Which information regarding oil spills must be reported to the NRC?

The requirement to report the size and nature of the release is crucial because it provides essential information for assessing the potential impact of the oil spill. This data helps emergency responders understand the scale of the incident, which is vital for coordinating an appropriate response. By knowing the size of the spill, responders can determine how much containment and cleanup resources are necessary, while the nature of the release—such as whether it involves light or heavy crude oil—affects the strategies used for mitigation. Accurately reporting these aspects can significantly influence the effectiveness of the response efforts and help protect the environment and public health.

While details such as government funding, expected duration, and wildlife impact might be relevant in broader assessments of the spill's consequences, they do not possess the same immediate importance for initiating an effective response as understanding the size and nature of the release.