responsive documents - crew: national oceanic and atmospheric administration (noaa): regarding bp...

8/6/2019 Responsive Documents - CREW: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA): Regarding BP Oil Spill: 5

1/185

: oil spill onGulfcoast

Begin forwarded message:

From: Seth Tuler Date: April 30, 2010 11:51:45 AM EDTTo: [email protected]: "Thomas N. Webler" Subject: impacts to f ishermen from Deepwater Horizon spill response

Hi Patricia,

Along with our work on impacts to fishery communities from regulatory change we have been doing aseries of projects on the human dimensions of oil spills. So, we have been following closely what ishappening in the Gulf.

One thing that is beginning to concern us is that there are reports in the media that fishermen may getinvolved in response actions. There is experience with this from the Exxon Valdez spill response inparticular, and not all of them our good. We are contacting you because maybe you have a way ofbringing these issues to the attention of folks in the response management loop or in the fisheries sector inthe Gulf.

Careful attention needas to be given to:Training for hazmat work and monitoring of protective measuresMonitoring of exposures to oil, dispersants, and detergentsSocial impacts

In Alaska there are reports of acute health effects arose from exposures to oil or from exposures to dieselfumes, deqreasers, dispersants, and other clean-up related materials/products. Chronic physical healtheffects among residents of Cordova have also been reported, although they have received much lessscholarly attention. Reports of chronic physical outcomes have included: chemical sensitivity, ongoingdizziness, central nervous system damage, dermatitis, Leukemia and other blood disease, fetal defects,skin cancer, liver damage, damage to kidneys, chronic respiratory tract irritation and headaches. Inaddition, there are reports of increased drug and alcohol abuse among those who worked theclean-up. Our interviews in Cordova revealed that the nature of the people who live in that areasignificantly shaped their sensitivity to harm. For example, we were told that commercial fishermen arehighly independent by nature. They are also used to taking action, not sitting around waiting for someoneto come help them. Many fishermen responded to the spill by quickly going out in their vessels to assessthe extent of the spill and begin recovery of oil, without using protective equipment that might havereduced their exposures to the oil and its vapors. Social impacts can also emerge. Relationships weredamaged because of tensions among people about participating in the clean-up, including eligibility anddistribution of compensation

8110/201012:


2/185

: oil spill onGulfcoast

(e.g., captains and crew). Tensions flared in supervisor-employee relations in clean-up work forfishermen not used to having a "boss." There were reports from our interviewees of arguments eruptingbetween neighbors and "outsiders" coming to work on clean-up. According to our interviewees, one of themost striking splits that harmed the community was between people who decided to work for Exxon torespond to the spill and those who refused, on principle, to take money from the company. Among thosewho opted to work for Exxon, further division was created when Exxon offered unequal contracts forequivalent service. Because of the strong support of the oil and gas industry in the Gulf region the angertoward the responsible party may not be as strong - at least at these initial stages.

Here are a few things we would suggest doing pro-actively:. Require hazmat training for all fishermen, if they are going to be involved in response. Need to addresslanguage issues (Safety briefs in Vietnamese and Spanish).require close exposure monitoring - of oil byproducts, dispersants, and detergents, and degreasers.Establish oversight of protective measures. Require as part of employment in response.Provide support to crew as well as owners/captains of vessels

If we can be of any more assistance please let us know.

Thanks.

Seth and Tom Webler

Seth Tuler

Research FellowSocial and Environmental Research Institute, Inc.278 Main Street, Suite 404Greenfield, MA 01301

Phone: 413-387-9320Fax: 530-348-7325Web page: www.seri-us.org

8110/201012:


3/185

: oil spill onGulf coast

Madeleine Hall-Arber, Ph.D.AnthropologistMIT Sea Grant College Program42-44 Carleton Street, E34-342Cambridge, MA 02142(617)[email protected]: http://seagrant.mit.edu

8110/201012:4


4/185

d: Re: oil spill onGulfcoast

Subject: Fwd: Re: oil spill on Gulf coastFrom: Michael Liffmann Date: Fri, 30 Apr 201012:32:36 -0400To: LaDon Swann , [email protected], Roy Kron ,Gene Kim , Kola Garber FYI. M- -- Original Message - - - - Subject: Re: oil spill on Gulf coast

Date: Fri, 30 Apr 2010 12:27:22 -0400From: Madeleine Hall-Arber To: Gary Graham CC: Flaxen Conway , 'Torie Baker' ,Chris Hager , [email protected], Kaety Hildenbrand , Jay Rasmussen , Stephen Brandt

Greetings,Here is an important warning from a social scientist here in the northeast who has been concerned withthe long term health effects on fishermen involved in the Exxon Valdez spill. Please pass this on to anycontacts you have that might be in a position to assure appropriate response.Thanks,Madeleine


From: Seth Tuler Date: April 30, 2010 11:51:45AM EDTTo: [email protected]: "Thomas N.Webler" Subject: impacts to fishermen from Deepwater Horizon spill responseHi Patricia,Along with our work on impacts to fishery communities from regulatory change we have been doinga series of projects on the human dimensions of oil spills. So, we have been following closely whatis happening in the Gulf.One thing that is beginning to concern us is that there are reports in the media that fishermen mayget involved in response actions. There is experience with this from the Exxon Valdez spillresponse in particular, and not all of them our good. We are contacting you because maybe youhave a way of bringing these issues to the attention of folks in the response management loop or inthe fisheries sector in the Gulf.Careful attention needas to be given to:

8/10/2010 12:


5/185

d: Re: oil spill onGulf coast

Training for hazmat work and monitoring of protective measuresMonitoring of exposures to oil, dispersants, and detergentsSocial impacts

In Alaska there are reports of acute health effects arose from exposures to oil or from exposures todiesel fumes, degreasers, dispersants, and other clean-up related materials/products. Chronicphysical health effects among residents of Cordova have also been reported, although they havereceived much less scholarly attention. Reports of chronic physical outcomes have included:chemical sensitivity, ongoing dizziness, central nervous system damage, dermatitis, Leukemia andother blood disease, fetal defects, skin cancer, liver damage, damage to kidneys, chronicrespiratory tract irritation and headaches. In addition, there are reports of increased drug andalcohol abuse among those who worked the clean-up. Our interviews in Cordova revealed that thenature of the people who live in that area significantly shaped their sensitivity to harm. For example,we were told that commercial f ishermen are highly independent by nature. They are also used totaking action, not sitting around waiting for someone to come help them. Many fishermenresponded to the spill by quickly going out in their vessels to assess the extent of the spill and beginrecovery of oil, without using protective equipment that might have reduced their exposures to theoil and its vapors. Social impacts can also emerge. Relationships were damaged because oftensions among people about participating in the clean-up, including eligibility and distribution ofcompensation(e.g., captains and crew). Tensions flared in supervisor-employee relations in clean-up work forfishermen not used to having a "boss." There were reports from our interviewees of argumentserupting between neighbors and "outsiders" coming to work on clean-up. According to ourinterviewees, one of the most striking splits that harmed the community was between people whodecided to work for Exxon to respond to the spill and those who refused, on principle, to takemoney from the company. Among those who opted to work for Exxon, further division was createdwhen Exxon offered unequal contracts for equivalent service. Because of the strong support of theoil and gas industry in the Gulf region the anger toward the responsible party may not be as strong- at least at these initial stages.

Here are a few things we would suggest doing pro-actively:. Require hazmat training for all fishermen, if they are going to be involved in response. Need toaddress language issues (Safety briefs in Vietnamese and Spanish).. require close exposure monitoring - of oil byproducts, dispersants, and detergents, anddegreasers.

Establish oversight of protective measures. Require as part of employment in response.Provide support to crew as well as owners/captains of vessels


Thanks.

0 8/l0/2010 12:


6/185

: Re: oil spill on Gulf coast

Seth and Tom Webler

Seth TulerResearch FellowSocial and Environmental Research Institute, Inc.278 Main Street, Suite 404Greenfield, MA 01301Phone: 413-387-9320Fax: 530-348-7325Web page: www.seri-us.org

Madeleine Hall-Arber, Ph.D.AnthropologistMIT Sea Grant College Program42-44 Carleton Street, E34-342Cambridge, MA 02142(617) [email protected]: http://seagrant.mit.edu

8/10/2010 12:


7/185

d: Re: oil spill on Gulf coast

Subject: Fwd: Re: oil spill on Gulf coastFrom: Michael Liffmann Date: Fri, 30 Apr 201013:36:42 -0400To: Chuck Wilson , Roy EKron , LaDon Swann, [email protected], Bob Stickney , LoganRespess , "Havens,Karl" , "Spranger,Michael S", Leon Cammen , Gene Kim ,Kola Garber Hi, again! Not sure I'd sent this to all of you, so here is a resend! Interesting findings from AK, to say theleast. M---- Original Message - -- -Subject: Re: oil spill on Gulf coast

Date: Fri, 30 Apr 2010 12:27:22 -0400From: Madeleine Hall-Arber To: Gary Graham CC: Flaxen Conway , 'Torie Baker' ,Chris Hager , [email protected], Kaety Hildenbrand , Jay Rasmussen , Stephen Brandt

Greetings,Here is an important warning from a social scientist here in the northeast who has been concerned withthe long term health effects on fishermen involved in the Exxon Valdez spill. Please pass this on to anycontacts you have that might be in a position to assure appropriate response.Thanks,Madeleine


From: Seth Tuler Date: April 30, 2010 11:51:45 AM EDTTo: [email protected]: "Thomas N. Webler" Subject: impacts to fishermen from Deepwater Horizon spill responseHi Patricia,Along with our work on impacts to fishery communities from regulatory change we have been doinga series of projects on the human dimensions of oil spills. So, we have been following closely whatis happening in the Gulf.One thing that is beginning to concern us is that there are reports in the media that fishermen mayget involved in response actions. There is experience with this from the Exxon Valdez spillresponse in particular, and not all of them our good. We are contacting you because maybe youhave a way of bringing these issues to the attention of folks in the response management loop or in

8/10/201012:


8/185

d: Re: oil spill on Gulf coast

the fisheries sector in the Gulf.Careful attention needas to be given to:

Training for hazmat work and monitoring of protective measuresMonitoring of exposures to oil, dispersants, and detergentsSocial impacts

In Alaska there are reports of acute health effects arose from exposures to oil or from exposures todiesel fumes, degreasers, dispersants, and other clean-up related materials/products. Chronicphysical health effects among residents of Cordova have also been reported, although they havereceived much less scholarly attention. Reports of chronic physical outcomes have included:chemical sensitivity, ongoing dizziness, central nervous system damage, dermatitis, Leukemia andother blood disease, fetal defects, skin cancer, liver damage, damage to kidneys, chronicrespiratory tract irritation and headaches. In addition, there are reports of increased drug andalcohol abuse among those who worked the clean-up. Our interviews in Cordova revealed that thenature of the people who live in that area significantly shaped their sensitivity to harm. For example,we were told that commercial f ishermen are highly independent by nature. They are also used totaking action, not sitting around waiting for someone to come help them. Many fishermenresponded to the spill by quickly going out in their vessels to assess the extent of the spill and beginrecovery of oil, without using protective equipment that might have reduced their exposures to theoil and its vapors. Social impacts can also emerge. Relationships were damaged because oftensions among people about participating in the clean-up, including eligibility and distribution ofcompensation(e.g., captains and crew). Tensions flared in supervisor-employee relations in clean-up work forfishermen not used to having a "boss." There were reports from our interviewees of argumentserupting between neighbors and "outsiders" coming to work on clean-up. According to ourinterviewees, one of the most striking splits that harmed the community was between people whodecided to work for Exxon to respond to the spill and those who refused, on principle, to takemoney from the company. Among those who opted to work for Exxon, further division was createdwhen Exxon offered unequal contracts for equivalent service. Because of the strong support of theoil and gas industry in the Gulf region the anger toward the responsible party may not be as strong- at least at these initial stages.

Here are a few things we would suggest doing pro-actively:. Require hazmat training for all fishermen, if they are going to be involved in response. Need toaddress language issues (Safety briefs in Vietnamese and Spanish).. require close exposure monitoring - of oil byproducts, dispersants, and detergents, anddegreasers.

Establish oversight of protective measures. Require as part of employment in response.Provide support to crew as well as owners/captains of vessels


8110/201012:4


9/185

: Re: oil spill on Gulfcoast

Thanks.

Seth and Tom Webler

Seth TulerResearch FellowSocial and Environmental Research Institute, Inc.278 Main Street, Suite 404Greenfield, MA 01301Phone: 413-387-9320Fax: 530-348-7325Web page: www.seri-us.org

Madeleine Hall-Arber, Ph.D.AnthropologistMIT Sea Grant College Program42-44 Carleton Street, E34-342Cambridge, MA 02142(617) [email protected]: http://seagrant.mit.edu

00 8/10/2010 12:


10/185

: Vietnamese Oil Spill Meeting

Subject: FW: Vietnamese Oil Spill MeetingFrom: Chuck Wilson Date: Sun, 09 May 2010 01:05:53 -0500To: [email protected]'s going onChuck WilsonVice Provost Academic AffairsExecutive Director Louisiana Sea Grant College ProgramProfessor Oceanography and Coastal SciencesLouisiana State UniversityBaton Rouge La. 70803ph 225 578 7662/6283Fax 225 578 6331From: Bui, Thu [mailto:[email protected]]Sent: Sat 5/8/20106:15 PMTo: Gaude, III, Albert P.; Thomas, Glenn; Chuck Wilson; Roy EKron; David L NielandCc: [email protected]; [email protected]; Coreil , Paul D.; Schexnayder, Mark A.Subject: RE: Vietnamese Oil Spill Meeting

All,

At the meeting yesterday, Robert Nguyen expressed the fears of the fishermen to local officials andorganizations. And I will summarize his statement: Economic sustainability has been a major issuefor the seafood industry over the last five years . Extensive damages from the hurricanes of 2005 tothe fishing fleet and infrastructure continued to affect both landings and prices in 2008, and wereexacerbated by the effects of the 2008 hurricanes. More recently, the flood of imports and lowprices of shrimp has affected the fishermen's work and livelih ood. This year, just when the fishermenstarted seeing decent prices for shrimp and new hope as the season begins they are faced with thedevastation of the oil spill. Fishermen fear that they may lose what is left of their industry ; thus, theirlivelihood and families will be affected.

In yesterday's meeting ,Vietnamese fishermen voiced over and over that the biggest problem theyfaced is the language barrier. One of their key concerns is being able to meet their mortgage andcontinuing to work through this tough time. It is to the unde rstanding of the fishermen that BP ishiring fishermen to clean up the oil spill. One fishermen revealed that he was approached with along contract, and because he is excited to have work he signed it without understanding all theprovisions in the contract. Being that English is not their native language, Vietnamese fishermenrequested that contracts, trainings, etc. be translated and co nducted in Vietnamese so that they canmake more informed decisions.

Also, according to the BP rep, fishermen who are not working and losing income from the result ofthe oil spill can call into their hotline to make a claim for an interim payment plan, and can receive anexpedited 48 hour payment of up to $5000 which is renewable each month. This payment is

8110/201012:4


11/185


determined based on their income tax returns. So, fishermen are encouraged to have their 2009 taxreturns filed if they have not done so already.

To clear up some uncertainty, I also asked Mr. Hugh, the BP rep, If the fishermen make a claim,does that mean BP is providing a settlement. The rep responded that no, fishermen who file a suitlater and are compensated simply would subtract from their settlement what they have received fromthe expedited claims ...Lawyers present were weary of how this would work out...

Also, one of the law firm had a copy of the contract so that was discussed as well.

Another hot topic at the meeting was the effects of the chemical dispersants used in the oil spill.Fishermen feared that the dispersants would simply cause the 0 il to sink to the bottom of the Gulf;thus, when fishermen trawl for shrimp they would simply be trawling into the oil again. Although thesheen will have disappeared from the water surface, it is still present in the water bottom and theeffects of the dispersants/oil on seafood is uncertain to the fishermen.

The BP rep responded that the dispersants used was the safest method approved by EPA. Roughly5,000 barrels of oil naturally seep to the ocean bottom and are digested by microbes. Fishermen inthe crowd laughed at his response. And someone asked him whether he is implying to let a manmade error be resolved by nature and let nature run its course; thus, putting the responsibility of theoil clean up on mother nature.

The BP rep stated that he would bring the suggestions of the fishermen back to BP and wouldcontact the Mary Queens organizations with his responses.

Today, I received calls regarding the claims and payment process from many fishermen. Fishermenwho I know have already filed the claims stated that it was a fairly easy process and would reportback as soon as they receive payments.

I will update more on the Vietnamese community as I receive more information.

-Thu

Thu BuiAsst. Extension Agent, Fisheries

8110/201012:


12/185


St. Mary, Iberia, and Vermilion ParishesSt. Mary Parish Court House500 Main Street Rm. 314Franklin, LA 70538-61990: 337.828-4100 Ext. 300

Icid:[email protected]:3315033773 1765637

From: Gaude, III, Albert P.Sent: Saturday, May 08, 2010 12:30 PMTo: Thomas, Glenn; Chuck Wilson; Sui, Thu; Roy EKron; David L NielandCc: [email protected]; [email protected]; Coreil, Paul D.; Schexnayder, Mark A.Subject: Vietnamese Oil Spill Meetring

We had a very robust turnout for the Vietnamese Oil Spill Meeting yesterday AM in NO East with 22organizations represented and hundreds of people. Link below.

Thu and I represented Sea Grant.

USCG Incident Command publically recognized the outstanding contributions our PlaqueminesParish Sea Grant cooperator, Robert 'Phong' Nguyen, has given to the Vietnamese fishingcommunity during this oil spill and all hurricane recovery efforts of the USCG.

http://www.nola.com/news/gulf-oil-spill/index.ssf/2010/05/manyvietnamesefishersisolat.html

RUSTYGAUDE'AREA FISHERY AGENT

8110/201012:4


13/185


Plaquemines, St. Bernard, Orleans ParishesLOUISIANA SEA GRANT PROGRAMLSU AGCENTER479A F. EDWARD HEBERT BLVD.BELLE CHASSE LA [email protected] la agctr logo

. . - _ ~ n i ~ a g ~ 6 0 3 . g i f i,: image003.gif Content-Type: image/gif !I I, Content-Encoding: base64- - -__________ - -- - -- - A - - __._ . -____ __ - - - - - - __ __ - 0 -. . I, I Content-Description: image001.gif ,Iimage001.gif Content-Type: image/gif II, Content-Encoding: base64.::...._.=.:.. . _ ~ _ . ..=... ._ . ~ - - : . . . . : . . . - : . . . . : . . . . - . ~ ~ . _ - _ : : ~ ~ ~ "='--_"":'.. _ " ' : ' * ~ - - - - -.'....:...

Content-Description: image002.jpgimage002.jpg Content-Type: image/jpeg

Content-Encoding: base64

8110/201012:


14/185


Subject: FW: Vietnamese Oil Spill MeetingFrom: Chuck Wilson Date: Sun, 09 May 2010 01:15:32 -0500To: LaDon Swann , Bob Stickney ,[email protected]: [email protected], David L Nieland Interesting report from Thu - might be of us.CChuck WilsonVice Provost Academic AffairsExecutive Director Louisiana Sea Grant College ProgramProfessor Oceanography and Coastal SciencesLouisiana State UniversityBaton Rouge La. 70803ph 225 578 7662/6283Fax 225 578 6331From: Bui, Thu [mailto:[email protected]]Sent: Sat 5/8/2010 6:15 PMTo: Gaude, III, Albert P.; Thomas, Glenn; Chuck Wilson; Roy EKron; David L NielandCc: [email protected]; [email protected]; Coreil, Paul D.; Schexnayder, Mark A.Subject: RE: Vietnamese Oil Spill Meeting

All,

At the meeting yesterday, Robert Nguyen expressed the fears of the fishermen to local officials andorganizations. And I will summarize his statement: Economic sustainability has been a major issuefor the seafood industry over the last five years. Extensive damages from the hurricanes of 2005 tothe fishing fleet and infrastructure continued to affect both landings and prices in 2008, and wereexacerbated by the effects of the 2008 hurricanes. More rece ntly, the flood of imports and lowprices of shrimp has affected the fishermen's work and livelihood. This year, just when the fishermenstarted seeing decent prices for shrimp and new hope as the season begins they are faced with thedevastation of the oll.spill. Fishermen fear that they may lose what is left of their industry; thus, theirlivelihood and families will be affected.

In yesterday's meeting, Vietnamese fishermen voiced over and over that the biggest problem theyfaced is the language barrier. One of their key concerns is being able to meet their mortgage andcontinuing to work through this tough time. It is to the understanding of the fishermen that BP ishiring fishermen to clean up the oil spill. One fishermen revealed that he was approached with along contract, and because he is excited to have work he signed it without understanding all theprovisions in the contract. Being that English is not their native language, Vietnamese fishermenrequested that contracts, trainings, etc. be translated and co nducted in Vietnamese so that they canmake more informed decisions.

8110/2010 12:


15/185


Also, according to the BP rep, fishermen who are not working and losing income from the result ofthe oil spill can call into their hotline to make a claim for an interim payment plan, and can receive anexpedited 48 hour payment of up to $5000 which is renewable each month. This payment isdetermined based on their income tax returns. So, fishermen are encouraged to have their 2009 taxreturns filed if they have not done so already.

To clear up some uncertainty, I also asked Mr. Hugh, the BP rep, If the fishermen make a claim,does that mean BP is providing a settlement. The rep respond ed that no, fishermen who file a suitlater and are compensated simply would subtract from their settlement what they have received fromthe expedited c1aims ...Lawyers present were weary of how this would work out. ..



The BP rep responded that the dispersants used was the safest method approved by EPA. Roughly5,000 barrels of oil naturally seep to the ocean bottom and are digested by microbes. Fishermen inthe crowd laughed at his response. And someone asked him whether he is implying to let a manmade error be resolved by nature and let nature run its course; thus, putting the responsibil ity of theoil clean up on mother nature.




-Thu

Thu Bui

8110/201012:


16/185


Asst. Extension Agent, FisheriesSt. Mary, Iberia, and Vermilion ParishesSt. Mary Parish Court House500 Main Street Rm. 314Franklin, LA 70538-61990 : 337.828-4100 Ext. 300

Icid:[email protected]:3315033773 1765637

From: Gaude, III, Albert P.Sent: Saturday, May 08,2010 12:30 PMTo: Thomas, Glenn; Chuck Wilson; Sui, Thu; Roy EKron; David L NielandCc: [email protected]; [email protected]; Coreil, Paul D.; Schexnayder, Mark A.Subject: Vietnamese Oil Spill Meetring





RUSTYGAUDE'

8110/201012:


17/185


AREA FISHERY AGENTPlaquemines, St. Bernard, Orleans ParishesLOUISIANA SEA GRANT PROGRAMLSU AGCENTER479A F. EDWARD HEBERT BLVD.BELLE CHASSE LA [email protected] la agctr logo

- -_ .. _.._----.._- .. --- --_. ---. ---- ---- ---_._.-._-----_.. ------ -_ .. -_.._--- -. "., .. _.- -_. - -.-. --- - -_. ; ; -- _. - _._.- ._. - --- - ..- - -- - ' - - -- - ..- - .- - --- - .. ;:: Content-Description: image003.gif,~ : Content-Type: image/gif, Content-Encoding: base64;~ . . : . : . : : . = . . ~ . . : . . . : : : . : . . . . . : . . . . . . : . . . . - = . _ - - - ~ - - " - - - = - - - - - - - - - -

- '" - = - =-. - - -- - -- = -- -1Content-Description: image001 .gif Iimage001.gif Content-Type: image/gif

Content-Encoding: base64- - - - - - - - - - - -- - - - - - - - - - - - - - --------Content-Description: image002.jpg ,image002.jpg Content-Type: image/jpeg

Content-Encoding: base64

8110/201012:


18/185

d: FW: Vietnamese Oil Spill Meeting

Subject: Fwd: FW: Vietnamese Oil Spill MeetingFrom: [email protected]: Sun, 09 May 2010 08:20:28 -0400To: [email protected]: [email protected]. ML

. w... . _. _ _ _ __ _ ... _ _ _ . _ _- - - _. _ - -- --- -- - - - - -- - - - - - - - ..-- - -- ---_._ -SUbject: FW: Vietnamese Oil Spill MeetingFrom: Chuck Wilson Date: Sun, 09 May 2010 01:15:32 -0500To: LaDon Swann , Bob Stickney ,[email protected]: [email protected], David L Nieland Interesting report from Thu - might be of us.CChuck WilsonVice Provost Academic AffairsExecutive Director Louisiana Sea Grant College ProgramProfessor Oceanography and Coastal SciencesLouisiana State UniversityBaton Rouge La. 70803ph 225 578 7662/6283Fax 225 578 6331From: Bui, Thu [mailto:[email protected]]Sent: Sat 5/8/2010 6:15 PMTo: Gaude, III, Albert P.; Thomas, Glenn; Chuck Wilson; Roy EKron; David L NielandCc: [email protected]; [email protected]; Coreil, Paul D.; Schexnayder, Mark A.Subject: RE: Vietnamese Oil Spill Meeting

All,

At the meeting yesterday, Robert Nguyen expressed the fears of the fishermen to local officials andorganizations. And I will summarize his statement: Economic sustainability has been a major issuefor the seafood industry over the last five years. Extensive damages from the hurricanes of 2005 tothe fishing fleet and infrastructure continued to affect both landings and prices in 2008, and wereexacerbated by the effects of the 2008 hurricanes. More rece ntly, the flood of imports and lowprices of shrimp has affected the fishermen's work and livelih ood. This year, just when the fishermenstarted seeing decent prices for shrimp and new hope as the se ason begins they are faced with thedevastation of the oil spill. Fishermen fear that they may lose what is left of their industry; thus, theirlivelihood and families will be affected.

8/10/2010 12:


19/185


In yesterday's meeting, Vietnamese fishermen voiced over and over that the biggest problem theyfaced is the language barrier. One of their key concerns is being able to meet their mortgage andcontinuing to work through this tough time. It is to the unde rstanding of the fishermen that BP ishiring fishermen to clean up the oil spill. One fishermen revealed that he was approached with along contract, and because he is excited to have work he signe d it without understanding all theprovisions in the contract. Being that English is not their native language, Vietnamese fishermenrequested that contracts, trainings, etc. be translated and conducted in Vietnamese so that they canmake more informed decisions.

Also, according to the BP rep, fishermen who are not working and losing income from the result ofthe oil spill can call into their hotline to make a claim for an interim payment plan, and can receive anexpedited 48 hour payment of up to $5000 which is renewable each month. This payment isdetermined based on their income tax returns. So, fishermen are encouraged to have their 2009 taxreturns filed if they have not done so already.

To clear up some uncertainty, I also asked Mr. Hugh, the BP rep, If the fishermen make a claim,does that mean BP is providing a settlement. The rep respond ed that no, fishermen who file a suitlater and are compensated simply would subtract from their settlement what they have received fromthe expedited c1aims ...Lawyers present were weary of how this would work out...



The BP rep responded that the dispersants used was the safest method approved by EPA. Roughly5,000 barrels of oil naturally seep to the ocean bottom and are digested by microbes. Fishermen inthe crowd laughed at his response. And someone asked him whether he is implying to let a manmade error be resolved by nature and let nature run its course; thus, putting the responsibil ity of theoil clean up on mother nature.



8/10/2010 12:


20/185



-Thu

Thu SuiAsst. Extension Agent, FisheriesSt. Mary, Iberia, and Vermilion ParishesSt. Mary Parish Court House500 Main Street Rm. 314Franklin, LA 70538-61990: 337.828-4100 Ext. 300

Icid:[email protected]:3315033773_1765637

From: Gaude, III, Albert P.Sent: Saturday, May 08, 2010 12:30 PMTo: Thomas, Glenn; Chuck Wilson; Sui, Thu; Roy EKron; David L NielandCc: [email protected]; [email protected]; Coreil, Paul D.; Schexnayder, Mark A.Subject: Vietnamese Oil Spill Meetring




8/10/2010 12:


21/185



RUSTYGAUDE'AREA FISHERY AGENTPlaquemines, St. Bernard, Orleans ParishesLOUISIANA SEA GRANT PROGRAMLSU AGCENTER479A F. EDWARD HEBERT BLVD.BELLE CHASSE LA [email protected] la agctr logo.. .Content-Type: m e s s ~ g e / r f C 8 2 2FW: Vietnamese 011 Spill Meeting.eml 7b'. _ _ _ . ~ n t e n t - E n c o d i n g : It J

-=-----=--=--=--- -=-------=--;:.-:- -. ... -.. .. . . . IContent-Description: image003.gif 'I

, image003.gif Content-Type: image/gif _r- Content-Encoding: base64 :1. . . . _.-. . ..... ---'---.1.-- - ..------- - - - - - - - ~ Content-Description: image001.gif i' image001.gif Content-Type: image/gif

Content-Encoding: base64-- - - ---------. - ~ -- - - - - -_.- ---- -- - - -- =_ r : : ;- _-=_"7_':: _-__ : ~ : ' !

,Content-Description: image002.jpgimage002.jpg Content-Type: image/jpeg

Content-Encoding: base64;.. -- - - - - -

8110/201012:


22/185

FW : Vietnamese Oil Spill Meeting

8110/2010 12:


23/185

: Samples and Dispersants

Subject: RE: Samples and DispersantsFrom: "Falgout, Julie J." Date: Mon, 10 May 2010 08:30:56 -0500To: "Finley, John W." , Julie Falgout CC: "Lampila, Lucina" , Kermit Murray ,"Thomas, Glenn" , "Coreil, Paul D." ,ChuckWilson , Mike Liffmann John,There seems to be a long line of people waiting for samples of oil. John Veasey, the Regional ShellfishSpecialist with FDA out of Baton Rouge is looking for 4 liters of oil so they can calibrate theirinstruments at their testing locations. I will certainly pass this along. I think it's important that LSUobtain samples for several reasons. One of course the launching of our certification program.Glenn, Chuck, Paul, Mike: please advise if any of you have any suggestions for contacts or how wemight go about getting these samples.Thanks,JulieFrom: Finley, John W. [[email protected]: Monday, May 10, 2010 7:13 AMTo: Julie FalgoutCc: Lampila, Lucina; Kermit MurraySUbject: Samples and DispersantsJulieIt is our understanding that NOAA is collecting samples of seafood for pre-contamination andpresumably will be monitoring for post spill contamination, In addition to the effects of the oil we areconcerned about the dispersants that are being applied. Would it be possible to obtain samples of oil, alist and if possible samples of dispersants, seafood of known source,time and location of catch.We would also like samples later on for periodic screening of exposed seafood.Thanks

John

John W, Finley, HeadDepartment of Food Science111 Food Science BuildingLouisana State UniversityBaton Rouge, LA 70803-4200

Phone: 2255785085Cell: 225 571 2711

f 2 8/10/20ID 12:


24/185

: Samples and Dispersants

8/10/2010 12:


25/185

: [Fwd: Re: INFO REQUEST - Fishermen training & disaster respons ...

Subject: Re: [Fwd: Re: INFO REQUEST Fishermen training & disaster response (due 4 pm Monday))From: Michael Liffmann Date: Mon, 10 May 201010:18:57 -0400To: Alan Leonardi , Frank Parker , [email protected], [email protected]: Leon Cammen , Kola Garber , Jim Murray , Gene Kim ,Michael Liffmann . [email protected], Alan and Frank- Leon forwarded your inquiry to me for response. OAR's NOAA Sea Grant programs in LA, M5-AL, FL, and TX are heavily involved in the DeepwaterHorizon oil spill incident and Working to coordinate and better inform many constituents, most notablyfishermen and seafood producers. FYI, the programs have alsocollaborated on a very informative website that Is constantly being updated http://gulfseagrant.tamu.eduioilspilVindex.htm and the LASea Grant program issued an RFPfor rapid response, mini-grant type research projects. They received 54 proposals of which they can o n fund five . The National Sea Grant Office, through our DirectorLeon Cammen, is seeking funds for up to ten additional, meritorious projects. More detai ls to fol low onthis latter issue since the projects wil l be selected by a LASeaGrant panel today.Also of very timely relevance, is the pertinentcorrespondence that I'm pasting below. (1) Sea Grant &tension agent Julie Falgout Is embedded in Unified Command inHouma and working with NOSIORR to address fishermen's and seafood safety concerns; (2) Sea Grant Extension agent , Thu Bui, is working with Vietnamese fishermenand (3) Louisiana Sea Grant (and MS-AL tofol low) are hosting AK Sea Grant agents experienced in fisheries issues related to the Exxon Valdezincident. Best! Mike(1) NOAA SEA GRANT HELPING ENGAGE LOCAL FISHERIES COMMUNITIESSUbject: Deepwater CanyonlMS Canyon 252 FAST (seafood safety group)Date : Sat, 08 May 2010 09:36:01 -0700From : Gary Shigenaka To: david [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], "Falgout, Jul ie J." CC: Gary Shigenaka Hey Folks,Thank you for taking the time yesterday to sit and talk. I think that we can serve a useful function br the Unified Command and for affected communities in Louisiana .Here are a couple of things:First, I'm attaching a spreadsheet with people 's names and contacts. I'm still working on getting Susan Klasing from California EPA on board , and Nicolle Rutherford is aNOAA biolog ist who wil l replace mewhen I rotate out In a couple of years (that 's what's feeling like).Second, I spoke with Joint Information Center (JIC)lpublic affairs types yesterday aftemoon to introdu:e the concept to them and make sure they didn't have excessiveheartbum over our plans to engage local communities. Quite the contrary, they were very pleased and ctfered up a lot of their resources and did not even hint a t beinguncomfortable with FAST putting out a message about seafood safety. To that end , they are offering toset up a cal l-in where we would sit around a table at thecommand post and people/media could call in with questions. JIC would provide facilitator-moderator and would put out the word . JIC also has parish liaisons in eachparish.Ifwe do this, I would l ike to have everyone on board just to make sure our bases are covered and to demonstrate that we have commitment from all our agencies. JICwil l set this up anytimewe want but I am thinking perhaps ThurslFri time frame . That would require fdks to be here and maybe to meet beforehand to strategizeamessage and approach.Obv iously, this is a self-selecting means of communication...those who have phones and are Inclined tocal l Inwould be there , but we'd miss a lot o f people. I am hopingthat Jul ie will have a map for usabout who else is out there and have a plan for engag ing those other communities. She wil l be back here on Mondayand we wil l meetwith JIC to discuss.Any thoughts? I am atlaching the draftFAST charter, please comment and get back to me this weekend because I want to have it firmed up today or tomorrowand usethe thing to market us to the Federal On-Scene Coordinator, a necessary first step to making us official.I also will be sending two subsequent emails out with documents attachments (seafood & oil spill guidance docs) . They will be big. so if there isa dangerof cloggingyour email then you should delete...Cheers,gary(2) WORKING TO BETTER INFORMVIETNAMESE FISHERMENFrom : Bui, Thu [mailto:[email protected]: Sat 518120106:15 PMTo : Gaude, III, Albert P.; Thomas, Glenn : Chuck Wilson: Roy EKron : David L NielandCc: [email protected]; [email protected] lsiana .gov; Coreil, Paul D.: Schexnayder, Mark A.Subject: RE: Vietnamese Oil Spill MeelingAll,At the meeting yesterday, Robert Nguyen expressed the fears of the fishermen to local officials and orgmizations. And I will summarize his statement Economicsustainability has been a major issue for the seafood industry over the last five years . Extensive damages from the hurricanes of 2005 to the fishing fteet andinfrastructure continued to affect both landings and prices in 2008 , and were exacerbated by the effects of the 2008 hurricanes. More recently, the flood of imports andlow prices of shrimp has affected the fishermen'swork and livelihood. This year, just when the fishermen started seeIng decent prices for shrimp and new hope as theseason begins they are faced with the devastation of the oil spi ll . Fishermen fear that they may losewhat is left of their industry; thus, their livelihood and families will beaffected.In yesterday's meeting, Vietnamese fishermen voiced over and over that the biggest problem they faced is the language barrier. One of their key concems is being ableto meet their mortgage and continuing to work through this tough time. Itis to the understanding of 1I1e fishermen that BP Is hiring fishermen to clean up the oil spi ll .One fishermen revealed that he was approached with a long contract, and because he is excited to have v.ork he signed it without understanding all the provisions in thecontract. Being that English is not their native language, Vietnamese fishermen requested that contracts , trainings, etc. be translated and conducted in Vietnamese sothat they can make more informed decis ions.Also, according to the BP rep, fishermen who are not working and losing income from the result of the oil spi ll can cal l into their hol l ine to make a claim for an interimpayment plan, and can receive an expedited 48 hour payment of up to $5000 which is renewable each month . This payment is determined based on their income taxretums. So, fishermen are encouraged to have their 2009 tax returns filed if they have not done so a ~ e a d y .To clear up some uncertainty, I also asked Mr. Hugh, the BP rep, If the fishermen make a claim, does that mean BP is providing a settlement. The rep responded thatno, fishermen who file a suit later and are compensated simply would subtract from their settlementwha: they have received from the expedited claims...Lawyerspresent were weary of how this would work out...

on 8110/201012:


26/185


Also, one of the law firm had a copy of the contract so that was discussed as well.Another hot topic at the meeting was the effects of the chemical dispersants used in the oil spill. Fishermen feared that the dispersants would simply cause the oil tosink to the bottom of the Gulf; thus, when fishermen trawl for shrimp they would simply be trawling inb the oil again. Although the sheen will have disappeared from thewater surface, it is still present in the water bottom and the effects of the dispersants/oil on seafood is uncertain to the fishermen.The BP rep responded that the dispersants used was the safest method approved by EPA. Roughly 5,000 barrels of oil naturally seep to the ocean bottom and aredigested by microbes. Fishermen in the crowd laughed at his response. And someone asked him whether he is implying to let a man made error be resolved by natureand let naturerun its course; thus, putting the responsibility of the oil clean up on mother nature.The BP rep stated that he would bring the suggestions of the fishermen back to BPand would contact the Mary Queens organizations with his responses.Today, I received calls regarding the claims and payment process from many fishermen. Fishermen who Iknow have already filed the claims stated that itwas a fairlyeasy process and would report back as soon as they receive payments.Iwill update more on the Vietnamese community as I receive more information.

-ThuThu Bui

Assl. Extension Agent, FisheriesSI. Mary, Iberia, and Vermilion ParishesSI. Mary Parish Court House500 Main Street Rm. 314Franklin, LA 70538-61990: 337.828-4100 Ext. 300

(3) VISIT OFAK SEA GRANT EXTENSION AGENTS TO SOUTH LAAND MS-ALOur quickly organized Sea Grant meetingswith Louisiana parish constituents and a group of ALASKA OIL SPILL RESPONDERS is now confirmed. Eachmeetingwill lastapproximately one hourwith Q&A at end.The mission of this SEA GRANT effort is a two way introduction with key Louisiana and Alaska responders/stakeholders to facilitate an immediate and sustaineddialogue on the lessons leamed in the Exxon Valdez incident and applications to our current situation. This is an invitational meeting only and a press ban will be ineffect. No news release will be issued.Our two meeting locations(map links far below) on this Monday (May 10) will be:1. Cypress Cove Marina, Venice, 11am (under hotel complex) targeting Plaquemines Parish

2. LSU AgCenter office/Jefferson Parish, Kenner, 3pm (second floor) targeting SI. Tammany, Orleans, SI. Bemard, Jefferson, Lafourche, Terrebonne ParishesFor the Kenner meeting, each of the copied Sea Grant agents has been asked to invite 4 appropriate components of their respective parish govemment, commercialand recreational fishing sectors.The Alaska group will continue eastward and conduct similar efforts in cooperation with Mississippi and Alabama Sea Grant.h t l p : / I w w w . m a p g u e s l . c o m / m a p s ? n a m e = C y p r e s s + C o v e + M a r i n a & c i t y = V e n i c e & s t a t e = L A & a d d r e s s = 2 3 5 + C y p r e s s + C o v e + R d & z i p c o d e = 7 0 0 9 1 & c o u n t r y = U S & l a t i t u d e = 2 9 . 2 5 1 ~h t t p : / / w w w . m a p g u e s l . c o m / m a p s ? n a m e = L s u + A g c e n t e r + E x t e n s i o n + S e r v i c e & c i t y = M e t a i r i e & s t a t e = L A & a d d r e s s = 6 6 4 0 + R i t e r s i d e + D r + % 2 3 + 2 0 0 & z i p c o d e = 7 0 0 0 3 & c o u n t r y = U ~Please call me ifthere are any questions, 504-908-9713 (cell).RUSTYGAUDE'AREA FISHERY AGENTPlaquemines, SI. Bemard, Orleans ParishesLOUISIANA SEA GRANT PROGRAMLSU AGCENTER479A F. EDWARD HEBERT BLVD.BELLE CHASSE LA [email protected]

On 5/10/2010 8:53 AM, Leon Cammen wrote:Mike, Can you handle this?- - - Original Message - -- - -

Subject: Re: INFO REQUEST - Fishermen training & disaster response (due 4 pm Monday)Date: Mon, 10 May 2010 07:45:14 -0400

From: Alan.Leonardi To: frank parker

8110/2010 12:


27/185


cc: Leon Cammen , Nikola Garber , Jim D Murray , "Matthew Lee Cindy Matthews" References:

Frank -The only other OAR components which would have a remote connection would be GLERL, PMEL, and AOML. ThEtsaid, I am not aware of any of these types ofactivities at each of these institutions.-Alanfrank parker wrote:Hey folks,Can you help with this question? NMFS leadership just asked if any other part of NOAA is providing anytraining, training materials, or direction to fishermenseeking to aid in the response efforts? Ifyes, can you provide a copy of the materials being used? Rease reply by4 pm Monday ifyou can.Alan,Do you think/know of other OAR components that might playa role here? I suspect Sea Grant would be the only contributor to this request, which is why I sentitdirect ly to them. How about the wet labs?Thanks for your help, and apologies for the short tum around,-frank

---- Original Message - - - - -SUbject: INFO REQUEST - other LOs involve in Fisherman training)Date: Sun, 09 May 201016:09:03 -0400From: Beth Dieveney To: _HDQ PCO Contacts CC: John Rapp

Can you please task this ou t to your l ine s ao appropriate - l ike lya pp li es t o NMFS, NOS, maybe OAR and OMAD.Chris, I would think NMFS i s already on top of t h ~ s one.Please tr y to have something to me and John Rapp, cc t d , bu t COB Monday.Thanks

NMFS leadership Just asked i f any other part of NOAA io providing anytraining, t r ai n ing ma te r ia ls , o r direct ion to fisherman neeka ng to ai d1n t h e r e sponse ef forts? I f they are. do we have th e materials being used?Thanks,John

Beth DieveneyNOAA Program Coordination o f f i c eOffice of th e Under Secretary14 th" Const i tu t ion Ave., W, Room 5811Washington. DC 20230phone: 202-482-1281ce l l : 240-328-4812fax: 202-482-4116

Leon M. CammenDirec tor , NOAA Sea Grant1315 East-West HighwaySilver Spring, MD 20910Phone: 301-734-1088Fax : 301-713-1031Emai l : leon . [email protected]

Michael LiffmannExtension LeaderNOAA/Sea Grant, R/SG1315 East-West HighwaySSMC-3, E l even th F l o orSilver Spring, MD 20910TEL, (301) 734-1074 or (301) 734-1077FAX, (301) 713-0799E-mail: m i c h a e l . l i f f m a n n ~ n o a a .gov

0 8110/2010 12:


28/185

d: RE: Samples and Dispersants

SUbject: Fwd: RE: Samples and DispersantsFrom: Michael Liffmann Date: Mon, 10 May 2010 10:34:59 -0400To: Lauren B Lugo Hi! Please read Professor Finley's request below. Any suggestions? Best. M-------- Original Message -------SUbject: RE: Samples and Dispersants

Date: Mon, 10 May 201008:30:56 -0500From: Falgout, Julie J.

To: Finley, John W. , Julie Falgout CC: Lampila, Lucina , Kermit Murray ,Thomas, Glenn , Coreil, Paul D., Chuck Wilson , Mike Liffmann

John,There seems to be a long line of people waiting for samples of oil. John Veasey, the Regional ShellfishSpecialist with FDA out of Baton Rouge is looking for 4 liters of oil so they can calibrate theirinstruments at their testing locations. I will certainly pass this along. I think it's important that LSUobtain samples for several reasons. One of course the launching of our certification program.Glenn, Chuck, Paul, Mike: please advise if any of you have any suggestions for contacts or how wemight go about getting these samples.Thanks,JulieFrom: Finley, John W. [[email protected]: Monday, May 10, 20107:13 AMTo: Julie FalgoutCc: Lampila, Lucina; Kermit MurraySubject: Samples and DispersantsJulieIt is our understanding that NOM is collecting samples of seafood for pre-contamination andpresumably will be monitoring for post spill contamination, In addition to the effects of the oil we areconcerned about the dispersants that are being applied. Would it be possible to obtain samples of oil, alist and if possible samples of dispersants, seafood of known source,time and location of catch.We would also like samples later on for periodic screening of exposed seafood.Thanks

John

John W, Finley, HeadDepartment of Food Science

8110/201012:


29/185

d: RE : Samples and Dispersants

111 Food Science BuildingLouisana State UniversityBaton Rouge, LA 70803-4200

Phone: 225 578 5085Cell: 225 571 2711

81l0/2010 12:


30/185

: [Fwd: Re: INFO REQUEST - Fishermen training & disaster respons...

SUbject: Re: [Fwd: Re: INFO REQUEST - Fishennen training & disaster response (due 4 pm Monday)]From: Frank Parker Date: Tue, 11 May 2010 08:50:02 -0400To: Michael Liffmann CC: Alan Leonardi , [email protected], [email protected], Leon Cammen , Kola Garber, Jim Murray , Gene Kim , [email protected] for this reply, Mike. Very helpful.-frankOn 05.10.2010 10:18, Michael Liffmann wrote:Hi, Alan and Frank- Leonforwarded your inquiry to me for response. OAR's NOAA Sea Grant programs in LA, MS-AL, FL, and TX are heavily involved intheDeepwater Horizon oil spill incident and working to coordinate and better infonn many constituents, mostnotably fishennen and seafood producers. FYI, theprograms have also collaborated on a very infonnative website that is constantly being updated htto:IIgulfseagrant.tamu.edu/oilspilllindex.htm and the LA Sea Grantprogram issued an RFP for rapid response, mini-grant type research projects. They received 54 proposals of which they can only fund five. The National Sea GrantOffice, through our Director Leon Cammen, is seeking funds for up to ten additional, meritorious projects. More details to follow on this latter issue since theprojects wil l be selected by a LA Sea Grant panel today.Also of very timely relevance, is the pertinent correspondence that I'm pasting below. (1) Sea Grant Elilension agent Julie Falgoutis embedded in Unified Commandin Houma and working with NOS/ORR to address fishennen's and seafood safety concerns; (2) Sea Grant Extension agent, Thu Bui, is working with Vietnamesefishermen and (3) Louisiana Sea Grant (and MS-AL to follow) are hosting AK Sea Grant agents experienced in fisheries issues related to the ExxonValdez incident.Best! Mike(1) NOAA SEA GRANT HELPING ENGAGE LOCAL FISHERIES COMMUNITIESSUbject: Deepwater CanyonlMS Canyon 252 FAST (seafood safety group)Date: Sat, 08 May2010 09:36:01 -0700From: Gary Shigenaka To: [email protected], gordon,[email protected], [email protected], "Falgout, Julie J." CC: Gary Shigenaka Hey Folks,Thank you for taking the time yesterday to sit and talk. I think that we can serve a useful function br the Unified Command and for affected communities inLouisiana. Here are a couple of things:First, I'm attaching a spreadsheet with people's names and contacts. I'm still working on getting Susan Klasing from California EPA on board, and NicolleRutherford is a NOAA biologist who wil l replace mewhen I rotate out in a couple of years (that 's what'sfeeling like).Second, I spoke with Jointlnfonnation Center (JIC)/publicaffairs types yesterday afternoon to introdll:e the concept to them and make sure they didn't haveexcessive heartburn over our plans to engage local communities. Quite the contrary, they were very pleased and offered up a lot of their resources and did noteven hint at being uncomfortable with FAST pUlling out a message about seafood safety. To that end, tt-eyare offering to set up a call-in where we would sitaround a table at the command post and people/media could call in with questions. JIC would provide facilitator-moderator and would put out the word. JIC alsohas parish liaisons in each parish.Ifwe do this, I would l ike tohave everyone on board just to make sure our bases are covered and to demonstrate that we have commitment from all our agencies.JIC wil l set this upanytime we want but I am thinking perhaps ThursiFrit ime frame. That would requi'e folks to be here and maybe to meet beforehand tostrategize a message and approach.Obviously, this is a self-select ing means of communication...those who have phones and are inclined tocall in would be there, but we'd miss a lot of people. I amhoping that Julie wil l have a map for us about who else is out there and have a planfor engaging those other communities. She wil l be back here on Monday andwe wil l meet with JIC to discuss.Any thoughts? I am attaching the draft FAST charter, please comment and get back to me this weekend because I want to have itf inned up today or tomorrow anduse the thing to market us to the Federal On-Scene Coordinator, a necessary first step to making us official.I also wil l be sending two subsequent emailsoutwith documents attachments (seafood & oil spill guidance docs). They wil l be big, so if there is a dangerofclogging your email then you should delete...Cheers,gary(2) WORKING TO BETTER INFORM VIETNAMESE FISHERMENFrom: Bui, Thu [mailto:[email protected]]Sent: Sat 5/8/2010 6:15 PMTo: Gaude, III,Albert P.; Thomas, Glenn; Chuck Wilson; Roy EKron; David L NielandCc: [email protected]; [email protected]; Coreil, Paul D.; Schexnayder, Mark A.SUbJect: RE: Vietnamese Oil Spill MeetingAll,At the meeting yesterday, Robert Nguyen expressed the fears of the fishennen to local officials and organizations. And I will summarize his statement: Economicsustainabil ity has been a major issue for the seafood industry over the last f ive years. Extensive damages from the hurricanes of 2005 to the fishing fleet andinfrastructure continued to affect both landings and prices in 2008, and were exacerbated by the effect!!of the 2008 hurricanes. More recently, the flood of importsand low prices of shrimp has affected the fishennen's work and livelihood. This year, just when the fishennen started seeing decent prices for shrimp and new hopeas the season begins they are faced with the devastation of the oil spill . Fishennen fear that they rna,'lose what is left of their industry; thus, their livelihood andfamilies will be affected.In yesterday's meeting, Vietnamese fishennen voiced over and over that the biggest problem they faced is the language barrier. One of their key concerns is beingable to meet their mortgage and continuing to work through this tough time. It is to the understanding of the fishermen that BP is hiring fishennen to clean up the oilspill . One fishennen revealed that he was approached with a long contract, and because he is excited b have work he signed it without understanding all theprovisions in the contract. Being that English is not their native language, Vietnamese fishermen requested that contracts, trainings, etc. be translated andconducted in Vietnamese so that they can make more infonned decisions.Also, according to the BP rep, f ishennen who are not working and losing income from the result of the oil spill can call into their hotline to make a claim for an

8110/2010 12:


31/185


Interim payment plan, and can receive an expedited 48 hour payment of up to $5000 which Isrenewable each month. This payrrentis determined based on theirIncome tax returns . So, f ishermen are encouraged to have their 2009 tax returns filed if they have notdone so already.To clear up some uncertainty, I also asked Mr. Hugh , the BP rep, If the fishermen make a claim, does 1tlatmean BP is providing a settlement. The rep respondedthat no, fishermen who file a suit later and are compensated simplywould subtract from their settlemertwhat they have received from the expeditedclaims ... Lawyers present were weary of how this would work out.. .Also, one of the law f irm had a copy of the contractso that was discussed as well .Anotherhot topic at the meeting was the effects of the chemicaldispersants used in the oil spi ll . Fishermen feared that the dispersantswould simply cause the oilto sink to the bottom of the Gulf; thus, when f ishermen trawl for shrimp they would simply be trawl inginto the oil again. Anhough the sheen wil l have disappearedfrom the water surface, i t is sti ll present In the water bottom and the effects of the dispersants/oil on seafood isuncertain to the fishermen.The BPrep responded that the dispersants used was the safest method approved by EPA . Roughly 5,000 barrels of oil natural ly seep to the ocean bottom and aredigested by microbes. Fishermen in the crowd laughed at his response. And someone asked him whether he is imply ing to let a man made error be resolved bynature and let naturerun its course; thus, putl lng the responsibi li ty of the oil clean up on mothernalure.The BPrep stated that he would bring the suggestionsof the fishermen back to BP and would contact the Mary Queens organizations with his responsas.Today, I received cal ls regarding the claims and payment process from many fishermen. Fishermen who Iknow have already filed the claims stated that i t was afairly easy process and would report back as soon as they receive payments.I wil l update more on the Vietnamese communityas I receive more information.-rnuThu BuiAsst. Extension Agent, FisheriesSt. Mary, Iberia, and Vermilion ParishesSt. Mary Parish Court House500 Main Street Rm. 314Franklin, LA 70538-61990 : 337.828-4100 Ext. 300(3) VISIT OF AI


32/185


- - - Original Message - - - - -SUbJect: Re: INFO REQUEST - Fishennen training & disaster response (due 4 pm Monday)

Date: Mon, 10 May 2010 07:45:14 -0400From: Alan.Leonardi

To: frank parker CC: Leon Cammen , Nikola Garber ,Jim 0 Murray , "MatthewLee Cindy Matthews"

References:

Frank -The only other OAR components which would have a remote connection would be GLERL, PMEL, and AOML. Thlit said, I am not aware of any of these typesof activities at each of these institutions.-Alanfrank parker wrote:

Hey folks,Can you help with this question? NMFS leadership just asked if any other part of NOAA is providing any training, training materials, or direction tof ishennen seeking to aid in the response efforts? Ifyes, can you provide a copy of the materials beirg used? Please reply by 4 pm Monday ifyou can.Alan,Do you think/know of other OAR components that might playa role here? I suspect Sea Grant would be the only contributor to this request, which is why Isent itdirect ly to them. How about the wet labs?Thanks for your help, and apologiesfor the short tum around,-frank

- - - - - Original Message - - - - -Subject: INFO REQUEST - other LOs involve in Fisherman training)

Date: Sun, 09 May 2010 16:09:03 -0400From: Beth Dieveney

To: _HDQ PCO Contacts CC: John Rapp

Can you please t a ck this out to your l ines aD appropriate - Lake Lyapp li es t o NMFS. NOS, maybe OAR and OMAO.Chris, I would think NMFS i s already on to p o f th ic one .Please tr y to have something to me and John Rapp , cc-d, bu t COB Monday.Thanks

NMFS leadership Just asked i f any o th er p ar t of NOAA i s providing anytra ining , train1ng materialG, or direct ion to fisherman seeking t o a idin th e reoponoe efforts? If they are, do we have th e materia l s being used?Thanks,John

Beth DieveneyNOAA Program Coordination Off1ceOffl .ce of th e Under Secretary14th , connt a.cut.aon Ave., NW, Roo m 5811Washl.ngton, DC 20230phone: 2 02 -4 82 -1 281ce l l : 240-328-4812fax: 202 -482-4116

Leon M. CarrmenDirector, NOAA Se a Grant1315 East-West Highways i lver Spring, MD 20910Phone: 301-734-1088Fax: 301-713-1031Email: leon. carrmenlnoaa. gov

M chae l LiffmannExtension Leader

8110/201012:4


33/185


NOAA/Sea Grant I R/SG1315 Bast-West HighwaySSMC-3, E l ev enth F l oo rSi lver Spring, MD 20910TEL, (301) 734-1074 or (301) 734-1077FAX, (301) 713-0799E-mail: michael.liffmann'lnoaa .gov

8110/201012:4


34/185

: Oil spill activities

Subject: RE: Oil spill activitiesFrom: "Thomas, Glenn" Date: Fri, 14 May 201017:08:43 -0500To: Leon Cammen , David L Nieland CC: Chuck Wilson , Mike Liffmann , Roy EKron, Oil

More data arriving. Apologies for format discrepancies - this is a rapidly moving target!GT

From: Regional Agent Carol Franze

Co-hosted the Alaskans' Oil Spill Discussion Meeting & follow-up correspondence with St. Tammanyattendees of Alaskan 's Oil Spill Discussion Meeting ; forwarded information to those who could notattend.

Worked with St. Tammany fishermen/producers to coordinate a meeting similar to the Alaskan 's meetingfor St. Tammany and Tangipahoa Parishes - at the request of fishermen.

Conducted literature review of the dispersant usage, toxicity, oil toxicity and recent studies by EPA onsoil sampling across the northern Gulf coast.

Forwarding all updated oil spill web-site information to St. Tammany and Tangipahoa Parish entities.

From: Regional Agent Mark Shirley

Attended daily conference call at 3:30 PM with GOHSEP. USCG, BP, Parish OEP's and other agencies .Suggested combining state and federal maps of open fishing areas and verifying info to pass on to areafishermen.

Continued daily contact with local fishermen (by phone or dock visit or meeting) concerning open andclosed fishing zones and other issues.

Providing info to fishermen about who to call concerning claims, vessel of opportunity program, trainingmeetings.

8/10/2010 12:


35/185


Interpreting technical reports and information to transfer to fishermen and local public.

Directing local new media to reputable sources of information.

Additional reports from Regional Agent Thu Bui

Represented Sea Grant in 3 Meetings with fishermen- LSG agents provided information about the role ofall the different agencies, Federal, State, and BP, and our role as Sea Grant agents. We gave out phonenumbers to file claims or answer questions about claims and to sign up for the Vessel of Opportunityprogram. Fishermen were advised to seek advice from legal experts before signing documents, andwere further directed to refereed websites to get more information (www.gulfseagranUamu.edu.http://www.wlf.louisiana.gov/http://www.deepwaterhorizonresponse.com/go/doc/2931/542307).

Co-hosted Vietnamese New Orleans East Meeting setup by MQVN with 22 organizations present.

5/12/2010: Vietnamese Fishermen Meeting- this one through the dock owners- 130 Viet fishermen andapproximately 25 wives attended.

Conference Call included: 5/10/2010 - Parish Reports on Oil Spill Efforts/Updates;5/10/2010 - Congressman Vitter's office Re: approaches to prevent tainted seafood from getting intomarket, trip ticket, enforcement of closures; 5/13/2010 - Provided contact info on fishermen/dock ownersto Senator Landrieu's office to discuss fishermen's concerns and financial assistance

Networking and dissemination of information with federal, state, public and private organizations: LDWF(regarding Vietnamese fishermen ); LDWF (regarding offshore fishermen's normal fishing activitiesbefore oil spill disaster and updates on catches)

Daily Updates and exchange of information NMFS port agents; Daily Updates to dock owners onfisheries closures; Daily Telephone contacts/mass email with fishing community

Planning: informational meetings with Vermilion Parish Officials to include federal, state, local agenciesand BP to answer fishermen's concerns

8110/201012:


36/185


From: Leon Cammen [mailto:[email protected]]Sent: Friday, May 14, 20101:28 PMTo: David L NielandCc: Chuck Wilson; Mike Liffmann; Thomas, Glenn; Roy EKronSUbject: Re: Oil spill activities

Thanks!David L Nieland wrote:Dr. Cammen,

Below are some bullets showing what Louisiana Sea Grant has accomplished in response to theDeepwater Horizon oil spill:

Gulf of Mexico Oil Spill Resources (http://gulfseagranttamu.edu/oilspill/index.htm) has been created bythe four GOM Sea Grant programs.The Research Sample Collection forum has been created at http://sg-server.lsu.edu/forums/.Researchers can coordinate sample collection trips, as well as list what samples they have or need.Julie Falgout of Louisiana Sea Grant embedded in the Fisheries Assessment and Seafood Team at theJoint Incident Command in Houma, LA.We have entered negotiations with NOAA Communications and External Affairs (CEA) to coordinate aseries of "Gulf Coast Road Shows" featuring local experts. Andrea Bleistein of CEA just contact us thismorning.Area Agents Rusty Gauds and Mark Schexnayder both had the opportunity to meet Dr. Lubchencoduring her visits to Louisiana.Area Agent Thu Bui organized an informational meeting for the Vietnamese fishing community.Our Law and Policy Director Jim Wilkins is preparing fact sheets on procedures for filing claims fordamages to public property and to private property. These will be both distributed by our Area Agentsand posted on the LSG Web site.

LSG co-hosted a visit by Torie Baker of Alaska Sea Grant and Joe Banta of the Prince WilliamSound Regional Citizens' Advisory Council; both had experience with the Exxon Valdez oil spill.They traveled to Venice, LA with Extension Leader Glenn Thomas and Fisheries Specialist JulieAnderson to meet with local fishers. Also had a meeting in Metairie, LA that attracted 25 localfishing industry types. Fifty-six proposals were received in response to a call for projects addressing the gathering ofbaseline data and monitoring short-term impacts of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill on the flora andfauna of coastal Louisiana. Five proposals were immediately funded and we are exploringopportunities to identify resources to fund an additional 13 proposals. Seven of the above proposals were submitted to the Louisiana Seafood Promotion and MarketingBoard for their consideration and evaluation. They committed to funding one of the proposals. All of our upper management personnel, specialists, and area agents have taken innumerabletelephone calls, received and responded to countless e-mail messages, participated in dozens ofconference calls, and attended many, many meetings related to the oil spill.

8110/201012:4


37/185


From Area Fishery Agent Rusty Gauds:20+ audio/video interviews on oil spill related issues(local/national/international)Site visit/sample/data collection at oil spill location in gulfMet with Dr. Lubchenco/NOAA twice in two weeks to give/receive local guidance on situationSix trips to lower Plaquemines Parish, two trips to St. Bernard Parish, one trip to JIC/HoumaRepresented Sea Grant at four regional meeting discussing oil spill options (Alaska, Vietnamese,parishgovernments)Gathering data and written information to relay back to JIC and Sea Grant/campusGuidance committee for distribution of benefit funds to fisher familiesOil spill remediation liaison between private sector and LSU campus/local governments From Fishery Specialist Julie Anderson:

Assisted with bringing Alaskan representatives to Venice and MetairieFielded media requests for various information from economics to lawsuits From Area Agent Tom Hymel:

Developed the GIS oil response map for Iberia Parish Office of Emergency Preparedness. This mapindicated locations of position of assets (lack-up rigs, booms, marsh openings etc.) Map was used forOEP plan discussion with parish council and media. Also attached and submitted to Feds in regionalresponse plan. From Area Agent Kevin Savoie:

Facilitated and assisted with relocation of LSG oyster hatchery brood stock to Rockefeller State WildlifeRefuge.Answered numerous calls on fishing closures. From Seafood Specialist Lucina Lampila:

Collected archival samples of shrimp harvested before the spillSearched literature for pertinent references related to potential damage mediated by the oil spill toseafood in the short and long term as well as methods of assessment.Began as LSU point person to arrange for NMFS/FDA sponsored workshops to train state regulatorypersonnel on the detection of taint in seafood. UFL is project lead and AUMS will likely use thePascagoula and Biloxi facilities for training. Two conference calls.Began to participate in five state NIFA grant proposal to develop outreach in response to the oil spill.Drafted talking points for the Seafood Safety working group. One conference call.

Will submit more as more is received/achieved.

8110/201012:4


38/185


Enjoy your weekend,

Dave

David L. NielandManager - OperationsLouisiana Sea Grant College Program233 Sea Grant BuildingLouisiana State UniversityBaton Rouge, LA 70803Voice: 225-578-6373Fax: 225-578-6331Cell: 225-939-0577www.laseagrant.org

Leon M. CammenDirector , NOAA Sea Grant1315 East-West HighwaySi lve r Spring, MD 20910Phone: 301-734-1088Fax : 301- 713 -1031Email : [email protected]

8110/2010 12:


39/185

: another Vietnamese meeting

SUbject: FW: another Vietnamese meetingFrom: David L Nieland Date: Tue, 18 May 201007:35:13 -0500To: Leon Cammen CC: Michael Liffmann , Nikola Garber

Dr. Cammen,

Original information regarding the Vietnamese fishermen's meeting yesterday afternoon (see below).

Dave


From: Bui, Thu [mailto:[email protected]]Sent: Tuesday, May 18, 20104:06 AMTo: Gaude, III, Albert P.; David L NielandSUbject: RE: another Vietnamese meeting

According to Robert Nguyen, exact numbers were 206 who signed in with a few standing who camelater not on the list. - Thu

From: Gaude, III, Albert P.

8/10/2010 12:


40/185

: another Vietnamese meeting

Sent: Monday, May 17, 2010 7:55 PMTo: Gaude, III, Albert P.; David L NielandCc: Bui, Thu; Thomas, Glenn; Coreil, Paul D.; [email protected]: RE: another Vietnamese meeting

We had about 150+ people (mostly Vietnamese) and the same players. BP had three, Capt StantonUSCG with 3-4 assistants, PPG pres. Billy Nungesser, two NOM, Congressman Cao, three from JIC,lots of NGOs. All bases were covered.Little bit more adversarial on the questions about why the vessels of opportunity program was stringingthe bulk of the fishermen along and how BP expected them invest in required things when they had nosecurity that they would actually go to work for pay.Dispersants were defended by USCG as part of policy. Capt Stanton told me privately that the protocolfor sorbents and dispersants is highly regulated according to long establish guidelines. Pathways areestablished to recommend novel approaches but if it's not on the approved list, it will not be advanced.Quote ....."I will not break the law"

Much of meeting is along the lines of what Thu reported from the previous meeting in NO East.

Rusty

8110/201012:4


41/185

: FW: another Vietnamese meeting

SUbject: Re: FW: another Vietnamese meetingFrom: Leon Cammen Date: Tue, 18 May 2010 08:38:41 -0400To: David L Nieland CC: Michael Liffmann , Nikola Garber Thanks!David L Nieland wrote:Dr. Cammen,

Original information regarding the Vietnamese fishermen's meeting yesterday afternoon (seebelow).

Dave


From: Bui, Thu [mailto:[email protected]: Tuesday, May 18, 20104:06 AMTo: Gaude, III, Albert P.; David L NielandSubject: RE: another Vietnamese meeting

According to Robert Nguyen, exact numbers were 206 who signed in with a few standing whocame later not on the list. - Thu

8/10/2010 12:


42/185

: FW: another Vietnamese meeting

From: Gaude, III, Albert P.Sent: Monday, May 17, 2010 7:55 PMTo: Gaude, III, Albert P.; David L NielandCc: Bui, Thu; Thomas, Glenn; Coreil, Paul D.; [email protected]: RE: another Vietnamese meeting

We had about 150+ people (mostly Vietnamese) and the same players. BP had three, CaptStanton USCG with 3-4 assistants, PPG pres. Billy Nungesser, two NOAA, Congressman Cao,three from JIC, lots of NGOs. All bases were covered.Little bit more adversarial on the questions about why the vessels of opportunity program wasstringing the bulk of the fishermen along and how BP expected them invest in required thingswhen they had no security that they would actually go to work for pay.Dispersants were defended by USCG as part of policy. Capt Stanton told me privately that theprotocol for sorbents and dispersants is highly regulated according to long establish guidelines.Pathways are established to recommend novel approaches but if it's not on the approved list, itwill not be advanced. Quote ....."1 will not break the law"


Rusty

Leon M. CammenDirec tor , NOAA Sea Grant1315 East-West HighwaySi lve r Spring , MD 20910Phone: 301-734-1088Fax: 301-713-1031Email: [email protected]

8110/2010 12:


43/185

added to oil spill running list, please forward other updates to..... : a...

SUbject: I've added to oil spill running list, please forward other updates to..... : another VietnamesemeetingFrom: Kola Garber Date: Tue, 18 May 201008:52:12 -0400To: Leon Cammen CC: Michael Liffmann , Joshua Brown ,Dorn Carlson Hi Leon and Mike,Proposal: Let's start using [email protected] forward any information reo oil spill...that way we can assign someone to keep updating the runninglist (I just added the one below and started a 5/18 update).Leon, if you agree, then Joshua (cc'ed above) can add this box to anyone's computer/account youdesire to see them.SmilesKolaDavid L Nieland wrote:Dr. Cammen,

Original information regarding the Vietnamese fishermen's meeting yesterday afternoon (seebelow).

Dave


8110/201012:4


44/185

added to oil spill running list, please forward other updates to..... : a...

From: Bui, Thu [mailto:[email protected]]Sent: Tuesday, May 18, 20104:06 AMTo: Gaude, III, Albert P.; David L NielandSubject: RE: another Vietnamese meeting

According to Robert Nguyen, exact numbers were 206 who signed in with a few standing whocame later not on the list. - Thu

From: Gaude, III, Albert P.Sent: Monday, May 17,20107:55 PMTo: Gaude, III, Albert P.; David L NielandCc: Bui, Thu; Thomas, Glenn; Coreil, Paul D.; [email protected]: RE: another Vietnamese meeting

We had about 150+ people (mostly Vietnamese) and the same players. BP had three, CaptStanton USCG with 3-4 assistants, PPG pres. Billy Nungesser, two NOAA, Congressman Cao,three from JIC, lots of NGOs. All bases were covered.Little bit more adversarial on the questions about why the vessels of opportunity program wasstringing the bulk of the fishermen along and how BP expected them invest in required thingswhen they had no security that they would actually go to work for pay.Dispersants were defended by USCG as part of policy. Capt Stanton told me privately that theprotocol for sorbents and dispersants is highly regulated according to long establish gUidelines.Pathways are established to recommend novel approaches but if it's not on the approved list, itwill not be advanced. Quote ..... "1 will not break the law"


Rusty

8110/201012:4


45/185

: 11 am EST,Tues, May 18 - Deepwater Town Hall Steering Committ...

Subject: Re: 11 am EST,Tues, May 18 - Deepwater Town Hall Steering Committee - Kick OffMeeting AgendaFrom: Andrea Bleistein Date: Tue, 18 May 2010 12:11:16 -0400To: [email protected]: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected],[email protected], [email protected], [email protected],[email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected],[email protected], [email protected], [email protected],[email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected],[email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected],[email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected],[email protected], [email protected], [email protected],[email protected], [email protected], [email protected],[email protected] a re pub li cl y approved Fact Sheets on the NOAA OR&R website:http://www.deepwaterhorizon.noaa.gov/I f you cl ick on Fact shee ts Publi cat ions you can access many others.Specif ical ly, here is the one on dispersants :h t tp : / /response. res torat ion.noaa.gov/book shelf /1881 ERD 1-pgr-Dispersant-Monitoring-SMART .pdfAndreaKola Garber wrote:HI a l l ,Attached i s the agend a and some example questions from stakeholders to help f ac i l i t a te ourmeeting th is morning.Date: May 18 , 2010Time: 11:00 am EDT, 10 am CentralCall- in Number: 877-930-0392Passcode: 9103665#Smiles,KolaP.S. I 've attempted to add a l l the names to th i s email t ha t have been added to previousemails on th is topic.

Andrea BleisteinNOAA Communications and External Affairs(202) 482-4906(240) 676-2416andrea.bleistein@noaa. gov

f 1 8/10/2010 12:


46/185

TXSGE fisheries update from the Horizon Spill

Subject: Fwd: TXSGE fisheries update from the Horizon SpillFrom: Logan Respess Date: Tue , 18 May 201011 :17:17 -0500To: Gene Kim , Michael Liffman , Kola GarberGene , Kola and Mike,Please keep, file or distribute as you see fit.I've added you all to my "oil spill " list-serve and