The Exxon Valdez oil spill was one of the most publicized and studied environmental tragedies in history.  This site provides both general and highly specific information about the spill and its aftermath, organized in the following way . On March 24, 1989, the tanker Exxon Valdez, en route from Valdez, Alaska to Los Angeles, California, ran aground on Bligh Reef in Prince William Sound, Alaska .  spilled 260,000 to 750,000 barrels (41,000 to 119,000 m³) of crude oil. It is considered to be one of the most devastating human-caused environmental disasters . The captain's only conviction in the case was for negligently discharging oil. He was fined $50,000 and this summer will begin performing 1,000 hours of community service, picking up litter along Alaska highways .