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ABSTRACT: VTS for LA/LB Harbor has provided a practical example of new approaches to VTS management, environmental protection, and promoting maritime safety and port security. Through application of new tecnology and unique management policies -- and operating within a government/private sector "Joint Venture Partnership" -- this VTS has been successful in ensuring the megaport complex at LA/LB Harbor is one of the safest, cost-effective, reliable, efïicient, and respected in the world. INTRODUCTION On 1 March 1994, a unique Vessel Traffic Service (VTS) came on line, serving America’s busiest intermodal seaport complex. Eleven years and nearly 300,000 vessel transits later, Vessel Traffic Service for Los Angeles-Long Beach Harbor (VTS-LA/LB) has received national and international praise and support as a very successful model for future Vessel Traffic Services. This article answers the following questions as regards the VTS-LA/LB: • What makes the VTS-LA/LB unique? • What was the genesis of this venture? • Has VTS-LA/LB been successful? • How does it support new approaches towards promoting maritime safety and security? • What are the benefits of a joint-ventured “partnership” Vessel Traffic Service? Click HERE for full story
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