🔍 Key Concepts

• Federal oil pollution reporting requirements under the Clean Water Act and 33 CFR Part 153 • Which federal agency is responsible for marine pollution response and maintaining the National Response Center (NRC) • Difference between local emergency services and federal maritime authorities

💭 Think About

• Ask yourself: Who has primary responsibility for responding to and coordinating cleanup of oil spills in navigable waters of the U.S.? • Which agency operates the National Response Center, where marine pollution incidents are reported 24/7? • Are local police or fire departments the ones who initiate federal spill response actions on the water, or do they usually just relay information to another authority?

✅ Before You Answer

• Verify which agency is named in 33 CFR as the primary contact for pollution incidents in U.S. waters • Consider which choice is a federal maritime law enforcement and safety agency rather than a local service or civil works agency • Confirm which entity is tied to the National Response Center (NRC) for immediate spill reporting