This biological opinion discusses the effects of the proposed permit and continuation of two long-term projects researching sea turtle populations in Florida and the Gulf of Mexico.
It is likely that fewer than 100 Bryde's whales are living in the Gulf of Mexico. Learn more about what NOAA Fisheries is doing to help this endangered species.
Part 1: Sea Turtles Harmed by the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill
Sea turtles are irreplaceable. They serve unique ecological roles and are highly valued by the public. They are also vulnerable to threats caused by human activities.
The five sea turtle
Scientists have shown that toxic compounds in oil target the still-forming hearts of larval fish, leading to developmental defects and reduced survival.
When Exxon Valdez ran aground 25 years ago, spilling 11 million gallons of crude oil into Prince William Sound, the results were plainly visible on the nightly news: fouled beaches, oiled carcasses, and closed fisheries.
Responders worked to
