Why Attend this Meeting?

  • This program includes a diverse group of oil spill assessors and responders with expertise in toxicology, chemistry, modeling and tracking of oil, technology development, emergency response, environmental management and risk communication. The meeting Steering Committee is charged with promoting scientific discourse and thought-provoking analysis through a dynamic interactive program.
  • Uniquely designed to bring together environmental scientists and engineers active in the field of oil spill prevention and response
  • Goal is developing science-based recommendations for improving oil spill response and tracking, control techniques, management and effects assessment
  • Highly interactive format of panel discussions on a focused set of topical issues associated with oil spill effects assessment in deepwater and coastal environments, and response technology development
  • Audience participation encouraged and anticipated
  • Wide ranging group of stakeholders in attendance
  • Multiple perspectives and lessons learned will be shared in discussion and a meeting proceedings

Relevant Focused Topics

Biological Effects of Oil Spills

  • Aquatic, wildlife and coastal marsh effects (short- and long-term)
  • Dispersant toxicology
  • Seafood contamination/safety and human health issues
  • Risk and damage assessment

Current Technology and Capabilities

  • Oil spill response and incident command system
  • Control and abatement (includes approaches and equipment)
  • Oil fate and transport modeling (includes biodegradation)
  • Oil tracking technology
  • Response technology effectiveness

Communication Challenges and Solutions

  • Joint Information Center purpose and relevance
  • Local/national media roles and issues
  • Uncertainty and communication with the public
  • Risk communication (e.g. seafood safety)
  • Increasing researcher-journalist communication

Networking Opportunities

The three days that attendees participate in the SETAC North America Gulf Oil Spill Focused Topic Meeting offer a wide range of networking opportunities for everyone—especially for residents in the Gulf region. In a friendly and welcoming environment, meeting attendees can join in scientific debates and discussions about the Gulf oil spill and other spills, meet old and new friends, and make new professional and expert contacts while you attend this unique meeting.