowen said.
Tri-State Bird Rescue, a nonprofit wildlife rescue and rehabilitation organization and BP contractor, has taken custody of the animal, county spokeswoman Valerie Lovett said. The bird has been taken to Pensacola for rehabilitation.
“This is harsh, very harsh news for people to hear,” Bowen said, but he asked the community to brace for more bad news if the wellhead near Louisiana’s coast is not capped. The spigot, a mile underneath the surface, is currently leaking millions of gallons of oil a day.
“The general trend over the summer is not favorable,” he said. “It’s our turn.”
BP crews were out early Saturday morning placing red flags near small tar bars on west end beaches for later cleanup, and other crews were later slowly combing sand between State 79 and Pier Park, stooping down to pick up small black clumps and smaller flecks the size of pinheads.
Beachgoers continued to sunbathe and play in the water, even as the orange-vested cleanup crews worked around them.
None of the area beaches have been closed for cleanup, Lovett said.
Bowen said the county has contracted privately for several additional near-shore skimmers that should arrive within days and a deep-water vessel that will arrive in two weeks.
He confirmed that the oil currently reaching local beaches had been tested by infrared spectrometer and was from the Deepwater Horizon spill.
“The release has to be stopped,” Bowen said, while indicating that skimming assets were at the sheen site off Lake Powell on Saturday attempting to collect the oil.
Bowen said a couple dozen tar balls were collected Friday night along a 2-mile stretch of beach in western Bay County, but a robust outgoing tide had swept others away by morning, although more continued to be discovered as Saturday wore on.
“This product is driven by currents and wind,” he said, indicating the elements favored Bay County over the next couple days.
Bowen said the county has collected an enormous amount of boom for deployment to protect the passes, but “I won’t tell you we have everything we need.”
Federal waters west and southwest of Panama City Beach continue to be off-limits to fishing, while federal waters south of Shell Island and all state waters in the area are open.
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection has reported that an “oil plume” was 36 miles from Mexico Beach. A lone tar ball washed ashore early Sunday on the tip of Cape San Blas in Gulf County, the farthest east the oil spill has reached.
Beachgoers are advised not to touch any of the tar goo. Reports of oil can be called into the local hotline at 850-248-6030.
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Oily Debris found ashore Panama City Beach
Below is a press release from Bay County Chamber of Commerce. Unfortunately, the inevitable is upon us. Mexico Beach is still clean and oil free with no reported effects of the oil spill. We are expecting another busy weekend.
My prayer for Panama City Beach and us is that the effects are minimal and in a form easy to clean up.
Oiled plastic foam found on Panama City Beach
Bay County Emergency Services Hazmat responders tested a piece of oiled plastic foam found by a kayaker at Panama City Beach Wednesday in the Gulf Highlands area, off Beach Access 39. Preliminary tests of the substance on the Styrofoam matched an oil sample originating from the Deepwater Horizon release that Bay County obtained several weeks ago and is being used as a baseline for local sampling equipment. The item will be turned over to the U.S. Coast Guard for further testing.
Trajectories released by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration show continued easterly movement of product released following the Deepwater Horizon oil rig explosion. An unknown amount of product is predicted to be located off Bay County shores by Friday. Residents and visitors may see weathered oil pollutant in different forms.
Bay County continues to prepare for impacts related to the oil release. Visit www.baycountyfl.gov for important phone numbers and information and to sign up for E-mail updates about the oil release.
Mary
850-896-5222
http://www.maryblackburn.com/
Sundance Realty
Facebook Page
My prayer for Panama City Beach and us is that the effects are minimal and in a form easy to clean up.
Oiled plastic foam found on Panama City Beach
Bay County Emergency Services Hazmat responders tested a piece of oiled plastic foam found by a kayaker at Panama City Beach Wednesday in the Gulf Highlands area, off Beach Access 39. Preliminary tests of the substance on the Styrofoam matched an oil sample originating from the Deepwater Horizon release that Bay County obtained several weeks ago and is being used as a baseline for local sampling equipment. The item will be turned over to the U.S. Coast Guard for further testing.
Trajectories released by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration show continued easterly movement of product released following the Deepwater Horizon oil rig explosion. An unknown amount of product is predicted to be located off Bay County shores by Friday. Residents and visitors may see weathered oil pollutant in different forms.
Bay County continues to prepare for impacts related to the oil release. Visit www.baycountyfl.gov for important phone numbers and information and to sign up for E-mail updates about the oil release.
Mary
850-896-5222
http://www.maryblackburn.com/
Sundance Realty
Facebook Page
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Mexico Beach Beaches still Beautiful and oil free
Vacationers are moving east! Our rentals and hotels have been filled with vacationers trying to out run the oil spill.
Check out this website I just found. It shows a true aerial of where the oil has been located. Zoom in and you can see Fort Walton Beach all the way to Apalachicola has had no oil reported.
Mexico Beach is still clean and oil free!
Mary
850-896-5222
Check out this website I just found. It shows a true aerial of where the oil has been located. Zoom in and you can see Fort Walton Beach all the way to Apalachicola has had no oil reported.
Mexico Beach is still clean and oil free!
Mary
850-896-5222
Monday, June 14, 2010
Oil Spill Update for Mexico Beach Florida
NO OIL IN MEXICO BEACH FLORIDA!
We had another absolutely gorgeous weekend (HOT!) with LOTS of people enjoying our beautiful white sand beaches! The water was calm for both beach goers and fishermen!
Gulf County deployed some boom to protect the Bay (although there has be no sighting of oil in Gulf County)---the bay is still navigable, however. There are daily fly overs to spot any oil in our area as well as people on the ground walking the beaches. The oil is still about 80 miles from our area, but I guess its better to be safe than sorry.
Below is more information about the oil spill taken from the DeepWater Horizon websites.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), in coordination with Florida's Department of Environmental Protection, the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and the Department of Health, issued an executive order to temporarily close a portion of coastal state waters offshore of Escambia County to the harvest of saltwater fish, crabs and shrimp. The FWC is taking precautionary actions regarding harvest and consumption of these marine species, which may be affected by oil from the BP Deepwater Horizon spill in the Gulf of Mexico.
The closure includes state waters from the beaches out 9 nautical miles into the Gulf from the Alabama line east to the Pensacola Beach water tower. Interior bays and estuaries remain open to fishing. This area covers approximately 23 miles of Florida's coastline in Escambia County, where oil from the Deepwater Horizon spill is now present (see map).
Recreational catch-and-release fishing is still allowed as long as saltwater fish are not harvested or possessed in the closed area.
Oysters, clams and mussels are not included in the closure, because they are not expected to be affected by oil in the area.
Some very good news:
Gov. Charlie Crist has announced that the recreational harvest season for bay scallops in Florida will open 12 days earlier than usual this year. The governor is taking this action to help relieve possible economic hardships on Florida fishing communities that may occur due to the BP Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. SCALLOP SEASON OPENING JUNE 19 THRU SEPTEMBER 10.
Unfortunately, an oil plume of about two miles wide by 40 miles long has been spotted 9 miles of the Pensacola Pass. Both Perdido Pass and Pensacola pass have been closed to prevent oil from entering the inland waters.
Five in sized tar balls and tar patties were found in areas from the Alabama/Florida line to Walton County. Clean up teams are responding as they wash up.
Below is the best map I've seen to show where the oil has made landfall.
Map of Mexico Beach So, in a nutshell, the oil is not here in Mexico Beach to Cape San Blas in any form, sheen, tar balls, tar patties-------our sand and water is beautiful and we are open for business!!!! Fishing is the best its been in years!!! Please don't hesitate to call with any questions or concerns!!! We are all taking this one day at a time and I will continue to update you! Mary
850-896-5222
www.maryblackburn.com
Mexico Beach Real Estate on Facebook
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Thursday, June 10, 2010
Oil Spill update for Mexico Beach Florida
Take a look at this link showing where oil has made landfall. Click here. As you can see, it has NOT MADE LANDFALL in Panama City Beach or further east to Mexico Beach or Cape San Blas.
Our beaches are as beautiful as always, no tar balls, no oil sheen, no oil fumes, just beautiful white sand and blue green waters.
We are taking all kinds of precautions though---There are daily flyovers for aerial observation, there are boats patrolling the waters and even people on the beach watching for anything washing up on shore.
If it was close by we would certainly know it!!!
Gulf County has deployed some boom to protect the Bay. It is still open for navigation though and since the fishing is absolutely awesome right now, you'll want to get out there this weekend and take advantage of it!!!
Chip has been catching limits of snapper within just a few hours, king mackeral are around and he even snagged a few grouper the other day.
While I can't predict where the oil will go in the next several weeks I do believe that by the time it makes it over this way, if it does, it will be pretty much dissipated, non-toxic, and diluted. We are not going to see the gooey, orange, thick mess that poor Louisiana is experiencing. We can live with a few tar balls on the beach----we always have those!
Just to catch you up on the real estate end---------we continue to show and sell!!! Looking at the sales numbers for so far this year:
At the end of the 1st quarter, the average sales price was down 25% over the
same period last year. To date, the average sales price is down 16%. This
could mean that the steep price decline that we have seen over the years is
starting to ease up...possibly nearing that "bottom" that we've talked about
for years.
Interest rates are still under 5% which is amazing! Lenders are lending to buyers with good credit and 20% down for those 2nd homes.
Buyers are definitely taking advantage of this market, knowing that even if we get a little oil over here----it's not going to last long!
Our beaches are as beautiful as always, no tar balls, no oil sheen, no oil fumes, just beautiful white sand and blue green waters.
We are taking all kinds of precautions though---There are daily flyovers for aerial observation, there are boats patrolling the waters and even people on the beach watching for anything washing up on shore.
If it was close by we would certainly know it!!!
Gulf County has deployed some boom to protect the Bay. It is still open for navigation though and since the fishing is absolutely awesome right now, you'll want to get out there this weekend and take advantage of it!!!
Chip has been catching limits of snapper within just a few hours, king mackeral are around and he even snagged a few grouper the other day.
While I can't predict where the oil will go in the next several weeks I do believe that by the time it makes it over this way, if it does, it will be pretty much dissipated, non-toxic, and diluted. We are not going to see the gooey, orange, thick mess that poor Louisiana is experiencing. We can live with a few tar balls on the beach----we always have those!
Just to catch you up on the real estate end---------we continue to show and sell!!! Looking at the sales numbers for so far this year:
At the end of the 1st quarter, the average sales price was down 25% over the
same period last year. To date, the average sales price is down 16%. This
could mean that the steep price decline that we have seen over the years is
starting to ease up...possibly nearing that "bottom" that we've talked about
for years.
Interest rates are still under 5% which is amazing! Lenders are lending to buyers with good credit and 20% down for those 2nd homes.
Buyers are definitely taking advantage of this market, knowing that even if we get a little oil over here----it's not going to last long!
Tuesday, June 08, 2010
NO OIL IN ST. JOE BAY
Below is the press release from Senator Don Gaetz this morning.
I did cut out some information that really didn't apply to our area---Please read the whole thing!!!!
Looks as if Gulf County is doing some prepartory work with boom placement across the bay. However, there has been no oil sighted--they are just being proactive!!
Mexico Beach is clean and beautiful!
Latest Oil Spill Developments: From Senator Don Gaetz
Local Emergency Operations Centers (EOCs) in the following counties are now activated: Escambia – Level 2 (partial); Santa Rosa – Level 2 (partial); Okaloosa – Level 2 (partial); Bay – Level 2 (partial); Gulf – Level 2; Wakulla – Level 2 (partial)
STATE EMERGENCY RESPONSE TEAM (SERT) RECONNAISSANCE: Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) reports that tarballs and tar patties have reached the shore in Escambia, Santa Rosa, Walton, and Okaloosa counties. "Tarmats" (tabletop size or larger) have been spotted offshore, and recon teams are relaying locations to skimming teams to collect that product before it reaches shore. Recon teams are working from Escambia through Gulf. Contract clean up teams are on site and working to clean the oil as it comes ashore. Current oiling is light and scattered, sheen and tarballs will continue to come onshore in a weathered condition at least through Thursday due to weather conditions. Impact will be on the western panhandle counties (Escambia, Santa Rosa, Walton and Okaloosa) with possible impacts farther east (Bay, Gulf, Franklin, Wakulla, Taylor) through Thursday. Sheen has been spotted less than 4 miles offshore of Pensacola. DEP and FWC continue reconnaissance by air, sea, and land. Recon activities will be increased as the oil continues to move toward the east, and continues to move closer to shore. Recon teams are now "patrolling" the beaches in the affected counties. There are two overflights (weather permitting) at 5 and 10 miles offshore each day. In addition, vessels are in the water to confirm sightings, and DEP has established a mobile command post at Henderson Beach State Park in Destin for deployment of 25 ATVs which are patrolling the shorelines. Recon information is being relayed back immediately to the SEOC and local EOCs for action.
.At this time, oil is located approximately 85 miles southwest of Gulf County, and approximately 260 miles west of Pinellas County with some sheen approximately 210 miles offshore of St. Petersburg in the Loop Ring. Oil remains approximately 265 northwest of the Dry Tortugas.
SERT ACTIONS FOR TODAY: Reconnaissance, reporting, and deployment of contracted clean up teams are the top priorities for today. The goal is to keep beaches clean, safe, and open. SCAT teams (coastal response teams) are in place and responding. First and second tier booming operations are over 90% complete for Escambia, Santa Rosa, Okaloosa, Walton, and Bay counties. Boom staging and deployment continues in Gulf and Franklin counties. One concern with boom operations is balancing boom placement with navigation. Booms are not allowed to block navigable waters unless there is imminent landfalling oil. The Coast Guard must give permission to block navigable waterways. In order to prepare for rapid deployment of booms across inlets and other navigable waterways, teams are "wet staging" boom in the water next to waterways so that they can be closed off in very short time frames, if needed.
HEALTH: DOH is staffing Unified Command Sector Mobile effective today as part of the Environmental Public Health Task Force, which consists of participation by BP, federal partners and the states. Florida actively participates in the following sub/workgroups:
MEDIA / MESSAGE / RUMOR CONTROL:
Rumor control continues to be a critical component of the SEOC response. Please check all information before passing it along. Our beaches are open, teams are stopping, or cleaning up, the oil as it arrives on Florida shores, and we should not think in terms of “a tidal wave” of oil, but in terms of manageable amounts of oil arriving in weathered condition, and there is a plan for containment and clean up in place and it is being activated.
FLORIDA’S BEAUTIFUL BEACHES REMAIN OPEN – ENCOURAGE EVERYONE TO COME ON DOWN TO FLORIDA!
I did cut out some information that really didn't apply to our area---Please read the whole thing!!!!
Looks as if Gulf County is doing some prepartory work with boom placement across the bay. However, there has been no oil sighted--they are just being proactive!!
Mexico Beach is clean and beautiful!
Latest Oil Spill Developments: From Senator Don Gaetz
Local Emergency Operations Centers (EOCs) in the following counties are now activated: Escambia – Level 2 (partial); Santa Rosa – Level 2 (partial); Okaloosa – Level 2 (partial); Bay – Level 2 (partial); Gulf – Level 2; Wakulla – Level 2 (partial)
STATE EMERGENCY RESPONSE TEAM (SERT) RECONNAISSANCE: Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) reports that tarballs and tar patties have reached the shore in Escambia, Santa Rosa, Walton, and Okaloosa counties. "Tarmats" (tabletop size or larger) have been spotted offshore, and recon teams are relaying locations to skimming teams to collect that product before it reaches shore. Recon teams are working from Escambia through Gulf. Contract clean up teams are on site and working to clean the oil as it comes ashore. Current oiling is light and scattered, sheen and tarballs will continue to come onshore in a weathered condition at least through Thursday due to weather conditions. Impact will be on the western panhandle counties (Escambia, Santa Rosa, Walton and Okaloosa) with possible impacts farther east (Bay, Gulf, Franklin, Wakulla, Taylor) through Thursday. Sheen has been spotted less than 4 miles offshore of Pensacola. DEP and FWC continue reconnaissance by air, sea, and land. Recon activities will be increased as the oil continues to move toward the east, and continues to move closer to shore. Recon teams are now "patrolling" the beaches in the affected counties. There are two overflights (weather permitting) at 5 and 10 miles offshore each day. In addition, vessels are in the water to confirm sightings, and DEP has established a mobile command post at Henderson Beach State Park in Destin for deployment of 25 ATVs which are patrolling the shorelines. Recon information is being relayed back immediately to the SEOC and local EOCs for action.
.At this time, oil is located approximately 85 miles southwest of Gulf County, and approximately 260 miles west of Pinellas County with some sheen approximately 210 miles offshore of St. Petersburg in the Loop Ring. Oil remains approximately 265 northwest of the Dry Tortugas.
SERT ACTIONS FOR TODAY: Reconnaissance, reporting, and deployment of contracted clean up teams are the top priorities for today. The goal is to keep beaches clean, safe, and open. SCAT teams (coastal response teams) are in place and responding. First and second tier booming operations are over 90% complete for Escambia, Santa Rosa, Okaloosa, Walton, and Bay counties. Boom staging and deployment continues in Gulf and Franklin counties. One concern with boom operations is balancing boom placement with navigation. Booms are not allowed to block navigable waters unless there is imminent landfalling oil. The Coast Guard must give permission to block navigable waterways. In order to prepare for rapid deployment of booms across inlets and other navigable waterways, teams are "wet staging" boom in the water next to waterways so that they can be closed off in very short time frames, if needed.
HEALTH: DOH is staffing Unified Command Sector Mobile effective today as part of the Environmental Public Health Task Force, which consists of participation by BP, federal partners and the states. Florida actively participates in the following sub/workgroups:
MEDIA / MESSAGE / RUMOR CONTROL:
Rumor control continues to be a critical component of the SEOC response. Please check all information before passing it along. Our beaches are open, teams are stopping, or cleaning up, the oil as it arrives on Florida shores, and we should not think in terms of “a tidal wave” of oil, but in terms of manageable amounts of oil arriving in weathered condition, and there is a plan for containment and clean up in place and it is being activated.
FLORIDA’S BEAUTIFUL BEACHES REMAIN OPEN – ENCOURAGE EVERYONE TO COME ON DOWN TO FLORIDA!
Monday, June 07, 2010
City of Mexico Beach and the oil spill
1 So far Mexico Beach has no tar balls or oil sheen near our beaches. However, I've had a lot of folks ask what they should do if they see anything on the beach. Below is the City Administrators response to that specific question. If anyone sees tar balls, they should not touch them but mark their location and call (850) 248-6030; that number is the local number to report oiled water or beaches. If they want to call a toll free number to report oil, that number is (800) 448-5816. If there is an oil sheen, we will already know about it because sheens are easily seen from the air. What the EOC has told us is that the oil has been in the water so long that by the time it hits the beaches to our west, all the toxins have evaporated and so the tar balls are non-toxic. They also don't have any smell so it isn't going to smell like oil or tar. The reason why the people only need to mark them, not touch them (even though they are non-toxic), and call one of the two above numbers is because DEP will come out, collect the tar balls, and run tests on them. This will also prevent them from needing to look for a place to dispose of the tar balls. If people want to volunteer, have them contact the Red Cross at (866) 448-5816 or via e-mail at oilspill@redcrosspc.org REALLY GOOD INFORMATION BELOW!!! This is from the City Administrator as well. Just FYI, as of today, we have 25 contractors on our beaches, checking for tar balls. They also have two mules for added mobility. If anyone asks you about all these people, you will be able to inform them of this fact. Also, as of this morning, I requested boom, from both Bay County and BP, so that we can boom off the canal; we will use the boom for as long as the oil impact is relatively minor (like what is currently occurring in Pensacola and Walton County); however, if we are forecasted to receive a large patch of tar balls or an oil sheen, we will at that point completely sand the canal closed. Sanding the canal shut for anything less than a major oil impact would be "over-kill" and, with the booms, we can keep some access into and out of our canal for use by BP's contractors, vessels of opportunity, or fishing boats (if the fishing areas aren't shut down).
So far Mexico Beach has no tar balls or oil sheen near our beaches.
However, I've had a lot of folks ask what they should do if they see anything on the beach.
Below is the City Administrators response to that specific question
If anyone sees tar balls, they should not touch
them but mark their location and call (850) 248-6030; that number is the
local number to report oiled water or beaches. If they want to call a toll
free number to report oil, that number is (800) 448-5816. If there is an
oil sheen, we will already know about it because sheens are easily seen
from the air.
What the EOC has told us is that the oil has been in the
water so long that by the time it hits the beaches to our west, all the
toxins have evaporated and so the tar balls are non-toxic. They also don't
have any smell so it isn't going to smell like oil or tar.
The reason why the people only need to mark them, not touch them (even
though they are non-toxic), and call one of the two above numbers is
because DEP will come out, collect the tar balls, and run tests on them.
This will also prevent them from needing to look for a place to dispose of
the tar balls. If people want to volunteer, have them contact the Red
Cross at (866) 448-5816 or via e-mail at oilspill@redcrosspc.org
REALLY GOOD INFORMATION BELOW!!!
This is from the City Administrator as well.
Just FYI, as of today, we have 25 contractors on our beaches, checking for
tar balls. They also have two mules for added mobility. If anyone asks
you about all these people, you will be able to inform them of this fact.
Also, as of this morning, I requested boom, from both Bay County and BP, so
that we can boom off the canal; we will use the boom for as long as the
oil impact is relatively minor (like what is currently occurring in
Pensacola and Walton County); however, if we are forecasted to receive a
large patch of tar balls or an oil sheen, we will at that point completely
sand the canal closed. Sanding the canal shut for anything less than a
major oil impact would be "over-kill" and, with the booms, we can keep some
access into and out of our canal for use by BP's contractors, vessels of
opportunity, or fishing boats (if the fishing areas aren't shut down).
I remain optimistic that we are going to see a minimal affect here at Mexico Beach!!
Don't hesitate to call me with any questions!
Mary
850-896-5222
However, I've had a lot of folks ask what they should do if they see anything on the beach.
Below is the City Administrators response to that specific question
If anyone sees tar balls, they should not touch
them but mark their location and call (850) 248-6030; that number is the
local number to report oiled water or beaches. If they want to call a toll
free number to report oil, that number is (800) 448-5816. If there is an
oil sheen, we will already know about it because sheens are easily seen
from the air.
What the EOC has told us is that the oil has been in the
water so long that by the time it hits the beaches to our west, all the
toxins have evaporated and so the tar balls are non-toxic. They also don't
have any smell so it isn't going to smell like oil or tar.
The reason why the people only need to mark them, not touch them (even
though they are non-toxic), and call one of the two above numbers is
because DEP will come out, collect the tar balls, and run tests on them.
This will also prevent them from needing to look for a place to dispose of
the tar balls. If people want to volunteer, have them contact the Red
Cross at (866) 448-5816 or via e-mail at oilspill@redcrosspc.org
REALLY GOOD INFORMATION BELOW!!!
This is from the City Administrator as well.
Just FYI, as of today, we have 25 contractors on our beaches, checking for
tar balls. They also have two mules for added mobility. If anyone asks
you about all these people, you will be able to inform them of this fact.
Also, as of this morning, I requested boom, from both Bay County and BP, so
that we can boom off the canal; we will use the boom for as long as the
oil impact is relatively minor (like what is currently occurring in
Pensacola and Walton County); however, if we are forecasted to receive a
large patch of tar balls or an oil sheen, we will at that point completely
sand the canal closed. Sanding the canal shut for anything less than a
major oil impact would be "over-kill" and, with the booms, we can keep some
access into and out of our canal for use by BP's contractors, vessels of
opportunity, or fishing boats (if the fishing areas aren't shut down).
I remain optimistic that we are going to see a minimal affect here at Mexico Beach!!
Don't hesitate to call me with any questions!
Mary
850-896-5222
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