Oil Spill Prevention – Hearings Open to the Public

February 24, 2004

CONTACT:

Ben Bryant, Marine Policy Specialist

The Coalition for Buzzards Bay

508-999-6363, ext. 214

NEW BEDFORD, MA—In response to the Bouchard-120 oil spill that occurred last year, the Buzzards Bay Oil Spill Commission, comprised of Senate and House members, representatives from the Attorney General’s Office and Governor’s appointees, is considering regulatory changes to reduce the chance of a future oil spill along our coastline. 

Mark Rasmussen, Executive Director of The Coalition for Buzzards Bay says that, “It is critical that new Oil Spill Prevention Legislation include:

1. Improvements to navigational safety such as establishment of a Vessel Traffic System;
   
2. Protection from aging, dangerous single-hulled barges through requirements for escort tugs and additional crew;
   
3. Expanded penalties and fines tied to the size and impact of an oil spill and;
   
4. Establishment of an Oil Spill Prevention and Response Fund.”

The Commission will hold public hearings at 7:00pm on March 2nd at the New Bedford Whaling Museum, at 6:30pm on March 4th at the Massachusetts Maritime Academy in Bourne, and on March 8th in Gloucester. 

“Everyone who cares about Buzzards Bay and our region’s coastal economy should attend these public hearings,” said Mark Rasmussen.   “Whether you are a fishermen, business owner, boater, parent or outdoor enthusiast, this oil spill has affected your life.  By attending the public hearings you can express your opinions, make your voice heard, and ensure that laws are passed to protect our region from another dangerous oil spill.”

The devastating Bouchard-120 oil spill on April 27, 2003 seriously impacted the economy and environment of Buzzards Bay.  This oil spill, the second largest in the Bay’s history, took the lives of more than 450 sea birds, fouled miles of beaches, and contaminated shellfish beds.  The clean up and restoration continues to this day. 

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The Coalition for Buzzards Bay is a private, non-profit membership organization dedicated to the protection, restoration, and sustainable use of Buzzards Bay and its watershed. The organization works to improve the health of the Bay ecosystem for all through education, conservation, research and advocacy and is supported by more than 4,700 members.