Ocean and Coastal Highlights

BSEE released the “Blowout Preventer Systems and Well Control” regulations in May 2019. The revised rule reflects the focus on smarter regulations that advance energy security and sustain economic prosperity while promoting safety.

New elevated bridge helps Katmai balance its double mission of protecting natural resources while also facilitating the public’s enjoyment of them. Bears have improved freedom of movement and “bear jams” on the old floating bridge are a thing of the past.

Let ‘em Rest, Let ‘em Nest. A trip to the beach can be relaxing for humans but it could be very disturbing for shorebirds. Many are resting from long migrations or are nesting and raising young vulnerable chicks. Give them space, keeps dogs on a leash, respect enclosures. Learn about other ways you can help. #SharetheShore

The new visitor center at the National Historic Landmark, where Wilbur and Orville Wright conducting their flying experiments, was recently certified “LEED Gold,” with new green energy saving performance, increased water efficiency and reduced carbon emissions. The spirit of advancing new technology is still present in the Outer Banks, NC.

A new geonarrative explains processes that shape the coast over short and long periods of time including storm response and recovery. Based on more than 20 years of research, the interactive web format and detailed illustrations describe coastal change concepts for the general public, coastal managers and decisionmakers.

The Fish Slam is a bio-blitz style approach that brings experts together from around the state of Florida to sample freshwater bodies of interest where non-native species pose a threat to native ecosystems. The experts and partners collaborate through the Non-Native Fish Alliance where they share information and work to address the problem in Florida.

A new USGS study shows that reefs provide a flood protection barrier for more than 18,000 coastal citizens and $1.8 billion worth in coastal infrastructure. The study was supported, in part, by the DOI’s Office of Insular Affairs, with funds leveraged through the Coral Reef and Natural Resources Initiative.

With $405 Million in winning bids, the December 2018 auction was the nation’s eighth and highest grossing competitive lease sale for renewable energy in Federal waters.

The USGS has released two new products that help users see and interact with the 2018 National Climate Assessment (NCA) report.

Learn more about why submarine acoustics are important to marine mammals.