Vol. 1, No. 2
Headline Back Issues
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Oil spill story informative for hovercraft designer I have just had the opportunity to read the first edition of your newspaper. I am most impressed with the scope of the content and the range of coverage. I can see that this publication will be a most valuable source of knowledge for myself and my son, who is now extending his science degree with a course in aquaculture at St. Andrews, New Brunswick. We have two areas of interest, one being the various aspects of fish propagation and the development of spawning areas. I am now converting a small vessel for in-shore research purposes for both the upper Bay of Fundy and the Northumber-land Strait. My other interest is in the design and development of hovercraft that can be used for oil spill containment and the treatment of the spills. With the hovercraft, it will be possible to carry out cleanup operations on grounds that are very delicate and environmentally sensitive. In particular, as mentioned in your article on the subject ("Canada and US Collaborate on strategies to address Gulf of Maine oil spills," March 1997 edition), conventional cleanup of oil spills in salt marsh and mud flats can accentuate the problems. The hovercraft can carry out bioremedial or other selected treatment over these delicate areas without driving the contaminants into the soil. It is refreshing to read a publication that deals with these matters specifically. I look forward to your future newspapers and wish you all the success in this venture. Ray Stevens, President Trail would educate public about Gulf of Maine I was pleased to receive the first edition of the Gulf of Maine Times. It clearly will serve as an important vehicle for disseminating information on the Council's good work. For almost a decade, the Gulf of Maine Council has been providing essential focus on this unique marine ecosystem and its watershed. While these endeavors may have been understated in the media, they cannot be overstated with respect to their long-term importance for both the bordering and the larger global community. In this latter respect it is vital to understand that the Gulf of Maine is, in fact, a global -- not solely a local resource. It is essential to raise the profile and consequently public awareness of the Gulf of Maine and the Council's efforts. For some time I have advocated creation of a Gulf of Maine trail from Cape Cod to Cape Sable. The highway and ferry infrastructure is in place. Ecotourism initiatives are extant. National and state parks are well placed to serve and further educate the public. All that is required is for the partners in the Council to focus on creating a joint tourism initiative which would create immediate economic benefits and further raise the profile of the Gulf of Maine. Clearly this would sustain and promote the good works of the Council. After all, "it pays to advertise." I offer best wishes to all who labor on this tremendous and essential initiative, especially those with whom I had the opportunity to work during my time with the Council. John G. Leefe Editor's note: See Council Currents story, "Proposed Coast Way would promote Gulf's natural and cultural heritage," on page 8 of this edition. |
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Gulf of Maine Council on the Marine