The Loop Current and its related eddies (LCE) are significant oceanographic features in the Gulf of Mexico (GOM). In 2015, we saw historic Loop Current Eddy activity and observed formation and separation of four major eddies - Michael, Nautilus, Olympus, and Poseidon.  Oil and gas companies operating offshore in the GOM experienced prolonged periods of downtime due to the sudden and unusual upturn in LCE. Currents associated with LCE can increase rapidly to 4 - 5 knots, affecting offshore exploration and production activities, causing delays, and impacting drilling, construction, and installation.

To foster the technology and knowledge exchange on this subject, the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology (IMarEST) and SPE will co-host the first Loop Current Eddy Workshop. This event will bring together metocean specialists who study and predict Loop Current activity, with operations managers who have developed strategies for addressing strong ocean currents. The impacts of LCEs on maritime industries, offshore operations, and the marine environment will be examined through case study presentations and discussions.

Topics to be addressed include:

• Understanding the cause and behavior of the Loop Current, resulting eddies, and cyclonic eddies.

• Addressing misconception of LCE

• Strategies for addressing LCE impacts on drilling/ wells operations, installation/construction, and offshore projects

• Technology and engineering development required to mitigate LCE impact and reduce operation downtimes and trip times

• New methods for LCE data collection, analysis, models, and prediction

• LCE impacts on other aspect of marine environment, including marine life and hurricane/storms