In 1990 when the JPO was formed, one of the first major assignments was to participate in the preparation of an improved TAPS Oil Spill Contingency Plan. Because of JPO participation, major changes resulted in increased amounts of equipment, staffing, facilities, and training. Oil spill response and preparedness was an important element added to the plans. Spill reconnaissance, exercises, and drills over the entire 800 miles of pipeline and at the Valdez Marine Terminal are now conducted. JPO staff participate in scheduled and unscheduled drills and exercises.
Staff also design and implement drills utilizing different spill scenarios.