Oil Firm Gets Permit to 'Take' Mammals in Gulf of America
Published Date: 12/4/2025
Notice
Summary
Oceaneering International got the green light to do geophysical surveys for oil and gas in the Gulf of America from November 2025 to April 2026. This means they can accidentally disturb some marine mammals, but only in small numbers and with rules to keep impacts super low. The update changes the area name from Gulf of Mexico to Gulf of America and keeps marine life safe while supporting energy work.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Oceaneering Authorized To Run Short Survey
Oceaneering International received a Letter of Authorization (LOA) to conduct a shallow seismic geophysical survey in West Delta Area Block 146 in the Gulf of America. The LOA is effective November 1, 2025 through April 19, 2026; the planned survey covers approximately 6 days with about 3 days of source (one 160 cubic inch airgun) use in Zone 2.
Small Numbers of Marine Mammals Authorized
NMFS authorized the incidental take of small numbers of certain marine mammal species for this survey and listed the authorized take counts (e.g., bottlenose dolphin 93, rough-toothed dolphin 14, Atlantic spotted dolphin 26; most other listed taxa authorized at 0). NMFS determined these authorized takes are of no more than "small numbers" and that the activity will have a negligible impact per the rule.
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The government just gave Future Energy Consultants permission to accidentally disturb a few marine mammals while doing oil and gas surveys in the Gulf of America from November 2025 to April 2026. This means they can keep exploring for energy but must follow rules to protect sea animals. It’s a careful balance between energy work and keeping marine life safe, with no extra costs announced.