What methodology does 15 CFR part 990 cover?

The methodology covered by 15 CFR part 990 pertains specifically to the assessment of damages to natural resources resulting from oil spills under the Oil Pollution Act (OPA) of 1990. This regulation establishes the procedures and guidelines necessary for evaluating the extent of damages caused to natural resources when oil spills occur, ensuring that the responsible parties are held accountable for the restoration and compensation efforts.

The focus of part 990 is on how to effectively assess and quantify the injury to ecological resources, which encompasses not only the physical contamination of resources but also the long-term impacts that these spills can have on wildlife and habitats. This comprehensive framework is crucial for ensuring that the resolution process is based on scientific assessments that guide restoration efforts and resource recovery.

Other methodologies, such as those dealing with climate change impacts or waste management, do not fall under this specific part and pertain to different aspects of environmental management and policy. Hence, the emphasis on damage assessment is unique to this section of the Code of Federal Regulations, making it central to the responsibilities and actions taken in response to oil pollution events.