OIL SPILL PROTECTION PLANNING FOR NATURAL RESOURCES IN OREGON

Abstract

ABSTRACT A series of oil spill protection plans for natural resources has been developed for high priority areas in Oregon. This series was begun following the Toyota Maru No. 10 oil spill in the Columbia River in 1978 and has continued to the present. The plans are designed for use by the on-scene coordinator, special forces, and advisory agencies. Oil spill protection plans for the lower Columbia and Willamette rivers and the Yaquina Bay estuary are completed, and plans are being developed for the Coos Bay estuary. Each area contains high priority natural resource areas. These include National Wildlife Refuge System lands and waters, estuarine sanctuary lands and waters, critical habitats for endangered species, and spawning or breeding areas for fish and migratory birds. Considerations for access, water intakes, and commercial interests are included in the plans. The method of developing the plans for the three areas is discussed in detail. The process involves locating known vulnerable areas on a series of resource maps, describing the resources and their seasonal vulnerabilities on descriptive charts, and suggesting boom locations, oil containment sites, and access points on protective maps. Resource protection and response is analyzed, and recommendations for improving the process are included for future use by the agencies involved in pollution response and resource management. The level of interagency cooperation necessary for both spill response and detailed resource protection planning is identified. The practical value of this approach to resource protection and contingency planning is discussed.