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The AAPG/Datapages Combined Publications Database
Houston Geological Society Bulletin
Abstract
ABSTRACT: Macondo: A National Media Gusher in the Face of a
Major Environmental Disaster
Don
Van Nieuwenhuise
University of Houston
At the onset of the Macondo well blow-out and fire, news reporting became a cascading succession of misinformation and misunderstandings about what happened and what was being done to stop the flow of oil. Overstated consequences became a common theme while at the same time many in the public just wanted to know what was happening and whether the flow of oil would ever be stopped to prevent predicted catastrophic consequences. Consequently, it became apparent that an explanation of how well-control methods could and would work seemed to be the most appropriate course to take when interacting with live, taped, and written media. Information and explanation was the course preferred and I will present insights behind the scenes as this disaster and the media buzz around it played out until the well was finally brought under control