MINNESOTA NORTH SHORE AND DULUTH-SUPERIOR HARBOR SPILL RESPONSE STRATEGIES

Abstract

ABSTRACT The Minnesota Lake Superior shoreline (Minnesota'S “North Shore”) is characterized by a rocky shoreline with stretches of sand, gravel and cobble as well as several stream and ditch inlets into Lake Superior. The risk of spills is from both land and water. The 150 plus mile stretch of shoreline has a very limited amount of response equipment or nearby responders. The Duluth-Superior Harbor is at the estuarine mouth of the St. Louis River and is divided by the Minnesota and Wisconsin border. The harbor includes sensitive shorelines and habitats, numerous stream, ditch and storm sewer outfalls, as well as an active shipping industry. Geographic Information System (GIS) is a great tool for conducting data analysis and planning. GIS allows users to analyze and visualize large volumes of data to make decisions quickly. While many spill response planners use GIS as a planning response tool, many responders do not have the training and equipment to make efficient use of the capabilities of GIS. This project uses GIS to gather and analyze available data and then put it into a useful “hardcopy” visual format for responders to use in the field. Maps produced from various GIS data sources outline the response strategies for sensitive areas to be protected; types and quantities of response equipment needed; access areas; and other important features. These “hardcopy” displays can be included in contingency plans. Larger laminated versions can be stored with response equipment caches. For response planners that are more familiar with GIS, the tool includes several useful features including “clickable” hyperlinks that connect to georeferenced oblique aerial photos of the Lake Superior shoreline. Also included are GIS data from U.S. EPA and NOAA, including sensitive environment, economic and cultural resources; potential spill sources; and response resources. Where available, sewer data for both sanitary and storm sewers is included, along with high resolution aerial photos; navigation charts; highway stream crossing data; and other habitat information. These various data sources are valuable tools for spill response planners to more accurately and effectively develop workable response strategies and also for use during an actual response to more effectively and efficiently direct responders and resources. This GIS product also incorporates an Access database which allows for easy report generation and information updating.