Implementing the SCAT Process for a Major Inland Oil Spill: Lessons Learned from the Kalamazoo River Pipeline Release Incident

Abstract

Abstract On July 26, 2010 an estimated 19,500 bbls of heavy crude oil were released following the rupture of a 30-inch subsurface pipeline in south-central Michigan, USA. After flowing through wetlands and a small creek, oil eventually reached the Kalamazoo River and travelled downstream for a distance of approximately 40 miles. Flooding at the time of the incident carried oil over the riverbanks and into adjacent floodplains containing forested wetlands and other sensitive habitats. Shoreline impacts included fouling of riverbanks and islands, overhanging vegetation and woody debris, as well as stranding of pooled oil within interior portions of floodplains as water levels receded. This poster highlights the shoreline assessment (SCAT) process and programs that were implemented in response to this incident. Particular attention will be paid to unique aspects of this incident atypical of many spills requiring shoreline cleanup. In addition, key lessons learned will be discussed including both positive out...