Looe Key Mystery Slick; Florida Keys, Florida

Florida Keys, Florida | 1995-Mar-23

Initial Notification: An oil slick was reported on the morning of March 23, 1995, 12 miles south of Looe Key, Florida. USCG MSO Miami investigated the report and verified that heavy black oil, up to 1/4-inch thick, was in the area. The dimensions of the slick were reported to be approximately 1 mile by 200 yards. The USCG and the NOAA Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary's primary concern was for shallow coral reefs in the Looe Key area. The OSC began exploring the possibilities of applying dispersants on the slick, but could not obtain aircraft support within a reasonable amount of time. USCG district 7. Keyword: none.