Getting SMARTer: Recommendations for Improving SMART Monitoring Procedures Based on Experiences from the Deepwater Horizon Response: Scientific Support for Deepwater Horizon (DWH) Aerial Dispersant Operations

Abstract

ABSTRACT During the MC252 Deepwater Horizon (DWH) response, aerial dispersants were applied as part of the operational response to minimize the potential for surface oil slicks to impact surfacebreathing wildlife and environmentally sensitive shoreline ecosystems. Monitoring of dispersant efficacy and environmental impact was performed according to the SMART protocols described in the Special Monitoring of Applied Response Technologies developed by the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the Minerals Management Service (MMS) (2006). Valuable lessons regarding SMART implementation were learned during this response. The magnitude and duration of the response required that multiple teams be deployed simultaneously to conduct Tier 1 observations, and Tier II and III fluorometry and water sample collection activities. The scope of the SMART activity required close coopera...