California Oil Spill Environmental Restoration

On October 2nd, 2021, disaster struck off Orange County, CA when an offshore drilling pipeline ruptured, releasing an estimated 24,696 gallons of crude oil spilled into the ocean. The 13 square mile oil slick wreaked havoc on both the environment and communities, harming marine life, damaging sensitive habitats, triggering beach closures, and washing as far south as Mexico. Surfrider's priority is to ensure the full impact of the spill is assessed, including ecological and socioeconomic impacts, and that restoration opportunities are maximized. This is no small task. The oil spill caused extensive environmental damage with cleanup workers removing 549,658 lbs of tarballs, oiled sand and debris from the shoreline alone. The spill also caused grave impacts to communities and businesses through disruption of coastal recreation and tourism, and a fishery closure of 642 square miles that was in effect for two months. To ensure these impacts are fully accounted for, we will engage directly with NOAA and other trustee agencies as they assess damages and develop a restoration plan for the responsible party to fund or implement. We are also partnering with the Environmental Defense Center to utilize their expertise in this area. We may also take legal action if needed to ensure justice is served.