BP reduces number of boats skimming oil in Gulf; captains concerned oil giant pulling out

BP reduces number of boats skimming oil in Gulf

ORANGE BEACH, Ala. — BP says it has reduced the number of boats skimming for oil in the Gulf of Mexico by more than a quarter.

The move comes after BP stopped oil from barreling into the Gulf of Mexico last week. It has some worried the oil giant is forgetting its promises to heal the region.

About 1,600 boats are now operating daily in waters off Alabama, Florida and Mississippi on any given day.

The director of BP’s “vessels of opportunity” program in the region says it’s 600 fewer boats than a week ago.

Matt Kissinger says less oil has been spotted in recent days, so fewer boats are needed to skim for the time being.

THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. Check back soon for further information. AP’s earlier story is below.

ORANGE BEACH, Ala. (AP) — BP says it has reduced the number of boats skimming for oil in the Gulf of Mexico by more than a quarter.

The move comes after BP stopped oil from barreling into the Gulf of Mexico last week. It has some worried the oil giant is forgetting its promises to heal the region.

About 1,600 boats are now operating daily in waters off Alabama, Florida and Mississippi on any given day.

The director of BP’s “vessels of opportunity” program in the region says it’s a reduction of about 600 boats per day from a week ago.

Matt Kissinger says less oil has been spotted in recent days, so fewer boats are needed to skim for the time being.