2001 OCS Scientific Committee Meeting
Summary - Friday
Friday, April 27, 2001
Reports from the previous day’s breakout sessions were presented.
Committee Business
The Committee suggested that the Directors of the Coastal Marine Institute Directors be
invited to every-other Committee meeting in order to bring the Committee up to date on CMI
progress. Dr. Kendall advised the Committee that updated information regarding the CMI
programs could be found on the Web. The Committee is also interested in hearing comments
from the Regional Directors pertaining to how the CMI program is aiding the MMS, what the
most important issues are, and whether or not those issues are being addressed. It was
also suggested that SC members’ comments/recommendations be placed either on the Web
or e-mailed prior to meetings.
A discussion as to how the MMS can better its communication to the public. It was noted
that millions are spent on outreach regarding oil and gas; however, the communities just
don’t seem to be interested. Dr. Turgeon suggested targeting young adults since they
do seem to be showing interest. Dr. Kitsos, who was able to briefly attend this day,
commented that the role of science will become more important than ever and communication
with the public is very important. Dr. Steve Murray suggested and Dr. Lynda Shapiro
agreed, that a study be created specifically to address ways to reach the pubic and remove
the publics’ misconception about oil and gas. Ms. Kallaur replied that it would
benefit the MMS to hire a communications expert with a scientific background to work with
the regions.
Since the OCS SC meetings are to be held in the spring, it was asked if the end of
April timeframe is the best for the members. It was agreed that meetings would be held the
last week of March or in early April. Dr. Turgeon also stated that the meetings should not
be limited to coastal areas since other areas of the country might be more
cost-competitive.
Candid Photographs During Breaks
