05-01-2010 Reps. Jo Bonner And Gene Taylor View Gulf Oil Spill

Press Release

On Saturday May 1st, U.S. Rep. Jo Bonner, R-AL, and U.S. Rep. Gene Taylor, D-MS, flew over the area of the Gulf oil spill aboard a U.S. Coast Guard aircraft.

The 3 hour flight took the two Gulf Coast lawmakers to the origination point of the oil leak and along the Louisiana coast.

They were afforded views of the oil slick and activities to contain the growing spill.

"I was struck by the wide area of the oil spill, although it is not a solid sheet of oil as one might imagine, but rather large patches of streamers which range from light brown, to dark coffee in color with streaks of bright orange interspersed where the older oil has emulsified" Congressman Bonner said.

"While the full intensity of the spill is not readily apparent from 1,000 feet in the air, it is certainly a very serious situation, and if allowed to continue, could severely impact our region economically and environmentally.

"I have urged both the Chairman of BP and federal officials to expend every effort to contain this spill with the urgency that it deserves. I am closely monitoring their activities and am offering my support when and where needed.

"Furthermore, I would strongly encourage all those who feel that they will be economically impacted by this spill to keep careful, detailed records in order to submit claims at the proper time.

"This event is going to touch every aspect of life on the Gulf Coast -- from shrimpers to oystermen, commercial and recreational fishermen, restaurateurs, hotel and condominium resort managers, realtors and more.

"I urge all to keep accurate records."

Congressman Bonner's web site will provide contact information for those wishing to file claims as well as report oil spills on beaches and wildlife.

Source