On October 5, 2010, President Obama issued Executive Order 13554 directing the creation of a Gulf Coast Ecosystem Restoration Task Force.

The Task Force was formed to to build on the ongoing spill response and natural resource damage assessment effort, as well as achieve overall recovery for the gulf, and is comprised of federal and state leaders and informed by stakeholders in the region. President Obama appointed EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson, a New Orleans native, chair of the Task Force.

As a first order of business, the Task Force is charged with developing a Gulf of Mexico Regional Ecosystem Restoration Strategy within one year. In coordination with the natural resource damages assessment, the Strategy will drive restoration efforts under existing authorities, identify new policies and authorities needed, and provide the basis for allocating new and future funding. To help shape the Strategy, Task Force members will hold multiple public meetings to seek the wisdom and ideas of the Gulf community. The first meeting was held in Pensacola, Fla. on November 8, 2010.

In addition to developing the Gulf of Mexico Regional Ecosystem Restoration Strategy, the Task Force is responsible for:

• Ensuring full coordination of ecosystem restoration efforts;
• Establishing science and accountability as the basis for decision-making; and
• Engaging Gulf Coast communities in the setting of priorities.