Movement of Crude Oil by Rail 2010 – 2014
Discussion Overview: According to the federal Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration: Download presentation
- Between 1975, when the government began collecting such data, and 2012, rails averaged 25 spills a year.
- The volume of oil spilled by trains in 2013 was higher than all the oil spilled in the previous 37 years combined.
- There were 141 “unintentional releases” of crude oil by rail companies in 2014, the highest on record.
Discussion Panel:
- Idaho Department of Environmental Quality – Gary Stevens P.G. Hydrogeologist
- Bonner County, ID Emergency Management – Bob Howard, Director
- Kootenai County, ID Office of Emergency Management, – Sandy Von Behren, Manager
- Spokane County Emergency Management – Lisa Jameson, Program Administrator
- Spokane City Council Member – Mike Fagan
Opening Questions: The number and frequency of trains carrying hazardous materials over the Spokane Valley Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer and Spokane River is increasing?
- What emergency planning and procedures are in place to protect the regional water supply?
- What additional measures can be taken by Idaho and Washington water providers to be prepared in the event of a train derailment?
Download 5/12/15 IWAC Meeting minutes with discussion summary