BOC-mtg_02262013-webVANCOUVER, Wash. – The Port of Vancouver USA Board of Commissioners today approved selection of The Sawicki Group LLC (TSG) as the port’s safety consultant for energy projects.

The contract with Blaine, Washington-based TSG is not to exceed $200,000 for up to three years of services. TSG’s initial scope of work includes review of Vancouver Energy’s facility safety and operations plans; rail safety and operations plans; the Energy Facility Site Evaluation Council’s (EFSEC) Draft Environmental Impact Statement; and support of port legal counsel through the EFSEC adjudication process.

“Between its five members, the Sawicki team has 200 years of experience with energy projects and issues, including extensive experience with petroleum,” said port CEO Todd Coleman. “They will augment our internal expertise and take our review to the next level to help ensure we’re taking the most comprehensive and informed approach possible for energy projects at the Port of Vancouver.”

Two Port of Vancouver tenants – Tesoro Corp. and NuStar Energy LP – are pursuing projects to bring North American crude oil through the port. The port issued a Request for Proposal in March to evaluate and select a consultant to provide safety and operations plan review and guidance services for energy projects.

TSG was one of three respondents. A panel of port staff interviewed all three, and TSG was selected in June as the most capable consultant.

TSG will begin reviewing Vancouver Energy’s plans this summer. The company is expected to provide a report to the port by early 2016.

Learn about proposed energy projects, industry at the port and more at www.portvanusa.com.

– POV –

 The Port of Vancouver USA is one of the major ports on the Pacific Coast, and its competitive strengths include available land, versatile cargo handling capabilities, vast transportation networks, a skilled labor force and an exceptional level of service to its customers and community. For more information, please visit us at www.portvanusa.com.