Gulf Restoration Network

Ask Governor Riley to Hold the Line on Fish-Killing Machines

Liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminals pose a threat to fishing in the Gulf. Despite the fact that Gulf Governors have vetoed the development of any further open-rack vaporizer, or open-loop systems, which would run Gulf seawater through radiator-like racks, energy companies continue to try to gamble with our marine wildlife to increase their profits.

The TORP Bienville LNG terminal is currently seeking a permit to use 127 million gallons of Gulf water a day to vaporize imported natural gas. The drastic temperature change, and physical damage caused by the process would destroy billions of fish eggs and larvae by the day. While the terminal is proposed for 63 miles off the Alabama shore, it is close to critically important, marine wildlife reef habitat.

Alternatives to open-loop terminals exist and are supported by fisheries experts at the federal and state level throughout the Gulf. Take action today to tell the Coast Guard, the Department of Transportation, and Alabama Governor Bob Riley to allow only fish-friendly technology.

Please take a moment to add your personal concern about our marine wildlife to the beginning of the suggested letter below. By adding your comment, the message will be far more powerful.

>>Learn More

February 09, 2010

Subject:

To whom it may concern,

Re: Docket Number USCG-2006-24644

Open-loop vaporization technology must not be allowed in the Gulf of Mexico.  As LNG is developed in the Gulf, decision-makers must work to ensure that this natural gas is imported in the safest way possible, protecting our marine wildlife.

The Bienville Offshore Energy Terminal could have a serious negative impact on marine life in the Gulf, as it is proposed for an area that has been designated as essential fish habitat for important fisheries such as red snapper, greater amberjack, king mackerel and others.  Many of these fisheries are currently at depleted levels in the Gulf and have a history of being over-exploited.  Fisheries managers are working to end this over-exploitation, and it would be outrageous to allow energy companies to do what fishermen can not - kill fish indiscriminately.  In addition, the Bienville terminal is dangerously close to the Pinnacles reef area, which is an especially important spawning site for several species of fish.

MARAD must make the responsible decision to permit only closed-loop systems. Federal and state fisheries managers, commercial and recreational fishermen and conservation organizations agree, this decision would eliminate significant adverse impacts to marine species in the Gulf. Unless and until the energy company proposes a closed-loop option, please deny this permit.

Sincerely,

We will add your signature from the information you provide.

First Name*

Last Name*

Email*

Street*

Street 2

City*

State/Province*

Zip/Postal Code*

The Gulf Restoration Network will not sell or share your personal information beyond the targets of this campaign.