OLYMPIA — The state Department of Ecology has awarded a $250,000 contract for an analysis of the impacts of marine and rail oil transportation in the state.
Environmental Research Consulting of New York will report on possible safety measures that could be undertaken and identify gaps in the oil spill prevention, preparedness and response system.
Gov. Jay Inslee has requested initial findings and recommendations of the report, required by the state Legislature, by Oct. 1.
The final report is due March 1, 2015.
“It’s our job to provide the best information possible to inform the governor and the Legislature,” said Scott Ferguson, Ecology project manager.
“To do that, we’ll need everyone’s input and will be seeking community and citizen input each step of the way.”
The oil transportation report is expected to inform recommendations for public health, safety and environmental concerns; contain a statement of safety benefits vs. the cost of implementation; offer recommendations for funding programs; and provide a risk communication strategy, Ecology said in a news release issued Friday.
Ecology is working in consultation with the state Department of Transportation, Utilities and Transportation Commission; Washington Military Department’s Emergency Management Division; the Federal Railroad Administration; and tribal governments.
Ecology offers information about oil transportation in the state at www.ecy.wa.gov.