USE OF DISPERSANTS - U.S. National Response Team (NRT)

OBSERVATION AIRCRAFT / VESSEL / "OBSERVERS"A. The observation aircraft or vessels (the “observers") are platforms and persons specifically assigned toobserve the dispersant operation. Their observer status should be authorized by the Unified commandon the basis of their position as a stakeholder in the outcome of the operation. Observers might includecorporate officials, agency representatives, political officials, scientists, trustees, interest grouprepresentatives, and so forth.B. The specific duties of the Observation Aircraft / Vessel / "Observers" are as follows:• Establishes and maintains communications with the Spotter Aircraft• Coordinates observation of the dispersant application with the Spotter Aircraft• May serve as the Forward Aircraft Controller (FAC) if directed by the Spotter. Aircraft assignedmust be the most capable communications platform.• If assigned as FAC, coordinates the use of restricted airspace. Manages outside air trafficentering or departing the operations area• Use attached Observer Aid• Use attached checklists and logs• Before operation begins, Observation Aircraft should mark slick boundary using GPS.• Spotter and Observation Aircrews should be knowledgeable with oil observation, dispersantobservations, operations, directing spray aircraft, and monitoring protocols. Need to pre-identifytraining and knowledgeable personnel.