The first group of cleanup volunteers donned personal protective gear to clean up oil on Bolsa Chica State Beach in Orange County, California, Friday. The groups dug out clumps of tar balls on the beach with plastic hand shovels.
There was an outpouring of support from the public, and approximately 200 volunteers were selected. The Unified Command held a four-hour virtual class before sending volunteers into the field. This is the first time the Office of Spill Prevention and Response of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife has conducted this type of virtual training. The training, hazardous waste operations and emergency response or HAZWOPER, is required for any worker or volunteer involved in the removal of hazardous substances.