In 2018, Edison Chouest Offshore (ECO) of Louisiana replaced Crowley Marine Services as Alyeska’s Ship Escort/Response Vessel System contractor in Alaska. Services provided by this contract include operation of escort tugs, general purpose tugs, oil recovery storage barges, and associated personnel. All of these resources are key oil spill prevention and response assets for Prince William Sound.
This transition was the most significant change in oil spill prevention and response equipment and personnel since the system was created.
The transition meant new equipment purpose-built for service in Prince William Sound and the Gulf of Alaska, including a fleet of new escort tugs, new barges, and updated technology.
More details and updates: Marine Transition 2018
Council-sponsored reports related to transition:
The Council hired the firms of Robert Allan Ltd., Little River Marine Consultants and Nuka Research and Planning Group to help evaluate equipment specifications, crew training and proficiency, and other aspects of the transition.
- Recommendations to Verify and Sustain Prevention and Response System Readiness in Prince William Sound (PDF) 9/9/2017 – by Little River Marine and Nuka Research And Planning LLC
- Development of the Current PWS Escort System: Regulations, Analysis, and System Enhancements (PDF) – 6/13/2017 – by Nuka Research And Planning LLC
- Industry and Class Standards for Escort Tugboats (PDF) – 1/28/2017 – by Little River Marine
- A Review of the Proposed New Escort and Support Tugs for Tanker Operations in Prince William Sound (PDF) – 2/10/2017 – by Robert Allan, Ltd