Emergency Response Towing Vessel

The Emergency Response Towing Vessel (ERTV) is an important towing vessel in Washington required by state law as a part of the oil spill response plan. The law requires the ERTV be stationed in Neah Bay year-round, and it is dedicated to helping protect certain Washington shorelines and waterways in the case of an emergency response. It can assist completely disabled ships or those with reduced maneuvering ability.

The Marine Exchange provides the day-to-day administration for the ERTV and is a part of the ERTV Compliance Group. The ERTV Compliance Group contracts with a towing company and provides overall oversight of the vessel.