The role of the OSPR Laboratory Program (OLP) doesn’t end at the door. The OLP’s pollution response functions all start in the field with the Wildlife Officers. Laboratory staff support investigators in the field by preparing pollution action kits and equipment, providing training at the warden academy, interpreting data, coordinating sampling and testing for more complex events, and joining them in the field when specialized equipment or skills are required. Scientists based at OLP provide technical expertise to assist wardens in building their cases and evaluating damages pursuant to Fish and Game Code Section 5650. Chemists at the Petroleum Chemistry Laboratory determine what materials are petroleum products based on lab analysis. Staff at the Water Pollution Control Lab evaluate field results and toxicity data to determine what materials are deleterious to aquatic life. Laboratory scientists are made available to serve as expert witness to support pollution cases in court. Staff at the OLP also provide field support to a variety of local and state agencies and nonprofits organizations that monitor water quality, and respond to pollution events or investigate fish kills. You can learn more about OLP partnerships and field work on our Special Projects page. Resources for the Public To report a Poacher or Polluter: CalTIP- Californians Turn in Poachers and Polluters Track response efforts to recent pollution events: CDFW Cal Spill Watch Statewide emergency communication and notifications: Cal OES Warning Center Resources for Investigators Chain of Custody Form Guidance Matrix for Selecting Sample Size, Container Type, and Allowable Holding Times
OSPR About OSPR Cal Spill Watch(opens in new tab) Contingency and Response Plans Drills & Exercises / ICS Enforcement Financial Responsibility Harbor Safety Laws and Regulations Local Government Oil Spill Response Organizations Response Resources Restoration (NRDA) Science and Wildlife Spill Management Teams Volunteer Related Organizations ERMA - Southwest U.S. Coast Guard NOAA - Office of Response and Restoration USEPA - United States Environmental Protection Agency Oiled Wildlife Care Network Pacific States - British Columbia Oil Spill Task Force California OES Report Log Contact Us California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) 715 P Street, Sacramento, CA 95814 Mailing: P.O. Box 944209, Sacramento, CA 94244-2090 (916) 445-0411 for General CDFW Information Office of Spill Prevention and Response Mailing: P.O. Box 944209, Sacramento, CA 94244-2090 (916) 375-8580 for OSPR Information Report Oil Spills (800) 852-7550 or (800) OILS-911 Email OSPR | Office Locations Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram Flickr