Ecology seeks comment on oil safety rules

The Washington Department of Ecology seeks public comment on two proposed rules aimed at improving oil transportation safety.

The first rule would establish notice requirements for facilities receiving crude oil by rail and pipelines transporting crude oil. Ecology will share information with affected communities to ensure a rapid response if a spill would occur. Comments are accepted until June 10 in the following ways:

• Email to Kim.Morley@ecy.wa.gov.

• Mail to Kim Morley, Department of Ecology Spills Program, P.O. Box 47600, Olympia, WA 98504-7600.

• Fax to 360-407-7288.

• Use the online comment tool.

• Participate in public hearings and webinars.

The second rule explains contingency planning requirements for railroads that handle bulk oil shipments. Contingency plans prove railroads are prepared to immediately respond to a spill. Comments are accepted April 6 until June 10 in the following ways:

• Email to Linda.Pilkey-Jarvis@ecy.wa.gov.

• Mail to Linda Pilkey-Jarvis, Department of Ecology Spills Program, P.O. Box 47600, Olympia, WA 98504-7600.

• Fax to 360-407-7288.

• Use the online comment tool.

• Participate in public hearings and webinars.

Ecology plans to host public hearings in Spokane, Everett and Vancouver. Two webinars are scheduled.

The Vancouver meeting will be held June 3 in the Columbia Room at the DoubleTree by Hilton, 12712 S.E. Second Circle. Meetings on Contingency Planning for Rail, 8 a.m. to noon; notice requirements, 1 p.m.

For more information on the webinars, meetings and the rules, visit http://1.usa.gov/1RYGoHc.