Special shrimp season to close
~A special shrimp season that opened last week to allow fishermen a shot at making a catch before waters become contaminated with oil will close Tuesday.

Public barred from turtle necropsies~National Marine Fisheries Service, part of NOAA, has shut down access to the necropsies of the turtles found dead on Mississippi beaches due to an "ongoing investigation." ~Hat Tweet~Gambit

Florida Gov. Crist extends state of emergency to Sarasota, 12 more coastal counties
~With an oil slick and tar balls just 50 miles offshore, Florida's top environmental official and other politicians say the state is bracing for pollution and damage to hit the state's beaches and its oyster, bait and sport fisheries.

Groups Partner To Fight Oil Spill On Ala. Coast~Governor Bob Riley confirmed this weekend that 80% of containment booms have failed to slow or contain the oil spill. The booms litter the beaches where they were no match for wind and waves.

Interior Department Postpones Safety Awards Luncheon That Included BP ~"The ongoing situation with the Transocean Deepwater Horizon drilling accident has caused the MMS to dedicate considerable resources to the successful resolution of this event, which will conflict with holding this ceremony next week," the statement said.

DOJ Investigation of BP Failure is “Absolutely Necessary” Says Former Prosecutor in Blow-Out Prevention Cover-Up Case