In Situ Burning of Spilled Oil in Freshwater Inland Regions of the United States

In situ burning is being utilized in the United States to remove oil from inland oil spills, usually when physical recovery is not feasible. Studies have found that habitats may recover from the effects of burning in less than a year under optimal conditions but recovery may take much longer. Policies authorizing the use of in situ burning across the US are very inconsistent. Some states use it routinely, but others do not allow it. Inland in situ burning can be a useful response tool and the federal government needs to issue more guidance to the states. Responders also need to collect more data on the environmental impacts of burning.