🔍 Key Concepts

• 33 CFR Part 153 – Control of pollution by oil and hazardous substances • The role of the federal on-scene coordinator in a marine pollution incident • Who has primary notification authority for spills in U.S. navigable waters

💭 Think About

• Think about which agency is legally designated to receive the initial report of oil discharges in U.S. waters. • Consider which option represents a 24/7 maritime emergency response authority specifically for navigable waterways. • Ask yourself: In practice, when there is an oil spill from a vessel in a harbor, which agency is normally called first by the master or officer in charge?

✅ Before You Answer

• Verify in 33 CFR who operates the National Response Center (NRC) for reporting oil spills. • Check which agency has immediate jurisdiction over navigation and safety in U.S. harbors and coastal waters. • Confirm which of the listed agencies is explicitly tied to initial spill reporting requirements from vessels.