NOAA-supported scientists reported that the Gulf of Mexico's 2023 "dead zone” spans about 3,058 square miles, which is smaller than average, according to a press release.
"With more frequent and intense weather events in the Gulf of Mexico and elsewhere, it is imperative that we continue to measure hypoxia in this region as an indicator of ocean health and progress toward management targets," Nicole LeBoeuf, director of NOAA’s National Ocean Service, said. "The data collected from this annual, long-term research program helps decision-makers fine-tune strategies to reduce the size of the hypoxic zone and mitigate harmful impacts to our coastal resources, communities and economy."
This year's Gulf of Mexico "dead zone," an area with low oxygen levels that threaten marine life, is the seventh smallest zone recorded in 37 years. The measurement aids the Mississippi River/Gulf of Mexico Hypoxia Task Force, aiming to reduce the zone to 1,900 square miles or smaller by 2035.
A recent survey by Louisiana State University and LUMCON aboard R/V Pelican revealed the dead zone's extent to assess progress toward management goals. Despite forecasting a smaller zone, the measured size aligned with the models, indicating their accuracy. Unusual river discharge patterns and water stratification led to low bottom-water oxygen levels, impacting marine life and ecosystems.
NOAA's Coastal Hypoxia Research and other initiatives collaborate with partners to comprehend and mitigate the dead zone's impact on Gulf fisheries, while the EPA invests in nutrient reduction efforts through the Gulf Hypoxia Program, aiming to protect water quality and ecosystems while fostering economic growth.
