Shell Reports Light Sheen Spotted in Gulf of Mexico

Shell has notified the National Response Center (NRC) of a light sheen in the central portion of the Gulf of Mexico, between the Mars and Ursa production area.

Shell has no current indication that the sheen originates from wells in either the Mars or Ursa projects.

However, out of prudent caution, Shell has activated the Louisiana Responder, a Marine Spill Response Corporation (MSRC) vessel.  The Louisiana Responder is an oil spill response vessel with skimming and boom capabilities.  Shell has also requested flights to monitor the one by ten-mile sheen closely with additional aerial surveillance.

At this time, the source of this sheen is unknown, and Shell’s priority is to respond proactively, safely, and in close coordination with regulatory agencies.  Updates will be provided as further action is taken. 

Shell's Update: Following reports of an oil sheen in the vicinity of the Mars and Ursa production area in the Gulf of Mexico, a thorough inspection to date of Shell assets reveals operations in the area are normal with no sign of leaks.

We have also confirmed there are no well control issues associated with our drilling operations in the area.

Shell is continuing to cooperate with federal regulators in their efforts to determine the cause and nature of the sheen, which is estimated to be 6 barrels.

In addition, although we are confident at this time that the sheen did not originate from Shell operations, out of prudent caution we will continue to respond to the sheen.  In that regard, the following actions have taken place:

1. Louisiana Responder, Oil Spill Response Vessel (OSRV) is on station and remains ready to respond
2. Over flights will continue as weather conditions permit
3. Shell has deployed two remote operating vehicles to inspect Shell and non-Shell infrastructure and search for potential naturally-occurring seeps in the area.

Source: http://www.shell.us

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Coast Guard responds to report of sheen in Gulf of Mexico

The Coast Guard is investigating the report of a rainbow sheen, Thursday, approximately 56 miles offshore Venice in the Gulf of Mexico.

Watchstanders at the U.S. Coast Guard National Response Center received notification from Shell Oil Co., Wednesday, at 4:45 p.m., reporting that a rainbow sheen one mile by 10 miles in length was spotted near the Mississippi Canyon Block 807.

The Captain of the Port Morgan City, Capt. Jonathan Burton, issued a Notice of Federal Interest to Shell Offshore. The source of the sheen and the responsible party are unknown at this time.

Pollution investigators from Coast Guard Sector New Orleans conducted an overflight, Thursday, aboard a Coast Guard Air Station New Orleans MH-65C Dolphin helicopter.

"We are treating this very seriously, as we do all reports of possible pollution. And, in consultation with our state and local partners, we will ensure that all measures are taken to fully investigate and, if necessary, mitigate any impact this could potentially have,” said Burton.

A skimmer vessel from Shell is scheduled to be on scene and assist with potential cleanup operations, should recoverable product be identified.

The Coast Guard is investigating the cause of the incident.

Source: United States Coast Guard