The Federal Water Pollution Control Act requires the person in charge of a vessel to immediately notify the Coast Guard as soon as he knows of any oil discharge. Failure to notify the Coast Guard can lead to a monetary fine and imprisonment up to __________.

Correct Answer: Option A — 5 years

Under the Clean Water Act and 33 CFR 153, failing to immediately notify the National Response Center of an unauthorized oil discharge carries severe penalties, including monetary fines and criminal imprisonment for up to five years.