Commemmorating the 2nd Anniverary of the Deepwater Horizon explosion and prolonged, enormous oil leak, residents of Virginia Beach demonstrated this past Friday. 

Led by Oceana Virginia, the action included a mock oil spill, a fisherman whose livelihood was suddenly threatened, a sickened oil-covered dolphin, and a greedy oil tycoon profiting while people and wildlife suffer. Rarely do we see such a clear contrast between the risks of dirty energy for many and the wealth it brings a few.

Now is a critical time to note the dangers of offshore oil development. Offshore seismic testing threatens Virginia’s coast. Offshore seismic studies for oil and gas clearly signify a first step toward drilling. We know that would only prolong our dependence on fossil fuels and cause more climate pollution, so please take action to oppose seismic testing. If you are able to attend the hearing in Norfolk this Tuesday, we are counting on you to tell the federal government that we cannot allow seismic testing for oil and gas. To stop global warming, slow sea level rise, and protect our coast, we need to develop renewable energy now.