01/31/2010: Final Update Port Arthur oil spill

Update 12 and Final: COLLISION AND OIL SPILL IN PORT ARTHUR, TX SHIPPING CHANNEL
1/31/2010 Time: 1030

Situation:

The unified response to the collision and oil spill from the tankship “Eagle Otome” continues. To date, more than 9,600 barrels of oil/water mixture has been recovered, evaporated or dispersed naturally of the 11,000 barrels spilled. Current response assets include 88 oil skimmers, 6 oil vacuum vehicles and 114,545 feet of containment boom. As the majority of the on-water oil has been recovered, the operation will begin to focus on shoreline clean-up and restoration.

Vessel traffic and facility numbers have returned to pre-incident status. Vessel Traffic Service is managing traffic. Demobilization of select personnel and equipment has begun.

Action:

Shoreline Clean-up Assessment has begun in preparations for shoreline clean-up. Protective boom remains in sensitive areas.

The rehabilitation of oiled wildlife continues. Six birds are currently being monitored, one has been released and four deceased.

Public Affairs:

A Port Coordination Team meeting will be held for industry stakeholders on Monday 01 February at 1:00pm at Marine Safety Unit Port Arthur.

Photos can be viewed at http://www.flickr.com/photos/portarthuroilspill

Contact numbers for the Unified Incident Command are as follows:

Public Affairs: 713-578-3080 or 832-293-1293
Oiled Wildlife Hotline: 888-709-9798

Further questions regarding this incident may be directed to Mr. Jeremy Hansen, Liaison Officer (409)284-5775.

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