Each year, millions of gallons of oil and hazardous chemicals spill into U.S. waters, often because of accidental releases from marine vessels and transportation pipelines. Sediments contaminated by upstream pollution continually leach toxic substances into the coastal environment, over 700 hazardous waste sites contaminate our coasts, and marine accidents spill about two million gallons of oil each year. These discharges and releases can alter habitat, kill or injure important fishes and birds, and reduce food supplies for aquatic life.
Ecological effects can persist for long periods of time and over geographic areas large and small.
The National Ocean Service fulfills the stewardship responsibilities assigned to the Secretary of Commerce for protecting and restoring coastal resources threatened by releases of oil and other hazardous materials. ORR's mission is to mitigate the negative environmental effects that may be associated with these hazardous events, and to pursue compensation to restore natural resources when they are harmed. NOAA trust resources are preserved for future generations because NOS prevents, mitigates, and restores harm caused by environmental threats to coastal and ocean ecosystems. The Office of Response and Restoration addresses the full range of responsibilities delegated to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration by the Department of Commerce for preventing and mitigating risks to coastal habitats and resources from oil and hazardous materials releases. The Office provides training, prepares and tests contingency plans, and conducts research to improve the Nation's capabilities to respond more effectively to spill events.