Wk 4_Oil Spill Assignment

I chose area Long Point/Index 4945. This area is in Bay County just south of Panama Beach and includes Tyndall AFB which is managed by the Department of Defense. In the event of a hurricane, Bay County's reservoir could be at risk for saltwater intrusion and pollutants from the oil spill. Although not contained within the study site, existing reefs are in close proximity and at grave risk.

Currently there are no fishery closures, beaches and parks are open, and the winds are expected to be more westerly this week. Reconnaissance has confirmed sporadic reports of tarballs/areas of light sheen to Bay County but officials say there are no signs of oil in Bay County now. There are no booms deployed in this area.

The most at risk feature in my area was the ESIL_10A+, Salt and brackish-water marshes (most sensitive). This feature was 149,851 linear feet. The state oversees the managed lands in this area.

Invertebrates include: Endemic species of crayfish, the Purple Skimmer, and Atlantic Geoduck. Bay scallops are already dramatically reduced.

Fish: Gulf Sturgeon. Fringed Pipefish.

Reptiles: American Alligator (I include this one because who wants to clean a gator!), Atlantic Loggerhead Turtle, Atlantic Green Turtle, Leatherback Turtle, Kemp's Ridley, Gulf Salt Marsh Snake.

Birds: Roseate Spoonbill, Limpkin, Great Egret, Snowy Plover, Wood Stork, Pelican, and numerous herons, egrets, terns.

Mammal: Beach mice & manatee.

Sea grass and numerous protected plants in the bay ecosystem are at risk.