🔍 Key Concepts

• Federal oil spill reporting requirements under the Clean Water Act and related laws • The role of the National Response Center (NRC) as the primary federal contact point • Difference between agencies that regulate pollution and the single point that receives initial spill reports

💭 Think About

• Ask yourself: In an emergency spill situation, is there one central federal number you always call first, or do you separately call multiple agencies? • Which agency or center is specifically set up to receive all reports of oil and hazardous substance spills in U.S. waters? • Consider how the Coast Guard and other agencies coordinate—who actually takes the initial report, and who might get involved later?

✅ Before You Answer

• Identify which option represents the 24-hour federal reporting center for spills and releases. • Verify which agency is explicitly named in standard oil spill reporting posters/placards required on many vessels and facilities. • Distinguish between agencies that participate in response or regulation and the one that is the designated national contact point for reporting.