Abstract
This document compiles information that describes the biological resources of the GOM region
and then explores these resources' vulnerability to BOEM-regulated activities associated with the
exploration and development of oil and gas, marine minerals, and renewable energy. This background
report may inform future internal and external efforts to describe GOM habitats and associated
biological resources. This document will also inform future potential impact assessments of BOEM's
programmatic activities prepared under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). BOEM intends
to use this document to inform future outreach processes with other Federal agencies and Tribal
governments. Importantly, this document does not replace the NEPA process or obligations to consult.
BOEM will only use this document as a more in-depth and technical reference resource for public
NEPA documents.