COOK INLET
Regional Citizens Advisory Council

Representing citizens in promoting environmentally safe marine transportation and oil facility operations in Cook Inlet since 1990.
CIRCAC granted recertification
On August 28th, we were notified that the U.S. Coast Guard had approved CIRCAC’s application for recertification.

This triennial recertification required a public comment period, for which dozens of comments supporting CIRCAC were submitted from industry and regulatory partners, municipalities and a variety of regional interest groups. CIRCAC’s record for recertification from the USCG remains unblemished going into its 31st year of operations.

“There’s a lot of work we’re proud of going back now more than 30 years, but gaining that certification each year is one of the most important accomplishments,” said executive director Michael Munger. “Without certification by the Coast Guard, CIRCAC can’t continue doing its work on behalf of Cook Inlet’s citizens.”
Maintaining safe operations during COVID
While most of us have had to learn to adapt to a new, temporary, normal during the ongoing pandemic, oil spill responders have fortunately been able to carry on without major disruption.

In large part, this reflects the efficacy of prevention controls and systems already in place in Cook Inlet designed to avoid major incidents.

Council business also continues to be conducted remotely, including our August meeting. Find out more through the link below.

ADEC update

The Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation is still working through a regulatory review of the state’s oil spill prevention and response laws. The department announced the review in December of 2019, citing a perceived burden to industry.

ADEC Program Manager Graham Wood told us at the most recent council meeting in August that the timeline for completing the review has been pushed back, at least until the end of 2020.

CONNECT
8195 Kenai Spur Highway
Kenai Alaska 99611
Phone: 907-283-7222
Free: 800-652-7222
Fax: 907-283-6102