To the world's marine traffic system has been introduced a new and sometimes controversial element--Vessel Traffic Systems (VTS)--representing a necessary governmental attempt at more orderly management of marine traffic, to increase a no longer politically adequate overall level of safety. However, VTS overlaps some of the traditional interests and functions of pilots. Both are concerned with the safe and efficient movements of the ship. The pilots' self-respect--even their livelihood--is seen to be threatened. Under these circumstances, VTS cannot realize its full potential. But VTS is here to stay. To help overcome these very natural human problems here in the United States, any approach could include: (1) upgrading the senior VTS watchstander; (2) compulsary negotiation of vessel passage plans between pilots and VTS; (3) nationwide minimum federal qualifications and standards for pilots, and rules for their use; (4) temporary assignment of pilots to the Vessel Traffic Center (VTC) in extremely bad weather; (5) required pilot training time in a VTC; and (6) otherwise offering pilots a more active role in VTS. Vessel Traffic Systems (VTS) come these days under an increasing variety of like names--Vessel Traffic Services, just for one--caused in large part by the smoke and even fire this Post World War II, once revoluntionary idea still generates. VTS, by whatever name, is a governmental combination of equipment, people and regulations designed to help prevent marine collisions, rammings and groundings within a given area. What is intended is wholesale marine traffic management--space management--similar to that effected on highways, railways and airways. The emphasis in this paper is on the people.
Characteristics of oil spills are summarized with regard to causes, effects of winds and currents, methods of estimating the quantity of oil, and specific damage done by the oil. A summary of the currently available tools and the priority of attack for combating oil spills is presented, covering prevention of any spill, containment of what has been spilled, removal of the oil from the water surface, and shore cleanup. The major features of the National Multiagency Oil and Hazardous Materials Contingency Plan are outlined, with emphasis on the responsibilities of the on-scene commanders for monitoring and reporting, and directing all federal response. Coordination of activities during the Santa Barbara spill is described.
