The Science Behind the Seismic Decision

September 15, 2014

Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM)

The Department of Interior's Bureau of Energy Manaegment (BOEM) released a document that addresses several misperceptions about seismic testing.   

Some of the FAQ's include:

• Will air guns used in seismic surveys kill dolphins, whales and sea turtles and ruin coastal communities?
• Is it true that the air guns are 100,000 times louder than a jet, and if so, won't they kill or deafen marine life?
• Is it true that the government's own scientists expect 100,000 injuries or deaths of marine life if seismic surveys go forward?
• Does this decision mean that the federal government is opening the entire Atlantic coast up for offshore oil and gas drilling?

See the "Science Notes" here.