Ecosystem Monitoring

plume tracking graphic

Gulf Ecosystem Observing and Monitoring Program:

A lasting legacy from the DeepWater Horizon oil spill and resulting penalties should be a new northern Gulf-wide science-based, monitoring program that incorporates mapping, observing, and research. WHY?

  • Restore Act (PL112-141, subtitle F) mandates that civil penalties be used to support long-term, sustained, Gulf-wide ecosystem monitoring program supported by the best available science
  • Provide ecosystem science (restoration ecology, conservation biology, and community ecology) required for promoting restoration and sustainability in face of many chronic Gulf ecosystem stressors
  • Protect human life, health and property.
  • Promote economic opportunities through quantified and managed human uses.

Related editorials by GOMURC Board members at:

These GOMURC presentations overview ecosystem monitoring importance for Gulf recovery, and the role of the Gulf Coastal Ocean Observing System’s Build-out Plan as a framework for identifying and funding required capabilities, observations and products: Ecosystem monitoring- why and how? M. Graham, 2016; Ecosystem Monitoring for Gulf of Mexico Recovery, GOMURC, 2016.