FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Coast Guard Investigating Pollution Reports Post Hurricane Isaac

NEW ORLEANS, - The Federal On Scene Coordinator for the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, CAPT Duke Walker USCG, has given the all clear to the Gulf Coast Incident Management Team to resume all oil spill cleanup activities in Louisiana after halting operations prior to Hurricane Isaac making landfall. Limited surveys and operations by Coast Guard personnel began on September 01, 2012 immediately after the storm.

Shoreline Cleanup Assessment Technique (SCAT) Strike Teams will survey shoreline to identify MC-252 oiling and prioritize future activities. USCG personnel assigned to SCAT Strike Teams will conduct sampling to document oiling events and identify the appropriate responsible party, while cleanup operations are mounted.

The Gulf Coast Incident Management Team (GCIMT) is investigating all reports of oiling potentially associated with the DWH spill along the Gulf Coast. Some of the affected areas already under investigation include Elmer’s Island and Fourchon Beach in Louisiana. It is anticipated the first clean up teams will arrive on site on the morning of September 06, 2012.

The GCIMT remains committed to the cleanup of the entire Gulf Coast and all shorelines affected as a result of the Deepwater Horizon oil rig explosion and spill. Response activities will continue until all oil that can be removed without further damaging the environment is removed, creating the conditions for further restoration work.

The public is reminded to contact the National Response Center at 1-800-424-8802 to report all pollution incidents or the Coast Guard District Eight Command Center at 504-589-6225 in the event of any marine emergencies.