FUEL OIL SPILL ON THE ST MARYS RIVER

Sector Sault Ste. Marie
U.S. Coast Guard

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Press Release
Date: May 24, 2007
Contact: Lt. j.g. William White
(906) 635-3310

FUEL OIL SPILL ON THE ST MARYS RIVER
SAULT STE. MARIE, Mich. – U.S. Coast Guard Sector Ste. Marie is currently responding to a diesel fuel oil spill in the Middle Neebish channel of the St. Mary’s River.
Earlier this morning, the JOYCE L. VANEKENVORT made notification to the Coast Guard of discharging an estimated 200-300 gallons of diesel fuel into the St. Marys River, during its up-bound transit to Marquette, MI to deliver a load of limestone. The fuel spill is the result of an overflow that occurred after the 835-foot integrated tug and barge completed an internal fuel transfer, near Light 39 in the Middle Neebish channel. Shortly after the transfer, crewmembers noticed fuel on deck. After further investigation, they determined that there was a discharge into the waterway. The vessel is currently anchored at the Lake Nicolet anchorage.
A Coast Guard pollution response trailer, 2 Station Sault small boats, 1 trailerd skiff, and helicopter have been dispatched to the Neebish Island area, in response to the fuel oil spill.
The Coast Guard will coordinate with the responsible party, local and state entities and the Canadian authorities to mitigate any environmental concerns associated with the spill.
Anyone that has experienced property damage directly or indirectly due to the spill may contact the following number to request a claim for damages: 906-466-9959.
Residents that utilize the St. Mary’s River for a source of water for drinking or other uses are advised that the water may be contaminated and are advised to report any water contamination to the following number: Chippewa County Environmental Health Department 906-635-3620 or 906-635-3622.
“Diesel fuel is most often a light, refined petroleum product. Small diesel spills will usually evaporate and disperse within a day or less. However, “marine diesel” is often a heavier intermediate fuel oil that will persist longer when spilled. When spilled on water, diesel oil spreads very quickly to a thin film of rainbow and silver sheens except for marine diesel, which may form a thicker film of dull or dark colors.” (Exert from NOAA web-site)
Further inquiries can be made by phone to LTJG William White II at (906) 635-3310 or via email at william.white@uscg.mil or Sector Sault Ste. Marie Duty Officer at (906) 635-3233.
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