Green groups hope Gulf spill galvanizes movement

By TAMARA LUSH Associated Press Writer

VENICE, La. (AP) - Environmentalists hope the Gulf oil spill will invigorate the movement and finally persuade Americans to change their energy-dependent lifestyles.

The ruptured well has poured more than 4 million of gallons of crude into the sea and counting.

But activists worry that the full effect of the spill might not be felt on land if there aren't startling images to support it.

So far, relatively few birds with oil-stained feathers have been brought in for treatment. And the thickest oil still hasn't reached land.

Green groups are trying to capitalize by letting people know how much the spill will affect the seafood-friendly region's ecosystem and economy.