Oil Spills

HOW TO REPORT AN OIL SPILL

  1. If this is an active emergency with fire or risk of explosion, or an actively occurring spill, call 911 immediately.

  2. Next, call WA Emergency Management Division at 800-OILS-911.

  3. Also, please call the USCG National Response Center at 800-424-8802.

  4. IOSA including San Juan County Dispatch will be notified via numbers above.

 

Spills are a threat to the environment and livelihood of the San Juan Islands and the Salish Sea. While major spills from large vessels transiting near to the islands are a significant concern, nearly all local spills come from smaller private vessels. Groundings, vessels sinking, bilge releases, and fueling accidents happen every year.

Fortunately, San Juan County is home to the Islands’ Oil Spill Association (IOSA), a community based spill response non-profit.  IOSA relies on local volunteers to support a robust response capability. Visit their web page (www.iosaonline.org) for information about how to get involved.

resources related to spill PREVENTION & response in the islands:

The Islands’ Oil Spill Association Links Page

Info on Preventing Small Spills from WA Sea Grant

WA State Department of Ecology Spills Program

WA State Department of Fish and Wildlife Spill Prevention and Response Program

The Northwest Area Contingency Plan