Development in the Gulf or Maine: Avoiding Geohazards and Embracing Opportunities (2)

Published: 2010

Author(s):
Belknap, D.
Maynard, M.
Kelley, J.
Brothers, L.
Dickson, S.

Publication Name: Maine Policy Review

Publication URL: https://digitalcommons.library.umaine.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1070&context=mpr

Research Area:
Keywords:
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Abstract:

Mapping for marine-spatial planning is crucial if
Maine is to safely develop its offshore resources, especially wind and tidal energy. Laura Brothers and her
coauthors focus on shallow natural gas (methane)
deposits, an important and widespread geohazard
in Maine’s seafloor. They describe the origin, occurrence, and identification of natural gas in Maine’s
seafloor; explain the hazards associated with these
deposits and how to map them; and discuss what
Maine can learn from European nations that have
already developed their offshore wind resources.
Because the U.S. gives states a central role in coastal
management, Maine has the chance to be proactive
in delineating coastal resources and demarcating
potential seafloor hazards.