An oiled wildlife response has the best probability of success if a pre-spill plan is in place that outlines response coordination, capabilities and procedures. A plan can provide the direction to achieve an effective, responsible and cost-efficient approach. Ideally, the wildlife response plan is fully integrated into the wider oil spill response plan.

Planning involves the consideration of some practical issues:

• Designing a planning process, involving all important stakeholders
• Developing the content of a plan
• Developing the structure of the plan

The Guide to Oiled Wildlife Response Planning, published by IPIECA in 2004, provides an overview of the different components of oiled wildlife response, focusing on critical planning issues and response options. It is intended as a reference guide for oil spill managers, government officials and industry representatives who may be called upon to make important decisions regarding the fate of wildlife in the immediate aftermath of an oil spill. This section provides a brief overview of the key considerations that should be taken into account for planning purposes as well as the ideal structure of a plan.