10-112-SB
Sept. 2, 2010
NOAA Re-opens Federal Waters off Mississippi to
Commercial and Recreational Fishing
BILOXI, Miss. – The Mississippi Department of Marine Resources (DMR) announces that
effective Sept. 2, 2010 at 5 p.m. the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
(NOAA) will re-open federal waters adjacent to Mississippi waters to commercial and
recreational fishing previously closed in response to the BP/Deepwater Horizon oil spill.
The re-opened area was originally closed because oil was present in the area; however, no
oil has been documented in the area since July 12, and only scattered light sheens since July
29. Trajectory models show the area is at a low risk for future exposure to oil. NOAA
collected shrimp and finfish samples from this area, including commercially and recreationally
important species, such as red snapper. Sensory testing showed no detectable oil or
dispersant odors or flavors in the samples, and the results of chemical analysis were well
below levels of concern.
NOAA continues to work closely with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the
states to ensure seafood safety. The Mississippi Department of Marine Resources,
Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality, NOAA and the FDA are working together
to sample seafood from inside and outside the opened area, as well as dockside- and
market-based sampling.
Permit holders are reminded to maintain their federal vessel permits by submitting timely
reporting requirements and renewal applications, even if the vessel is not currently engaged
in fishing activities.
The Mississippi Department of Marine Resources is dedicated to enhancing, protecting and
conserving marine interests of the state by managing all marine life, public trust wetlands,
adjacent uplands and waterfront areas to provide for the optimal commercial, recreational,
educational and economic uses of these resources consistent with environmental concerns
and social changes. Visit the DMR online at www.dmr.ms.gov.
Click here for the link to Press Release.
