What is the purpose of the National Response Team (NRT)?

The National Response Team (NRT) is specifically designed to function as a multi-agency team that coordinates response efforts during hazardous incidents. This includes a wide variety of emergencies, such as chemical spills, industrial accidents, and other incidents that pose risks to public health and safety. The NRT's role is critical in bringing together federal, state, local, and tribal agencies, as well as private sector partners and non-governmental organizations, to ensure a cohesive and efficient response.

This coordination is imperative as hazardous incidents often require specialized expertise and resources that go beyond the capacities of any single agency, which is why the multi-agency approach is emphasized. The NRT also provides technical assistance, training, and support to various response partners, contributing to a more effective handling of complex situations.

In contrast, the other choices do not capture the full scope of the NRT's mission. While natural disasters are important, the NRT is not limited to responding solely to such events. Economic recovery efforts and managing local emergency services, while critical within the broader emergency management framework, do not encompass the specific focus of the NRT in coordinating multi-agency responses to hazardous incidents.