The Federal On-Scene Coordinator's Role in the Exxon Valdez Oil Spill1

Abstract

ABSTRACT On March 24, 1989, the role of the federal on-scene coordinator took on its greatest challenge when the tank vessel Exxon Valdez grounded on Bligh Reef. The vessel discharged 11 million gallons of crude oil into Prince William Sound. The oil eventually spread over a 600-mile area, fouling the shorelines and waters of some of the most pristine and unforgiving coastal areas of the United States. The Exxon Valdez spill quickly developed into a spill of national significance. Its overwhelming size required the mobilization of hundreds of vessels, aircraft, and a large variety of oil spill response equipment operated, managed, and monitored by more than 12,000 industry and agency personnel. The duration of the response (which is still proceeding) required the federal on-scene coordinator (FOSC) to develop an organization to address the operational challenges; the concerns of federal agencies, the state, native Alakans, communities, and private land owners; and the challenges created by the intense political and media interest. The OSC organization which evolved over the course of the response was based on federal authority and incorporated a decision-making process that ensured that “environmental due process” was provided.