Department of Ecology News Release - January 25, 2016

Ecology sharing draft rules for transporting oil through Washington

Public workshops scheduled in Olympia, Spokane and Auburn

OLYMPIA  –  Washingtonians interested in shaping laws that enhance the safety of transporting oil through the state are invited to share input at several upcoming workshops hosted by the Washington Department of Ecology.Ecology is beginning the process to draft and update three rules related to oil transportation by rail and pipeline. The first rule creates a new law for notice requirements for facilities receiving crude oil by rail and pipelines. The second rule describes contingency planning requirements for railroads that transport oil (crude or refined) in bulk. And the third rule updates a current law for oil-spill contingency planning standards for pipelines.
The workshops provide an opportunity for the regulated community, interested members of the public, state, local and tribal governments to learn about the draft rules and provide input on the language.

Oil Movement by Rail and Pipeline Notification (new rule)

Tuesday, Jan. 26, 2016
1:30 to 4:30 p.m.
Webinar/Ecology Headquarters
300 Desmond Drive, Lacey

Wednesday, Jan. 27, 2016
1:30 to 4:30 p.m.
Ecology Eastern Region Office
4601 North Monroe Street, Spokane

Oil Spill Contingency Plan – Railroad (new rule)

Wednesday, Jan. 27, 2016
8:30 to 11:30 a.m.
Ecology Eastern Region Office
601 North Monroe Street, Spokane

Monday, Feb. 1
1:30 to 4:30 p.m.
Webinar/Ecology Headquarters
300 Desmond Drive, Lacey

Oil Spill Contingency Plan Standards for Pipelines (rule update)

Thursday, Feb. 4, 2016
1-4 p.m.
Webinar/Green River Community College – SA Building, River Room
12401SE 320th Street, Auburn

Preliminary draft rule language, workshop details and agenda, and other information is available online:

Contact information

Lisa Copeland
Communications manager
360-407-6990