Exxon Valdez Oil Spill

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was hindered by an inadequate
cleanup plan that had been created during the 1970's. These plans outlined how
an oil spill would be handled, including provisions for maintaining equipment
such as containment booms and "skimmer boats." The plans also called for a
response team to be on twenty-four hour notice. Unfortunately, the plans were
good on paper only. A spill of this size had not been anticipated. Therefore,
the response teams had been demobilized, and the equipment that was supposed to
be ready at all times was either too far away or nonexistent.. Precious hours
were also wasted as Corporations, the Alaskan State Government, and the National
government argued over who should take control of the situation. The arguments
ensued after debates over who would pay for what, who was responsible for what,
and who would do the best job.
The local fishermen were a big help with the cleanup effort. They
battled with the oil in order to protect their industry. Many ...

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had veto power.
This was a result of the original conflicts that took place between corporations
the state government and the National government. It was nearly impossible to
get all of the members of the committee to agree on one particular plan of
action.
The natural factors also made the cleanup a difficult process. The
Alaskan wilderness is a rugged country. Rocky shorelines made beach work
difficult, and the cold weather made working long hours very difficult. Another
problem with the cold weather was that it prevented the oil from breaking down.
Under normal weather conditions, the oil would have began to decompose, which
would have made it easier to deal with. There were also ...

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