Feds approve another seismic project off NJ

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. (AP) -- A second seismic project has gotten underway off the New Jersey coast despite opposition from environmental groups.

The U.S. Geological Survey is sending sound pulses into the sea floor to map the continental shelf and to measure potential tsunami hazards from 100 to 300 miles off the East Coast.

A Rutgers University project off Long Beach Island was halted earlier this month because of mechanical problems with the ship that tows the sound guns. The ship has been repaired and it being used in the latest study.

Researcher Deborah Hutchinson tells The Press of Atlantic City observers will monitor the area for marine mammals and the seismic equipment can be powered down or turned off if it poses a threat to their well-being.

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