Evaluation of the Ross Sea shores using the oil spill persistence index to determine risk areas in the event of an oil spill

The coastal characteristics of the Ross Sea shores was evaluated using the philosophy of the 'Oil Spill Persistence Index', established for low and temperate latitudes, to determine risk areas in the event of an oil spill in Antarctica. Observations were made to confirm the utility of distinguishing 4-5 major types of coast: a) bold, bare rocky coasts with generally high cliffs, b) beaches mostly gravel and boulders, c) partly ice covered, low rocky coasts, d) coasts of more or less permanently fast sea ice and e) high ice cliffs/ice shelves. Shoreline type maps for the entire Ross Dependency between Cape Adare and McMurdo Sound showing the regional extent, distribution and proportion of the various categories was created. The maps are of value to agencies considering the environmental consequences of hydrocarbon exploration/exploitation in the Ross Sea.