Mechanical issues thwart seismic research project off N.J. coast

A seismic research project that has faced steep criticism will be postponed to next summer.

The Press of Atlantic City reports that a project aimed at studying sea level rise by sending sound waves to the sea floor was postponed after mechanical failures stymied the research.

The project faced steep opposition from environmentalists and elected officials who feared it would harm or kill marine life.

The Rutgers professor in charge of the project said proponents of the project will seek a permit through the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to do the research next year.

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A representative from Clean Ocean Action said the group was thrilled by the postponement, but said they were disappointed that researchers appeared to be proceeding with plans to perform the seismic tests next year.

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