Final answer:
The deck officer or officer of the watch is typically responsible for the planning and execution of seamanship operations and evolutions on a ship, including ballast water management. They work with the crew and use technology and equipment to adhere to environmental regulations and ensure the safe handling and navigation of the vessel.
Step-by-step explanation:
The individual responsible for the planning and execution of seamanship operations and evolutions on a vessel is typically the ship's officer, particularly the deck officer or officer of the watch. These professionals are specifically trained in the principles of navigation, ship handling, and managing the crew in various tasks including the management of ballast water, cargo operations, and ensuring the safety of the vessel at sea. The crew, including the captain, chief mate, and other deck officers, work collaboratively to execute these plans effectively.
With respect to ballast water, as indicated by Mark S. Minton, A. Whitman Miller, and Gregory M. Ruiz in '15 Implications of Ship Type on Delivery and Management of Ballast Water', the process involves carefully planning and implementing procedures for the delivery and management of ballast water to prevent environmental contamination. This aspect of ship management is critical due to the potential to spread non-native species and cause ecological issues. The crew must follow international regulations, such as the International Maritime Organization's standards for ballast water management, to ensure environmental compliance.
Technology and equipment onboard the vessel, such as ballast water treatment systems, are managed by the deck officers. They ensure that the ship adheres to environmental regulations and that operations are carried out smoothly and efficiently. The chief engineer would also have a role in managing the operational aspects of machinery used for these purposes. Seamanship operations cover a wide range of activities, and the responsibility for these may be distributed among various members of the ship's officer corps depending on their expertise and the specific operation being conducted.