OR&R Prepares for Coastal Oiling through Shoreline Cleanup Assessment Training

APRIL 8, 2024 — When oil spills into the ocean and washes up on coastal shorelines, spill response teams survey the status of the affected shorelines using a systematic method known as Shoreline Cleanup Assessment Technique (SCAT). Assessment of these shorelines generates a large amount of data, which is used to map and characterize the extent of the shoreline oiling, prioritize cleanup,  and to document the effectiveness of response measures.

Students observing an uncrewed aircraft system taking flight as part of their training in Shoreline Cleanup Assessment Technique (SCAT). The training was hosted by U.S. Coast Guard Sector Charleston, South Carolina in March 2024. Image credit: USCG.
Students use uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) as part of their training in Shoreline Cleanup Assessment Technique (SCAT). The training was hosted by U.S. Coast Guard Sector Charleston, South Carolina in March 2024. Image credit: USCG.

Over the years, OR&R has worked with other agencies to develop guidance for SCAT surveys, publishing a manual, job aid, forms for recording observations, a data standard, and other specialized references. OR&R’s spill scientists and contractors also teach multiple SCAT classes around the country so that the technique is used consistently.

This year, OR&R has been particularly busy teaching SCAT, with classes recently held in Houma, Louisiana from February 27-29; Charleston, South Carolina from March 19-21; and Gloucester, Massachusetts from April 2-4.

“As we dive deeper into understanding the impacts of oil spills on our beaches and ecosystems, the importance of the NOAA SCAT Course becomes even more evident,” said the U.S. Coast Guard Sector Charleston. “With the rise in environmental challenges facing our coastal communities, this training is instrumental in building a strong foundation for response teams to tackle oil-impacted beaches effectively…The dedication and commitment of everyone involved in the SCAT Course was truly inspiring, and we are grateful for the opportunity to host it.”

SCAT classes are also scheduled in virtual/online format for the Pacific region on April 8-11 and in-person in: Corpus Christi, Texas on April 10-13; Chicoteague, Virginia on April 23-25; Carteret, New Jersey on May 7-9; and, Nashville, Tennessee on May 29-31.

If you are a spill responder interested in attending any of these trainings, please contact the scientific support coordinator (SSC) for your region.

Last updated Thursday, April 11, 2024 2:33pm PDT