Offshore Oil Spill (04:06)
The Deepwater Horizon disaster occurs in April 2010; scientists investigate the effects. The Barataria Bay is a stopover point for millions of migratory waterfowl and the waters are home to hundreds of marine animal species. (Credits)
Dispatch #1: The World's Healthiest Dolphins (03:27)
A military base in San Diego, CA is home to 70 bottlenose dolphins. Cynthia Smith and her team are responsible for their healthcare, including monitoring reproductive health. In the Gulf of Mexico, many young dolphins die and pregnancies fail.
Dispatch #2: Not So Healthy Dolphins (07:22)
Smith and her team join other experts on a mission to evaluate the health of bottlenose dolphins in Barataria Bay. They examine 38 year-round residents; YK5 is pregnant. The dolphin population has significantly decreased since 2010.
Dispatch #3: Good News and Bad News (02:50)
Scientists monitor the conditions of Louisiana coastal marshes. Ed Overton discusses the impact of the 2010 oil spill and locating buried oil. Slow leaks along the edges may provide a clue to Barataria Bay dolphin reproductive health.
Dispatch #4: Mardi Gras, Jazz, and Oysters (04:24)
Prior to 2010, Louisiana supplies approximately 42% of oysters in the U.S. The Deepwater Horizon disaster devastates the oyster beds and oyster communities.
Dispatch #5: "We Need Facts" (02:44)
Sean Powers and Meagan Schrandt study Gulf Coast oyster reefs. Powers explains ecological benefits of oysters. The 2010 oil spill has a long-term effect on habitats and species.
Dispatch #6: Underwater Blizzards (03:16)
Marine snow is a major food source for many sea creatures. The 2010 oil spill creates vast areas of oiled sediment on the ocean floor. Scientists investigate interactions between oil, dispersants, and marine snow.
Dispatch #7: Secrets From the Deep (10:33)
Dean Grubbs and his team catch deep ocean fish to gather baseline data and toxicology samples. They hope to better understand the long-term impact of the 2010 oil spill.
Dispatch #8: Centers of Innovation (03:30)
Scientists in research laboratories work to understand the effects of the 2010 oil spill. Georgina Cox studies the beating heart of a Mahi-Mahi.
Dispatch #9: European Partners (03:11)
Scientists in Norway and from John Hopkins University collaborate on ways to lessen the impact of future oil spills. Scientists in Germany and the University of South Florida study the impact of spills.
Dispatch #10: Tracking Ocean Currents (07:53)
In the Gulf Coast, scientists prepare to test equipment designed to predict the movement of surface oil after a major spill. After a weather delay, they deploy over 1,000 drifters; an air team provides logistical support.
Dispatch #11: Final Thoughts (02:05)
Scientists from various fields work together to better understand the effects of oil spills. Experts reflect on investigations.
Credits: Dispatches from the Gulf, Episode 2 (01:25)
Credits: Dispatches from the Gulf, Episode 2
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