Oil transportation data and studies

Every year, 20 billion gallons of oil moves through Washington by vessel, rail, and pipeline, posing significant risk of environmental damage. The risks associated with all modes of oil transportation and handling require a robust state program of prevention, preparedness, and response in order to protect our communities, environment, and economy.


Rail, vessels, and pipelines transport approximately 20 billion gallons of oil through Washington each year.

Washington cares about oil transportation safety

We have reached significant milestones since the 2005 Legislature directed us to set a zero-spills goal. Washington has one of the lowest spill rates in the nation, according to U.S. Coast Guard data.

Since 2015, the Legislature passed the Oil Transportation Safety Act and other legislation to help protect Washington from the risks associated with transporting oil.

Learn more about oil transportation in Washington