What methods are being used to keep oil away from the shore?
More than 3.15 million feet (almost 600 miles) of boom has been placed in the water to serve as a physical barrier. In Louisiana, temporary sand berms are being built to protect barrier islands. Skimmers aboard boats and ships are trying to capture floating oil. Absorbent booms and pads are being used to soak up oil floating on the surface or clinging to plants, boats and structures. Commercial fishing and shrimp boats are being used in many of these operations, providing a source of income for some idled workers. About 1 million gallons of chemical dispersants have been sprayed on surface oil in hopes of speeding its breakdown and evaporation. Pools of floating oil are set on fire in controlled burns. The massive converted cargo ship A Whale was tested for its ability to separate oil from seawater. Although its operators say it can skim 21 million gallons of water a day, it was rejected because the huge vessel cannot navigate close to shore.
