Which agency typically leads the federal response to oil spills?

The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) is the agency that typically leads the federal response to oil spills due to its operational capabilities and established authority under the Oil Pollution Act of 1990. The USCG has a primary responsibility for the response to spills of oil and hazardous materials in navigable waters and along the shorelines. This authority is reinforced by its extensive experience and resources dedicated to maritime safety and environmental protection.

The Coast Guard collaborates with various local, state, and federal agencies during spill responses, ensuring effective management of the incident using trained personnel and developed pollution response strategies. Their expertise enables rapid mobilization of personnel and equipment, which is critical in minimizing environmental damage from oil spills.

While other agencies like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) also play significant roles in spill response—particularly in assessing environmental damage and providing scientific support—they do not lead the operational response efforts. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has broader responsibilities regarding national security that encompass oil spill emergencies but does not specifically manage oil spill responses. Therefore, the USCG's specific mandate and readiness make it the leading agency in these situations.