By James Witherspoon
As of mid-August, Louisiana's first shrimping season since the massive Gulf of Mexico oil spill occurred is underway, reigniting concerns over the healthiness of Gulf seafood that may have been tainted by petroleum. The shrimping industry is one of the most important concerns in the state, accounting for some $118 million in revenue last year alone. Countless people rely on the industry for income and sustenance, making the issue an incredibly important one.
The American public has been reluctant recently to purchase seafood from the Gulf of Mexico, and this reluctance could ultimately cast a pall over this year's shrimp harvest. Louisiana is the largest shrimp producer in the United States, but it remains to be seen if it will find buyers for its product. Last season's overall take of 45 million kilograms could ultimately be without buyers if these concerns are not dissipated in the near future. Professional shrimpers are hoping that BP's committal the clean-up effort reduces their overall burden and encourages confidence in the American public.
The oil giant has committed some $52 million in funding for health organizations in the region, although it has yet to be seen if this move will allay fears. In a bid to inspire industry confidence, the Commerce Secretary, Gary Locke, visited Louisiana to discuss fishing with industry professionals. The state has already opened parts of its fishing areas, with the rest opening soon.
Adding an additional level of concern is the possible development of a tropical storm in the area, which could potentially put professional shrimpers and fishers in serious danger.
The American public has been reluctant recently to purchase seafood from the Gulf of Mexico, and this reluctance could ultimately cast a pall over this year's shrimp harvest. Louisiana is the largest shrimp producer in the United States, but it remains to be seen if it will find buyers for its product. Last season's overall take of 45 million kilograms could ultimately be without buyers if these concerns are not dissipated in the near future. Professional shrimpers are hoping that BP's committal the clean-up effort reduces their overall burden and encourages confidence in the American public.
The oil giant has committed some $52 million in funding for health organizations in the region, although it has yet to be seen if this move will allay fears. In a bid to inspire industry confidence, the Commerce Secretary, Gary Locke, visited Louisiana to discuss fishing with industry professionals. The state has already opened parts of its fishing areas, with the rest opening soon.
Adding an additional level of concern is the possible development of a tropical storm in the area, which could potentially put professional shrimpers and fishers in serious danger.
If you or someone you love has been financially affected by the Gulf of Mexico oil spill and would like to learn more about your legal options, please visit the website of the oil spill lawyers of Williams Kherkher today.
James Witherspoon
James Witherspoon
