The U.S. Coast Guard has approved Cook Inlet Regional Citizens Advisory Council’s annual recertification, allowing the organization to continue its mission of representing the citizens of Cook Inlet in promoting safe marine transportation and oil facility operations in the inlet.

The council learned of the recertification by letter dated Aug. 12, from Rear Admiral Thomas Ostebo, Commander, Seventeenth Coast Guard District. The recertification is effective through Aug. 31, 2014.

“Recertification represents recognition of our continued effectiveness in protecting Cook Inlet waters and promoting safer navigation through work on our federal mandates and myriad of ongoing projects,” said Executive Director Michael Munger.

Most notably, the council continues to build partnerships with stakeholders to initiate and develop projects, such as Alaska ShoreZone and the Cook Inlet Response Tool; review oil discharge prevention and contingency plans; expand the ice forecasting camera network; conduct biological and chemical monitoring and physical oceanography activities; and public education.