Timeline
1990
Congress establishes OSRI in response to the 1989 Exxon Valdez Oil Spill.
1992-1995
Congress appropriates $500,000 for the OSRI program.
1995
OSRI’s first strategic plan focuses on the risks and costs of oil spills.
1996
Congress extends OSRI mandate to expand its area of interest from the Exxon Valdez oil spill to all Arctic and sub-Arctic marine environments. OSRI is funded through annual interest earnings from a $22.5 million trust.1997
OSRI solicits its first grant proposals. Since 1998, OSRI awards around $900,000 a year to support a wide range of projects.
2002
Strategic plan focuses OSRI programs on improving the prediction of natural changes.
2005
Congress mandates that OSRI continue its programs until one year after completion of oil exploration and development in Alaska.2008
OSRI crosses $10 million milestone for projects funded since its inception.2012
Congress increases the OSRI trust to $35.2 million.
2016
“Field Guide for Oil Spill Response in Arctic Waters” is updated.2016-2020
OSRI research plan emphasizes Arctic research due to new exploration in the Beaufort and Chukchi seas.2018
OSRI marks its 20th anniversary. It has awarded $14 million to fund 170 projects since inception.