The course outlined procedures and techniques to enable a safe and effective response to an oil spill in sub-freezing conditions.

The morning session consisted of classroom training, case studies, and an overview of the on-ice exercises. Topics included ice formation and integrity, types of ice, behavior of oil in cold environments, and response tactics. Instructors reviewed various tools such as ice augers, chainsaws, cutting sleds, and the various types of clothing and personal protective equipment required for cold weather response.

The afternoon on-ice exercises were conducted at McKinley Marina and consisted of four stations: ice rescue instruction provided by members of the USCG ice rescue team, ice slotting, ice trenching, and under ice diversion techniques provided by Canadian Pacific Railroad instructors. The stations involved hands-on application of the response and rescue techniques discussed during the morning session.

Participants in the training included members of the U.S. Coast Guard, Environmental Protection Agency, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association, Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, Grafton Fire Department, Canadian National Railroad, Canadian Pacific Railroad, GHD, HEPACO, Environmental Management Specialists, and Environmental Works among others. 

For further information, contact Michael.E.Doig@noaa.gov.

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