FOSC for the Deepwater Horizon oil spill in New Orleans approved a joint plan from BP and Transocean

NEW ORLEANS — The Federal On-Scene Coordinator for the Deepwater Horizon oil spill in New Orleans approved a joint plan from BP and Transocean Thursday.

The joint plan was required by Coast Guard Capt. Duke Walker to identify the source of a sheen located in the Gulf of Mexico that has been associated with Macondo 252 oil. The Notice of Federal Interest informed BP and Transocean that they may be responsible for costs related to identifying the source of the sheen and cleanup.

The proposed joint plan includes satellite observations and mobilizing remotely operated vehicles to examine the original Macondo well area including the wreckage, debris, and the riser on the sea floor.

The ROV is expected to be mobilized Sunday with direct Coast Guard oversight. Operations are anticipated to commence early next week with logistics and weather permitting.

The public is reminded to contact the National Response Center at 1-800-424-8802 to report all pollution incidents or the Coast Guard 8th District Command Center at 504-589-6225 in the event of any maritime emergencies.