Gulf of America Permits Oil Surveys to Gently Disturb Sea Life
Published Date: 1/5/2026
Notice
Summary
NOAA just updated the rules for WesternGeco’s oil and gas surveys in the Gulf of America, letting them accidentally disturb a few marine mammals—but only in a way that won’t harm the population. This new permission lasts until April 19, 2026, keeping the balance between energy exploration and protecting sea life. If you’re curious, all the details and documents are online for anyone to check out!
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Subsistence Uses Not Harmed by Survey
NOAA authorized a modified Letter of Authorization for WesternGeco's geophysical survey and found that the incidental taking of marine mammals "will not have an unmitigable adverse impact" on the availability of species or stocks for subsistence uses. This determination applies to the authorized activity through April 19, 2026.
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