The enactment of the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (OPA 90) culminated a 20-year effort to comprehensively address not only liability arising out of oil pollution in and on the navigable waters of the US, but also to create an effective system to prevent, prepare and respond both to the threat of, and an actual spill.

This statute has succeeded in achieving its fundamental purpose – the substantial reduction in oil pollution of US waters and serves as a model for other nations considering how best to protect their waters. The OPA 90 Forum aspires to preserve and enhance the intent of OPA 90 as advancing technology, new industries and importantly years of experience provide information and context. We intend to achieve these common goals through active partnership with individuals, industry, non-profits, and government.