Beacon Offshore Energy Commits to CSA’s Visual Observer Training for Rice’s Whale Protection

CSA Ocean Sciences Inc. (CSA) is excited to announce the launch of our online training program for crew-based visual observers. The course follows recommendations in the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management's (BOEM) Notice to Lessees (NTL) 2023-G01 “Expanded Rice’s Whale Protection Efforts During Reinitiated Consultation with NMFS” issued on August 17, 2023. The NTL recommends measures to prevent vessel strikes in the habitat of the endangered Rice's whale, spanning the 100-to-400-m isobath region in the Northern Gulf of Mexico. One of the primary recommendations is the use of trained crew members to perform visual observation within this range. CSA developed a comprehensive vessel observer training program that includes all relevant information to meet the NTL's requirements and potentially future regulations arising from the ongoing consultation process. This course is available through the Talent LMS platform, which is user-friendly and allows for remote access via the website, Apple Store, and Android devices.