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See the sheen?
Report the sheen!
What is the "sheen rule"?
The Discharge of Oil regulation, or the "sheen rule", is a rule under the Clean Water Act and, according to the EPA, criteria for reporting is triggered by:
Discharges that cause a sheen or discoloration on the surface of a body of water;
Discharges that violate applicable water quality standards; and
Discharges that cause a sludge or emulsion to be deposited beneath the surface of the water or on adjoining shorelines.
What is a "sheen"?
A "sheen" can indicate an oil spill in a body of water.
When we think of oil spills, many of us typically think of oil spills in the ocean. Perhaps images of oil-covered birds and beaches come to mind. Maybe we think of the recent off-shore Deepwater Horizon spill in the Gulf of Mexico.
But oil spills also occur in freshwater environments like streams or rivers or lakes. Chances for us to be affected by an inland oil spill increase with our proximity to an oil refinery, with wind direction and whether or not we are downstream.
How do I know if oil has been spilled?
Generally speaking, oil is less dense than water and because of this characteristic, it tends to float on the surface of water as a “sheen.” A "sheen" can be identified in a few ways and the good news is that you don’t have to be an expert to detect a "sheen" on the water.
If you’ve ever noticed a shiny rainbow pattern on the ground as you pumped gas, congratulations, you’ve identified a “sheen”! Sometimes, a similar rainbow sheen floats to the top of a puddle in a parking lot after a rainstorm and, if you’ve ever noticed this, then you’ve also observed a sheen.
Oil spills aren’t good for us.
It doesn’t take a rocket scientist or petroleum engineer to know that oil spills aren’t good for us, for our families and our pets, for wildlife and aquatic life, or for any of the organisms who depend on our shared spaces.
By quickly addressing oil spills in our environment, responders hope to limit its impact. This is why reporting an observable "sheen" is critical and can potentially prevent problems downstream.
I think I need to report a sheen.
I think I see a sheen but I'm scared to report it - what if I'm wrong?
It is our responsibility as community members and engaged citizens to report possible hazards in our environment. If you see the sheen, report the sheen!
A report made in good faith is a responsible thing to do. The National Response Center Hotline was created to investigate reports of oil spills and will know what to do! Call 1-800-424-8802 to report a sheen.
For more information from NOAA's Office of Response and Restoration see, Oil Spills in Rivers.