Americas News
USCG Monitoring Vessel for Bunker Spill After Grounding in Columbia River
The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) Monday announced that they are monitoring for signs of a bunker spill after the 5,4881 DWT Panama-flagged bulk carrier Sparna, which is loaded with 218,380 gallons of HFO and 39,380 gallons of marine diesel, was grounded in the Columbia River in the state of Washington.
"The positive news so far is that responders have not observed any oil in the water," stated Captain Dan Travers, commander of USCG's Sector Columbia River.
The bulk carrier, which is said to be loaded with a cargo of grain, ran aground "briefly" while headed westward in the river, sustaining damage below the waterline and taking on water within void spaces, but is currently "safely afloat" near Cathlamet as it awaits repairs.
"The vessel quickly activated its plan and all federal, state, and county responders mobilised immediately. This is a joint effort with both states and hopefully will just turn out to have been an exercise in mobilising pollution response resources," said Travers.
While the cause of the grounding is said to be under investigation, there are no reports of a bunker spill at the scene, and the USCG notes that a salvage plan will be approved by the USCG before any attempts to move the vessel from its current location are put into action.
"The vessel is safely anchored, and is maintaining position, with the assistance of two tugs, as an approved salvage and repair plan is developed," stated the USCG.
The Maritime Fire & Safety Association and Clean Rivers Cooperative are reported to have deployed response vessels and booms in order to mitigate any possible spillage.
The vessel is said to be owned and managed by Japan-based Santoku Shipping Co., Ltd.
Last week, following a bunker spill on March 13 in the Port of Los Angeles (Port of L.A.), which was linked to Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL) vessel Istra Ace, the USCG announced it had removed safety zone around the spill area.
