Oil or algae?: NOAA investigates recent sighting
MIRIMAR BEACH — A possible oil sighting turned out to be algae, according to the Walton County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO).
The WCSO received reports of oil in the Gulf of Mexico near Miramar Beach Friday. Test results from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) were released Sunday.
“The WCSO has been in contact with the United States Coast Guard, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), and other Unified Command officials involved in the BP Deepwater Horizon incident. NOAA scientists have conducted sampling of this rust colored substance and have confirmed the material is algae,” said Mike Morrison, a WCSO spokesman.
The material looks similar to marine algae commonly referred to as “red tide.” Morrison said the beaches will remain open.
Although not all red tide or algae are harmful, the WCSO said to use caution when coming in contact with this naturally occurring substance. The algae will most likely clear the area in a few days.
