Observer: PDF Archive

If you are looking for an article from a previous edition of The Observer:

1. Individual articles written since 2013 are available in the Observer Article Archive.
2. Articles 2012 and older are available via the PDF archives below.

Issue	Content	View Document
The Observer – Summer 2025	In this edition: GAO report looks at Joint Pipeline Office Two years later: Has safety at Alyeska improved? Responders perform well overall in drills in 2024 Study estimates emissions from 2022 incident Schantz: Preventing oil spills requires strong safeguards, oversight, and information From Alyeska: An interview with Atigun Lifetime Achievement winner, Gregory Tang Volunteer Spotlight on SAC member W. Scott Pegau: Where physics meets the sea Pilot test evaluates testing methods for buried liners Community Corner: Renewed Kodiak Connections Topics: GAO, Garde Report, Drill monitoring, vent damage, storage tank damage, Valdez Marine Terminal, Sahu report, citizen oversight, Ouzinkie
The Observer – Spring 2025	Articles: Law could adversely affect fishing vessel response program Volunteer Spotlight: Preparing for the unexpected (Matt Melton) Schantz: Council’s archives hold valuable lessons Alyeska: New firefighting systems to reduce use of PFAS Traces of metals found in Prince William Sound’s sediments Community Corner: Watch parties expand reach of annual science event Council recertified by Coast Guard New staff member joins Anchorage office Remembering Richard Fineberg Anchorage office relocating in May Topics: National Defense Authorization Act of 2023, fishing vessel program, terminal contingency plan, sediment metals, firefighting foam, recertification, Anchorage office relocation
The Observer – Fall/Winter 2024	Articles: Researchers find new non-native species in Prince William Sound New maps show winter hotspots for marine birds Volunteer Spotlight: Photographer focuses on fostering environmental stewardship Analysis of weather conditions will help improve spill response Whittier community engages with on-water oil spill response training Schantz & Archibald: Good resource development depends on strong regulations From Alyeska: Believe in Zero: Safety mindset helps prevent incidents Topics: invasive species, Cathy Hart, weather buoys, oil spill prevention and response, marine birds, oil spill response training, fishing vessel response tour
The Observer – Summer 2024	Articles: Modern technologies changing oil spill response Volunteer brings oceans of experience to Council committee Council shoring up its crew: two promotions and a new hire Onboard ballast water systems helping reduce spread of invasive species Community Corner: Prince William Sound College students tour Bligh Reef Council concerned about vessel-whale strikes From Alyeska: New Allison Creek response barge joins Alyeska’s fleet Remaining vigilant: Review of government oversight is needed Council announces election of board officers to serve until May 2025 Topics: Drill monitoring, fishing vessel training, oil spill response, Gordon Terpening, GAO, Government Accountability Office, Garde Report, Allison Creek response barge, ballast water treatment, invasive species, Vessel Incidental Discharge Act, VIDA, staff changes, (Hans Odegard, Jaina Willahan, John Guthrie), whales, vessel-whale strikes
The Observer – March 2024	A publication of the Prince William Sound Regional Citizens’ Advisory Council 35 years after Exxon Valdez: How has oil transportation changed? Volunteer Spotlight: Tim Robertson – Real-life experiences improve oil spill response Contingency plan for terminal under review New member entity joins Council From the executive director: Citizen oversight leads to safer transportation of oil From Alyeska: New oil spill response barge demonstrates ongoing investment in protecting Prince William Sound Community Corner: Alaskans still learning from the Exxon Valdez spill Topics: 35th Anniversary, c-plans, terminal contingency plan, OSRB-5 barge, incident command system, citizen oversight, outreach, Oil Spill Recreational Coalition, oil storage tanks, prevention credit, secondary containment liners
The Observer – Fall/Winter 2023	Articles: How learning to listen can help communities heal from disasters Surveys emphasize importance of protecting nearshore habitat for wintering birds Under-studied component of hydrocarbons documented in discharge from terminal Archibald and Schantz: Building trust takes time and transparency Alyeska: Alyeska Pipeline Service Company releases inaugural ESG Report Decades-old monitoring program still innovating Community Corner: Music, Salmon, and Oil Spill Prevention Monitoring weather for safe transportation of oil Topics: peer listening, marine birds, oxygenated hydrocarbons, ballast water treatment, BWT, BTEX, LTEMP, outreach, salmonfest, weather buoys, Kokhinhenik
The Observer – Summer 2023	Story titles: -Report raises concerns about safety at the Valdez Marine Terminal -Board elects officers for upcoming year -New member joins Board of Directors -Drills and exercises getting back to normal -The power of ‘our’: Overcoming challenges by owning responsibilities -John Kurz named President and CEO of Alyeska Pipeline Service Company -Valdez community tours oil spill response training -Analysis of genes increases understanding of oil’s effects -Alaska North Slope oil trending lighter since 2010 -Terminal operations lead moves on; new project manager joins team Topics: Billie Garde report; regulatory oversight; Board changes (Mike Brittain); SERVS; fishing vessel community outreach program; blue mussels; hyrdocarbons; transcriptomics; environmental monitoring; staff changes (Austin Love, Mercedes Sadie Blancaflor)
The Observer – Spring 2023	Story titles: -Researchers cautiously optimistic about increase in youth herring -Electric current can find damage in underground liners -Volunteer Spotlight: Wei Cheng; Fishing for answers: Geneticist using DNA to decode -Keeping the Exxon Valdez disaster in the rearview mirror -The Prince William Sound Traveling Health Fair sails again -Board of Directors confirm new representatives -Invasive species intern recognized for stewardship of Alaska’s coastal waters -ADEC releases final ruling for Alaska’s oil spill prevention and response plans -U.S. Coast Guard recertifies Council Topics: forage fish; secondary containment liners; Wei Cheng; Board changes (Robert Beedle, David Janka, Jim Herbert); internship; recertification
Fall 2022 Observer newsletter	Story titles: -Council updates position on dispersant use during an oil spill; Prevention and mechanical recovery should remain primary options -Invasive green crab have arrived in Alaska -Volunteer Spotlight: Trent Dodson; Bait the education hook early to reel in later learners -Partnering to protect the places we live, work, play -Prince William Sound: a place of unrivaled beauty -Cleaning up a big oil spill -Plankton change with the seasons in Prince William Sound -Community Corner: A new look at old programs -Your voice can help support the Council Topics: dispersants; oil spill prevention and response; marine invasive species; invasive Green Crab; Trent Dodson; Maia Draper-Reich; outreach; recertification
Summer 2022 Observer	Story titles: -Council chronicles history of spill protection plans for Copper River Delta and Flats -Board of Directors elects officers -Matt Cullin builds life of growth and success out of expertise in corrosion and failure analysis -The value of learning from history and experience -”A journey, never a job.” -From Alyeska -Council recertified as official citizens’ advisory group in Prince William Sound’ -Upcoming Council Meetings -Patience Andersen Faulkner retires; recognized for 24 years service -Oliver moved on; Long-time volunteers honored Topics: CRDF; c-plan; board changes (Aimee Williams and Curtis Herschleb); history; lessons learned; recertification; staff changes (Betsi Oliver); volunteer recognition
Spring 2022 Observer	Story titles: -Changes proposed to Alaska’s regulations on oil spill prevention and response -Council supports Alyeska’s appeal to EPA -Upcoming Council meetings -Volunteer cultivates resilience and seaweed in Prince William Sound (Skye Steritz) -Collaboration leads to better solutions for prevention and response -New year, new barge, renewed optimism for 2022 -Drills and exercises affected by pandemic again in 2021 -Tracking lessons over time -After 25 years of work on invasive species, Council studies remain innovative -Council mourns loss of Anchorage staffer (Natalie Novik) -The Council’s “all-purpose bureaucrat” looking forward to a busy retirement (Walt Wrede) -Three new staff members join the Anchorage office (KJ Crawford, Jaina Willahan, Ashlee Hamilton) Topics: regulatory reform; VMT emissions; air pollutants; Alyeska changes; spill response barge; drills and exercises; COVID-19; invasive species; European green crab; staff changes
Winter 2021 Observer	Story titles: -Study shows purpose-driven design can improve performance -Who is responsible for an oil spill in Prince William Sound? -A good neighbor reflects on the art of listening (Patience Andersen Faulkner) -Safeguarding our prevention and response system -Effective oversight critical to prevent spills -Important: Public comment period open -Alyeska wins award for conservation of natural resources from U.S. Fish and Wildlife -Upcoming Council meetings -A journey through time: New Council report documents history of tanker contingency plan -Prince William Sound is home to a variety of bird species in winter -Quick protection if a spill happens -Committee volunteer recognized for achievements in conservation (Kate Morse) Topics: rescue tugs; best available technology (BAT); spill response; regulatory reform; OSLTF; c-plan; history; winter bird survey; critical habitats; outreach; youth involvement
Summer 2021 Observer	Story titles: -Council publishes updated guide for technological disasters -What is a technological disaster? -The effects of the Exxon Valdez oil spill on the people of Port Graham -Council launches tool to support Regional Stakeholder Committee -Council announces election of Board officers -New members join Board of Directors (Angela Totemoff, Patrick Domitrovich, Nick Crump, Elijah Jackson) -Safe transportation of oil requires local knowledge -Annual health fair held online -Review of maintenance records finds improvements needed for oil storage tank; Oil spill unlikely as long as planned repairs are not delayed -Corrosion protection system for terminal’s crude oil pipes in good shape overall -Prince William Sound Natural History Symposium goes virtual -New staff member brings valuable expertise to Council (Danielle Verna) Topics: technological disaster; RSC; Exxon Valdez; board changes; automatic identification system (AIS); cathodic protection system; tank floors; tank farm; outreach; staff changes
Winter 2020 (December) Observer	Story titles: -Compromise reached over habitat protections; Sensitive areas guaranteed swift protection when threatened by an oil spill -Inoperable radar in Prince William Sound concerns Council; No plans for repair in near future -New weather buoys establish PORTS information for Valdez -Maintaining Alaska’s High Standards in Spill Prevention and Response -Collaboration and dedication helps ease tough year -How does outreach continue in a pandemic? -Industry drills test equipment and personnel -Potential regulation changes to undergo extended public comment period -COVID-19 updates -January meeting to be held online Topics: Valdez Duck Flats; Solomon Gulch Hatchery; decision matrix; Automatic Identification System (AIS); Vessel Traffic System (VTS); weather buoys; spill prevention and response; outreach; COVID-19; drills and exercises
Summer 2020 Observer	Story titles: -Systems at fault in April Valdez Terminal spill identified -Technology study demonstrates importance of the Council’s independent research -Council elects Board officers to serve through May 2021 -EPA’s temporary policy limits inspections and enforcement actions -Alyeska wins United States Coast Guard award for environmental excellence -Peer listeners build community resilience -Peer listening program updated for COVID-19 -What is the ballast water treatment system? -COVID-19 updates -September meeting to be held online Topics: incidents; sump spill; best available technology (BAT); messenger line; board elections; safety; inspections; peer listening program; ballast water treatment facility (BWTF); COVID-19
Spring 2020 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Sale of BP’s Alaska assets to Hilcorp under scrutiny; Additional information needed to address concerns -Alyeska cleaning up oil spilled from the Valdez Marine Terminal -State of Alaska’s oil spill prevention and response funding unsustainable -New Board member for Chugach Alaska (Ben Cutrell) -COVID-19 affects Council activities Topics: Hilcorp; incidents; sump spill; 470 Fund; board changes; covid-19
Winter 2020 (January) Observer	Story titles: -Alaska’s oil spill laws and regulations opened for public review -Why Alaska has such strong rules -Board resolution supports strong protections from oil spills -Shares of pipeline and terminal to change hands this year; Lack of public information about BP to Hilcorp sale leads to concerns -Transparency is the foundation of public trust -Brigham McCown named new president of Alyeska Pipeline -Public statements by Commissioner Brune cause concern -Genetic testing reveals no new marine invasive species -Study evaluates places of refuge -Long-term monitoring in Prince William Sound shows lowest contamination levels in study’s history -Volunteers engage Kenai students in oil spill lessons -Three Council-related reports accepted at conferences this year -Council Meetings Topics: c-plan; legislative and regulatory changes; Hilcorp; OPA 90; Alyeska changes; invasive species; ports of refuge; LTEMP; outreach; youth involvement
Summer 2019 Observer	Story titles: -New buoys now streaming weather conditions from Port Valdez -Upgrades at Valdez Marine Terminal improve safe operations -What is ballast water? Why does it need to be treated? -Homer representative elected president of Council (Robert Archibald) -Strong regulations are a result of hard lessons -Alyeska traveling health fair: Positive impact in the Sound -Long-time science manager retires -Valdez project manager Love takes over science programs -New project manager assistant in Anchorage (Hans Odegard) -Council Meetings -Transparency is key to preserving relationships in an era of mistrust Topics: buoys; weather; Terminal operations; ballast water treatment facility (BWTF); board changes (Kirk Zinck); prevention and response; staff changes; Valdez Duck Flats; ventilation system
Spring 2019 Observer	Story titles: -30 Years After Exxon Valdez; How has oil transportation changed in Prince William Sound since 1989? -Out-of-service buoy and winter storms raise concerns; Council concerned about communications, response capabilities, and crew safety during storms -New study analyzes weather at Hinchinbrook Entrance -Thirty years later, Council continues mission to combat complacency -Inspecting the “uninspectible”; Alyeska completes inspection of buried piping on the Valdez Marine Terminal -New buoys will collect data about winds and currents in Port Valdez -How Alaskans reimagined oil spill prevention and response; Council report documents history and intent behind Alaska’s standard for spill response planning -Drills test new response equipment and personnel; Exercises required for marine transition -Outreach coordinator Matlock leaves the Council -Community Corner: Council fosters pathways to engages citizens -Popovici moving on -Then & Now Topics: spill prevention; double hull tankers; OPA 90; history; Seal Rocks buoy; weather; closure conditions; Hinchinbrook Entrance; piping inspections; sea currents; c-plan; Valdez Duck Flats; drills and exercises; staff changes (Betsi Oliver); youth involvement; outreach; tanker escort system; SERVS; human factors; marine traffic; response gap, Marine Transition
Summer 2018 Observer	Story titles: -Oil spill prevention and response services transition to new contractor -Changes to oil spill contingency plans approved -What is a contingency plan? -Piping inspections near completion -Prevention and response improving, full capabilities not yet proven -Transition activities – an update from Alyeska -Council elects officers for next year -Al Burch resigns from Board of Directors -New Board members join the Council -Community Corner: Devoted to the cause of safe oil transportation -Long-serving volunteers -New tech improves knowledge of water circulation in Port Valdez -Board recognizes Crowley and welcomes Edison Chouest -Council Meetings Topics: spill prevention and response; escort tugs; c-plan; piping inspections; response gap; drills and exercises; board changes (Rebecca Skinner); volunteer appreciation; best available technology (BAT); sea currents; weather
Spring 2018 Observer	Story titles: -New vessels and barges on their way to Alaska -Board issues position and resolution on safe crude oil tanker transit and escort vessel operation in the Sound -Plan for applying dispersants to crude oil spills in Alaska waters updated -Safe oil transportation: Are we really so far apart? -Safety is a priority for Alyeska and all out contractors -How a grizzly bear hide resulted in safer tanker traffic in Alaska (Steve Lewis) -Community Corner: Citizen scientists help the Council monitor our region -Lally to join Council staff in March -Council recertified by Coast Guard through March 2019 -Council Board Meetings Topics: equipment upgrades; best available technology (BAT); escort tugs; weather conditions; dispersants; ARRT; preparedness; drills and exercises; outreach; staff changes (Joe Lally); c-plan; oil skimmers; sensitive area protection decision matrix; Solomon Gulch Hatchery; Valdez Duck Flats; recertification
Fall 2017 Observer	Story titles: -North Slope crude oil spills into Port Valdez -Council representatives visit Louisiana shipyards; Visitors come away impressed with new construction and Edison Chouest Offshore personnel -Oil spill contingency plans for Prince William Sound under review; Many changes stemming from transition of marine services contractor to Edison Chouest -We trust, but we must also verify, new improvements in system; Thorough training, paired with a robust array of drills and exercises, will produce the safest prevention and response system -Well-trained teams mount aggressive response to terminal spill -Alaska youth explore the Sound -Council Board Meetings Topics: Berth 5 spill; incidents; escort tugs; best available technology (BAT); c-plan; drills and exercises; preparedness; youth involvement; outreach; spill response, Marine Transition
May 2017 Observer	Story titles: -Planning for marine services changeover under way -Social scientist’s studies of subsistence fisheries helps communities adapt to changing environments (Davin Holen) -Council recertified by Coast guard through February 2018 -Citizens and partnerships in the safe transportation of oil -Alyeska staff find creative solutions for safe snow removal -Local government: Important conduit for sharing information and concerns -Mountain Village middle schooler receives oil spill award from council at state-wide science and engineering fair Topics: escort tugs; best available technology (BAT); recertification; history; tank farm; snow removal; government affairs; youth involvement; outreach, marine transition
January 2017 Observer	Story titles: -Vessel construction, planning underway for Crowley to Edison Chouest transition; Council conducting independent review of vessel designs -Smithsonian partners with council to search for marine invasive species -Conference focuses on best practices in towing rope technology -Former board member Marilynn Heddell passes -Retired staff member still contributes engineering expertise to council’s mission (Tom Kuckertz) -Recertification is time for reflection and self-evaluation -Alyeska’s commitments during transition include protection, safe oil transportation, and transparency -Bioblitz target species -Council Board Meetings -Partnerships help involve the next generation in the council’s mission -Marine firefighting symposium coming to Homer in May Topics: escort tugs; best available technology (BAT); invasive species; bioblitz; recertification; outreach; youth involvement; marine firefighting, Marine Transition
September 2016 Observer	Story titles: -Louisiana’s Edison Chouest Offshore to take over from Crowley in 2018 as Alyeska’s maritime contractor; Council invited to observe trainings, ship construction, on-water exercises -Council applauds decision to keep public engagement tool for spill response in Alaska -Foreign tankers arrive in Prince William Sound -Council hires director of external communications (Brooke Taylor) -Volunteer helps connect new generations with council’s mission (Kate Morse) -Council’s executive committee re-elected to another term in office -Duffy resigns from board -Partnerships build trust and help prevent oil spills -Pipe inspections on terminal finds no repairs needed -Building resilience in communities affected by human-caused disasters -Home teens use technology to monitor Kachemak Bay for aquatic invasions -Do you have an idea for a new council project? -Council Board Meetings Topics: spill prevention and response; foreign-flagged tankers; staff changes; board changes; escort system; TAPS; outreach; peer listener training; youth involvement; invasive species; ROVs; c-plans; subarea planning
May 2016 Observer	Story titles: -Marine services for Alyeska to change hands in 2018 -New plan for using dispersants in Alaska is in effect -Schantz appointed as head of council -An unlikely Alaskan helps protect Prince William Sound -Council questions proposed changes to ADEC response exercise program -Council and partners plan test of spill surrogate for response training -Proposed amendment to Alaska’s Response Plan would reduce citizen involvement in spills like Exxon Valdez -Alyeska receives Governor’s Safety Award of Excellence -A tour of the crown jewel of local oil spill response -Wrede joining council staff; Changes in Anchorage office -Schedule Change for 2016 -Council Board Meetings Topics: Crowley; dispersants; drills and exercises; oil surrogates; SERVS F/V; staff changes (Walt Wrede); outreach
January 2016 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Alyeska and City of Valdez agree to plan for joint firefighting response -Report shows air pollution from tankers in Prince William Sound reduced by hundreds of tons per year -A life on the water inspires stewardship of the sea -Swanson resigns as head of citizens’ council -Ignore the lessons of history at our own peril -Alyeska crew carries out pipeline maintenance and response readiness from base in Glennallen -What is an oil spill contingency plan? –What is the Prince William Sound Tanker Oil Spill Contingency Plan? –Planning for prevention –Planning for response –Updating and improving contingency plans –The plan ensures better spill prevention and response –The council’s role -Council Board Meetings -Interns help fulfill council’s mission -The importance of public comment Topics: firefighting agreement; tanker emissions; air pollution; spill prevention; TAPS; c-plan; outreach; youth involvement; public comment
September 2015 Observer	Story titles: -Researchers say ice drifting into tanker lanes will be smaller but more numerous in future -Oral history teaches new generation about Exxon spill -Banta marks twenty-five years of service to the council -Kodiak volunteer passionate about working for the council (Jane Eisemann) -Expedition reshapes Kodiak educator’s feelings about Prince William Sound -Falling oil prices shouldn’t mean reduced environmental protections -Robotic inspection tool redefines Trans-Alaska Pipeline innovation -A look back at the early years of the Prince William Sound Regional Citizens’ Advisory Council -Council Board Meetings -Passing the torch through story Topics: ice detection; outreach; youth involvement; TAPS; history; Project Jukebox
July 2015 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Firefighters from across Alaska converge on Valdez to learn about marine fire response -Port of Valdez shrimp found generally safe for consumption -Executive committee for next year includes a mix of council experience and new members -Exxon Valdez taught many lessons to those who paid attention -Whittier’s Korbe resigns (Andrea Korbe) -New law means sustainable funds for spill prevention and response in Alaska -How can we combine efforts and verify response capabilities? -Alyeska’s 2015 Atigun Award spotlights health and safety, hearing protection, and communication -A look back at the early years of the Prince William Sound Regional Citizens’ Advisory Council -New staff member has deep ties to Alaska -Sharing our mission with students -Upcoming high school and college internships Topics: marine firefighting; SPAR bill; board changes; drills and exercises; history; staff changes; ballast water toxicity; hydrocarbons; outreach; youth involvement
May 2015 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Environmental Protection Agency revising rules on oil spill dispersants -New regulations mean cleaner air in Prince William Sound -State spill prevention and response division prevails in fight for funding -First known springs found beneath Columbia Glacier -How do you define burdensome? (Amanda Bauer) -New volunteer’s expertise benefits terminal projects (Mikkel Foltmar) -Budget cuts threaten spill response equipment in remote Alaska communities -New council members to represent Kenai, Seward, Kodiak, Homer communities -In tough economy, good news for risk of oil spills in Alaska -Alyeska program wins award for stewardship and sustainability -A look back at the early years of the Prince William Sound Regional Citizens’ Advisory Council -Listening to downstream concerns –Visiting Kachemak Bay –Visiting Kodiak Island –Remote but connected Topics: dispersants; air quality; freshwater springs; board changes (Mako Haggerty, Jim Herbert, Steve Lewis, Orson Smith, Robert Archibald); spill response; budget cuts; history; SPAR funding; spill effects; emissions; outreach
January 2015 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Corrosion found in piping at terminal; Alyeska plans fix -Revised curriculum educates about oil spill prevention and response -Oil spill drills teach lesson in prevention -Alaska tourism and recreation organization closes its doors (Cathy Hart) -Eisemann and Selanoff pass the torch -Oil spill response lessons from fighting wildfires (John LeClair) -Single-hulled tankers now outlawed in U.S. waters -Liberty Bay enters service in Prince William Sound -To prevent oil spills, we must focus on the right risks -SERVS’ tugs help tankers dock safely at terminal -A look back at the early years of the Prince William Sound Regional Citizens’ Advisory Council -Oil spills in the classroom -Oil spill activity Topics: corrosion; Berth 5; drills and exercises; outreach; youth involvement; tanker fleet; risk assessment; tug escorts; history; board changes (Jane Eisemann/ Wayne Donaldson)
September 2014 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Council weighs in on terminal contingency plan changes -Symposium for marine firefighters set for May -New committee volunteer has long history with council -Anchorage and Valdez offices welcome new staff members -What’s in an oil spill contingency plan? Prevention and response and the essence of preparedness -Powerful new vessel joins oil spill response fleet -Experience in Sound ignites educators’ passion to pass on environmental stewardship -Alaska students reflect on effects of oil spills -Funding is available for programs related to the council’s mission -Whittier volunteer and daughters monitor for invasive species (Andrea Korbe) -Council Board Meetings -Developing internships for the council’s future Topics: c-plan; marine firefighting; staff changes; outreach; youth involvement; invasive species; internships
July 2014 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -First of two new oil tankers to begin service in Prince William Sound in 2014 -Prince William Sound spill contingency plans under review -Bauer reelected, new members welcomed, longtime volunteers honored -Parker and Malutin pass away on June 25 -New Zealanders in search of Exxon Valdez lessons -John Devens, former council executive director, dies at 74 -After a long life of service, Walt Parker passes away at 87 -ElderSpeak – Citizen Oversight -Iver Malutin, Kodiak advocate, passes away at 82 -Let’s not write off mechanical oil recovery in Prince William Sound spill response -Employee training increases safety, saves lives -Council staffer keeps a close eye on terminal for last fourteen years (Tom Kuckertz) -New Terminal Operations Project Manager hired (Austin Love) -New project ideas needed! -Oral history of Exxon Valdez now complete and online -Ten and twenty year volunteers recognized (Bob Benda, George Skladal, Gordon Scott, John Kennish) -Anchorage administrative assistant position changes hands (Natalie Novik) -Inspection and testing of secondary containment liners at terminal observed -Council Board Meetings -The power of shared history Topics: tanker fleet; ballast water treatment; invasive species; c-plan; outreach; spill response; staff changes; Project Jukebox; board changes; secondary containment; catalytically blown asphalt; Chenega; Good Friday earthquake
May 2014 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Oil spill response training focuses on nearshore and sensitive area protection -Personal stories of Exxon Valdez spill to be preserved in University of Alaska Fairbanks’ oral history archives -Coast Guard receives 78 support letters for council -Council meets with elected officials in DC and Juneau -Gordon Scott tells his story of “Life at half a knot” -Intern helps council develop suggestions to improve fishing vessel program -What have we learned in the last 25 years? -Safety stewardship from shore to sea -Council study reviews remote operations at Valdez Marine Terminal -Homer students present program on effects of oil spills -Students design remotely operated oil spill response vehicles in Seward ocean science competition -Taking the long view – why do we involve youth in our programs? fishing vessel training, nearshore and sensitive area protection, Project Jukebox, Recertification, Internship, youth involvement
January 2014 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Real storm plays role in October spill drill -New guidelines for dispersants proposed -25 Years After Exxon Valdez; How has oil transportation changed in Prince William Sound? -Council study reviews escort tug technology -Sound loses tireless environmental defender -Oil spills have been a major influence on new volunteer (Sarah Allan) -Value of regional stakeholder input process deserves to be preserved -Remembering Stan Stephens: Never an adversary, always an advocate -Workshop helps citizens understand incident command system -How has oil spill prevention and response in Prince William Sound changed since 1989? -Firefighting symposium held in Seward; includes live fire training for first time -Valdez resident takes over committee support for council (Nelli Vanderburg) -Council tours tanker Overseas Martinez at the Valdez Marine Terminal -Council Board Meetings -Why commemorate the Exxon Valdez oil spill 25 years later? Topics: drills and exercises; Exxon Valdez; escort tugs; Best Available Technology (BAT); dispersants; ICS; weather conditions; human factors; marine traffic; ice detection; c-plan; air quality; marine firefighting; tanker fleet; outreach
September 2013 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Recent inspections for potential pipe corrosion at terminal show encouraging results -Long time volunteer retires from board -New outreach coordinator joins council staff -Chair of science committee long interested in effects of toxins on environment and health (John Kennish) -Carey takes industry preparedness position with Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation -Drones to be used for oil spill monitoring in Arctic -Working together effectively is a matter of balance and finding the middle road -Alyeska intern impressed by safe work environment -Council staff witness lingering Exxon Valdez oil -Oil spill response in Sound depends on trained fishing vessel crews -2013 Marine Firefighting Symposium -Annual science event to be held in December -Do you have an idea for a new council project? -Council Board Meetings -Conferences help keep the council on the cutting edge -Upcoming outreach events Topics: pipe corrosion; board changes; staff changes; ROV; Exxon Valdez; incidents; SERVS F/V; Science Night; project proposals; conferences; outreach
July 2013 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Industry and council test spill response plans during drill -Citizens’ advisory council for Gulf of Mexico holds first meeting -Council staffer Linda Robinson retires after 23 years with the council -Council representatives head to Washington (Council representatives talk to Alaska delegation about issues of concern to the council) –Ice detection and radar system to be upgraded –Weather buoy system concerns -Engineering expert motivated by intellectual challenges (Orson Smith) -Citizens’ council board elects new officers, seats new members -Dispersant use in spill response a concern for many -Traveling fair brings health and wellness services to Prince William Sound communities -Citizen network monitors for aquatic invasive species -Looking back at a productive 23 years at the council -Council Board Meetings -Terminal spill contingency plan review extended -2013 Marine Firefighting Symposium Topics: c-plan; drills and exercises; staff changes; federal government affairs; RCAC; Deepwater Horizon; board changes; dispersants; invasive species; ice detection; weather monitoring; outreach
May 2013 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Council and partners work to permit oil spill simulant for response training -Review of proposed contingency plan shows some areas improved, others need more detail -Colder and saltier water increases toxic effects of dispersed oil -New council committee member has long history of volunteering in Prince William Sound communities (Harold Blehm) -Council studies effects of low level exposure to chemically dispersed crude oil on zooplankton -Sustaining our resolve to push for improvements in the face of lingering complacency -Trans Alaska pipeline important to Alaska’s economy -Citizens’ council calls for increased oil spill funding -New deputy director for administration to lead council staff in Anchorage -Possible funding shortfall for state spill prevention and response on the horizon -Invasive species bill introduced to Alaska legislature -New website technology helps keep public better informed about council issues and activities -Kodiak and Valdez students build remotely controlled vehicles to respond to mock oil spill -Valdez graduate chosen to sail with Polar Tankers’ cadet program -Staff attends Coast Guard training on incident command system -Council Board Meetings -Group plans update for oil spill educational curriculum Topics: oil simulant; c-plan; oil and hydrocarbon toxicity; dispersants; TAPS; 470 fund; OSLTF; staff changes; legislative affairs; invasive species; web presence; outreach; ROV; ICS; education
January 2013 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Study looks at changes in Columbia Glacier and effects on oil transportation -Updated tanker oil spill plans for Sound approved in November -Long-time staff member Stan Jones to retire -Bob Jaynes works hard to protect beloved Sound -Fall drills and exercises test industry spill response plans -What will it take to get the best available escort and towing technology for Prince William Sound? -Alyeska fire brigade wins top awards at state event -Ocean science festival held in Cordova, coming to Valdez -Highlights of recent council activities and news –Small leak in loading arm at Valdez Marine Terminal –Volunteers receive prestigious state travel award –Whales, marine debris, waves and invasive species were topics at council’s annual Science Night event -Council hires librarian to manage document collection -Council Board Meetings -Outreach activities help us connect with others in our region -Upcoming outreach events Topics: iceberg detection; glacial reduction; c-plan; staff changes; preparedness monitor; marine firefighting; outreach; incidents; Science Night; best available technology (BAT)
September 2012 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Council review of tanker oil spill contingency plan shows some areas needing improvement -Inspections of some oil storage tanks conducted this summer -What could be affected by spilled oil in your community? -Science committee volunteer interested in environmentally responsible industry engineering (Debasmita Misra) -Cordova director Faulkner nationally recognized for leadership (Patience Andersen Faulkner) -Good maintenance and thorough inspectability are keys to longevity and reliability of Alyeska system -Alyeska trains year-round for emergency spill response -What could be affected by spilled oil in your community? -Highlights of council activities –Valdez Marine Terminal drill –Council studying corrosion at terminal –Valdez Marine Terminal spill response exercise -Students learn about role of escort tugs and council during expedition -Do you have an idea for a new council project? -Council Board Meetings -What is an oil spill contingency plan? -Travel to Port Graham meeting includes stops in Seldovia and Nanwalek -Whittier to be monitored for invasive green crabs -How could the lack of an invasive species committee affect Alaska? Topics: c-plan; storage tanks; tank farm; containment liners; SERVS F/V; drills and exercises; outreach; corrosion management; invasive species; European green crab
July 2012 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Council follows changes in crude oil storage tank inspections at terminal -Construction has begun on new Exxon tankers -Influx of new committee volunteers joins council (Orson Smith) -Citizens’ council elects new executive committee -New and changing conditions call for new strategies -Safely moving more oil means a healthier economy for Alaska -Highlights of recent council activities and events –Oil spill contingency plan review –Interoperability of local and remote control of the Valdez Marine Terminal –Tatitlek Cultural Heritage Festival –Spring fishing vessel training -Share your photos with us! -Students learn importance of protecting Alaska’s waters from spilled oil –Valdez High School students visit Kasitsna Bay –Kodiak students learn effects of spilled oil and marine debris –Oil spill education kit tours Kachemak Bay, coming to Cordova -SERVS conducts 12,000th tanker escort through Sound -Council Board Meetings -Spring is busy time for council outreach –Clean Pacific –Copper River Nouveau –National Marine Educators Association Conference –Visit to Whittier Topics: tank inspections; Storage Tank 5, Tank 10, Tank 13, Tank 14, Tank 16; tanker fleet; board changes (Amanda Bauer); TAPS; c-plan; VMT operations; FVO; SERVS F/V; outreach; youth involvement; tanker escort system; conferences
May 2012 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Oil storage tank inspection delays at Valdez Marine Terminal worry council -Groups form coalition for citizen oversight of trans-Alaska pipeline -Prince William Sound citizens’ council is a very important experiment that must succeed -Valdez educator enthusiastic about working with council’s outreach committee (Ruthie Knight) -Dual tug escorts for double hulled tankers continue in Sound -What’s in a name? “Exxon Valdez” reminds of need for spill prevention -Alyeska recognized as one of world’s most ethical companies -Three council members end their service on board -Kodiak students get oil spill lesson -Share your photos with us! -Council Board Meetings -Spring outreach events around Alaska Topics: tank farm; tank inspections; citizen oversight; tanker fleet; tug escort system; ExxonValdez; Storage Tank 5, Tank 10, Tank 13, Tank 15, and Tank 16; board changes; history; outreach; youth involvement; conferences
January 2012 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Council conducts audit of maintenance procedures at Valdez Marine Terminal -Author documenting effects of oil spills on youth -Annual oil spill drill held in Valdez in September -New volunteer has variety of professional maritime experiences -Council expands online vessel monitoring system -”Belt and suspenders” approach is needed for spill prevention -Longtime Alaskan becomes Valdez terminal operations director -Firefighters from Alaska’s coastal communities meet in Valdez to learn about marine fire response -New oil spill response education kit available on council website -Student expedition studies Sound -Council Board Meetings -Wishing you all a happy New Year! Topics: spill effects; VMT maintenance system; drills and exercises; Automatic Identification System (AIS); spill prevention; Alyeska changes; marine firefighting; outreach; youth involvement; conferences
September 2011 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Two new ExxonMobil tankers expected to begin service in the Sound in 2014 -Council book about Exxon Valdez spill used in Wisconsin college classroom -Alaskan students learn protection and stewardship of Sound -Cordova group petitions to support citizen oversight council for trans-Alaska pipeline -Science committee volunteer’s childhood experience with Lake Erie pollution inspires career -Educating Alaska’s youth is key to future of Sound -The merits of increased transparency in spill response -Stewardship of Sound important to new SERVS director (Andres Morales) -Council staffer appointed to state boating safety council -Swanson appointed to Valdez Ports and Harbor Commission -Council is inviting proposals for educational projects related to mission -Committee support in Valdez office changes hands -Students study Alaska’s coastal ecology and environment monitoring -Council Board Meetings -Marine Firefighting Symposium -Out and about in the communities –Education kit available –Volunteers needed! Topics: tanker fleet; outreach; spill book; youth involvement; outreach; Alyeska changes; staff changes
July 2011 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Pathfinder grounding investigation report released by Coast Guard in May -Teaching tomorrow’s spill responders -Alaska legislature in cliffhanger on future of coastal management program -New Coast Guard leadership in Alaska -Busy council volunteer passionate about educating youth about the Exxon Valdez oil spill -Citizens’ council chooses new executive officers -Becoming “fish literate” and grasping what is at stake -Alyeska-funded health and safety fair travels Sound -Notes from the Chenega Memorial Day service -Invasive species council remains on hold for now -Council Board Meetings -Copper River watershed area students learn about oil spill prevention and response -2011 Marine Firefighting Symposium -Valdez High School students visit Kasistna Bay research lab -Anchorage Citizens Coalition honors council board member Walt Parker -International Oil Spill Conference -New oil spill curriculum based on Prince William Sound expedition -Funding opportunity for youth projects Topics: incidents; human factors; outreach; USCG changes; board changes; Good Friday earthquake; youth involvement; invasive species; marine firefighting
May 2011 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Presidential commission recommends regional citizens’ advisory council in Gulf of Mexico -Fishing vessel owners meet with ADEC, Coast Guard, and council to discuss response program -Council conducts audit of terminal maintenance -New committee volunteer is a believer in the concept of citizens’ advisory councils -Another legislative session ends with no action on council-backed invasive-species issue -Council is recertified by Coast Guard -As concerned citizens, our work is far from done -New Alyeska president excited to be back at Alyeska -Go green. Now online. -Kid’s corner -Council Board Meetings -In the next Observer… -2011 Marine Firefighting Symposium -Youth Involvement programs on the increase at the council Topics: RCAC; Deepwater Horizon; incidents; SERVS F/V; VMT maintenance; invasive species; government affairs; recertification; web presence; coloring book; marine firefighting; outreach; youth involvement
January 2011 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -New federal law to preserve dual escorts in Sound! -Unannounced drill valuable chance for responders to sharpen skills -Staffers Robinson and Banta dedicate 20 years of service to council -Physical oceanographer joins science committee -Spill response training for oiled wildlife held in December -Are we doing everything we can to prevent spills? -Alyeska hires retired Coast Guard Barrett as new president -Crowley director speaks frankly to council about problems aboard Pathfinder -Council board forms new Board Governance Committee -Council delegation visits DC -Native Village of Eyak holds 17th Annual Sobriety Celebration -Sociologists from Korea studying impact of Hebei Spirit spill visit council -Inspired by mission, staffers dedicate 20 years of service to council -New project manager joins Valdez staff (Jeremy Robida) -City of Seldovia shows off fall beauty for September meeting -Council Board Meetings -A busy fall hosting more visitors interested in the work of the council Topics: escort tug system; OPA 90; federal government affairs; drills and exercises; SERVS F/V; wildlife protection and rehabilitation; spill prevention; incidents; ice detection; Alyeska staff changes; BGC; Pathfinder grounding; human factors; outreach; community; history; staff changes; board meetings
September 2010 Observer	Story titles: -Gulf of Mexico representatives explore the lasting effects from the Exxon Valdez oil spill -Students study oceanography and oil spills in Sound -Council volunteer observes spill response test runs (Jerry Brookman) -Council project manager to use council experiences in new position at SERVS -Long-time Valdez resident a welcome addition to council staff (Alan Sorum) -Waiting for the next shoe to drop from cost-cutting -Terminal and pipeline maintenance held to a high standard -Citizens’ council timeline -By Cierra Martin; High school senior from Hurley, Mississippi -Interest in citizen oversight grows Topics: BP Deepwater Horizon spill; incidents; education; outreach; staff changes; VMT maintenance issues; conferences; simulation training
July 2010 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Council responds to Gulf of Mexico disaster -June tanker drill provides opportunity to test council’s own spill response plan -Gulf of Mexico oil spill plus local issues mean a busy summer for the citizens’ council -Council board chooses new officers -Council staffer leaves job to aid in Gulf of Mexico spill response -Citizens’ council timeline -Correction from May Observer -New legislative committee will continue to push to preserve tanker escorts and pass invasive species bill -Chenega Bay remembers tragic history of Good Friday quake -Join us in scenic Seldovia… -Council Meeting Schedule -Council studied by others as a model for citizen oversight Topics: incidents; BP Deepwater Horizon spill; drills and exercises; c-plan; staff and volunteer response training; SERVS F/V; board changes; staff changes; history; LAC; government affairs; outreach
May 2010 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -New pay rates negotiated for fishing-vessel program as spring training season gets under way -Council-supported invasive-species bill dies with end of winter legislative session -Iceberg radar system up and running again -Newest council member works to boost Port Graham economy and pride in community and culture -Former Coast Guard commander heads citizens’ council -Citizen council oversight still needed in third decade of oil operations in Prince William Sound -New operations manager has long history in sound -Citizens’ council timeline -Federal escorts legislation remains under consideration in nation’s capital -Council staff sees changes -Council Meeting Schedule -Tanker company earns legislative honors for employee safety and marine environmental protection -New Prince William Sound coloring book call for artwork submissions -Former council staffer honored by Alaska Forum on the Environment -Council toasts 20 years of citizen oversight with special tradition Topics: SERVS F/V; invasive species; government affairs; iceberg detection; staff changes; history; dual-escorts; outreach
January 2010 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Initial findings: ‘gross human error’ on Pathfinder -New ballast water regs a step in right direction -Federal legislation on tanker escorts passes U.S. House, now before Senate; Kodiak incident underscores need for escorts -Cordova group’s roots go deep in Sound’s history -Council applauds ‘real’ unannounced drill in Sound -Tug grounding reinforces lessons of Exxon spill -Alyeska meets new challenges, reinforces safety -Citizens’ council is celebrating 20th birthday -Staff departures revise roster in Anchorage office -Citizens worldwide are concerned about effects of oil development Topics: incidents; human factors; tanker escorts; invasive species; ballast water; CDFU; drills and exercises; history; RCAC; European green crab; staff changes; outreach; twitter; conferences
September 2009 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Collaboration boosts vessel safety in Gulf of Alaska -Council resumes Washington efforts on escort issue -Sampling expert is boon to science committee -Council loses good friend and oil spill advocate -Great project results require involvement from all -New boss takes the helm at SERVS facility -Updated Peer Listening DVD training program now available -Citizens’ council volunteers and staff enjoy the sunniest Alaskan summer in recent memory… -Spill: Alaskan Artists Remember -Arctic citizens’ council bill is delayed -Drama explores community effects of Exxon Valdez oil spill -Council Meeting Schedule -Coming up in the January 2010 Observer… -Students witness remaining Exxon Valdez oil -Where did the summer go? Topics: weather monitoring station; government affairs; LRP; Alyeska SERVS changes; peer listener program; outreach; art; theatre; The Big One; education; youth involvement
July 2009 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Legislation to save Sound’s escort system introduces in Congress -May drill tested response readiness in two stages -Begich endorses oversight for Alaska’s Arctic regions -Seldovia’s Lewis is committee guru for web technology (Savannah Lewis) -Citizens’ council board chooses new officers -Taking stock: looking back, looking ahead -Ballast water treatment: continuous improvement -Devens resigns as head of the citizens’ council -Anchorage office sees staff changes -Students experience tidal zone at Kasitsna Bay -Citizens’ council: In the community -Coming up in the September 2009 Observer… -Council Meeting Schedule -Invasive Species: Green Crab Monitoring -Changes are ahead for the council website Topics: double escort tugs; tanker escort system; drills and exercises; board changes; ballast water treatment facility (BWTF); staff changes; education; outreach; invasive species; web presence
May 2009 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Legislature passes resolution for tanker escorts -Study shows new skimmers work better -Vivid memories of Exxon spill captured in print -Scott is OSPRC’s resident expert on towing boom (Gordon Scott) -Invasive species bill is left in committee -Schantz name acting executive director -Cost-cutting no excuse for cutting back on safety -Protecting the Sound’s people and environment -20th anniversary events connect communities in the oil-spill region Topics: tanker escort system; dual escort tugs; best available technology (BAT); spill book; invasive species; staff changes; SERVS; outreach; Exxon Valdez anniversary
January 2009 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Federal agency wants more scrutiny before allowing dispersant use in Sound, Inlet -Studies trace psychological aftereffects of oil spill -New legislative committee likely to deal with bill to set up invasive species council -New volunteer is absolutely impressed by council -Anniversary is a time to reflect on lessons of spill -Alyeska’s fire brigade wins statewide competition -Community events mark anniversary -Retired Coastie takes on marine ops job -Chenega Bay gets new rep Topics: dispersants; peer listener training; LAC; government affairs; mental and social impacts; Exxon Valdez; spill book; DVD; marine firefighting; outreach; staff changes; board changes
September 2008 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Council concerned with state taking over water permitting -Alyeska moves operational control center from Valdez to Anchorage -Council staff member to serve on national invasive species board -POVTS volunteer provides custom sea adventures to kayakers -Anchorage office hires new assistant, Valdez looking for Maritime Operations Project Manager -Corporations held to different standards than citizens -Alyeska SERVS sends tug to help grounded vessel -20th anniversary events set to commemorate Exxon oil spill Topics: NPDES; ballast water treatment facility (BWTF); invasive species; Alyeska move; staff changes; corporate responsibility; incidents; outreach
July 2008 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Spill response with dispersants largely impractical -Council to join international SAFETUG study -Volunteer promotes good science and good times (Roger Green) -Coast Guard receives new commander -Council board confirms new members -Despite progress, response gap threatens Sound -Alyeska brings health fair to remote communities -National invasive species panel gets a look at Alaska -Supreme Court slashes Exxon Valdez punitive damages -Former Valdez city councilman and council director dies in accident -Photographs from Prince William Sound -Firefighters attend marine training symposium -Council launches outreach and education committee -Day-cruise through the Sound makes stop at salmon hatchery Topics: dispersants; conferences; USCG; board changes; response gap; invasive species; ballast water exchange; punitive damages; Exxon Valdez; marine firefighting; new committee (IEC); in-situ burning
May 2008 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Marine hitchhikers outside ballast tanks also a threat -State to scrutinize oil-facility risks; How public will participate is still to be determined -Legislative session wraps up with a solution on fishing vessel tax issue -OSPR volunteer brings a wealth of experience -Comings and goings shuffle council staff -Council reports are now widely available online -Council is recertified by the Coast Guard -Looking back on the citizen oversight movement -Alyeska signs new contract for oil spill services (Tatitlek Chenega Chugach LLC) -A photographic tour of Prince William Sound -Heading North? (European green crab) -Council documents are available free to the public -Ten Years Ago in The Observer! -Council teams up with Alaska Geographic to teach teachers -Board seats member for wilderness recreation and tourism group (Cathy Hart) Topics: hull fouling; invasive species; risk assessment; staff changes (Amanda Johnson); ARLIS; recertification; NPDES; outreach; board changes
January 2008 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -New legislative committee is formed, already faces fishing vessel problem -Stephens leaving board after 18 years -Work continues on tanker spill plans -Valdez resident takes vacant chamber seat -George Skladal, here since committee’s beginning, is planning to stick around for the end, as well -Former member of board passes away -Punitive damages valuable for deterring oil spills -2007: A year of challenges and accomplishments -Calling all coloring book artists! Topics: LAC; federal government affairs; c-plan; board changes; punitive damages; outreach
September 2007 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -New tug is scheduled for Cook Inlet duty -Congress debates new ballast-water law as EPA acts under old statutes -Council, state, seek info on tanker spill plans -Busy Alaskan says goodbye to council committee -Two in, one out; council staff is now at full strength -Entries sought for upcoming film festival -Critical elements make citizen oversight effective -Summertime fun -Accomplishments of past are guide to the future -New boss moves in at tanker terminal -Tatitlek Cultural Heritage Week -Science committee vet calls it quits Topics: tanker escort system; tug fleet; invasive species; ballast water regulations; c-plan; staff changes; citizen oversight; outreach; SERVS; CIRCAC
July 2007 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Council seeking strengthened escort rules as federal mandate phases out -Alyeska system marks a milestone -Cordovan chosen council president (Patience) -Committee member is an international seal expert -Fresh face joins staff -Council Meeting Schedule -Looking back on a pretty good year in the Sound -Teamwork is essential element to maintain safety -New Ridicule Pole is old tradition Topics: tanker escort system; TAPS 30th anniversary; board changes; staff changes; drills and exercises; SERVS; history
May 2007 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Project will document spill history -Council contingent visits capital -SeaRiver drill: short on realism -Valdez residents join council board -Retired meteorologist volunteers weather wisdom (Dave Goldstein) -Council Meeting Schedule -Differing c-plan processes show value of citizen role -Pipeline control center is relocating to Anchorage -Poets participate in council contest Topics: history; spill book; government affairs; invasive species; board changes (Dorothy Moore); c-plan; OPA 90; APSC relocation; outreach
January 2007 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Report: Dispersants didn’t help in Exxon Valdez spill -Council and Alyeska settle disagreement over review of oil profits on North Slope -Spill program sought in Puget Sound -Ordinary citizen has a voice on council committee -New UAA grad takes over front desk in Anchorage -New and improved pages available on council site -Marine ops manager leaves -Correction -Oil industry committed to cutting Valdez air pollution -Better procedures needed in dispersant trials -Valdez Flooding -Progress report on upgrades to ballast water plant -Council documents available free to the public -Agency faults ship management in tanker grounding -Legislative panel is formed -No news is good news -Video focuses on career options in fields of seafaring, marine sciences Topics: dispersants; staff changes; web presence; hydrocarbon vapors; ballast water treatment facility (BWTF); OHMSETT; vapor controls; incidents; green crab monitoring; invasive species; legislative affairs; outreach
September 2006 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Report analyzes the human factor in marine oil spills -Legislature approves a partial fix to oil-spill office’s funding problems -Drill will test response capabilities -Original committee member is now its veteran chair -Council Meeting Schedule -Prudhoe shutdown shows need for citizen oversight -Management of spill response training is revamped -Summertime in Alaska -Council documents are available free to the public -Pictures from the Past (Gordon Scott) -Council participates in East Coast conference on human dimensions Topics: human factors; drills and exercises; SPAR; 470 Fund; SERVS; citizen oversight; council summer pictures; outreach
July 2006 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Council seeks ban on dispersant use -New umbrella organization forming to take on Alaska’s invasive species -Prospects remain uncertain for a fix to budget problem in state’s oil-spill office -Accidental scientist is mom, canoe racer, volunteer -Board picks new officers -Chamber rep joins council -Board member honored for work on oceans -Shippers won’t commit to protecting escort system -For now, industry drops idea of tug fleet cuts -Barge mishap kills crewman -Council seeks artists for new version of its coloring book -Council meeting schedule -Vessel system practices continuous improvement -AMOP Conference -Settling into New Space -Methodology in dispersant tests is still questionable -Chenega Bay celebrates opening of new buildings -Spring brings fishing vessel training for Kodiak crews -Council documents are available free to the public -French visitors tour oil-spill region Topics: dispersants; Alaska Invasive Species Working Group; SPAR; board changes; tanker escort system; incidents; staff changes; SERVS; Vessel Traffic System; invasive species; office changes; 470 fund; F/V; outreach
May 2006 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Is it time to prohibit dispersants in Sound? -After 14 years, Marilyn Leland is moving on; REORG: Departure triggers staff changes -Grounding produces new calls for Cook Inlet tugs -Winter meeting turns up fishing vessel concerns -Experience and enthusiasm: OSPR’s John LeClair -Former harbormaster will join staff -BP spill proves rust and complacency never sleep -Terminal storage capacity is sized for pipeline flow -Volunteer brought heart and head to work on council -Nikiski grounding proves two hulls better than one -Council documents are available free to the public -Spring sees events in Homer, Kodiak Topics: dispersants; SERVS F/V; staff changes (director positions); incidents; tanker fleet; tug escort system; outreach
January 2006 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Council system will monitor tankers in Sound -Wilderness group backs citizen oversight -December was a milestone month for Alyeska -Long-distance TOEM member keeps eye on Sound -Long-time Valdez resident takes board seat -Spill response facility being proposed for Cordova area -Council’s online presence given a makeover -Two staffers leaving council -As citizen oversight spreads, much work lies ahead -Focus will be on safety and system reconfiguration -Council backs budget change at spill agency -With new year comes a new job title Topics: Automated Identification System (AIS); tanker fleet; tanker escort system; SERVS; board changes; staff changes; web presence; Cordova response facility; SPAR; general fund; outreach coordinator position; outreach
September 2005 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -New group formed to protect Sound -All Aboard! -“Sturgeon General” is scheduled to speak at council’s winter gathering -Alyeska reorganizes executive suite -POVTS member knew danger, now promotes safety -Council family loses former members -Industry tug study raises questions – and concerns -Summertime in Alaska -Terminal overhaul will focus on incremental change -Council documents are available free to the public -Summer takes council around region Topics: Prince William Soundkeeper; Sylvia Earle, oceanographer; tanker escort system; council summer pictures; strategic reconfiguration; ballast water treatment facility (BWTF); outreach; oil spill curriculum
July 2005 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Report shows high profits for the oil industry, sparks lawsuit with Alyeska -Dual Escorts -Council wants more work on state’s best available technology report -Federal panel identifies areas where more dispersant research is needed -Committee volunteer found his direction in life early (John Kennish) -Council switches to three meetings a year -Report analyzes standards for risk assessments in Prince William Sound -New member -Past year seems to point to big issues in the future -AMOP Conference -Report assesses telecoms in Sound -Maintenance crucial to SERVS’ response readiness -Symposium teaches tactics in shipboard firefighting -SeaRiver buying used double-hulls for Valdez trade -Conference focuses on worldwide oil-spill issues -Council documents are available free to the public -Conferences provide opportunities for spreading the council message Topics: Alyeska contract; BAT; dispersants; council schedule; board changes; tanker escort system; telecommunications; SERVS; marine firefighting; tanker fleet; International Oil Spill Conference; outreach
May 2005 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Council launches effort to protect tug escort system -Fishing Vessel Training -Feds OK Alyeska plans to overhaul tanker terminal -Citizen oil-spill oversight is approved for Washington state -Committee head steps down after nine years as chair -Council is recertified by Coast Guard -Stephens returns to top board office -Seattle newspaper series on problems at ConocoPhillips tanker unit is available online -Summer’s coming – let’s relax and enjoy the Sound! -New Hire -Spring exercises train fishing vessel crews to be ready –A ‘Rescue’ at Sea –Removing Spilled Oil from the Environment -FONSI is first step in long process of terminal reconfiguration -Governor looks back on Valdez spill -Council participates in Cordova meeting of water resources group -Ruling could limit ballast-water dumping -Council, regulators, want answers on snow removal problems -Youth Area Watch lets Valdez students work with scientists Topics: tug escort system; tanker fleet; SERVS F/V; strategic reconfiguration; Citizens’ Advisory Council; recertification; board changes; staff changes; drills and exercises; finding of no significant impact; ballast water treatment facility (BWTF); NPDES; preparation and response; invasive species; Green Crab Watch; outreach
March 2005 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Council seeks better oil-spill planning for the ‘downstream’ areas -More work needed on review of oil terminal overhaul – Council -Has the time come for citizen oversight in Puget Sound? -TOEM member’s life mixes music and science -New faces join council offices in Anchorage and Valdez -On Valdez anniversary, are escort tugs in peril? -Council opposes burning off oil spills in most cases -For SERVS, training is key to being prepared -Legislative subcommittee tracks the action in Juneau -Council documents available to public -Artists wanted for third edition of council’s popular coloring book -Scientific gatherings offer a wide range of subjects -Member community profile: Seldovia Topics: staff changes (Roy Robertson); escort tugs; in-situ burning; RCAC; drills and exercises; SERVS; strategic reconfiguration; ballast water treatment facility (BWTF); LAC; outreach
December 2004 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Halifax tank shows promise for dispersant tests -PRTs back in service as tether line problems fixed -Exchanging ballast water may reduce threat of NIS invasion -Hard-working Hungarian finds time for POVTS -Anchorage front-desker says so long -Exporting ideas from our sound to Puget Sound -State DEC chief leaves for job in timber company -Workforce performs well despite stressful times -Council documents available to public -ConocoPhillips tanker Texas is under scrutiny for Puget Sound’s mystery spill -New reps for Homer, Valdez, take council seats -Council meeting schedule -It’s the volunteers who make our council work Topics: dispersants; escort tugs; invasive species; staff changes; spill; incident; strategic reconfiguration; SERVS; board changes; volunteer appreciation
September 2004 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Council concerned over tow line breaks -New double-hull in town -Spill drill exercises the handover of authority -‘Snowbird’ keeps hand in on science committee -Council visits Homer to warn about alien invaders -Council’s web wizard logs off -When oil stops flowing, who pays for cleanup? -Summertime in Alaska -Response to Jack Bay diesel spill was more effective than suggested by article in Observer -Completing the record on the Jack Bay spill -ConocoPhillips under scrutiny for tanker spills -Tracking the Sound’s environment -Legacy awards go to tanker companies -Study finds hydrocarbons in snow around Valdez -Non-indigenous species meeting -Citizens’ councils team up at Kenai celebration Topics: tug escort; incident; tanker fleet; drills and exercises; invasive species; staff changes; DR&R; SERVS F/V; LTEMP; mussel watch; BTEX; pollution; hydrocarbons; CIRCAC; places of refuge
May 2004 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -EPA will reexamine air pollution question -Citizens’ council to be formed for gold mine -Big changes loom for Valdez tanker terminal -OSPRC member passionate about wood -Council elects new officers, seats new members -Is Alyeska ready for non-crude oil spills? -Council board praises heavy-weather towing exercises -Tom Copeland appointed to a national panel on dispersants -Technology conference scheduled for Anchorage later this month -Project manager hired in Anchorage office -Alyeska ballast-water facility under study -Council documents available to the public -Auke Bay lab: The council’s research partner -Tatitlek Heritage Festival -Council’s campaign against invasive sea species stretches back for past eight years -Major exercise planned for late summer -Session raises few issues for council -Marking the council’s fifteenth anniversary Topics: air quality; ballast water treatment facility (BWTF); storage tanks; Tank Farm; board changes; incidents; SERVS; drills and exercises; escort system; best available technology (BAT); staff changes (Linda Swiss); LTEMP; invasive species; legislative monitoring; reverse sweep; vapor control system; outreach
March 2004 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Fifteen years after Exxon Valdez, much has changed -Despite progress, more effort on safety still needed in some areas -DEC’s Ballard: more focus on field work, less on permitting -TOEM member came north searching for adventure, found plenty in Alaska -Local filmmaker wins award for video of Sound -Copeland says sayonara -On anniversary of Exxon Valdez, Alaska practices are international model -Tanker exercises demonstrate power, problems, of Alyeska’s escort/response tugs; Winter drills test performance of the vessels in near-closure conditions at Hinchinbrook Entrance -Have we improved our ability to prevent and clean up oil spills since 1989? -Council documents available to the public -Tabletop exercise in Valdez reveals a crewing gap in the fishing vessel program -On Kodiak Island, rural science fair tackles the deepest questions of life -Council Meeting Schedule Topics: double hulls; response gap; Exxon Valdez; drills and exercises; Hinchinbrook Entrance; SERVS; escort system; fishing vessel program; vapor controls; ice detection; c-plan; dispersants; invasive species; vapor control system
December 2003 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -EPA decision would allow most air pollution to continue at tanker terminal -Alyeska shows performance improvement in less surprising follow-up drill -Pipeline spill plan is under council review -Cliff Chambers builds life around Prince William Sound and volunteer work -Project manager leaves staff -Council compiling public database on oil-spill equipment -Shipboard firefighting symposium shows how powerful partnerships can be -SERVS changes align organization with mission of oil-spill preparedness -Tesoro drill tests response to an offshore tanker spill in Gulf of Alaska waters -Council Meeting Schedule -A visit to Seldovia -Europe’s Prestige oil spill was worse than Exxon Valdez, wildlife organization reports -Council Documents Available to Public -Shipboard firefighting -Council staff visits Cordova, hears from the community’s organizations Topics: air quality; ballast water treatment facility (BWTF); SERVS; drills and exercises; c-plan; staff changes; incidents; marine firefighting; conferences; outreach
September 2003 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Surprise drill demonstrates more surprise drills are needed -Council is once again honored by U.S.-Canadian oil spill group for work in Sound -Council tracks development push as new governor and legislators take control -New volunteer brings strong record to work on council science committee (Roger Green) -New faces join the council’s staff roster -Council’s web site gets bigger and better -Council throws reception for Kenai assembly -Past year saw much achievement; coming year will require much vigilance -At Alyeska, “quiet competence” is emerging goal for company workplace -Council wants tanker rescue tests held in realistic Hinchinbrook weather conditions -Are you an expert? -Alaska not totally free of invasive species, those pests who come to dine -Council keeps wary eye on TROG trends from the Ballast Water Treatment Facility -New Geographic Response Strategies sites selected -Council sponsors firefighter training -Canadian conference draws council attendees -Polar Discovery to begin Alaska service -Council opposes loosening of rules on tanker smoke -Council Meeting Schedule -Dispersant at the ready -Council Reports Available to the Public -Tatitlek festival celebrates culture of a Prince William Sound village Topics: drills and exercise; Legacy Award; staff changes; web presence; Hinchinbrook Entrance; invasive species; BWTF; hydrocarbon; Total Recoverable Oil and Gas; GRS; marine firefighting; tanker fleet; coastal management program; c-plan; air quality; dispersants; coloring book; oceans festivals; outreach
May 2003 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Lewis stays in top seat on the board -Radar tests -Tanker tour shows the nuts and bolts of operations at the Valdez oil terminal -Committee recruits are diverse, but share interest in Prince William Sound -New baby doesn’t keep Kodiak volunteer from committee meetings for long -Russian group meets with the citizens’ council on Siberian pipeline issues -Council gets streamlined recertification -Air quality deserves attention of Alyeska, regulators, and Valdez residents -State approves new, improved contingency plan for oil terminal -Efficiency and safety of Alyeska system lie in Strategic Reconfiguration -As a new governor and legislature take reins, council keeps eye on Juneau; legislative committee monitors measures revising contingency planning cycle, overhauling Coastal Management Program -Vancouver oil spill conference draws worldwide audience -Goodbye, Dennis! -Reports Available -Art for the Sound’s Sake -It’s the time of year for the council’s outreach efforts to spring to life Topics: ice detection radar; board changes; new volunteers (Roger Green); recertification; air quality; BETX; c-plan; government and legislative affairs; outreach
March 2003 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Iceberg-detecting radar system starts up on Reef Island -Prestige spill demonstrates dangers of unpreparedness -Former Coast Guard officer takes council seat as representative of City of Valdez -Terminal Operations committee took early lead on key issue of vapor control -Council hails departing SeaRiver mariner for his work during the 1989 Exxon Valdez spill -Dispersant tests at Ohmsett facility fail to tackle the important questions -Not just a slogan: Transforming our commitment to a safe work environment -Exxon shipping arm orders double-hull design -Work of Valdez Coasties honored by foundation -Bill would accelerate double-hull phase-in -Testing oil-spill dispersants -Scenes from a spill response -Your artwork could help the council illustrate safe crude transportation Topics: iceberg detection; incident; SERVS; board changes; TOEM; vapor control system; air quality; dispersants; tanker fleet; double-hull tankers; pipeline safety panel; outreach; coloring book
December 2002 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Council looking for answers on oil dispersants -Drill tests response to giant “spill” at terminal -New members appointed to serve on the council board and legislative committee -POVTS member from Whittier has spend much of his life on Alaska waters -Kenai tanker incident is reminder of need to address response gap in Sound -How the Prince William Sound escort system resolves the “response gap” -New lease on life -Council supports Coast Guard fund-raising Topics: dispersants; drills and exercises; board changes; incidents; tanker escort system; Hinchinbrook Entrance; outreach; peer-listener training; volunteers needed
September 2002 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Council team finds flaws in proposals for TAPS renewal -New air quality rule would exempt Valdez terminal from pollution limits -Coast Guard simplifies recertification -SAC chief tries not to let career interfere with passion for public service -New project manager hired in Anchorage office -Pipeline regulators should heed the calls for citizen oversight -Alyeska maintains readiness during changes brought on by reorganization -Coast Guard recertifies the council, citing noteworthy accomplishments -Northern Dancer 2002 -Tethered tug exercises test system -Council reviewers find strengths and weaknesses in proposed new c-plans -Weather, sea data gathered with council help -Council members meet with Tatitlek community, discuss resource issues Topics: right of way agreement; air quality; emissions; recertification; incidents; TAPS; SERVS; drills and exercises; fishing vessels; tug escort system; tanker c-plan; outreach; peer-listener training; booth; new board members
May 2002 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Study: Previous research underestimated toxicity of North Slope oil in water by ignoring effects of sunlight -Alyeska to cut 300 jobs, will largely spare SERVS and terminal maintenance -BAT bill overturns ruling in Lakosh case -Seldovia volunteer juggles oil-spill work with rural basketball broadcasting -Staff changes reshuffle roster in council’s offices -Observer gets a colorful makeover -Oil shippers do the right thing on contingency planning outside the Sound -Ballast water system reaches quarter-century mark in successful operation -New president of citizens’ council seeks businesslike operation -New commander heads Alaska Coast Guard operations -Phillips christens another new double-hull vessel for use in Valdez trade -Publications, letters and reports are available from the citizen’s council -Election-year ComFish draws politicos Topics: photoenhanced toxicity; SERVS; best available technology; staff changes; c-plan; ballast water treatment facility (BWTF); NPDES permit; board changes; tanker fleet; outreach
March 2002 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Industry’s proposed rollback muddies the c-planning picture -Early results of ozone tests on ballast water look promising -Supreme Court tosses out the state’s requirements for oil-spill technology -Valdez eagle-lover has seen ups, downs of committee system -Stephens steps down from tour company job -Council’s application for recertification is filed -Ice radar -Legislators should back conference on best oil-spill technology -Three new board members join the council as two vets depart -By every measure, 2001 was an outstanding year for Alyeska -BP to expand its double-hull tanker fleet -Cordovans see Peer Listening Video Topics: c-plan; invasive species; ballast water; best available technology (BAT); recertification; board changes; ballast water treatment facility (BWTF); tanker fleet; peer-listener training; volunteer awards; display booth; outreach
December 2001 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Tower for new ice radar system goes up on Reef Island -Council seeks comprehensive environmental review in right-of-way renewal -Mild-mannered Seldovian in constant peril, professionally speaking -Promotions, new hires, fill out staff rosters in council offices -What are the council’s responsibilities during a time of terrorism? -September 11 attacks bring new era, many changes, to Alyeska -Board calls for vapor controls, approves budget at Cordova meet -Council web site to get new look, new features Topics: iceberg detection; right of way agreement; staff changes (Gregory Dixon); incidents; 9/11; vapor control system; outreach
September 2001 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -First OPA 90 double-hull enters Valdez service -Lab study casts doubt on effectiveness of chemical dispersants in Sound -Coast Guard again grants unconditional recertification to the citizens’ council -Transplant from Lower 48 says Cordova may have spoiled him for real world -Valdez meeting sees board tighten budget pending completion of Long Range Plan -Input needed on Geographic Response Strategies -Tatitlek’s John Allen is new council president -Windy Bay incident suggests a need for protection from non-crude spills -Summer sees council visit to Kenai Peninsula communities of Homer and Seward -People and equipment of SERVS team measure up during eventful summer -Long-time regulator Steve Provant is leaving DEC job but will be staying in Valdez -Chevron stages Geographic Response Strategies exercise in southwest Sound -After eight years, Leann Ferry says goodbye… -…and Linda Robinson says hello to liaison job -Council offices see staff changes over the summer Topics: tanker fleet; dispersants; recertification; LRP; board changes; GRS; incidents; tanker escort system; double-hull tankers; OPA 90; staff changes
May 2001 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -State OKs move of Hinchinbrook barge; Council and other stakeholders will develop mitigating measures -Research into chemical dispersants is a top priority for citizens’ council -Non-crude haulers are subject to new state planning rules -Volunteer juggles committee work with fishing, skiing and a small business -Yes, it’s true — Daphne Jenkins is leaving! -It’s time to equip downstream communities for self-defense against oil spills -Stan Stephens of Valdez returns to president’s chair of the citizens’ council -Valdez’ McDowell receives Gordon award -Michigan students to intern with council -Alyeska continues upgrades to key systems at Valdez tanker terminal -Coast Guard to release report on safety of terminal -Double-hull plans for Alaska fleet continue to grow -Council staff and volunteers attend 2001 International Oil Spill Conference -Council project trains Peer Listeners Topics: spill response barge; dispersants; c-plan; staff changes; ComFish; board changes (Jane Eisemann); Hinchinbrook Entrance Response Options Task Force (HERO); VMT fire protection; SERVS; tanker escort system; vapor control system; tanker fleet; double-hull tankers; peer-listener training; outreach
February 2001 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Hinchinbrook barge move raises concerns about response times -Plan would streamline recertification process -Legislature takes up contingency plan rules for non-crude haulers -George Skladal attended first TOEM meet and plans to make last one also -Stephens appointed to navigation panel -Board approves peer-listening video; seats Pete Kompkoff as Tatitlek’s representative -Annual Report -Council watches the political process, too, not just agencies and industry -Council to monitor right-of-way renewal process for Alyeska terminal in Valdez -Disaster guide dispatched to help with effects of oil spill in Galapagos Islands -The Ship Escort and Response Vessel System practices risk management -Alyeska returns Berth Four to operation, faces fine over October sparking incident -For Alaskans, simulators are rapidly becoming the wave of the present -Publications, presentations and reports are available from council offices Topics: spill response; c-plan; recertification; federal register; peer-listening training; board changes; government affairs; legislature; best available technology (BAT); right of way agreement; SERVS; tanker escort system; vapor control system; incidents; virtual spill simulation; DOTMOD; AVTEC; Hinchinbrook Entrance
December 2000 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Problems at the Valdez tanker terminal draw scrutiny -BP will try new tactic to kill harmful ocean hitchhikers in tanker ballast -Arbitrators ban the use of Alyeska funds for council review of pipeline c-plans -It’s all a matter of attitude, says long-time POVTS volunteer Tex Edwards -Council calls for citizen review of contingency plans for cruise ships and other non-crude oil haulers -New state legislative affairs committee picked -Sometimes, what is legal may not be what is right for environment’s health -Sites picked for Geographic Response Strategies -Kompkoff is tapped for village seat on the council -Telling the story of TAPS: the Trans-Alaska Pipeline System and its people -Second oil giant unveils plans for new double-hull tankers for use in Valdez trade -Publications, presentations and reports are available from council offices -Council visits citizens and member organizations in Cordova, Whittier Topics: incidents; vapor control equipment; ballast water; invasive species; c-plan; legislative affairs; GRS; board changes; double-hull tankers; outreach
September 2000 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -New double-hull tankers to serve in the Valdez trade -Chenega Bay Remembers Its Loss; Village mourns tragic past, celebrates present -Work of the council and its volunteers is recognized in awards -Science committee member finds oil-spill lessons apply far from Sound -New staff members sign on with council offices in Anchorage and Valdez -With your help, a new planning process will improve oil-spill protection -Council commissions study of dispersants -New management team of Wight and Hisey takes rein at Alyeska Pipeline -Alyeska fills top positions at terminal and SERVS in Valdez -Tatitlek sees Sound’s first test of Geographic Response Strategies -Seward briefed on coping with disasters Topics: double-hull tankers; 1964 earthquake; tsunamis; technological disasters guidebook; Legacy Award; staff changes; GRS; dispersants; Corexit
May 2000 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Two-year study confirms tanker ballast water is one way that non-native sea species are transported to Alaska -Coast Guard recertifies council, says it is open to making process simpler -Study finds lingering Exxon Valdez oil more problematic than once thought -Committee chairman is too busy with volunteer work to have time for TV -Multi-year ice detection project is under consideration for the Sound -Multi-year ice detection project is under consideration for the Sound -What’s new on the council’s Internet site -Two new representatives take board seats -June exercise will focus on Geographic Response Strategies in the Sound -Bridgman and Kotlarov say goodbye to Valdez office of the citizens’ council -After ten years, the time has come for fresh look at recertification process -Bright yellow Alert boat joins SERVS fleet, promptly exceeds expectations -Environmental commitments preserved as federal agency clears BP-ARCO deal -New tanker contingency plans, development process, are improvements -On technical issues, council consults experts for advice -Slye brings background of fire-safety work with NASA, Mobil -Semenza is emergency services chief at California refinery -Publications, presentations and reports are available from council offices -Environmental educators pull together at workshop in Kachemak Bay lab Topics: ballast water; invasive species; recertification; Jerry Brookman; iceberg detection; web page; board changes; GRS; staff change; polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs); LTEMP; SERVS; prevention response tug; c-plan; tanker vapor control system; education
March 2000 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Council visit to French spill shows readiness still crucial -Council and partners move ahead with research project into iceberg safety -Tanker spill plans get green light with grass-roots support of regional coalition -Fairbanksan Janice Wiegers is a long-distance member of committee -Tanker companies criticize council in recertification -Board’s Lindow is appointed to serve on national panel on non-indigenous species -Study of sunlight’s effects on spilled oil raises new questions about dispersant use -Volunteers recognized -French tanker accident provides a refresher course in oil-spill lessons -Alyeska goal: Ensure effective operation of terminal’s fire response system -High court rules against Washington in tanker case -Federal agency puts brakes on BP-ARCO deal -Out and About– Council pays visits to Juneau and fish show in Seattle -Publications, presentations and reports available -New oil-spill plan in development for terminal -French citizens’ group formed after Amoco Cadiz spill is now focusing on prevention -Seldovia sees disaster guidebook Topics: incidents; c-plan; radar system; recertification; invasive species; hydrocarbon toxicity; dispersants; VMT fire response system; tanker regulation; outreach; prevention
December 1999 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Citizens’ council is celebrating 10th birthday -State approves latest contingency plans for Valdez oil tanker fleet -Council files brief in suit over tanker rules -Committee member didn’t know what “busy” was until he quit working -Board settles definition of Alaska resident -Latest recertification application is filed -People notes -State puts contingency plan for Valdez tanker terminal up for comment -Need for citizen vigilance against complacency is still as great as ever -Out of the Exxon tragedy emerged world’s best oil transportation system -Allegations of unsafe conditions continue at Alyeska’s terminal in Valdez -Council repeats call for vapor controls on third tanker berth -Alaskans could learn lesson in cooperation from Prince William Sound -Knowles deal includes some protections council sought, and omits others; But none are legally enforceable, according to the terms of governor’s agreement with BP -Publications, presentations and reports are available to public from council office -Citizens’ council pays visit to Whittier Topics: anniversary; tanker fleet; c-plan; recertification; fire-suppression system; vapor-control system; double-hull tankers; BP ARCO; history of the council (timeline); outreach
October 1999 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Council writes governor on BP-ARCO deal -Alyeska system is safe despite claims of whistleblowers, say investigators -Long-time council worker has found her paradise in Cordova -Walker is new president -What is the proper place for chemical dispersants in oil-spill response? (Guest Opinion: Part Two) -Dispersant use requires caution, as well as much more scientific research (Council Response) -New faces arrive, familiar one leaves Valdez office -Changing things for the better depends upon leadership by each one of us -Citizens’ council calls on Congress to uphold double-hull tanker requirements -ARCO’s summer drill tries our important community link for the first time -Devens will spend more time in the Valdez office -Guidebook to help communities cope with oil spills, other man-made disasters -Council’s Anchorage office moves to Spenard -Publications, presentations and reports are available to public from council office -Valdez fire symposium is set for October -Citizens’ council visits Chenega Bay Topics: vapor recovery system; board changes; double-hull tanker; dispersants; staff changes (Donna); Multi-Agency Coordinating Committee; technological disasters resource; office move; marine firefighting; OPA 90; outreach
May 1999 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Alyeska vapor control system is under review -Project tests radar for spotting icebergs -Milk cows drove committee volunteer off farm and to Alaska -ARCO summer drill will continue a scenario of September 1998 BP exercise in Sound -Citizens’ council gears up for second symposium in Valdez for firefighters -What is the proper place for chemical dispersants in oil-spill response? (Guest Opinion: Part One) -Symposiums in Valdez, Anchorage, mark anniversary of Exxon Valdez spill -Alyeska, council, agree to new funding pact for operations through the year 2001 -Coming back to Alaska is a welcome change for Alyeska VP -Agency, Oilwatch disagree on post-spill improvements -Is it time to form an International Citizens’ Advisory Council? -Busy spring sees the citizens’ council all over the map Topics: vapor control system; Busby Island radar station; nearshore response; marine firefighting; dispersants; history; Alyeska contract
March 1999 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Is the Sound safer a decade after Exxon Valdez? Report analyzes prevention and response improvements since ‘89 -Council opposes industry request to extend the life of single-hull tankers -Coast Guard HQ recertifies council; Rejects complaints by industry, Alaska Coast Guard -Kodiak volunteer does his committee work far from the Sound -Board seats new, returning directors at abbreviated annual meet in Valdez -New legislative affairs committee selected for the 1999 session -A Valdez mayor looks back on the event that changed Alaska -Alyeska commitment is to safe movement of North Slope oil -Ten years spent combating complacency have produced results (President’s Report) -Publications and reports are available from council office -Education events mark the 10th anniversary of the spill Topics: Exxon Valdez; double hull tankers; recertification; board changes (Patience Andersen-Faulkner); tanker escort system; Then and Now; SERVS; education; council web page; history
December 1998 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -BP’s oil spill drill tests readiness to respond quickly; But issues of dispersants, Unified Command left unresolved -Citizens’ council grapples with criticism on recertification -Council volunteer Linda Lee of Valdez wears two hats -Central Asian group visits Valdez, tours Coast Guard, Alyeska tanker terminal -Alyeska is negotiating to replace its tanker escort vessels -Red hot repellant for alien invaders? -Top-notch training keeps Alyeska crews always on edge -Committee changes -Voice of the citizens must be heard during oil-spill response -Board OKs committee mission statements, seats at council table -Ten years later, symposiums will mark the Valdez oil spill of March 1989 -Publications, reports are available from council office -ARCO orders third double-hull tanker -Winter board meeting is in Anchorage (-Ad for 1999 Volunteer Recruitment) -Citizens’ council works to improve communication with communities Topics: emergency response; recertification; dispersants; SERVS; tug escorts; invasive species; Fishing Vessel (F/V) program; outreach
September 1998 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Stronger tugs reach Prince William Sound -BP will conduct “Spill of National Significance” drill; Scenario: Tanker aground at Hinchinbrook Entrance -Vapor system passes safety check, but suffers valve problem -Peter Armato: Committee volunteer from Seward combines passions for Alaska, science and berry pie -Board to consider name change -Council’s application for recertification is up for review -Council report is more than annual this year -New ferry might become future spill-response headquarters -Alyeska responds to spills of another kind in Prince William Sound -Oil spills fewer, smaller in 1997 -Does oil-spill solution lie on cutting-room floor? -Protector tugs bring added security to Prince William Sound -Cordova institute joins council as ex-officio member -Council committees see some changes -Citizen oversight now an accepted fact of life -Double hulls, bottoms help avert spills -No return to Sound for the Exxon Valdez -Publications, reports are available from council office -Citizens’ council keeps communities informed during oil spills Topics: tractor tugs; drills and exercises; vapor control system; board shifts; recertification; Year in Review; human hair for oil spill cleanup; SERVS; OSRI; double hulled tankers; OPA 90
June 1998 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Council to investigate vapor control safety allegations -Citizens’ council is at work outside Prince William Sound, too -Chenega Bay’s Evanoffs: Working together for the citizens’ council -Comings and goings -Council remains cautious on dispersants for spills in Sound, Gulf -Legislative session: It wasn’t as bad as it might have been -Citizens’ council produces anniversary display for Seward and Anchorage -Risk assessment review finds pros, cons -Council helps Kodiak with spill plan -Citizens’ council reviews pipeline plan -Alyeska’s tanker vapor control in full operation -Stan Stephens to head Citizens’ Advisory Council -Council rejects move proposal -Spill gear listed online -Citizen oversight more critical than ever as bottom lines tighten -Alyeska, regulators, will wait and see on third-berth vapor controls -Tankers bring alien species, but invasion risk needs more study -Publications, reports available Topics: vapor control system; community outreach; committee changes; dispersants; HB 51; HB 264; SB 299; EVOS; c-plan; board change; containment boom; move proposal; president’s report; invasive species; plankton; ballast exchange
June 1997 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -New tugs in the works for Sound -Caged mussels deployed in pilot test -RCAC monitored sheen at terminal -Study ranks Duck Flats at highest ecological risk -Alyeska to investigate new monitoring system -Workshop: Non-native aquatic species already here but many questions remain -On other fronts… -Company president unveils reorganization -Risk management efforts underway -Analysis of response equipment completed -Fire symposium targets training in marine fire -Model developed for community response team -Board welcomes new & returning members -Edwards leads board for second year -Eight newcomers join RCAC committees -Volunteer profile: Tom McAlister -Devens takes helm at RCAC April 15 -Roast and Toast -RCAC up for recertification -‘96 Year in Review Available -Heads up: Change ahead -RCAC speaks out on bills Topics: tractor tugs; Ballast Water Treatment Facility (BWTF); effluent; hydrocarbons; sheen incident; best available technology (BAT); invasive species; Alyeska (APSC) reorganization; marine firefighting; strike teams; staff change; HB 51; HB 128; HB 28; SB 41; HB 58
January 1997 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Risk assessment pinpoints ways to make oil transportation safer -Shippers announce plans, changes -Volunteer profile: Dick Tremaine -Hyce takes new slot as Valdez Deputy Director -Valdez, Soldotna residents appointed to RCAC committees -Measures suggested to improve fire response -Chevron praised for tabletop drill exercise -Fate of oil spill barge in Seldovia unknown -Sticky state standard almost pinned down -Update: Appeals on tanker contingency plans drag on -SERVS, RCAC talking about concerns -Air permit enforcement questioned -Risk Assessment: So what’s the big deal? -Valdez oil spill symposium gets good reviews -RCAC picks up ball on non-indigenous species -Prince William Sound provisions dropped from act -RCAC board meetings set -Consultants selected -Publications, reports available Topics: tug escort systems; risk assessment; tanker fleet; staff changes; marine firefighting; nearshore response; best available technology (BAT); c-plan; air quality; invasive species; aquatic nuisance; ballast water treatment facility (BWTF); dispersants; in-situ burning
August 1996 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Study delves into mysteries of Columbia Glacier behavior -Volunteer Profile: Bob Benda -Coast Guard gets new command -Staff changes -Agreement reached on Kitoi hatchery protection -RCAC points out problems in nearshore response -State, industry agree on navigation improvements -Weather data available 24 hours -RCAC passes muster -Joint study looks at ecological risks in Port Valdez -EPA issues draft of new discharge permit -Fire report due soon -Farewell and thanks -Publications, reports available Topics: iceberg monitoring project; hatchery protection plan; c-plan; SERVS; simulator software; weather stations; buoys; recertification; risk assessment; Duck Flats; ballast water treatment facility (BWTF); NPDES; marine fire emergency response capabilities
June 1996 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Oil exports ok includes steps to keep nuisance species out of Sound -Volunteer Profile: Gordon Scott -RCAC board approves internal changes -Radio series to rebroadcast -Tanker’s off-track transit generates recommendations to prevent recurrence -SERVS applies lessons learned from Kenai -A compelling commitment to safety -RCAC to resume monitoring of tanker ballast -Congress considers frontal assault on aquatic nuisances -Comments due on spill plan for terminal -State backs off from nearshore response -Tort reform fate uncertain -Board approves budget, work plan -Projects underway; contracts issued Topics: invasive species; ballast water exchange; project management; committee roles; staff roles; mental health; Valdez Narrows; vessel traffic; tanker escort; ballast water treatment facility (BWTF); VMT c-plan; HB 158; SB 199; punitive damages; response equipment; LTEMP; community outreach
April 1996 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Tanker escorts catch attention -RCAC lauds Governor’s interest in tanker escorts -Volunteer Profile: Meet Vince Kelly -Heddell represents Whittier on RCAC -Committee members appointed -Tex Edwards takes helm of RCAC Board -In brief: Board action -Staff, committee changes -Regulators ok Alyeska pipe replacement plan -RCAC takes issue with pipe replacement plan -Tort reform, self-audits, budget bills to watch -Terminal and SERVS report on activities -Contamination source ID’d -ERVs crews cited for fishing boat rescue -Mental health pilot programs well received -Study of oil transportation risks in Sound on track -Coast Guard issues verdict on Kenai close transit -Keystone execs outline response to problems -Update: Appeals process continues on tanker plans -Recertification coming up -‘95 Year in Review available now -Publications, reports available Topics: best available technology (BAT); escort tugs; board; committees; approved action items; carbon steel piping; VMT; vapor recovery system; legislative monitoring; hydrocarbon; peer listening training; talking circle; water quality; risk assessment; human factors; c-plan
December 1995 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Interim escorts still in question -RCAC meets with Governor Knowles -Volunteer Profile: James Steward -Staff, committee changes -JPO to Alyeska: ‘Speed up pipe replacement’ -Lab tests inconclusive -Tanker contingency plans still under appeal -Terminal spill plan heads toward public review -Questions abound on dispersant use -RCAC kicks in more for tanker risk assessment -Prospect of oil exports generates questions -Fire prevention task force reactivated -Mental health pilot project starting up -Ecosystem database available on CD -Fishing vessel training puts fishers in new role -Employee Concerns Program opens doors -Short takes (Terminal firefights beat competition; Safety milestone; Scholarships funded for Alaska Native students) -‘96 Board meetings scheduled -RCAC, Alyeska agree on funding -Publications, reports available Topics: escort tugs; vapor leaks; VMT; carbon piping; vapor recovery system; sediment samples; c-plan; dispersants; preparedness and response; technological disasters; peer listener program; communication and education; geographic information system (GIS); SERVS; Fishing Vessels (F/V); contract with Alyeska
September 1995 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -ADEC to shippers: Beef up tanker escorts through Valdez Narrows -Volunteer Profile: Kendrick finds work therapeutic -Report on TAPS tankers available -Ferry takes new position -EPA issues final rule on vapor controls at terminal -Questions about pollution in Port Valdez examined from new angle -ADEC approves tanker oil spill plans with conditions; Cordova and Kodiak appeal for additional changes -Verdict still out on presence of spilled oil deep in Sound -Coast Guard gives Alyeska public service award -Alyeska to meet EPA vapor control deadline -OM&S, Marine teams merge at terminal -SeaRiver to test elements of oil spill response plan -Coast Guard recertifies RCAC another year Topics: c-plan; escort vessels; spill prevention; staff change; Clean Air Act; air quality; ecological risk assessment; BWTF; Copper River Delta and Flats; sediment samples; SERVS; drills and exercises; recertification
June 1995 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Joint study tackling risk factors associated with tankers in Prince William Sound -RCAC gives mixed review on spill plans -RCAC appoints new officers -Legislature honors Stephens -Board welcomes newcomers -Volunteer profile: Floyd Heimbuch, chairman extraordinaire -New weather monitoring equipment installed in Sound -Spill prevention scores big one with new vessel traffic system -Computer simulations testing assist capabilities -Is the best good enough? Citizens comment on plans -Legislative wrap: Not the best of times, nor the worst -Work group looks at consolidating Valdez operations -McHale tackling audit items -Annual wildlife conference held -Did Exxon Valdez oil sink? -Joint study proposed to look at pollution sources in Port Valdez -RCAC and Alyeska agree to ‘no surprises’ protocol -Comments due on RCAC certification -Publications, reports available Topics: risk assessment; best available technology; tanker escorts; c-plan; weather buoy; ADSS; Copper River Flats; sediment and mussel sampling; communications protocol
February 1995 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Harm from ballast water not evident; monitoring still needed, experts say -Tanker escorts will change, but to what? -Thoughts, reflections of the out-going board president -Volunteer Profile: Vince Mitchell, POVTS Committee -Aberration or pattern? Coast Guard checking cracks -Coast Guard, Cmdr. Jones lauded for work on escorts -Office and staff stay put -RCAC gives go-ahead to mental health impacts project -Tanker contingency plans open to public comment -Oil pollution research projects recommended for funding -Kinnetic awarded environmental monitoring contract -Alyeska begins using corrosion inhibitor in pipeline -Richardson Alyeska’s first vice president for SERVS -New SERVS base completed -RCAC up for recertification -Staff news: Sweeney promoted -Publications, reports available Topics: environmental monitoring; BWTF; escort tug; tanker; structural failure; impacts of technological disasters; c-plan; mussel sampling; corrosion prevention; toxicity
October 1994 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -New federal rule yields escort changes -Towing study key to changes -Volunteer Profile: Dr. A.J. Paul -New directors seated -Leland takes up deputy duties -Project seeks to target mental health -Mussels monitored after oil spill -Planning begins for new weather stations in Sound -Changes increase margin of safety in tanker transits -‘Human factors’ issues identified -Why tractor tugs? -RCAC recommends slew of safety improvements -Coast Guard finalizes rule for tanker escorts in Sound -Arco conducts first drill of nearshore response -In-situ burning experiment conducted at Prudhoe Bay -State officials buried in new oil spill contingency plans -Ballast water monitoring program underway at terminal -Specifics of vapor control system due out in spring -Alyeska implements improvements following oil spill -RCAC advised to improve relations with industry -Publications, reports available Topics: closure limits; disabled tanker towing study; mussel samples; polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs); buoys; tug escorts; conventional and tractor tugs; transit speeds; drills and exercises; c-plan; effluent discharge; toxicity testing; BWTF; vapor emissions; Eastern Lion spill
July 1994 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Will the real owner of the Eastern Lion please stand up -Skipper fired; answers not satisfactory -State, Coast Guard considering spill penalties -Alyeska’s SERVS: Lessons learned from the Eastern Lion -Alyeska responses to comments, outlines follow up -RCAC recommends more aggressive spill response -RCAC in a spill: Observe, verify, inform, advise -Publications, reports available Topics: incidents; Eastern Lion spill; spill response
May 1994 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -RCAC asks Alyeska to continue role as contingency plan holder for Sound -Passage of “470” fund legislation puts state prevention programs at risk -Why we do it: A volunteer’s perspective of RCAC -Charter member Tim Robertson cuts ties -Gary Kompkoff named to board -Volunteer profile: Jim Levine -Speakers call for high worldwide standards on tankers -Weather stations added to house authorization bill -Human factors study on hold -Coast Guard proceeding with rule on vessel escorts in Sound -Nearshore strike team demonstration in Seldovia -Nearshore response drill and exercises planned -Oil spill response plans undergoing public review -Decision on vapor control system expected in June -Tracer study dropped -Study proposed at ballast water treatment plant -Use of corrosion inhibitors questioned -Alyeska begins redesign of organization structure -Shippers negotiate with state over barge fines -Sampling changed in monitoring -State, Coast Guard sign MOA -Stan Stephens re-elected RCAC board president -Committee members appointed -Code of conduct approved -Publications, reports available -Recertification application available for public review -Groups join to fill environmental seat Topics: Tanker C-Plan; SB 215; oil spill prevention fund; weather buoy; POVTS; CIRCAC; human error; drills and exercises; nearshore response; hydrocarbon; emissions; BWTF; polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs); effluent toxicity; biocides; TOEM; LTEMP; marine safety and environmental protection; OSREC
February 1994 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Pending legislation threatens spill prevention, oversight and response -‘Ice Scouts’ instituted after Overseas Ohio incident -Volunteer profile: Tom Copeland -RCAC seats two directors -Committee recruitment process revamped -Staff addition -Replacement barge eases concern over oil spill readiness -RCAC, Alyeska seek ways to head off conflicts -Roadmap completed for reviewing contingency plans -Project would focus on human impacts of oil spills -Conference scheduled on spill response in dynamic broken ice -Tracer study on hold; Alyeska evaluates vapor recovery systems -EPA expected to approve disposal of oily waste -New discharge permit application under review -Deck officers identify safety improvements in navigation aids -Plans underway to study human factors in accidents -Merger of spill prevention and response teams makes sense for Port Valdez and Prince William Sound -Surprise drill called in Sound -RCAC praises McHale -RCAC recertification application to be available for public review -Conference to mark five-year anniversary of Exxon Valdez -Publications, reports available -Stalemate over selection of environmental group Topics: HB 238; SB 215; 470 Fund; SERVS; tanker escort; volunteer recruitment; C-Plan; air quality; hydrocarbon emissions; benzene; NPDES; Ballast Water Treatment Facility (BWTF); TOEM; POVTS; OSPR
October 1993 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Jury still out on towing capabilities -RCAC, Alyeska plan joint air tracer study -GAO criticizes RCAC for lack of partnership -Funding ok’d for BWT monitoring -RCAC, ADEC formalize working relationship -Incident card sent to fishers -Volunteer profile: Bill Conley, ‘POVTS’ -“Then & Now” reviews changes since ‘89 spill -From the President: Meetings must be open -Stan Stanley promoted to RCAC executive director -Brakes applied to socioeconomic mitigation project -Update: Work in progress (Air quality in Valdez, Ballast water treatment, contingency planning, disabled tanker towing study, fire prevention task force, long term environmental monitoring project (LTEMP), occupational exposure, safety of navigation survey, weather reporting upgrades) -Industry, government form PWS association -Tank inspections & repair finished for ‘93 -Finding the Common Ground, A message from David Pritchard, President & CEO, Alyeska Pipeline Service Company -Alyeska responds to Congressional heat -Spills and incidents -Alyeska posts ‘92 safety record -Berth drill tests fire equipment -BP tries new approach in three-phase spill drill -RCAC publications and reports available -Staff changes, additions… -Kenai Peninsula Borough names Blake Johnson to fill board seat -Environmental seat undecided Topics: disabled tanker towing; emissions; benzene; air quality; CIRCAC; ballast water treatment facility; BWTF; Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation; TOEM; OSPR; history; staff; firefighting; drills and exercises
July 1993 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -State backsliding on gains made since ’89 -Stringent air quality regs difficult under new law -Update: RCAC projects in progress (Disabled tanker towing study, Safety of navigation survey, Socioeconomic impact mitigation, Weather reporting upgrades, Nearshore strike team demonstration project, Ballast water treatment, Air quality in Valdez, Occupational Exposure) -Council approves policy on dispersants use -Shippers seek exemption in Gulf of Alaska requirements -Environmental sampling underway in Sound, Gulf of Alaska -Stephens heads RCAC -RCAC, Alyeska reach agreement on funding -Headquarters office to move -NWF pulls out of RCAC -Staff notes -Publications and reports -RCAC recertified -Tesoro, Alyeska perform well in big spill drill -Alyeska: What’s new at Alyeska by Gary Bader -VEOC contract out to bid soon -Industry looking at best response -USCG takes more comment on escort rules, RCAC says wait for study findings -Alyeska requests research assistance -Response capability, storage capacity emphasized in comments to feds Topics: HB 238, SB 215, 470 Fund, regulations, HB 167, community impacts planning, worker safety, LTEMP, National Wildlife Federation, Valdez Emergency Operations Center, Tanker escorts, dual escorts, tanker plan, drill monitoring,
January 1993 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Observers in Shetlands surprised by spill differences -OSPR tackles response gaps -Changes suggested to ballast water treatment monitoring and sampling -EPA echoes questions about Valdez Air Health Study -Alyeska compares air in Seward and Valdez by Dick Mikkelsen -October drill presents opportunity for lessons -RCAC role needs clarifying -Tug “rescue” of ‘Kenai’ incident disputed -Residents tapped for ideas to mitigate spill impacts -Environmental monitoring project to start -RCAC role in drills, spills defined -RCAC Board loses four directors -Directors appointed -Major conferences last week of March -People notes -Long range plan, revised mission statement adopted -Funding negotiations continue Topics: Braer, Gullfaks crude, Scotland, downstream communities, nearshore response, BWT BWTF, Valdez Air Health Study, air quality, drill monitoring, marine firefighting, solomon gulch hatchery, duck flats, Allison Creek, internal response plan, IRP, emergency response plan, community impacts planning, LTEMP, project origin, LRP
September 1992 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Independent review of air study disputes Alyeska findings -Comments submitted on vessel escort rules -Making the RCAC ‘democracy’ work By Sheila K. Gottehrer -Community impact mitigation study off the ground -Hatchery protection a model for mitigation strategies -Flatfish study model for cooperative changes -New directors seated on RCAC Board -Seats added for Chenega, Tatitlek -Ballast water treatment studies completed -Nearshore response plan looks good, but some gaps -Observer monitoring spill drills -Alyeska: The PWS Nearshore Oil Spill Response Plan – New and Notable by Gary Bader -SERVS’ first dispersant drop drill goes well -Industry groups back-pedal on vessel c-plan agreement -PWS “users” to be surveyed Topics: Air quality, contingency plans, cplans, c-plans, double escorts, dual escorts, tanker escort system, community impacts planning, guidebook, project origin, BWTF, downstream communities, Oil Spill Response Plan Negotiated Rulemaking Committee, Reg Neg,
July 1992 Observer Newsletter	This issue of “The Observer” is devoted to the proposed rule on vessel plan requirements. Story titles: -Proposed regs to implement stricter laws of federal Oil Pollution Act of 1990 -Coast Guard gets kudos for regulations -RCAC suggests changes to proposed rule -Implications for non-crude carriers in PWS a concern -Response requirement caps set too low -Consensus process used to help write rule -Special attention given to Prince William Sound Topics: OPA90, OPA 90, regulations, Oil Spill Response Plan Negotiated Rulemaking Committee, nearshore response, incident command system, oil spill removal organization, osro, Negotiated Rulemaking Act of 1990, Oil Spill Response Plan Negotiated Rulemaking Committee
April 1992 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Two seats added to council; directors appointed -Sterling elected president -Negotiators struggle to define ”maximum extent practicable” on federal vessel regulations -Chevron tries new approaches in spill drill -Alyeska toxicity testing of ballast water treatment gets high marks from independent reviewer -WFA honors Hyce, Robertson -PWS tanker group to help fund study -Hydrocarbons report raises important questions -”Reaching out to the public” by Trisha Gartland -Meeting our mandate starts with the board of directors by Scott Sterling -Long range plan is a tough but necessary job by Sheila K. Gottehrer -Alyeska/RCAC – Two Years Later by Gary Bader -Nearshore demo project clears first legislative hurdle Topics: Reg Neg Committee, MEP, ballast water treatment facility, BWTF, Wildlife Federation of Alaska, disabled tanker towing study, air quality, Best Management Practices Plan, Long Range Planning Committee, SB 264, project origin,
January 1992 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -RCAC to co-sponsor tanker towing study -State spill & prevention regulations good -Citizen review or bureaucratic duplication? -Liability of response contractors big in ’92 -Alyeska earns “bravo” for hatchery plan -RCAC to participate in federal negotiations on vessel response plans -Coast Guard told to reconsider safety measures for single-hull tankers -Fish group reps review nearshore response plans -Budget as blueprint helps council, committees focus by Sheila K. Gottehrer -The Oil Reform Alliance: History, accomplishments and goals by Riki Ott -Alyeska: Steps in communication -Chevron involves RCAC in drill preparations -Alyeska airs concerns about RCAC -Education Committee to focus on outreach – Topics: disabled tanker towing study, modeling, HB 567, contingency plans, cplans, c-plans, tanker plan, hatcheries, Fishing vessel training, project origin, historical organization, Liaison Manager, HB 196,
September 1991 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -RCAC wages full-court press on spill prevention, response regs -Transfer of responsibility for c-plan raises questions -RCAC protests omission of Alaska by MSRC -OPA 90 draws Council attention -Ballast water treatment program underway -Air quality focus of TOEM work -”So who cares anymore?” by Christopher H Gates, President of RCAC -Port Ops Committee looks at tanker transit -Vessel traffic to be examined -Skimmer exercise instructive, observers say -Committee structure essential by Sheila Gottehrer -Model for socio-economic impacts to be developed -Study to examine feasibility of spill school and co-op -Simmering on the burner -Annotated bibliography in progress Topics: Historical organization, cplans, contingency plans, nearshore response workgroup, guidebook, fishing vessel training, project origin, transrec skimmers, vessel traffic system, vts, tanker transit risk study, complacency, BWT, BWTF, OPA90, Marine Spill Response Corporation, HB 567, prevention credits, response planning standards
February 1991 Observer Newsletter	Story titles: -Council celebrates first birthday –Members gather in Valdez at first annual meeting –What is the Regional Citizens’ Advisory Council – Interview with Jim Hermiller, president and CEO of Alyeska Pipeline Service Co – Elderspeak: Citizen Oversight by Walt Parker – Cook Inlet RCAC takes shape by Frank Mullen – Contingency Plan Steering Committee opens channels of communication – RCAC-Alyeska contract defines good citizenship by Scott Sterling – Why a newsletter? by Sheila Gottehrer – Updates from committees Topics: Historical organization, cplans, contingency plans, circac