Office/Division Program
TAP
Project Number
20
Category
Research Initiation Date (Award Date)
Research Performing Activity
U.S. Geological Survey - Fisher Island Station
Research Principal Investigator
Mr. Gene Shinn
Research Contracting Agency
Description
To quantify the effects of whole drilling muds on corals and the extent and chemical make-up of mud plumes.
Latest progress update
Complete. Tests indicate that typical whole drilling muds used in the Gulf of Mexico are no more toxic to coral than standard mud (CaCo). Sampling of discharges from drilling operations indicate that at 100 meters from corals, effects will be minor at most. An analysis of the effects of drilling through a coral reef in the Philippines indicates little suppression of coral head growth. The project was transferred to the MMS Environmental Studies Program.