We had students from 16 different agencies: USCG, NPS, USFWS, NOAA, EPA, CDC/ ATSDR, US Army, Canadian Coast Guard, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Maine Department of Environmental Protection, Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality, Georgia Environmental Protection Division, South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental, Vermont Hazardous Materials Response Team, Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission, Florida Department of Environmental Protection.

Our instructors, Dalina Thrift-Viveros, Adam Davis, Al Valerioti, Charlie Henry, and Savannah Turner engaged students with lessons on various chemical properties and how these chemicals interact in the environment. There were many case studies shared and students learned the right questions to ask initially on a response (the 5 Questions), and then more detailed questions to ask when encountering a chemical spill.  Perhaps one of the most compelling presentations was when Al Valerioti shared videos of the Jack Rabbit Trials that demonstrate how quickly Chlorine glass can move when it is released under pressure! Students also learned to use valuable tools such as CAMEO Chemicals, ALOHA and MARPLOT. Models, while incredibly powerful, do have their limitations, right class?!  Students are now more prepared to respond safely and effectively to a chemical release.

With over 100 applicants we hope to offer another virtual SOCR training this year to meet the interest and demand.

For more information reach out to socr.registration@noaa.gov.

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