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The U.S. government had two months to prepare for the expected impact of the
IXTOC I oil on the Texas shoreline.  During this time the government  realized
the importance of coastline mapping in regards to oil sensitivity.  This led to
a mapping project which resulted in the first Environmental Sensitivity Index
(ESI) prepared by Research Planning , Inc. (RPI) under contract to The National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).  Placement of containment boom
and other response equipment was done after study of the environmental
sensitivity as reported in the ESI.

The IXTOC I well blowout was an unusual situation with regard to responsibility
for, coordination of, and control and cleanup of the spilled oil.  The U.S.
government publicly requested compensation from Mexico for damages associated
with the spill without first entering into negotiations with the Mexican
Government.  Mexico denied being financially responsible for damages incurred,
and refused to help pay cleanup expenses to the U.S.

Officials reported that tourism along the Texas beaches dropped by 60% during
the course of the spill.