GOALS, OBJECTIVES, AND THE SPONSORS' PERSPECTIVE ON THE ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF THE CHEMICAL RESPONSE TO OIL SPILLS: ECOLOGICAL EFFECTS RESEARCH FORUM (CROSERF)

Abstract

ABSTRACT In the summer of 1994, a group of organizations sponsoring research related to the environmental effects of chemical oil spill treating agents organized a working group to coordinate their research activities in this area. The purpose of Chemical Response to Oil Spills: Ecological Effects Research Forum (CROSERF), as defined at the first meeting, was to provide a mechanism for the exchange of ideas and coordination of research to state, federal, and international agencies; industry; academic researchers; and consultants engaged in research on the ecological effects of oil spill response chemicals, especially dispersants. Each of the primary sponsors had its own objectives for the program, and contributed to the design of the cooperative research efforts. Over the past 7 years, there have been nine CROSERF meetings, each serving to direct the research efforts and resolve issues of importance to all of the participants. Most of the program objectives were achieved, but declining research funds limited the scope of the toxicity-testing program. Nevertheless, the forum provided the means for resolving dispersant and dispersed oil toxicity issues and encouraging communication among participants. The laboratory toxicity data generated by CROSERF is the most complete information currently available for multiple oils and species.