The Aquarium will host a forum to investigate the issue of decommissioning oil rigs. Once these structures have reached the end of their functional lifespan, drilling operators, government agencies, and surrounding communities must decide what to do with them.

Their fate is of particular importance to ocean ecosystems, because these structures–thousands of feet of steel and concrete–over time are colonized by barnacles, fish, mussels and other marine life, forming an artificial reef. Some envision retired oil rigs as sites for recreational diving and even offshore hotels. Others have concerns about the environmental implications of leaving the equipment in the ocean.

At the Aquarium’s forum regulators from Federal and state agencies, scientists, representatives of commercial and recreational fishing organizations, divers, and other experts will gather to discuss the possibilities and what sustainable options exist for decommissioned oil rigs off the coast of Southern California. It will also invite the public to get involved and provide input in the state and federal decision-making process.

We invite you to join this discussion. This is an unusual opportunity for the public to learn about these platforms, what the decommissioning options are, and how the decisions will be made.

Goals:

• To facilitate public awareness of the process to decommission oil and gas platforms and facilities offshore California
• To provide information about decommissioning options and the environmental review process
• To raise awareness about public involvement and opportunities for public engagement during the decision-making process
• To invite the public to participate in and inform the state and federal decision-making process

Forum Kick-off

Sunday, January 12
Student Poster Session Viewing
California and the Ocean: Three Perspectives on the Future
6:30 pm - 9:00 pm
Free Evening Event

Registration for the forum includes admission for the keynote and poster session.

Registration includes:

• Keynote with Sylvia Earle, Mark Gold, and Betty Yee on January 12
• Student poster session on January 12
• Forum on January 13-14
• Lunch included for January 13 full-day session

Livestream

Can’t make it to the forum in person? You can tune in and submit your comments on our live web stream. For commenting or for larger video players (including full screen), please click on the title of the event in the embedded video below. There are four events in the playlist, to watch live, please make sure to select the correct video (click/tap on the stacked icon in the top right of the video player to view playlist).