THE TACTICS MEETING

Washington’s 2025 BAP Update: What’s Changing in Oil Spill Contingency Planning

In this episode of The Tactics Meeting, we dive into Washington State’s 2025 Best Achievable Protection (BAP) initiative—a comprehensive effort to update oil spill contingency planning regulations under WAC 173-182 and WAC 173-186.

Host Dan Smiley explains how the Department of Ecology kicked off the process with a well-attended online meeting and public survey, inviting input on ways to strengthen spill response planning. The episode explores the four key topic areas identified for technical workgroups:

• Non-Floating Oil Response

• Whale and Wildlife Deterrence

• Shoreline Cleanup and Assessment Techniques (SCAT)

• Aerial Surveillance of Oil Spills

You’ll learn what Best Achievable Protection means under Washington law, how it drives rulemaking, and why this cycle presents an opportunity for meaningful change in response readiness.

 

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Navigating Crisis: Insights from RADM Meredith Austin, USCG (Ret.) on Emergency Management Leadership

In this episode, we sit down with RADM Meredith Austin, USCG (Ret.), to explore her distinguished career in emergency management and her pivotal roles in some of the most challenging disasters, including the Deepwater Horizon oil spill response. We discuss the vital contributions of the U.S. Coast Guard Strike Teams and the lessons learned from coordinating large-scale, multi-agency operations. Tune in for a deep dive into crisis leadership and the evolution of disaster response.

Protecting Our Waters: Ed Levine Talks NOAA’s Vital Role in Oil Spill Response

In this episode of The Tactics Meeting, we sit down with Ed Levine, former NOAA Scientific Support Coordinator, to discuss the crucial role NOAA plays in oil spill response. Ed shares his experiences advising the U.S. Coast Guard during major incidents and explains how NOAA’s scientific expertise helps guide real-time decision-making during oil spills. We also dive into the latest findings from the Oil in the Sea IV report, exploring the sources, impacts, and future trends of oil pollution in marine environments. Whether you're in the industry or simply interested in marine conservation, this episode provides an expert’s view on the intersection of science, response strategies, and environmental protection.

Rethinking Readiness with Jeffery Schlegelmilch

In this enlightening episode of "The Tactics Meeting," we sit down with Jeffery Schlegelmilch, the renowned expert in disaster preparedness and the author of "Rethinking Readiness: A Brief Guide to Twenty-First Century Megadisasters." Join us as we delve into the critical themes of his groundbreaking book, exploring how our traditional approaches to disaster preparedness are being challenged by the complexities of modern megadisasters.

Jeffery sheds light on the multifaceted nature of contemporary threats, from climate change and pandemics to technological failures and social disruptions. We discuss the importance of innovative strategies, cross-sector collaboration, and the integration of new technologies in building resilient communities. Jeffery also emphasizes the need for a shift in mindset—moving from reactive responses to proactive preparedness.

Tune in to gain valuable insights on how we can rethink our readiness for the unprecedented challenges of the twenty-first century and ensure a safer, more resilient future for all. Whether you're a professional in emergency management or simply interested in the future of disaster preparedness, this episode is a must-listen.

Constant Chaos: Environmental Protection Strategies with Ron Holcomb

In this episode of The Tactics Meeting, we are joined by Ron Holcomb, the author of "Constant Chaos, the Battle to Protect the Environment." Ron shares his extensive experience and insights into the challenges and strategies of environmental protection. We dive into the dramatic and impactful events of the Olympic Pipeline Fire in Bellingham and the Delco Passage Oil Spill, exploring their causes, responses, and the lessons learned. Tune in to hear about the complexities of managing environmental disasters and the ongoing battle to protect our planet.

Salvaging the Golden Ray: An Insider's Perspective with Capt. Matt Baer, USCG (Ret.)

In this episode of "The Tactics Meeting," we sit down with Matt Baer, a retired United States Coast Guard captain and the current Deputy Director of Emergency Management for Gallagher Marine Systems. Matt shares his extensive experience and insights as the Federal On-Scene Coordinator for the Golden Ray vessel salvage and removal operation. Tune in to hear firsthand accounts of the challenges faced during one of the most complex salvage operations in recent history, the strategies employed to overcome these obstacles, and the lessons learned that continue to shape emergency response protocols today. Whether you're an emergency management professional or simply interested in maritime operations, this episode offers a captivating look into the world of large-scale salvage efforts.

Harnessing AI for Effective Emergency Response: Innovations and Challenges

In this episode of THE TACTICS MEETING podcast, we sit down with Cris Ippolite, President and Founder of iSolutions, to discuss his extensive experience implementing AI solutions for a major fire department in Texas. Cris, an award-winning trainer and AI strategist, has been instrumental in driving innovation within emergency response frameworks. We explore the challenges and successes of integrating AI technologies in high-stakes environments, highlighting specific use cases and the transformative impact of AI on operational efficiency and decision-making.

Join us as Cris shares insights from his work at iSolutions, where he has developed custom machine learning models and AI-driven applications tailored to meet the unique needs of emergency response teams. Learn how AI is revolutionizing how fire departments respond to incidents, manage resources, and enhance overall safety.

Innovating the Common Operating Picture with Larry Ryan of NJ Resources

In this episode of THE TACTICS MEETING podcast, we sit down with Larry Ryan from NJ Resources to explore the latest advancements in developing and displaying the common operating picture. Join us as we delve into updated map layers and a dedicated wildlife branch interface, designed to enhance situational awareness and operational efficiency. Additionally, we'll discuss the creation of data widgets that provide a comprehensive situation display package, ensuring that all critical information is at your fingertips. Don't miss this insightful conversation on leveraging new technology and best practices to optimize emergency response and resource management.

Navigating Crisis: A Deep Dive into emergency response with Roger LaFerriere, Capt. USCG Ret.

In this riveting episode of the "Tactics Meeting" podcast, we sit down with Captain Roger LaFerriere, who served as the Coast Guard Incident Commander during the Deepwater Horizon BP oil spill. Captain LaFerriere shares his firsthand experiences managing one of the largest environmental disasters in history.

We'll delve into the complexities of stakeholder engagement, exploring how effective communication and collaboration were crucial in coordinating efforts across federal, state, and local agencies. Captain LaFerriere provides insights into the challenges of shipboard firefighting and the pivotal role of the Coast Guard in emergency response.

Our discussion highlights the authority and responsibility carried by the Incident Commander and the importance of forming cohesive, multidisciplinary teams to tackle such crises. Captain LaFerriere also reflects on the innovative strategies used to contain and clean up the spill, emphasizing the lessons learned and how they have shaped current and future response frameworks.

 

Mastering Crisis Communication: Inside the New JIC and Liaison Manual

In this episode, join us for an exclusive preview of the newly updated Joint Information Center (JIC) and Liaison Manual of the Northwest Regional Contingency Plan, along with insights into the upcoming Communications Workshop in Portland on April 3rd, 2024. Our guests, Suzanne Lagoni, Principal at Nexus Northwest, and Ty Keltner, Communications Manager at the Washington State Department of Ecology, bring their wealth of experience and expertise to the discussion.

Throughout the episode, listeners will gain valuable insights into:

• The role of the JIC and liaison officers in coordinating communication during emergencies.
• Best practices for communication planning and implementation in crisis scenarios.
• Case studies and real-world examples illustrating the impact of strategic communication in crisis management.
• An overview of the upcoming Communications Workshop in Portland, offering participants practical tools and techniques for enhancing their crisis communication capabilities.

Whether you're directly involved in emergency response efforts or simply interested in understanding the dynamics of crisis communication, this episode provides invaluable insights and a sneak peek into the latest resources and training opportunities available in the Northwest region.

Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of how effective communication can make all the difference in times of crisis, and discover how you can strengthen your organization's readiness and resilience in the face of uncertainty.