Project Information

Title: Lingering Oil: Pathways of Exposure and Population Status (ABL) 040620-1

Project Year and Number: 2004: 040620-1

Other Fiscal Years and Numbers for this Project: 2003: 030620

Principal Investigator (PI): Jeep Rice (NOAA )

Managing Agency: NOAA

Assisting Personnel: Mandy Lindeberg, Jeff Short

Research Location: Prince William Sound

Restoration Category: Research

Injured Resources Addressed: Harlequin Ducks, Sea Otters

Abstract: Lingering oil from the Exxon Valdez oil spill remains throughout Western Prince William Sound and appears to have chronic effects on sea otter and sea duck populations in these areas. Studies conducted in 2001-02 have documented the extent of oiling throughout the sound, and as of this writing, we have determined that oil is bioavailable to predators. Bioavailability defines potential for exposure, but is not equal to exposure or significance. In 2003 and 2004, we are determining the significance of lingering oil by quantifying the probability of oil encounters in areas where sea otters and sea ducks have not recovered. Prey and passive samplers collected in 2003 will be analyzed in 2004, and will be supplemented with additional samples in 2004 to meet the needs of the on-going tagging studies of otters and ducks by USGS. With the mechanism of exposure from lower intertidal oil deposits determined, the research theme will move toward the goal of determining the extent and probability of oil exposure in three restricted areas: Herring Bay, Lower Passage, and Bay of Isles. Information gained in this project could aid in the decision process regarding future mitigation, litigation, or clean-up actions.


Proposal: View (66 KB)

Reports:
Annual Report FY04: View (17 KB)
Annual Report FY05: View (19 KB)
Annual Report FY06: View (14 KB)
Final Report: Final Report Not available. For current status, please contact us.

Publications from this Project: None Available