REGIONAL RESPONSE TEAM
Region 10 Oil and Hazardous Substances Pollution Contingency Plan
March 1987
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
Subpart A - Introduction 1
Subpart B - Responsibility 5
Subpart C- Organization 8
Subpart D - Plans 15
Subpart E - Operational Response Phases for Oil Removal 16
Subpart F - Hazardous Substance Response 18
Subpart G - Trustees 20
Subpart H - Use of Dispersants and Other Chemicals 22
Annexes
I Distribution 23
II Regional Response Team Membership 24
HI Regional Response Center 30
IV Geographical Boundaries 31
V Notifications, Communications, and Reports 34
VI Arrangements for Participation of Non-Federal Groups 38
Trustees for Natural Resources 39
Hazardous Substance Response and Disposal 40
DC Dispersant Policy and Use 41
X Documentation and Cost Recovery 42
XI Special Forces 43
XIT Washington, Oregon, and Idaho State Contingency Plans 49
XTIT Joint Canada - U.S. Response Plan Summary 50
XTV National Contingency Plan 51
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Subpart A - Introduction
1.1 Purpose and Objectives
This Regional Contingency Plan provides for a pattern of coordinated and integrated
response by agencies of the Federal and State governments to pollution incidents. It establishes a
Regional Response Team and local response teams. This Plan promotes the coordination of
Federal, State, and local response systems and encourages the development of capabilities by both
local government and private interests to handle or prevent pollution incidents.
1.2 Authority
This Plan has been developed pursuant to the requirements of the Clean Water Act (CWA,
1977); Section 311, the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act
(CERCLA, 1980); and the National Oil and Hazardous Substances Pollution Contingency Plan
(February 18,1986).
1.3 Scope
This Plan is effective for discharges of oil to the navigable waters of Region 10, including
Idaho and inland Washington and Oregon; and the ocean waters off Washington and Oregon, in
which the natural resources are under the exclusive management authority of the United States in
accordance with the Fishery Conservation and Management Act of 1976. This plan also
incorporates requirements of Section 101(8) of CERCLA, which provides for response to
hazardous materials incidents which threaten other surface waters, groundwater, drinking water
supplies, land surface and subsurface strata, or ambient air within the United States or under the
jurisdiction of the United States. CERCLA applies to appropriate areas in Region 10.
The annexes to this Plan are tailored to provide specific information to aid response activities
in the states of Idaho, Oregon, and Washington. This Preamble and the annexes constitute the
Pollution Contingency Plan for these three states within Region 10. For response purposes,
Region 10 differs from standard Federal Region 10 in that Alaska is not included.
This plan complements the Joint Canada - United States Marine Pollution Contingency Plan
for Spills of Oil and Other Noxious Substances (June 1984).
1.4 Application
This Plan is applicable to response efforts undertaken by agencies authorized under
CERCLA and Section 311 of the CWA.
1.5 Abbreviations
A. Federal Department and Agency Title Abbreviations
DOC Department of Commerce
DOD Department of Defense
DOE Department of Energy
DOI Department of the Interior
DOJ Department of Justice
DOL Department of Labor
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DOS Department of State
DOT Department of Transportation
EPA Environmental Protection Agency
FEMA Federal Emergency Management Agency
HHS Department of Health and Human Services
NIOSH National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
NOAA National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
USCG United States Coast Guard
USDA United States Department of Agriculture
B. Operational Title Abbreviations
CRC Coastal Resource Coordinator
ERT Environmental Response Team
FCO Federal Coordinating Officer
JRT Joint Response Team
NRC National Response Center
NRT National Response Team
NSF National Strike Team
OSC On-Scene Coordinator
PAAT Publications Affairs Assist Team
PIAT Public Information Assist Team
RPM Remedial Program Manager
RRC Regional Response Center
RRT Regional Response Team
SSC Scientific Support Coordinator
TAT Technical Assistance Team
C. Federal Legislation Abbreviations
CERCLA Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act
of 1980
CWA Clean Water Act of 1977
NCP National Oil and Hazardous Substances Pollution Contingency Plan of 1986
NPL National Priorities List
RCRA Resource Conservation and Recovery Act
D. State Agency Abbreviations
DEQ Oregon Department of Environmental Quality
DOE Washington Department of Ecology
IDHW Idaho Department of Health and Welfare
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1.6 Definitions
Terms not included in this section are as defined by CERCLA, the CWA, or the NCP.
Activation means notification by telephone or other expeditious manner or, when required,
the assembly of appropriate members of the RRT or NRT.
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Applicable requirements means those Federal requirements that would be legally applicable,
whether directly or as incorporated by a Federally authorized State program, if the response actions
were not undertaken pursuant to CERCLA sections 104 or 106.
Coastal waters, for the purposes of classifying the size of discharges, means the waters of
the coastal zone and specified ports and harbors on inland rivers.
Feasibility study is a process undertaken by the lead agency (or responsible party if the
responsible party will be developing a cleanup proposal) for developing, evaluating, and selecting
remedial actions which emphasize data analysis. The feasibility study is generally performed
concurrently and in an interdependent fashion with the remedial investigation. In certain situations,
the lead agency may require potentially responsible parties to conclude initial phases of the remedial
investigation prior to initiation of the feasibility study. The feasibility study process uses data
gathered during the remedial investigation. These data are used to define the objectives of the
response action and develop remedial action alternatives. Next, an initial screening of these
alternatives is required to reduce the number of alternatives to a workable number. Finally, the
feasibility study involves a detailed analysis of a limited number of alternatives which remain after
the initial screening stage. The factors that are considered in screening and analyzing the
alternatives are public health, economics, engineering practicality, environmental impacts, and
institutional issues.
First Federal Official means the first Federal representative of a participating agency of the
National Response Team to arrive at the scene of a discharge or release. This official coordinates
activities under this Plan and may initiate, in consultation with the OSC, any necessary actions until
the arrival of the predesignated OSC. A State with primary jurisdiction over a site covered by a
cooperative agreement will act in the stead of the First Federal Official for any incident at the site.
Inland waters, for the purpose of classifying the size of discharges, means those waters of
the U.S. in the inland zone and specified ports and harbors on inland rivers.
Management of migration means actions that are taken to minimize and mitigate the
migration of hazardous substances, pollutants, or contaminants, and the effects of such migration.
Management of migration actions may be appropriate where the hazardous substances, pollutants,
or contaminants are no longer at or near the area where they were originally located, or situations
where a source cannot be adequately identified or characterized. Measures may include, but are not
limited to, provision of alternative water supplies, management of a contaminant plume, or
treatment of a drinking water aquifer.
On-Scene Coordinator (OSC) means the Federal official predesignated by the EPA or
USCG to coordinate and direct Federal responses under Subpart E and removals under Subpart F
of this Plan; or the DOD official designated to coordinate and direct the removal actions from
releases of hazardous substances, pollutants, or contaminants from DOD vessels and facilities.
Operable unit is a discrete part of the entire response action that decreases a release, threat of
release, or pathway of exposure.
Pollutant or contaminant, as defined by section 104(a)(2) of CERCLA, shall include, but not
be limited to, any element, substance, compound, or mixture, including disease-causing agents,
which, after release into the environment and upon exposure, ingestion, inhalation, or assimilation
into any organism, either directly from the environment or indirectly by ingesting through food
chains, will or may reasonably be anticipated to cause death, disease, behavioral abnormalities,
cancer, genetic mutation, physiological malfunctions (including malfunctions in reproduction), or
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physical deformation in such organisms or their offspring. The term does not include petroleum,
including crude oil and any fraction thereof which is not otherwise specifically listed or designated
as a hazardous substance under section 101(14)(A) through (F) of CERCLA, nor does it include
natural gas, liquefied natural gas, or synthetic gas of pipeline quality (or mixture of natural gas and
synthetic gas). For purposes of SubpartF of this Plan, the term pollutant or contaminant means
any pollutant or contaminant which may present an imminent and substantial danger to public health
or welfare.
Relevant and appropriate requirements are those Federal requirements that, but for
jurisdictional restrictions associated with the requirement, apply to problems similar to those
encountered at CERCLA sites.
Remedial investigation is a process undertaken by the lead agency (or responsible party if
the responsible party will be developing a cleanup proposal) which emphasizes data collection and
site characterization. The remedial investigation is generally performed concurrently and in an
interdependent fashion with the feasibility study. However, in certain situations, the lead agency
may require potentially responsible parties to conclude initial phases of the remedial investigation
prior to initiation of the feasibility study. A remedial investigation is undertaken to determine the
nature and extent of the problem presented by the release. This includes sampling and monitoring,
as necessary, and includes the garnering of sufficient information to determine the necessity for and
proposed extent of remedial action. Part of the remedial investigation involves assessing whether
the threat can be mitigated or minimized by controlling the source of the contamination at or near the
area where the hazardous substances, pollutants, or contaminants were originally located (source
control remedial actions) or whether additional actions will be necessary because the hazardous
substances, pollutants, or contaminants have migrated from the area of their original location
(management of migration).
Remedial Project Manager (RPM) means the Federal official designated by EPA (or the
USCG for vessels) to coordinate, monitor, or direct remedial or other response activities under
Subpart F of this Plan; or the Federal official DOD designates to coordinate and direct Federal
remedial or other response actions resulting from releases of hazardous substances, pollutants, or
contaminants from DOD facilities or vessels.
Site Quality Assurance and Sampling Plan is a written document associated with site
sampling activities which presents in specific terms the organization (where applicable), objectives,
functional activities, and specific quality assurance (QA) and quality control (QQ activities
designed to achieve the data quality goals of a specific project(s) or continuing operations(s). The
QA Project Plan is prepared for each specific project or continuing operation (or group of similar
projects of continuing operations). The QA Project Plan will be prepared by the responsible
program office, regional office, laboratory, contractor, recipient of an assistance agreement, or
other organization.
Source control remedial action means measures that are intended to contain the hazardous
substances, pollutants, or contaminants where they are located or eliminate potential contamination
by transporting the hazardous substances, pollutants, or contaminants to a new location. Source
control remedial actions may be appropriate if a substantial concentration or amount of hazardous
substances, pollutants, or contaminants remains at or near the area where they are originally located
and inadequate barriers exist to retard migration of hazardous substances or pollutants or
contaminants into the environment Source control remedial actions may not be appropriate if most
hazardous substances, pollutants, or contaminants have migrated from the area where originally
located or if the lead agency determines that the hazardous substances, pollutants, or contaminants
are adequately contained.
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Specified pans and harbors means those port and harbor areas on inland rivers, and land
areas immediately adjacent to those waters, where the USCG acts as predesignated OSC. Precise
locations are determined by EPA/USCG regional agreements and identified in Subpart D and
Annex IV of this Plan.
Subpart B - Responsibility
2.1 Federal Agencies' Responsibilities
(a) Federal agencies have responsibilities established by statute, Executive Order, or
Presidential Directive to respond to an oil discharge or hazardous substance release that poses a
threat to the public health or welfare. These responsibilities continue until: (a) Redelegated
pursuant to section 8(f) of Executive Order 12326; or (b) Executive Order 11735 or Executive
Order 12326 is amended or revoked.
(b) All Federal agencies must report to the National Response Center releases of hazardous
substances and discharges of oil from facilities or vessels which are under their jurisdiction or
control.
2.2 Coordination Among and by Federal Agencies
(a) Federal agencies are responsible for coordinating planning and response actions as
detailed in Subpart C of this Plan and with affected State and local government and private entities.
(b) Federal agencies are responsible, within agency capabilities and legal authorities, for
providing facilities or other resources which may be useful in a Federal response action.
(c) When the Administrator of EPA or the Secretary of the Department in which the Coast
Guard is operating determines that there is an imminent and substantial threat to the public health or
welfare because of a discharge of oil from any onshore or offshore facility, or from a release or
threatened release of a hazardous substance from a facility, he/she may request the Attorney
General to secure the relief necessary to abate the threat. This is in addition to any actions taken by
a State or local government for the same purpose.
(d) In accordance with section 31 l(d) of the CWA, whenever a marine disaster in or upon
the navigable waters of the United States has created a substantial threat of a pollution hazard to the
public health or welfare because of a discharge or an imminent discharge from a vessel of large
quantities of oil or hazardous substances, the Administrator of EPA and the Secretary of the
Department in which the Coast Guard is operating, respectively, for the waters for which each
designates the OSC under this plan may: (a) coordinate and direct all public and private efforts to
abate the threat; and (b) summarily remove and, if necessary, destroy the vessel by whatever means
are available without regard to any provisions of law governing the employment of personnel or the
expenditure of appropriated funds.
(e) Response actions to remove discharges originating from the Outer Continental Shelf
Lands Act operations shall be in accordance with this plan.
(f) Response actions to discharges of radioactive materials shall be in accordance with the
Federal Radiological Emergency Response Plan (49 CFR 35896, September 12, 1984).
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(g) Federal agencies may be called upon by an OSC/RPM during the planning or
implementation of a response to provide assistance in their respective areas of expertise as indicated
in Subpart B, Section 300.23 of the NCP. Federal agencies must:
(1) make necessary information available to the NRT, RRTs, and OSCs/RPMs;
(2) inform the NRT and RRTs of changes in the availability of resources that would
affect the operations of the Plan; and
(3) provide representatives, as required, to the NRT and RRTs; and assist RRTs and
OSCs in formulating Federal regional and Federal local contingency plans.
(h) HHS is responsible for a determination that illness, disease, or complaints thereof may be
attributable to exposure to a hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant.
(i) FEMA is responsible for the permanent relocation of residents, businesses, and
community facilities or temporary evacuation and housing of threatened individuals not otherwise
provided for.
(j) The OSC/RPM shall promptly notify the affected Federal land management agency,
Federal trustee for natural resources, and the State, if natural resources have been, or are likely to
be damaged as a result of a discharge or release.
(k) If the situation is beyond the capability of State and local governments and the statutory
authority of Federal agencies, the President may act upon a request by the Governor and declare a
major disaster or emergency and appoint a Federal Coordinating Officer (FCO) to coordinate all
Federal disaster assistance activities. The OSC/RPM would continue to carry out his/her
responsibilities under this plan, but would coordinate activities with the FCO to ensure consistency
with other Federal disaster assistance activities.
2.3 Canada-United States Joint Contingency Plan
This Plan provides for coordinated and integrated responses to pollution incidents in the
waters designated in the annexes by responsible Federal, state, and local agencies in the U.S., and
Federal, provincial, and local agencies in Canada. It is intended to augment the national, state,
provincial, regional, and subregional (local) plans of the two Parties and, therefore, addresses itself
primarily to international matters not covered by these plans.
The objectives of the Canada-U.S. Joint Contingency Plan are to:
(a) develop appropriate preparedness measures and effective systems for discovering and
reporting the existence of a pollution incident within the areas covered by various annexes to the
Plan;
(b) institute prompt measures to restrict the further spread of oil or to minimize the hazard
posed by a noxious substance; and to
(c) provide adequate resources to respond to a pollution incident
The Plan may be invoked by the responsible Canadian Joint Response Team (JRT)
co-chairman (Canadian Coast Guard or U.S. Coast Guard) in the event of a pollution incident
which originates within the area of responsibility of his OSC and which is accompanied by a
substantial threat of the spread of a pollutant into the area of responsibility of the other Parry's
OSC, or where such spreading has already occurred. The Plan may also be invoked by the
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responsible Canadian or U.S. JRT co-chairman in the event of a pollution incident originating
within the area of responsibility of the other Party's OSC when, in his opinion, there is a
substantial threat of a spread of the pollutant into his own area of responsibility.
2.4 State and Local Participation
(a) Within the States of Washington, Oregon, and Idaho those state, county, or municipal
public safety organizations designated by applicable emergency plans will initiate and maintain
responsibility for public safety measures necessary to protect public health and welfare and are
responsible for directing evacuations pursuant to these plans and other applicable procedures.
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(b) Idaho, Oregon, and Washington will undertake contingency planning consistent with the
NCP, the Region 10 plan, and applicable state law.
(c) The Washington State Department of Ecology (Ecology), Oregon State Department of
Environmental Quality (DEQ), and Idaho State Division of Environment (Environment) are
designated to represent their respective states on the Region 10 RRT and will direct
State-supervised response operations in these states.
(d) Ecology, consistent with Washington State law, will compel responsible parties to
undertake response or, in the absence of a responsible party, direct local response, contract for
response, or take response action itself when such actions are not eligible for Federal funding.
(e) DEQ, consistent with Oregon State law, will compel responsible parties to undertake
response, or in the absence of a responsible party, will draw on the Emergency Response and
Remedial Action Fund to direct local response, contract for response, or take response action itself
when such actions are not eligible for Federal funding.
(f) The Idaho Division of Environment is authorized to compel responsible parties to
undertake response or, in the absence of a responsible party, direct local response, contract for
response, or take response action itself when such actions are not eligible for Federal funding.
2.5 Non-Government Participation
Many non-government groups may contribute to the response to a polluting incident. It is
particularly important to use the valuable technical and scientific information available from the
non-government community. This assistance may be applied to development of cleanup strategies
and also assist the OSC in non-hazardous cleanup operations. In spill response cases where
technical or scientific assistance is applicable, the Scientific Support Coordinator (SSC) shall
organize such assistance and act as liaison between the OSC/RPM and such groups or
organizations.
Federal law requires that the discharger/releasor be given the opportunity to conduct cleanup
operations before Federal funds are committed, when time and circumstances permit In addition,.
the news media is an important non-governmental entity in any spill response. The
RRT/OSC/RPM will work closely with interested media to assure factual information is released to
the public in a timely manner.
The use of volunteers in a spill response must be approached with caution with regard to the
potential hazards presented by the spill. Unless specifically requested by the OSC, volunteers will
not be used for physical removal and/or remedial activities. If, in the judgment of the OSC,
dangerous conditions exist, volunteers shall be restricted from on-scene operations. There are,
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however, several areas in which volunteers can be veiy useful. Specific areas such as amateur
radio communications, beach surveillance, logistical support, and bird and wildlife treatment,
should be identified in both local emergency response plans and Federal local contingency plans to
allow for well-organized and safe use of volunteers.
Subpart C - Organization
3.1 Organizational Concepts
This Plan utilizes the Region 10 RRT as an advisory body to the OSC which enables
Federal, State, and local governmental agencies to participate in response to pollution incidents.
The primary members include representatives of specified Federal agencies in each state. These
members are responsible for the coordination of all input from their respective agencies, as well as
providing resources and other available assistance.
Three fundamental kinds of activities are performed pursuant to this Plan: planning and
coordination, operations at the scene of a discharge and/or release, and communications.
3.2 Planning and Coordination
The RRT is the principal mechanism for planning and preparedness activities before response
action is taken and for coordination and advice during response actions.
The role of the RRT includes communication, planning, coordination, training, evaluation,
and preparedness on a Region-wide basis. An incident-specific RRT may be created in response
the operational requirements of the discharge or release. Incident-specific teams will be comprised
of representatives of RRT agencies and may include local government representation, as determined
by the RRT co-chairs and appropriate state representatives. See Annex H for the membership of
the RRT. Each participating agency has designated one member and at least one alternate member
of the RRT. Each State has also designated one member and at least one alternate of the Team.
Except when the RRT is activated for a response action, the representatives of EPA and USCG act
as co-chairmen of the Team. When the RRT is activated for a response, the designation of
chairman is based upon the zone in which the response occurs, i.e., inland or coastal.
The standing RRT will recommend changes in the regional response organization, revise the
regional plan, and evaluate the preparedness of the local agencies and the effectiveness of local
plans for Federal response to discharges and releases. The standing RRT will:
(a) be prepared to respond to major discharges or releases outside the region;
(b) conduct advance planning for use of dispersants, surface collection agents, burning
agents, biological additives, or other chemical agents;
(c) review regional and local responses to discharges or releases, recommend revisions of the
NCP to the NRT, taking into consideration available legal remedies, equipment readiness, and
coordination among responsible public agencies and private organizations;
(d) review OSC actions to help ensure that Federal regional and local contingency plans are
developed satisfactorily;
(e) meet at least semi-annually to review response actions carried out during the preceding
period, and consider changes in the Federal regional plan and locally-developed plans;
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(f) report on RRT activities to the NRT twice a year,
(g) encourage the State and local response communities to improve their preparedness for
response; and
(h) conduct training exercises as necessary to encourage preparedness activities of the
response community within the region.
Federal planning and coordination for local areas is the responsibility of Federal OSCs
designated by EPA and the USCG.
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Each OSC, in consultation with the RRT, will develop and maintain a Federal local plan for
response in his or her area of responsibility, where necessary and practicable. In areas in which the
USCG provides the OSC, such plans are developed in all cases. Due to the large number of inland
localities, it is the position of Region 10 EPA that inland local contingency planning is the primary
responsibility of local entities. Region 10 EPA stands ready to provide assistance where requested.
While the OSC is responsible for developing Federal local plans, a successful planning effort
depends upon the full cooperation of all agencies' representatives and the development of local
capabilities to respond to discharges or releases. Particular attention will be given during the
planning process to developing a multi-agency local response team for coordinating on-scene
efforts.
3.3 Response Operations
Federal on-scene coordination during a response is accomplished through the OSC, who
provides reports to and receives advice from the RRT. The U.S. Coast Guard designates the OSC
for discharges of oil or release of hazardous substances to the coastal zone; EPA designates the
OSC for inland response operations dealing with discharges of oil or hazardous substances
releases. If the incident involves a release from a chemical waste site, EPA will provide the OSC.
DOD will furnish the OSC with respect to releases or discharges from DOD facilities.
The OSC/RPM directs Federal Fund-financed response efforts and coordinates all other
Federal efforts at the scene of a release or discharge. Should the circumstances so indicate, the
OSC/RPM can request support from special forces with expertise in containment and cleanup,
environmental protection, and public affairs. The OSC/RPM is responsible for:
(a) collecting pertinent facts about the discharge or release such as its source; potentially
responsible party; nature, amount, and location of the material; and potential impact upon the
environment and human health, welfare and safety;
(b) advising promptly the appropriate State agency, any affected land management agency,
and trustees of natural resources;
(c) addressing worker health and safety at the response scene;
(d) directing response operations as described in Subparts E and F of this Plan;
(e) consulting regularly with the incident-specific RRT when it has been activated;
(f) advising promptly the FEMA representative on the incident-specific RRT of major
disaster situations and the HHS representative when a possible public health emergency exists; and
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(g) consulting with DOI and DOC/NOAA representatives on the incident-specific RRT if
there may be an adverse effect upon any endangered or threatened species or its habitat
The NCP defines various categories of oil discharges and chemical releases to serve as
guidance to the OSC and as the criteria for the actions in Subpart E. These categories are not meant
to imply associated degrees of hazard to public health or welfare, nor are they a measure of
environmental damage. Any oil discharge thai poses a substantial threat to the public health or
welfare or results in critical public concern shall be classified as a major discharge regardless of the
following quantitative measures:
(a) Minor discharge means a discharge to the inland waters of less than 1,000 gallons of oil
or a discharge to the coastal waters of less man 10,000 gallons of oil.
(b) Medium discharge means a discharge of 1,000 to 10,000 gallons of oil to the inland
waters or a discharge of 10,000 to 100,000 gallons of oil to the coastal waters.
(c) Major discharge means a discharge of more than 10,000 gallons of oil to the inland
waters or more than 100,000 gallons of oil to the coastal waters.
(d) Minor release means a release of quantity of hazardous substance(s), pollutant(s), or
contaminant(s) that poses minimal threat to public health or welfare or the environment
(e) Medium release means all releases not meeting the criteria for classification as a minor or
major release.
(f) Major release means a release of any quantity of hazardous substance(s), pollutant(s), or
contaminant(s) that poses a substantial threat to public health or welfare or the environment, or
results in significant public concern.
The OSC shall promptly notify the chairman of the appropriate incident-specific RRT of all
actual or potential medium or major spills. The chairman shall activate the team whenever:
(a) The discharge or release exceeds the response capability available to the OSC;
(b) There is an actual or potential major spill;
(c) During any response when any member of the RRT makes a request to the chairman; or
(d) The chairman has determined a need to activate the team, including the need to conduct
periodic training sessions.
The RRT will normally be activated by telephoning the persons designated in Annex n of
this Plan. The activation call will specify the time of activation, the meeting place for assembly,
and as much about the incident and the requirements to be placed on a particular agency as are
known. Whenever the RRT is activated, all members will be notified even if the incident will
require only the services of selected RRT members. A limited membership activation may be called
by the chairman whenever it is apparent that the services of only selected members are needed. A
full membership activation will normally be called whenever a major incident occurs.
When the RRT is activated for a discharge or release, agency representatives shall meet at the
call of the chairman and:
(a) monitor and evaluate reports from the OSC/RPM. (The RRT may advise the OSC/RPM
on the duration and extent of the Federal response and may recommend to die OSC/RPM specific
actions to respond to the discharge or release);
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(b) request other Federal, State, or local governments or private agencies to provide
resources under their existing authorities to respond to a discharge or release, or to monitor the
response operation;
(c) help the OSC/RPM prepare information releases for the public and for communication
with the NRT;
(d) if the circumstances warrant, make recommendations to the regional or district head of the
agency providing the OSC/RPM that a different OSC/RPM should be designated; and
(e) submit Pollution Reports (POLREPs) to the NRC as significant developments occur.
Remedial activities, as stated in Subparts 300.66, 300.67, 300.70, and 300.71 of the NCP,
are the long-term CERCLA fund-financed or responsible party-financed remediation of sites which
have been included on the National Priorities Last (NPL).
The RRT may be deactivated when the RRT chairman determines that the OSC/RPM no
longer requires RRT assistance.
3.4 Special Forces and Teams
To enhance the ability of Federal forces to respond to incidents and to provide the greatest
expertise in protecting the marine environment from oil pollution and hazardous substance releases,
Section 300.34 of the NCP prescribes the development of Special Pollution Control Forces
(SPCF). Briefly, the forces that have evolved are:
(a) U.S. Coast Guard Pacific Strike Team, which assists the OSC with communications,
advice and assistance for oil and hazardous substances removal, as well as ship salvage, damage
control, and diving support. Additionally, the team is equipped with specialized containment and
removal equipment, and has rapid transportation available.
(b) EPA Environmental Response Team (ERT), established in accordance with EPA's
disaster and emergency responsibilities. The ERT is available to advise the OSC and the RRT on
environmental issues concerning spill containment, cleanup, and damage assessment The ERT
has expertise in biology, chemistry, hydrology, geology, and engineering. It can provide access to
special decontamination equipment for chemical releases and provide advice to the OSC in hazard
evaluation; risk assessment; multi-media sampling and analysis; cleanup techniques and priorities;
water supply decontamination and protection; on-site safety (including development and
implementation of plans); application of dispersants; environmental assessment; degree of cleanup
required; and disposal of contaminated materials.
(c) NOAA Scientific Support Coordinators (SSCs) advise the U.S. Coast Guard OSC during
responses to oil and hazardous substance releases in marine waters. SSCs, backed by specialists in
analytical chemistry, physical oceanography, environmental characterization, and occupational
safety and health, are technical liaisons with regional scientific experts, academia, and industry.
SSCs assist the Coast Guard in identifying and assessing risks to coastal natural resources from
spills and in acting to minimize those risks; by advising on the nature, behavior, and fate of oil and
hazardous materials under various environmental conditions; identifying critical habitats; chemical
hazard assessment; spill trajectory modeling; and assisting in public relations efforts on scientific
issues.
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(d) U.S. Coast Guard Public Information Assist Team (PIAT) and Public Affairs Assist
Team (PAAT) assist OSCs and regional or district offices meet the demands for public information
and participation during major responses.
(e) The Region 10 Regional Response Team serves as the advisor to agencies establishing
planning and preparedness actions in Washington, Oregon, and Idaho for response actions and for
coordination and advice during such action. The RRT consists of regional representatives of the
participating agencies and representatives of State governments. The RRT's role is described more
fully in Subpart 3.3 of this Plan.
(f) The National Response Team consists of representatives of Federal agencies, who are
charged with accomplishing national planning and coordination for spill incidents, with the
objectives of maintaining national readiness to respond to a major discharge of oil or release of a
hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant which is beyond regional capabilities; monitoring
incoming reports from all RRTs and activating when necessary, reviewing regional responses to oil
discharges and hazardous substance releases; and developing procedures to ensure the coordination
of Federal, State, and local governments and private response to oil discharges and releases of
hazardous substances, pollutants, or contaminants.
(g) U.S. Coast Guard Thirteenth District Support Team field units are the first line of
discharge identification, area surveillance, and intentional discharge deterrence within the coastal
area. In addition, field units are the key element in initial containment activities which can
substantially mitigate the detrimental effect of a pollution incident
3.5 Multi-Regional Responses
In the event that an actual or potential discharge or release moves from the area covered by
the Region 10 contingency plan into an area covered by another plan, the authority to initiate
pollution control actions shall shift as appropriate. In the event that a discharge or release affects
areas covered by two or more plans, the response mechanism called for by both plans shall be
activated.
There shall be only one OSC/RPM at any one time during the course of a response. Should
a discharge or release affect two or more areas, FJPA, USCG, and DOD, as appropriate will, by
mutual agreement, designate the OSC/RPM, giving prime consideration to the areas most
vulnerable to damage. The standing RRT shall designate the OSC/RPM if no agreement is reached.
3.6 Communications
(a) All reports of releases of hazardous materials must be reported to the National Response
Center.
(b) In Washington, all incidents involving hazardous materials should be immediately
reported to the Department of Community Development, Division of Emergency Management
(DEM) at (800)262-5990, who shall serve as the primary communication link between all response
agencies. DEM will, in turn, inform local emergency contacts; the Washington State Patrol;
Washington State Department of Ecology and other appropriate State agencies, including the
Departments of Game and Fisheries; and appropriate Federal agencies, including the U.S. Coast
Guard, EPA, and NOAA (Annex V).
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(c) In Oregon, all incidents involving oil or hazardous materials should be immediately
reported to the Oregon Emergency Management Division at (503)378-4124 or (800)452-0311,
which shall serve as the primary coordination link between all response agencies.
(d) In Idaho, all incidents involving hazardous materials should be immediately reported to
Emergency Medical Services who shall serve as the primary communication link between all
response agencies. Notification may be made to EMS directly using the 24-hour Idaho-statewide
toll free number, (800)632-8000.
(e) NOAA (206-526-6317) maintains an electronic mail system which provides a
communications link between RRT agencies.
(f) Supplementary incident communications during an incident will be provided by the RRT,
at the request of the OSC.
3.7 Response Equipment
Local response agencies are encouraged to maintain a current inventory (for their area of
responsibility) of response equipment and cleanup cooperatives available to assist OSCs during
responses in Region 10.
3.8 Worker Health and Safety
During pollution response operations, certain responsibilities are assigned to the OSC
relating to health and safety. In general, these responsibilities are to determine whether a health
emergency exists, and to address human health and safety concerns in the response area. The OSC
should be aware of threats to human health and safety and shall ensure that persons entering the
response area use proper precautions, procedures, equipment, and that they possess proper
training. Federal and local plans shall identify sources of information on anticipated hazards,
precautions, and requirements to protect personnel during response operations.
Requirements under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 (29 USC 651) and
under the laws of Washington, Oregon, and Idaho, with plans approved under section 18 of the
OSH Act, will be applied to response activities under this Plan. These requirements are subject to
enforcement by the appropriate Federal and State agencies. Employers at response actions under
this Plan will be subject to the general duty requirement of section 5(a)(l) of the OSH Act. No
action by the lead agency with respect to response activities under this Plan constitutes as exercise
of statutory authority within the meaning of section 4(b)(l) of the OSH Act
All governmental agencies and private employers are directly responsible for the health and
safety of their own employees. Response activities in the State of Washington must meet the
requirements of OSHA and the Washington Industrial Safety and Health Act (WISHA) as
administered by the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries; the Oregon Accident
Prevention Division under the Worker's Compensation Department carries out the requirements of
OSHA, as well as Oregon Administrative Rules pursuant to worker health and safety.
Under a response action taken by a responsible party, the responsible party must assure that
an occupational health and safety program is made available for the protection of workers at the
response site, and that workers entering the response site are apprised of the response site hazards
and provisions of the OSH Act and State OSH laws.
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In addition to those members of the RRT who have responsibilities in the area of public
health and safety, a Public Health Advisor is available to assist the OSC. This official will:
a) when necessary, visit the spill scene to assess threats to human health and to recommend
environmental sampling or monitoring procedures to define the extent of exposure;
b) review available background information about the pollution incident and estimate the
potential for human exposure to hazardous substances on-site, and to hazardous substances which
may have migrated off-site;
c) determine the potential toxic hazard of substances identified at the site;
d) provide advice as to the necessity of relocating nearby, off-site residents, or taking other
preventive measures;
e) outline potential pathways to human populations based upon soil contamination, wind
direction, water contamination, biomagnification, and/or food chain involvement;
f) review plans for the safety and health of workers on-site and provide advice about
operations for compliance with appropriate OSHA regulations for worker safety and health;
g) investigate health complaints reported by on-scene workers;
h) coordinate appropriate health response with Federal, State, and local health agencies and
the private medical community;
i) provide advice and assistance as required by the OSC on health matters in community
relations and dealing with the media; and
j) establish and maintain a current inventory of literature, research, and studies on the health
effects of toxic substances.
3.9 Public Information
a) When an incident occurs, the public must receive prompt, accurate information on the
nature of the incident and the actions underway to mitigate the damage. OSCs/RPMs and
community relations personnel should ensure that all appropriate public and private interests are
kept informed and that their concerns are considered throughout a response. They should
coordinate with available public affairs or community relations resources to carry out this
responsibility.
b) An on-scene news office may be established to coordinate media relations to issue official
Federal information on an incident Whenever possible, it will be headed by a representative of the
lead agency. The OSC/RPM determines the location of the on-scene news office, but every effort
should be made to locate it near the scene of the incident If a participating agency believes public
interest warrants the issuance of statements and an on-scene news office has not been established,
the affected agency should recommend its establishment All Federal news releases or statements
by participating agencies must be cleared through the OSC/RPM.
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3.10 OSC Reports
a) Within 60 days after the conclusion of a major discharge of oil; a major hazardous
substance, pollutant, or contaminant release; or when requested by the RRT, the EPA or USCG
OSC shall submit to the RRT a complete report on the response operation and the actions taken.
The OSC shall at the same time send a copy of the report to the NRT. The RRT shall review the
OSC's report and prepare an endorsement to the NRT for review. This shall be accomplished
within 30 days after the report has been received
b) The OSC's report shall accurately record the situation as it developed, the actions taken,
the resources committed, and the problems encountered. The OSC's recommendations are a source
for new procedures and policy.
Subpart D - Plans
4.1 National Contingency Plan
The purpose of the NCP is to put into effect the response powers and responsibilities created
by section 105 of CERCLA and section 311(c)(2) of the CWA. The NCP applies to all Federal
agencies and is in effect for discharges of oil or releases or substantial threats of releases of
hazardous substances into the environment, which may present an imminent and substantial danger
to public health or welfare, in the navigable water of the U.S. and adjoining shorelines, for the
contiguous zone, and the high seas beyond the contiguous zone in connection with activities under
the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act or the Deep Water Port Act of 1974, or which may affect
natural resources belonging to, pertinent to, or under the exclusive management authority of the
United States. The NCP provides for efficient, coordinated and effective response to discharges of
oil and releases of hazardous substances, pollutants, or contaminants (Annex XIV).
4.2 Regional Contingency Plan
This regional contingency plan has been developed for standard Federal Region 10,
excluding Alaska. The purpose of this Plan is coordination of a timely, effective response by
various Federal agencies and other organizations to discharges of oil and releases of hazardous
substances, pollutants, or contaminants in order to protect public health, welfare, and the
environment. This Plan includes information on all useful facilities and resources in the region,
including Federal, State, and local commercial and academic sources. To the greatest extent
possible, this Plan follows the format of the NCP and coordinates with the plans of Washington,
Oregon, and Idaho, and Federal local plans as specified in section 300.43 of the NCP. As
discussed in Subpart E, this Plan contains lines of demarcation between the inland and coastal
zones, as mutually agreed upon by the U.S. Coast Guard and EPA.
4.3 Federal Local Contingency Plan
Each OSC, in consultation with the RRT, should develop and maintain a Federal local plan
for response in his or her area of responsibility, where necessary and practicable. In areas in which
the USCG provides the OSC, such plans shall be developed in all cases. The plan should provide
for a well-coordinated response that is integrated and compatible with the pollution response, fire,
emergency, and disaster plans of local, State, and other non-Federal entities. The plan should
identify the probable locations of discharges or releases; the resources available to respond to
multi-media incidents, where such resources can be obtained; waste disposal methods; and facilities
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consistent with local and State plans developed under the Resource Conservation and Recovery
Act
4.4 Canada - U.S. Joint Contingency Plan
As discussed in Subpart B and Annex XTH of this Plan, the Canada - U.S. Joint Marine
Pollution Contingency Plan for Spills of Oil and Other Noxious Substances, provides a framework
for U.S.-Canada cooperation in response to pollution incidents that may pose a significant threat to
the waters or coastal areas of both parties, or, although only affecting the waters of one Party, are
of such magnitude that they justify a call on the other Party for assistance.
4.5 State Contingency Plans
The Washington State Contingency Plan for Spills of Oil and Hazardous Substances
addresses Washington's Oil Spill Act (RCW 90.48.315 through 365), the Hazardous Waste
Disposal Act (RCW 70.105), and Hazardous Waste Regulations (WAC 173-302). It defines state
responsibilities and describes how they mesh with Federal and local response entities.
The Oregon Oil and Hazardous Material Emergency Response Plan provides a coordinated
emergency response plan for all incidents involving hazardous materials and oil, and outlines the
roles, responsibilities, and authorities of all state agencies during times of emergency (Oil Spillage
Regulation Law ORS 468.780, Hazardous Waste and Materials Law ORS 466.205, Spill
Response and Cleanup of Hazardous Materials Law ORS 466.680).
The Idaho Hazardous Materials Emergency Response Plan establishes procedures for an
organized response by participating agencies to incidents involving hazardous materials.
4.6 Local Contingency Plans
The RRT encourages the development of local plans for response in Washington, Oregon,
and Idaho, which establish multi-agency local response teams for responding to discharges or
releases and coordinating on-scene efforts.
Subpart E - Operational Response Phases for Oil Removal
5.1 Phase I - Discovery and Notification
All reports of discharges of oil shall be made to the NRC. If direct reporting to the NRC is
not practicable, reports may be made to the Coast Guard or EPA-predesignated OSC for the
geographic area where the discharge occurs. All such reports shall be promptly relayed to the
NRC. If it is not possible to notify the NRC or predesignated OSC immediately, reports may be
made immediately to the nearest Coast Guard unit, provided that the discharger notifies the NRC as
soon as possible. The duty officer will notify appropriate Federal and State spill response and
trustee agency personnel. If the spill occurs as a potential major incident, the duty officer will alert
the RRT or those members with obvious jurisdictional responsibilities. Federal regional and
Federal local plans shall provide for prompt reporting to the NRC, RRT, and appropriate State
agency (as agreed upon with the State).
5.2 Phase U - Preliminary Assessment and Initiation of Action
The OSC for a particular area is responsible for promptly initiating preliminary assessment,
which shall be conducted using available information supplemented where necessary and possible
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by an on-scene investigation to evaluate the magnitude and severity of the discharge or threat to
public health or welfare, or the environment; assess the feasibility of removal; identify potentially
responsible parties; and ensure that authority exists for undertaking additional response actions.
Phase IE is initiated immediately unless the discharger is identified and agrees to responsible action
in spill containment and cleanup (samples of the oil are taken by EPA at the suspected source and in
the cleanup area for possible enforcement action and future cost recovery purposes).
5.3 Phase HI - Containment, Countermeasures, Cleanup, and Disposal
Directed by an EPA-, State-, or USCG-designated OSC, defensive actions should begin as
soon as possible to prevent, minimize, or mitigate threat to the public health or welfare, or the
environment Actions may include analyzing water samples to determine the source and spread of
the oil; controlling the source of discharge; measuring and sampling; source and spread control or
salvage operations; placement of physical barriers to deter the spread of the oil or to protect
endangered species; control of the water discharged from upstream impoundment; and the use of
chemicals and other materials in accordance with Subpart H to restrain the spread of the oil and
mitigate its effects.
5.4 Phase IV - Documentation and Cost Recovery
Documentation shall be collected and maintained to support all actions taken under the CWA
and to form the basis for cost recovery. In general, documentation should be sufficient to prove the
source and circumstances of the incident, the responsible party or parties, and impact and potential
impacts to the public health or welfare and the environment Such documentation consists
primarily of photographs, spilled oil samples, and eyewitness accounts from either private parties
or government investigators. When appropriate, documentation should also be collected for
scientific understanding of the environment and for the research and development of improved
response methods and technology. Evidentiary and cost documentation and procedures and
requirements, including chain-of-custody, are specified in the USCG Marine Safety Manual.
5.5 General Pattern of Response
When the OSC receives a report of a discharge, actions normally should be taken in the
following sequence, as appropriate for inland or coastal incidents:
(a) immediately notify the RRT and NRC when the reported discharge is an actual or
potential major discharge;
(b) investigate the report to determine pertinent information such as the threat posed to public
health or welfare, or the environment; the type and quantity of polluting material; and the source of
the discharge;
(c) officially classify the discharge, based upon its size and threat posed to the public health
or welfare, or the environment Any oU discharge that poses a substantial threat to the public health
or welfare or results in critical public concern shall be classified as a major discharge regardless of
quantitative measures.
(d) determine whether a discharger or other person is properly carrying out removal,
ascertained by a cleanup that is in accordance with applicable regulations and is fully sufficient to
minimize or mitigate threat to the public health or welfare, and the environment;
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(e) determine whether a State or political subdivision has the capability to carry out response
actions and a contract or cooperative agreement has been established with the appropriate fund
administrator for this purpose; and
(f) notify the RRT (including the affected State) and the trustees of affected natural resources
in accordance with the Region 10 Contingency Plan.
If the investigation shows:
(a) that no discharge occurred, or that a minor discharge occurred with no removal action
required, the case should be closed for response purposes;
(b) a minor discharge occurred with the responsible party taking proper removal action,
contact should be established with the party. The removal action should be monitored to ensure
continued proper action;
(c) a minor discharge occurred with improper removal being taken, the following measures
shall be taken:
(1) an immediate effort should be made to stop further pollution and remove past and
ongoing contamination;
(2) the responsible party shall be advised of what action will be considered appropriate;
(3) if the responsible party does not properly respond, he shall be notified of his
potential liability for Federal response performed under the CWA;
(4) the OSC shall notify appropriate State and local officials, keep the RRT advised, and
initiate Phase HI operations as conditions warrant; and
(5) information shall be collected for possible recovery of response costs in accordance
with section 300.34 of the NCP; or
(d) that an actual or potential medium or major oil discharge exists, the OSC shall follow the
same general procedures as for a minor discharge. If appropriate, the OSC shall recommend
activation of the RRT.
Subpart F - Hazardous Substance Response
6.1 General
As outlined in Subpart F of the NCP, this Subpart establishes the procedure for determining
the extent of Federal responses to hazardous substances releases. Federal responses are authorized
under CERCLA whenever there is a release or substantial threat of a release of a designated
hazardous substance or any pollutant which may present an imminent and substantial danger to
public health or welfare. In the event that a responsible party declines to, or cannot, undertake the
required action, a Federally-funded response may be undertaken. The lead agency shall, as
practicable, provide surveillance for responsible party actions.
6.2 State Role
The States of Washington, Oregon, and Idaho are encouraged to undertake the responses
outlined in the NCP. For work at hazardous materials sites, these actions are undertaken through
contracts or cooperative agreements between the State and Federal government, if they are to be
Fund-financed (as part of Fund-financed remedial action, States must provide a 10% funding
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match). States choosing not to utilize the fund may undertake the actions without cooperative
agreements or contracts.
6.3 Discovery and Notification
" All reports of releases must be made to the NRC at (800)424-8802. If this is not practicable,
reports may be made to the predesignated OSC for the geographic area in which the incident
occurs. The NRC is responsible for prompt notification of the appropriate OSC. When the OSC is
notified of a release which may require response pursuant to section 300.65(b) of the NCP, a
preliminary assessment shall be promptly undertaken.
6.4 Emergency Spill Response
In the event that the party responsible for the release is unwilling or unable to initiate an
emergency cleanup, the EPA duty officer may activate the Emergency Response Cleanup Services
(ERCS) contract. This is a national in-place contract that provides for rapid deployment of cleanup
personnel. Such a response usually requires the presence of an EPA OSC.
6.5 Preliminary Site Assessment for Removal Action
A preliminary assessment is performed to determine whether a CERCLA response is
required. The assessment typically includes a review of site management practices, analysis of
historical photographs, interviews, and a site visit, including sampling. The preliminary
assessment will determine whether a release has occurred, whether a Federal response is
warranted, and whether natural resource damages have, or are likely to, occur.
6.6 Removals
Removal actions will be undertaken by the Federal government only when a responsible
party cannot be found or cannot perform the actions as required. At any release, when the lead
agency determines that there is a threat to public health or welfare, or the environment, a removal
may be undertaken. These actions may include erection of fences or signs for site security;
drainage controls; stabilization of impoundments; removal of drums, tanks, and highly
contaminated soils; provision of alternative water supplies; and temporary evacuation or relocation
of individuals.
Although Fund-financed removals and removal actions pursuant to CERCLA section 106
(actions taken under an administrative order by responsible parties) are not required to comply with
other Federal, State, and local laws, including permitting requirements, such actions shall, to the
extent practicable, attain or exceed applicable Federal public health and environmental requirements.
These removal actions shall involve only off-site facilities operating in compliance with applicable
Federal regulations.
6.7 Site Evaluation and the National Priorities List Determination
The National Priorities List (NPL) was established by Section 105 of CERCLA. The NPL
consists of at least 400 sites. Each State has been allowed to choose its highest priority site, which
will be included in the top 100 sites. The remainder of the sites are assigned a numerical value by
the Hazard Ranking System, based upon a matrix which considers the potential population exposed
to releases through air, surface-, and groundwaters, soils, and food chain routes. Presently, in
Region 10, 27 sites are included on the NPL: 19 sites in Washington, 4 in Oregon, and 4 in Idaho.
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6.8 Community Relations
The OSC (the U.S. Coast Guard for hazardous substances releases in the coastal zone; EPA
for releases in the inland zone) is required to provide a spokesperson for Federal short-term actions
needed to abate a threat to public health or welfare, or the environment For remedial actions and
removal actions expected to extend beyond 45 days, the OSC/RPM is required to develop and
implement a formal community relations plan. This community relations plan will provide for
meetings with community leaders, interested citizens, and the media. For remedial actions, a
21-day review and comment period must be provided for feasibility studies. These studies outline
alternative remedial measures. A 30-day comment period will be provided upon selection of a
permanent site remedy.
6.9 Remedial Action
Remedial actions are those responses to releases that are designed to provide a permanent
remedy to prevent or minimize the release of contaminants from a site. A Remedial
Investigation/Feasibility Study is performed by EPA to determine the nature and extent of the threat
and to evaluate proposed remedies. The proposed remedies are evaluated for cost, acceptable
engineering practices, and effectiveness.
6.10 Documentation and Cost Recovery
All costs associated with Fund-financed responses are subject to cost recovery.
Documentation must be sufficient to provide the source and circumstances of the condition; the
identity of responsible parties; accurate accounting of costs incurred; and impacts or potential
impacts to the public health and welfare, and the environment
6.11 Methods of Remedying Releases
Section 300.70 of the NCP details remedial methods. Permanent solutions involving waste
treatment or destruction are the preferred methods. These include such techniques as chemical or
biological treatment of wastes or contaminated surface or groundwaters, and incineration or
solidification of wastes or contaminated soils. On-site treatment, disposal, or destruction, is
preferred to off-site shipment
6.12 Other Party Responses
Any person may undertake a response action to reduce or eliminate the release or threatened
release of hazardous substances, pollutants, or contaminants. Cost recovery is available under
Section 107 of CERCLA if the response is consistent with the NCP. However, pre-approval is
generally required.
Subpart G - Trustees for Natural Resources
7.1 Designation of Federal Trustees
The discharge of oil or release of a hazardous substance can result in the loss of, or damage
to, natural resources. The categories of natural resources loss, the designated trustee, and the
duties of a trustee are defined in Subpart G of the NCP. In general, the trustees are:
(a) the head of the Federal and managing agency for damage to resources of any kind located
on, over, or under the managed land;
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(b) the head of the Federal agency authorized by statute to manage or protect fixed or
non-fixed resources (excluding those resources applicable to (a) or (c));
(c) the Secretary of Commerce for damage to a resource of any kind subject to the
management or protection of a Federal agency and lying in or under United States waters navigable
by deep draft vessels or subject to tidal influence. When there are resources subject to the statutory
authorities and jurisdictions of the Secretaries of the Departments of Commerce or the Interior, they
are co-trustees; and
(d) the Secretary of Interior for damage to natural resources protected by treaty (or other
authority pertaining to Native American tribes) or located on lands held by the United States in trust
for Native American communities or individuals.
If it is determined that natural resources have been, or are likely to be damaged, the
OSC/RPM notifies the affected land managing agency and trustee of natural resources as promptly
as possible. The trustees are available to consult with the OSC/RPM in making such
determinations. Annex Vn identifies the individuals to be notified of damage to natural resources.
7.2 State Trustees
The Washington Department of Ecology (Ecology), Oregon Department of Environmental
Quality (DEQ), and Idaho Division of Environment (Environment) will each act as lead State
agency if the State elects to act as trustee under CERCLA. Washington Ecology is supported by
the Washington Departments of Fisheries, Game, and Natural Resources, and the Parks and
Recreation .Commission. Oregon DEQ is aided by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife.
Idaho Environment is supported by Idaho Departments of Game and Forestry.
7.3 Responsibilities of Trustees
The Federal trustees for natural resources are responsible for assessing damages to the
resource in accordance with regulations promulgated under section 301(c) of CERCLA, seeking
recovery for the costs of assessment and for the losses from the person responsible, or from the
Fund; and devising and carrying out a plan for restoration, rehabilitation, replacement, or
acquisition of equivalent natural resources pursuant to CERCLA.
The trustee may, upon notification, take the following actions as appropriate:
(a) request that the lead agency issue an administrative order or pursue judicial relief against
parties responsible for the release, as authorized by CERCLA section 106;
(b) request that the lead agency remove or arrange for the removal or provide for remedial
action with respect to any hazardous substance from a contaminated medium, as authorized by
CERCLA section 104;
(c) initiate actions against responsible parties under CERCLA section 107(a); or
(d) pursue a claim against the Fund for injury, destruction, or loss of a natural resource, as
authorized by CERCLA section 111. (When this option is selected, a plan for restoration,
rehabilitation, or replacement or acquisition of equivalent natural resources must be adopted
pursuant to section 111 (i) of CERCLA.)
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Where there are multiple trustees, because of coexisting or contiguous natural resources or
concurrent jurisdictions, the trustees shall coordinate and cooperate in carrying out these
responsibilities.
7.4 [For Specific Agency Use]
Subpart H - Use of Dispersants and Other Chemicals
8.1 Currently, the consideration will be on a case-by-case basis. A subcommittee of the RRT is
examining the possibility of establishing pre-approval resources for certain areas of the State of
Washington. Guidelines for the use of dispersants to mitigate the effects of oil discharges in
Region 10 will be prepared at some future date.
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ANNEXI
DISTRIBUTION
1100 General
This plan and subsequent changes will be distributed to the NRT, RRT, OSCs, involved
States, and others as indicated below. A copy of this plan will be provided to interested parties
upon request Request for copies and binders should be directed to:
1. James C. Willmann
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Superfund Removal and Emergency Section
1200 Sixth Avenue, M/S 525
Seattle, Washington 98101
2. Commander, Thirteenth Coast Guard District
Chief, Marine Environmental Protection Branch (MEP)
915 Second Avenue
Seattle, Washington 98174
1101 NRT Distribution
Five copies of this Plan are provided to the NRT for review and distribution.
1102 RRT Distribution
Two copies of this Plan are provided to each RRT member agency identified in Annex n to
this Plan.
1103 OSC Distribution
Five copies of this plan are provided to each predesignated OSC as follows:
1. EPA, Superfund Removal and Emergency Section, Seattle, Washington
2. Commanding Officer, MSO Portland, Oregon
3. Commanding Officer, MSO Seattle, Washington
4. Commanding Officers of each DOD facility within Region 10
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ANNEXE
REGIONAL RESPONSE TEAM MEMBERSHIP
1200 In times of activation, the inland Region 10 RRT will be chaired by:
James C. Willmann, Chief
Superfund Removal and Emergency Section
Environmental Protection Agency
1200 Sixth Avenue, Mail Stop HW-113
Seattle, Washington 98101
(206)442-1196/FTS 399-1196
In times of activation, the coastal Region 10 RRT will be chaired by:
Captain Douglas C. ODonovan
Commander, Thirteenth Coast Guard District
Chief, Marine Safety Division (M)
915 Second Avenue
Seattle, Washington 98174
(206)442-1711/FTS 399-1711
The alternate will be:
Commander Mike Cavett
Chief, Marine Environmental Protection Branch
Thirteenth Coast Guard District
915 Second Avenue
Seattle, Washington 98174
(206)442-5850/FTS 399-5850
1201 Response operations dealing with emergencies involving discharges of oil or hazardous
substances requiring a Federal lead, will be carried out by predesignated On-Scene
Coordinators, as identified below:
INLAND
EPA - Seattle EPA - Portland EPA - Boise
James C. Willmann Ron Culver Bill Freutel
William H. Longston Bill Sobolewski
Carl Kite
John Sainsbury
Jeff Webb
COASTAL
Commanding Officer Commanding Officer
U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Office U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Office
Puget Sound 6767 N. Basin
1519 Alaskan Way So. Portland, Oregon 97217
Seattle, Washington 98134 (503)240-9320
(206)442-7510/FTS 399-7510
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1202 Region 10 Regional Response Tern membership, as of March 1987, is listed below:
DOT:
Captain Douglas C. OTJonovan (Co-Chairrnan)
Commander, Thirteenth Coast Guard District
Chief, Marine Safety Division (M)
915 Second Avenue
Seattle, Washington 98174
Commander Mike Cavett
Chief, Marine Environmental Protection Branch
Thirteenth Coast Guard District
915 Second Avenue
Seattle, Washington 98174
Office:
After Hours:
Office:
After Hours:
(206)442-1711
(FTS)399-1711
(206)442-5886
(206)442-5850
(FTS)399-5850
(206)742-9832
Mr. James C. Willmann (Co-Chairman)
Superfund Removal and Emergency Section
Environmental Protection Agency
1200 Sixth Avenue
Mail Stop HW-113
Seattle, Washington 98101
USDA:
USDA Forest Service
319 S.W. Pine Street
Box 3623
Portland, Oregon 97208
Member: Mr. Richard Pierce
Alternate: Mr. Buck Pino
DOC:
CDR Lawrence E. Keister
Executive Officer
NOAA Hazardous Materials Response Branch
7600 Sand Point Way N.E.
Seattle, Washington 98115
Dr. Howard S. Harris
Manager, Seattle Project Office
NOAA Ocean Assessments Division
7600 Sand Point Way N.E.
Seattle, Washington 98115
Office:
After Hours:
(206)442-1196
(FTS)399-1196
(206)442-1263
Office:
After Hours:
Office:
After Hours:
Office:
After Hours:
Office:
After Hours:
(503)221-2931
(FTS)423-2931
(503)649-1452
(503)221-2931
(FTS)423-2931
(503)668-4035
(206)526-6272
(FTS)392-6272
(206)525-1531
(206)526-6343
(FTS)392-6343
(206)232-6073
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DOD:
Sixth U.S. Army
Emergency Operations Center (AFKC-OP-OR)
Presidio of San Francisco, California 94129-7000
Member Captain Joseph E. Henry, USA
Alternate: Sergeant First Class Arturo Perez, USA
DOD:
Colonel C. G. Lunt, USAF
Base Commander
Department of the Air Force
Headquarters 62nd Air Base Group (MAC)
McChord AFB, Washington 98438
Mr. John Sweet
Environmental Control Office (62ABG/DEEV)
Headquarters 62nd Air Base Group (MAC)
McChord AFB, Washington 98438
DOD:
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
North Pacific Division
P.O. Box 2870
Portland, Oregon 97208
Member Colonel Neil Sailing
Alternate: Mr. Gordon Taxer
Office:
Office:
Office:
Office:
Office:
Office:
After Hours:
(415)561-5671
(415)561-5672
(206)984-2601
AUTOVON 976-3913
(206)984-3913
AUTOVON 976-3913
(503)221-2193
(FTS)423-2193
(503)294-5241
(FTS)423-5241
(503)628-1889
Mr. Brian Applebury
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Seattle District
P.O. Box C-3755
Seattle, Washington 98124
DOD:
Commander, Naval Base Seattle
Seattle, Washington 98115
Member Commander Jerry N. Begley, USN
Alternate: Mr. William C. Lantz
Office:
After Hours:
Office:
After Hours:
Office:
After Hours:
(206)764-3406
(FTS)399-3406
(206)631-4040
(206)526-3226
(206)526-3225
(206)526-3226
(206)526-3225
26
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DHHS:
Mr. Mike Street
Director, Division of Preventive Health Services
U.S. Public Health Service
2901 Third Avenue, M/S 402
Seattle, Washington 98121
Mr. James A. Davis
Director, Investigations Branch
Food and Drug Administration
5003 Federal Office Building
Seattle, Washington 98174
DOE:
U.S. Department of Energy
P.O. Box 550
Richland, Washington 99352
Member Dr. Donald R. Elle
Alternate: Ms. Pat Turner
DOL
Mr. Chuck Polityka
U.S. Department of the Interior
Lloyd 500 Building, Suite 1692
500 N.E. Multnomah Street
Portland, Oregon 97232
Dr. Jay Watson
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
U.S. Department of the Interior
Lloyd 500 Building, Suite 1692
500 N.E. Multnomah Street
Portland, Oregon 97232
DOJ:
Mr. James L. Nichol, Jr.
Trial Attorney
Environmental Enforcement Section
U.S. Department of Justice
10th Street and Pennsylvania Ave.
Washington, D.C. 20530
Office:
After Hours:
Office:
After Hours:
Office:
After Hours:
Office:
After Hours:
Office:
After Hours:
Office:
After Hours:
Office:
(206)442-0530
(FTS)392-0530
(206)747-4292
(206)442-5319
(FTS)399-7057
(206)747-4292
(509)376-2603
(FTS)444-2603
(509)376-3800
(509)376-2046
(FTS)444-2046
(509)376-3800
(503)231-6157
(FTS)429-6157
(503)621-3682
(503)231-6154
(FTS)429-6154
(503)646-9057
(202)633-4051
(FTS)633-4051
27
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Mr. John Granchi
USDOL/OSHA/Region 10
Federal Office Building
909 First Avenue, Room 6003
Seattle, Washington 98174
FEMA:
FEMA, Region 10
Federal Regional Center
Bothell, Washington 98021-9796
Member: Mr. Bill Brown
Alternate: Ms. Joan Hodgins
Chief, Disaster Assistance Program
IDAHO:
Mr. Larry L. Koenig
Water Quality Bureau
Department of Health & Welfare
Statehouse
Boise, Idaho 83720
WASHINGTON:
Ms. Andrea Beatty-Riniker, Director
Department of Ecology
State of Washington
Mail Stop PV-11
Olympia, Washington 98504
Mr. Mike Wilson
Office of Operations and Enforcement
Department of Ecology
Mail Stop PV-11
Olympia, Washington 98504
OREGON:
Department of Environmental Quality
Hazardous Materials Section
811S.W. Sixth Avenue
Portland, Oregon 97204
Member Mr. Bruce Sutherland
Alternate: Mr. Richard Reiter
Office:
After Hours:
Office:
After Hours:
Office:
After Hours:
Office:
After Hours:
Office:
After Hours:
Office:
After Hours:
Office:
After Hours:
Office:
After Hours:
(206)442-5930
(FTS)399-5930
(206)848-8800
(206)483-7296
(FTS)396-0296
(206)481-8800
(206)483-7343
(FTS)396-0343
(206)481-8800
(208)334-4255
(208)376-9188
(206)459-6168
(206)451-1865
(206)459-6803
(206)582-6208
(503)229-6047
(503)292-3357
(503)229-5913
(503)692-4941
28
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1203 COOPERATIVES
Mr JohnWeichert °^CQ: (206)624-7014
Manager, Clean Sound Cooperative After Hours: 1(800)562-2856
2406 - 13th Avenue S.W.
Seattle, Washington 98134
Offk*: (503)285-1025
After Hours: (503)246-6968
2416 North Marine Drive, Room 208
Portland, Oregon 97217
29
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ANNEX HI
REGIONAL RESPONSE CENTER
1300 Background
The NCP requires that a Regional Response Center be established in each standard Federal
Region. The Regional Response Center has capabilities for communication, information storage,
and other necessary personnel and facilities to promote the proper functioning and administration of
regional pollution emergency response operations.
1301 Location
The primary location of the Regional Response Center will be at the Regional or District
office of the Agency having OSC responsibility. Alternate locations may be selected on a case-by-
case basis, depending on the magnitude of the incident and the needs of the OSC. In the early
stages of a coastal zone response, prior to the assembling of the RRT, the Regional Response
Center shall be located at the Thirteenth Coast Guard District Operation Center, telephone number
(206)442-5886, FTS 399-5886. Inland responses will be coordinated through the Region 10 EPA,
Superfund Removal and Emergency Section, telephone number (206)442-1263, FTS 399-1263.
1302 Telephone Numbers
1. Coastal Zone
Puget Sound Oregon
(206)442-1711 FTS 399-1711 (503)240-9320
(206)442-5850 FTS 399-5850
2. Inland Zone
(206)442-1263 FTS 399-1263
30
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ANNEX IV
GEOGRAPHICAL BOUNDARIES
1400 The U.S. Coast Guard is responsible for providing the OSC in coastal waters of the
region. This includes waters adjacent to the coasts of Washington and Oregon, Puget
Sound, and the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
1401 The EPA is responsible for providing the OSC in inland waters.
1402 The boundary between Coast Guard and EPA responsibility on principal rivers of the
region shall be as follows:
STATE OF WASHINGTON
NAME OF RIVER
Hoh
Quillaute
Ozette
Soces
Watch
Sekiu
Hoku
Clallam
Pysht
Dungeness
Elwha
Little Quilcene
Big Quilcene
Dosewallips
Duckabush
HarnaHama
Union
Deschutes
Nisqually
Cedar
Sammamish
Steamboat Slough
Ebey
Nooksack
Skagit, North Fork
Skagit, South Fork
Stillaguamish
BOUNDARY LINE
Bridge southwest of Hoh
Entrance of Dickey River
North boundary of Ozette
Indian Reservation
Bridge approximately one mile
south of Mukkaw Bay
Bridge east of Makan Air
Force Station
State Highway 112 Bridge
State Highway 112 Bridge
State Highway 112 Bridge
Bridge northwest of Pysht
(north of Highway 112)
Town Road Bridge
State Highway 112
Rogers Street Bridge
North Quilcene Avenue Bridge
Route 101 Bridge
Route 101 Bridge
Route 101 Bridge
State Highway 300 Bridge
Fourth Avenue Bridge, Olympia
Interstate 5 Bridge
Logan Avenue Bridge
68th Avenue N.E. Bridge
Interstate 5 Bridge
Interstate 5 Bridge
Route 540 Bridge north of
Marietta
Route 511 Bridge 5 miles
southwest of Mt. Vernon
Bridge at Conway
Great Northern Railroad
Bridge at Silvana
31
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NAME OF RIVER
BOUNDARY LINE
Snohomish
Duwamish
Puyallup
Snohomish,
Queets
Fallx
Hoquiam
Humptullps
Wiskah
Chehalis
North Willapa
North Nemah
Naselle
Columbia
Grays
Cowlitz
Kalama
Lewis
South Fork
Great Norther Railroad
Bridge at Preston Point
Terminal 107
Interstate 5 Bridge
Route 106 Bridge
Route 101 Bridge at Queets
Route 101 Bridge
Route 101 Bridge
Route 109 Bridge
Route 101 Bridge at Aberdeen
Route 107 Bridge south of
Montissano
Route 105 Bridge from
Entrance of Ellis Slough
Route 101 Bridge at Nemah
Route 101 Bridge
Bonneville Dam
Route 4 Bridge at Rossburg
Route 4 Bridge at Kelso
Interstate 5 Bridge
Interstate 5 Bridge
1402.2 The Coast Guard will provide the OSC for Salmon Bay, Lake Washington
Ship Canal, Lake Union, and Portage Bay to the Montlake Bridge. In
undesignated areas of the state of Washington, the boundary shall be
at the inland limit of ocean tidal influence. As a general rule,
this will be a boundary of 100 yards from, or the first bridge
crossing of, any river discharging into a salt water body, whichever
is less.
STATE OF OREGON
NAME OF RIVER
Columbia
Willamette
Clatskanie
Nahalem
Nestucca
Siletz
Yaquina
Alsea
Si us!aw
Umpqua
Coos
32
BOUNDARY LINE
Bonneville Dam
Oregon City Dam
Spokane, Portland, and Seattle
Railroad Bridge 1 mile north
of Clatskanie
Route 53 Bridge
Bridge, Pacific City to woods
Route 101 Bridge, Kernville
to Gleneden Beach
Line due west from Oneatta
Point
A line north from mouth of
Eckman Slough
A line due south from Cushman
Overhead powere cable 1.6 miles
east of Reedsport
Line drawn due north and due west
from the forward range of the
Ferndale Upper Range
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NAME OF RIVER BOUNDARY LINE
Coquille Route 101 Bridge, Bandon
Elk Route 101 Bridge
Rogue Route 101 Bridge, Wedderbum
to Gold Beach
Chetco Route 101 Bridge, Brookings
1402.3 In undesignated areas of the State of Oregon, the boundary shall be Route 101 for the
coastal area. The boundaries for tributaries to the Columbia River/Willamette River
System below the Bonneville/Dregon City dams, respectively, must be 100 yards from
the Columbia/Willamette River or the first bridge crossing, whichever is less.
33
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ANNEXV
NOTIFICATIONS, COMMUNICATIONS, AND REPORTS
34-37
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USCG COASTAL NOTIFICATION FLOW CHART
INCIDENT REPORT
r
NATIONAL RESPONSE CENTER
1-800-424-8802
MSO SEATTLE, WA
INCIDENT-SPECIFIC RRT
REGION X
LOCAL USCG UNIT NEAR SCENE
USEPA REGION X SEATTLE
COMMANDER, 13th USCG DIST.
DOC/NOAA
SSC
DOI/USFWS
FEMA
USCG PACIFIC STRIKE TEAM
DOD/US NAVY/US ARMY COE
HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
DOWNSTREAM WATER USERS
AQUACULTURE SITES
MSO PORTLAND, OR
INCIDENT-SPECIFIC RRT
REGION X
LOCAL USCG UNIT NEAR SCENE
USEPA REGION X PORTLAND
COMMANDER, 13th USCG DIST.
DOC/NOAA
SSC
DOI/USFWS
FEMA
USCG PACIFIC STRIKE TEAM
DOD/US NAVY/US ARMY COE
HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
DOWNSTREAM WATER USERS
AQUACULTURE SITES
WASHINGTON STATE
DEPT. OF ECOLOGY
OREGON STATE DEPT. OF
ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY
MUNICIPAL/COUNTY OFFICIALS
MUNICIPAL/COUNTY OFFICIALS
FIRE/POLICE/PUBLIC SAFETY
FIRE/POLICE/PUBLIC SAFETY
34
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IDAHO STATE NOTIFICATION FLOWCHART
INCIDENT REPORT
LOCAL DISPATCHER
LAW ENFORCEMENT UNIT
EMERGENCY MEDICAL UNIT
FIRE FIGHTING UNIT
CHEMTREC
HAZARDOUS
MATERIALS
BUREAU STAFF
OTHER STATE
AND LOCAL
AGENCIES
E.M.S. DISPATCHER
24-HOUR NUMBER
1-800-632-8000
EPA SPILL TEAM
IDAHO OPERATIONS
OFFICE
ENVIRONMENTAL
FIELD OFFICE
DISTRICT
HEALTH
DEPT.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSE TEAM
CLEANUP AND DISPOSAL UNIT
FINAL INCIDENT REPORT
FILE INCIDENT REPORT
35
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OREGON STATE NOTIFICATION FLOW CHART
INCIDENT REPORT
911 DISPATCH
DEQ HEADQUARTERS
APPROPRIATE
FEDERAL
AGENCIES
LOCAL FIRE
LOCAL POLICE
EMERGENCY MED.
PUBLIC WORKS
OREGON
EMERGENCY
MANAGEMENT
DIVISION
DEQ REGIONAL OFFICE
DEPT. OF FISH & WILDLIFE
APPROPRIATE STATE AGENCY
AFFECTED PARTIES
OREGON
EMERGENCY
MANAGEMENT
DIVISION
APPROPRIATE STATE AGENCIES
LOCAL JURISDICTIONS
DEQ
REGIONAL
OFFICE
OREGON STATE POLICE
HEALTH DIVISION
As Needed
FISH AND WILDLIFE
FIRE MARSHALL
AGRICULTURE
FORESTRY DEPT.
GOVERNORS OFFICE
HIGHWAYS
COUNTY
EMERGENCY
MANAGEMENT
HOSPITALS
COUNTY
SHERIFF
OTHERS
DEQ HEADQUARTERS
36
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WASHINGTON STATE NOTIFICATION FLOW CHART
INCIDENT REPORT
ECOLOGY
PUBLIC
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
DIVISION OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
1-800-262-5990
LOCAL EMERGENCY CONTACT
WASHINGTON STATE PATROL
ECOLOGY
APPROPRIATE STATE AGENCIES
APPROPRIATE FEDERAL AGENCIES
37
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ANNEX VI
ARRANGEMENTS FOR PARTICIPATION OF NON-FEDERAL GROUPS
[To be developed]
38
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ANNEX VH
TRUSTEES FOR NATURAL RESOURCES
Listed below are agencies to be notified of actual or likely damage to natural resources.
Federal Trustees
1. Federally Managed or Protected Land
a. National parks (DOI)
b. National forests (DOA)
c. National wildlife refuges (DOI)
d. Bureau of Land Management (DOI)
e. Military reservations (DOD)
f. Hanford Works (DOE)
2. Federally Managed or Protected Resources Not on Federal Land or in Marine Waters
Migratory waterfowl (DOI)
3. Federally Managed or Protected Marine Resources
Marine mammals and Federally managed fisheries (DOC)
• NOAA SSC, David Kennedy, telephone number (206)378-5322, if the U.S. Coast Guard is
osc.
• NOAA CRC, LL Lyle (Skip) Fox, telephone number (206)442-2104, if EPA is RPM/OSC.
4. Land or Natural Resources of Native American Tribes
DOI
State Trustees
1. State of Idaho
2. State of Oregon
3. State of Washington
39
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ANNEX DC
DISPERSANT POLICY AND USE
[To be developed]
41
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ANNEX X
DOCUMENTATION AND COST ACCOUNTING PROCEDURES FOR
OIL DISCHARGES AND HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCE RELEASES
[To be developed]
42
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ANNEX XI
SPECIAL FORCES
NOAA's SCIENTIFIC SUPPORT COORDINATORS (SSCs)
and HAZARDOUS MATERIALS RESPONSE BRANCH (HAZMAT)
A Scientific Support Coordinator (SSQ is one member of the group of special forces
available upon request to Federal On-Scene Coordinators (OSCs) during actual or potential releases
of pollutants. The role of a SSC in relation to the other special forces is described in the National
Contingency Plan. During spills, SSCs serve on the OSCs staff to provide technical assistance in
support of operational decisons; integrate scientific advice from a variety of experts; and generally,
coordinate scientific activity on-scene. During non-response periods, SSCs can be utilized by the
OSC and the Regional Response Team (RRT) to assist in the development of local and regional
prespill contingency plans.
For coastal areas, where the OSC is a predesignated Coast Guard officer, SSCs are provided
by NOAA's (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) Hazardous Materials Response
Branch (HAZMAT). This project consists of a team of Scientific Support Coordinators, assigned
to U.S. coastal regions, and five functional support groups. To enhance the quality of scientific
advice provided, SSCs and the HAZMAT response team synthesize information from regional
scientific experts and industry representatives
Response Assistance from SSCs
The overall goal of the program is to provide timely and effective scientific advice during an
emergency oil or hazardous substances release to minimize environmental and socioeconomic
impacts. The major objectives of the program are to:
• provide the National Response Team, Regonal Response Team, and On-Scene
Coordinators with qualified scientific assistance in (a) evaluating imminent hazards to
human health and the environment, and (b) mitigating or preventing the environmental
and socioeconomic impacts of oil and hazardous substances releases;
• provide scientific assistance in assessing the environmental and socioeconomic damage
resulting from such incidents; and
• maximize the research advantage offered by the spill situation, especially for improving
future response capabilities.
In an emergency situation, these objectives will be approached in the order of precedence
indicated.
The level of the SSC's involvement depends upon the nature of the OSCs requests, the
specifics of the particular pollution incident, and the status of Federal pollution funds. The SSC is
available for consultation on any spill; the key to the SSC's involvement is activation by the OSC.
43
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Phase T; njscoverv and Norificarion
The SSC is activated by a call from the OSC or his representative. The timing of notification
and activation of response forces is of major importance in any spill rsponse; acute environmental
impacts will be most severe during the early stages of the incident This fact argues strongly for the
prompt activation of the special forces whose assistance can be especially helpful during the initial
stages of an incident
Initial details of a pollution incident are often sketchy, so the first order of business is to
assemble information critical for determining the nature and scope of the response: the potential
magnitude of the spill, the nature of the pollutant, and the prognosis for containment In a spill
situation, the SSC can povide preliminary informaton by telephone and then, if requested, depart
immediately for the spill scene. While the SSC is en route, a HAZMAT staff contact will be
designated for the OSC. This contact can provide additional information and response to OSC
requests until the SSC arrives. If the spill has potentially serious consequences, the SSC can notify
the appropriate HAZMAT response team functional leaders, and regional and local experts, to
provide the OSC with the scientific information pertinent to his response decisions. The extent and
nature of SSC involvement is determined by the OSC. Extensive assistance can be obtained over
the telephone and through the use of electronic communications, even if the Federal pollution fund
is not opened.
Phase II: Evaluation and Initiation of Action
Activities undertaken during this phase may be conducted away from the spill site with
information passed via telephone or computer terminal to the SSC, who conveys it to the OSC.
Specific actions include:
• Liaison with natural resource, chemical, and medical experts;
• Support in mapping pollutant location and trajectory modeling, e.g.,\prediction of the
movement of a contaminant in a given period, time, and location of landfall;
• Rapid assessment of, and advice on, the nature, behavior, and fate of the pollutant, e.g.,
toxic properties, alteration in physical and chemical characteristics which can be expected
under a variety of environmental conditions, and the prospects of water column mixing
or sinking;
• Advice on safety precautions for response personnel and general public health
considerations, and the location of emergency medical experts and facilities (if
requested); and
• Advice in dealing with oil and hazardous materials under unusual environmental
conditions, e.g., sea ice, severe storms.
Phase HI: Containment and Countermeasures. Cleanup.and Disposal
Scientific activities initiated during Phase n are continued during Phase ffl, with further
refinement of accuracy and detail. This may require that additional members of the scientific
support team be on-scene to gather and interpret data at the spill site.
Activities would include:
44
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• On-scene trajectory modeling of the spilled material;
• Detailed evaluation of the nature, behavior,and fate of the pollutant, e.g., toxic
properties,alteration in physical and chemical characteristics which can be expected under
a variety of environmental conditions;
• Development of sampling strategies and chemical analysis of samples to assist in the
identification of chemical contaminants;
• Monitoring and sampling in areas of chemical hazards;
• Advice on the likely environmental impact of various alternative containment, cleanup,
and disposal strategies;
• Identification of critical habitats requiring extraordinary protective efforts; and
• Assistance in public relations efforts on scientific issues.
Phase IV fOiD and Phase VII* (Hazardous Substances): Documentation and Cost Recovery
The value of natural resource damage resulting from spills may be recoverable from the
spiller or pollution fund. Damage to natural resources includes (1) immediate or long-term injury,
alteration, or destruction of naturally occurring organisms, populations, communities, habitats or
functional properties of ecological systems, and (2) associated impacts on aesthetic, recreational,
commercial, or other benefits derived from these resources.
Assistance in this area includes providing sound scientific information, analysis, and
opinions that can be used in litigation or administrative proceedings. The emphasis on litigation is
important and has major bearing on both the conduct and the scope of work performed under this
objective.
Operationally, environmental damage assessment activities involve four major components:
(1) On-scene surveys (sampling and analysis) of acute and other directly measurable impacts
on natural resources;
(2) Other scientific studies, including laboratory investigations, that establish the more
subtle, sub-lethal environmental effects of the incident;
(3) Surveys of potential socioeconomic losses; and
(4) Interpretation and analysis of findings from the studies above to provide information to
be used in legal or administrative proceedings.
Contingency Planning Assistance from SSCs
In addition to assisting the OSC during spills, SSCs work with the Regional Response
Teams, Coast Guard Marine Safety offices (MSOs), and the scientific community on
*Phases IV, V, VI for hazardous substances do not apply to immediate response efforts.
45
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response-related scientific matters between pollution incidents. During these non-response periods,
The SSC concentrates on sharpening the scientific aspects of the contingency plans to improve the
quality of future response activities.
Considerable information can be provided to the OSC to help in the development of prespill
contingency plans. This information includes (1) probability that spills originating from selected
sites will impact specific areas or critical environments, (2) the location of environmentally sensitive
regions, (3) background data on the behavior of the various pollutants known to be present in a
given area under a range of environmental conditions, and (4) the likely environmental impact of
various alternative cleanup strategies.
At a minimum, SSCs and HAZMAT are working toward having the following elements in
place prior to a major spill event
(1) A trained core scientific response team whose members are current in the state-of-the-art
in mitigation, damage assessment, and operational spill response functions;
(2) Sufficient equipment and supplies to undertake an effective response;
(3) Regional scientific response plans are developed and updated, as necessary;
(4) Detailed scientific plans, including chemical actions plans, for varying spill scenarios in
conjunction with the MSOs;
(5) Liaison with other special forces and representatives of Federal, state, academic, and
public groups concerned with pollution in coastal and offshore waters;
(6) Scientific studies that are supportive of prespill or spill activities (e.g., mapping of the
sensitivity of coastal environments to spilled oil, identification of critical natural
resources and habitats, and projections of pollutant trajectories);
(7) Scientific assistance to the RRT and OSC in planning regional responses; and
(8) Data management and chain-of-custody systems according to specific guidelines for
samples taken during spills.
For Further Information...
Regional SSCs are assigned by the NOAA Hazardous Materials Response Branch in Seattle,
Washington. SSCs are located in the Northeast, Great Lakes, Mid-Atlantic, Southeast, Gulf
Coast, Pacific (including Hawaii and the Trust Territories), Northern California, and Alaska.
Scientific support can be obtained by contacting the regional SSC or through the Branch
office, as follows:
Branch Office Regional SSC
FTS 392-6317 David Kennedy
(206)526-6317 (206)378-5322
NOAA/HAZMAT Applied Environmental Services
7600 Sand Point Way, N.E. 3211 Oak Lane Drive
Seattle, Wash. 98115 Friday Harbor, Wash. 98250
46
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COAST GUARD MARINE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION UNITS
The Thirteenth District Support Team consists of District staff personnel with particular
expertise to assist the OSC in unusual or complex pollution response incidents. The Thirteenth
District Support Team will normally be composed of the following personnel:
Pollution Control Coordination Assistant. This member of the Thirteenth District Support
Team from the Marine Safety Division acts as liaison between the OSC and District Staff and the
Regional Response Team. To provide overall coordination assistance to the OSC, he must be
thoroughly familiar with Coast Guard pollution control responsibilities, cleanup techniques, and
contingency plans.
Public Information Assistant. This member of the Thirteenth District Support Team from the
District Public Affairs Office acts as the public information coordinator for the OSC. The Public
Information Assistant shall make news releases, as directed by the OSC, and respond to requests
for information, as required, concerning all facts pertaining to the incident He will keep the OSC
advised of all news requests and releases. Any statement or comment dealing with matters of an
other than strictly factual nature (speculation, assumption, conclusions, etc.) will be cleared with
the OSC. The Public Information Assistant shall also provide photographic services. The
photographer shall be prepared to take black and white, as well as color photographs. Photographs
will be used in the preparation of news releases, for plotting and evaluating the movement of the
spill, and to show the effects of the pollution. They may also be used as evidence in civil and/or
criminal actions.
Legal Assistant. This person, from the District Legal staff, acts as a legal advisor to the OSC.
The Legal Assistant has a thorough knowledge of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act
(FWPCA); the Comprehensive Environmental, Response, Compensation, and Liability Act
(CERCLA); implementing regulations; and current Coast Guard and EPA policies concerning Coast
Guad responsibility during an incident The Legal Assistant shall advise the OSC on all legal
matters pertaining to the incident; initiate enforcement actions against the responsible party, if
necessary; and act as liaison between the OSC and any legal representative involved with the
incident
Contracting Officer. This person, from the Comptroller Division.shall carry out contract
negotiations and other support and logistics requirements for the OSC. The person designated shall
have a thorough knowledge of the accounting and contracting procedures under CERCLA and
FWPCA. A District Contracting Officer shall be dispatched to the incident to assist the OSC in
contractual matters when the Federal response exceeds $50,000.
Telecommunications Representative. This person, from the Telecommunications Branch,
assists the OSC with communications (electronic mail, use of computers, communications
networks) during significant pollution incidents, or when requested by the OSC.
Reserve Assistant. This person assists the OSC in obtaining reservists when needed for
response.
47
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COAST GUARD PACIFIC STRIKE TEAM
The Pacific Strike Force Team (PST), one of three teams comprising the National Strike
Force, is a Coast Guard unit with a high level of training and expertise in pollution response
matters. The PST maintains personnel on standby to respond to incidents occurring in the western
area of the U.S. For incidents of a large magnitude, the PST maintains selected equipment to
augment response and removal equipment available locally. The PST also provides assistance in
training OSCs in all phases of response activities. The PST can be activated:
a) By a request to provide on-scene assistance in matters beyond the capabilities of the OSC
and other locally available forces. Official requests for PST assistance shall be made by
the OSC through the Thirteenth Coast Guard District and Commander, Pacific Area;
however, direct contact between the OSC and PST is recommended to facilitate rapid
deployment when approval is received; and
b) To assist in training personnel in all facets of response activities, including:
• response staff organization
• monitoring techniques
• cleanup techniques
• equipment use and deployment
• accounting procedures
EPA ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSE TEAM
The Environmental Response Team (ERT) is established by EPA in accordance with its
disaster and emergency responsibilities. The ERT is available to advise the OSC and the RRT on
environmental issues concerning spill containment, cleanup, and damage assessment The ERT
has expertise in biology, chemistry, hydrology, geology, and engineering. It can provide access to
special decontamination equipment for chemical releases and provide advice to the OSC in hazard
evaluation, risk assessment, multimedia sampling and analysis, cleanup techniques and priorities,
water supply decontamination and protection, on-site safety (including development and
implementation of plans), application of dispersants, environmental assessment, degree of cleanup
required, and disposal of contaminated materials. The ERT also provides both introductory and
intermediate level training courses to prepare response personnel. Requests by the OSC or RRT
for ERT support should be made to the EPA representatives on the RRT, EPA Headquarters, or the
EPA Regional Emergency Coordinator.
48
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ANNEX XE
WASHINGTON, OREGON, AND IDAHO STATE CONTINGENCY PLANS
The State of Washington plan is available from:
Washington Department of Ecology
Mail Stop PV-11
Olympia, Washington 98504
The State of Oregon plan is available from:
Hazardous Materials Section
Oregon Department of Environmental Quality
811S.W. Sixth
Portland, Oregon 97207
The State of Idaho plan is available from:
Idaho Department of Health and Welfare
Division of Environment
Statehouse
Boise, Idaho 83720
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ANNEX Xm
JOINT CANADA - U.S. RESPONSE PLAN SUMMARY
To manage pollution response activities affecting both U.S. and Canadian territory, the Joint
Canada - United States Marine Pollution Contingency Plan has been published under separate
cover. The Joint Plan provides an overview of general coordinating activities. An actual response
operation will rely primarily upon the response organization of each nation with international liaison
at top levels such as Joint Response Team Chairmen and OSCs only. For this reason, members of
the U.S. RRT and the U.S. predesignated OSC organization can expect to be functioning as part of
a joint response organization if a discharge in the international boundary area occurs.
This Annex is provided for general background regarding the Joint Plan. In all cases
involving actions and responsibilities, the Joint Plan should be consulted. The Joint Plan is
maintained in the Regional Response Team library.
The Joint Plan deals only with discharges or potential discharges of oil or hazardous
(noxious) substances into coastal waters or onshore adjacent to coastal waters. For discharges in
the inland area of the international boundary, the Joint Plan does not apply, even if the discharge
reaches a water body.
In joint response activities, the U.S. Chairman will be the senior U.S. Coast Guard
representative. This is the same representative assigned as Co-Chairman, Region 10 Regional
Response Team. The Canadian Chairman for joint response activities will be either the Regional
Marine Emergency Officer (RMEO), Canadian Coast Guard, or the Regional Emergency
Coordinator (REC), Environment Protection Service. The RMEO, Canadian Coast Guard acts as
Canadian Chairman whenever the discharge or potential discharge is from either an unknown
source or a vessel. The REC, Environment Protection Service, acts as Canadian Chairman
whenever the discharge or potential discharge is from a shore-based source.
The Joint Plan may be invoked by the Canadian or U.S. Chairman when a discharge or
potential discharge originates in the nation's area of responsibility, or when there is a substantial
threat of polluting the other nation's area of responsibility. There is no limitation on the quantity of
discharge for invoking the Joint Plan. The Joint Plan may also be invoked, after agreement by both
parties, when a joint response effort is desirable due to the magnitude of the discharge, even when
there is not threat of polluting the other party's area of responsibility.
The U.S. membership on the Joint Response Team is listed in Annex 3 of the Joint Plan.
The Canadian membership on the Joint Response Team is listed in Annexes 4 and 5 of the
Joint Plan.
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ANNEX XIV
NATIONAL CONTINGENCY PLAN
The National Contingency Plan is contained under separate cover, but may be inserted here
by members.
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