WSMC Conducts Successful No-Notice Equipment Deployment in Grays Harbor
On December 17, 2024, the Washington State Maritime Cooperative (WSMC) conducted a no-notice equipment deployment in Grays Harbor, partnering with the Washington State Department of Ecology. This exercise, the third no-notice drill WSMC has participated in with Ecology, demonstrated the organization’s ongoing commitment to oil spill preparedness and response excellence.
The exercise began early in the morning with the activation of Marine Spill Response Corporation (MSRC) resources, including the WB Scoter and response crews from Astoria and Tacoma. The Incident Command Post was established at the Best Western in Aberdeen, and operations were carried out under a robust Incident Command System structure. The primary objective was to deploy containment boom and test the readiness of response resources to address a simulated oil spill.
Key highlights included:
Deployment of 600 feet of containment boom at designated anchor points as part of GRP GH-6 response strategy, protecting sensitive environmental areas in Grays Harbor
Collaboration between WSMC’s Spill Management Team (SMT), Ecology representatives, and local responders, ensuring a seamless and effective response
Successful completion of all objectives, including environmental and cultural resource protection, within the allotted time
This drill further highlights WSMC’s leadership in oil spill response preparedness as an umbrella plan holder, distinguishing it from the state’s multi-vessel plan holder, which has yet to participate in a no-notice drill. WSMC’s proactive approach ensures that its members are equipped to respond to emergencies efficiently and effectively, safeguarding Washington’s waterways and communities.
The success of this exercise highlights the importance of continuous collaboration, training, and readiness. WSMC thanks all participants for their contributions and remains committed to maintaining the highest standards of oil spill response preparedness. For more information or to discuss the outcomes of this exercise, please contact Dan Smiley, Executive Director, at dansmiley@wsmcoop.org.