These reports describe significant environmental incidents reported to and tracked by the National Response Center. They reflect both new incidents and follow-up information describing actions taken for previously reported events. The NRC publishes Incident Summary Reports periodically upon receipt of documentary information from the Federal On-Scene Coordinator.
| NRC Case #: | 009-97 |
|---|---|
| INSUM #: | Two and Final |
| Occurence Date: | 20 March 1997 |
| Location: | Hahnville, LA |
| Source: | Unknown |
| Material: | Unknown |
| Severity: | Unknown |
| Quantity Discharged: | Unknown |
| Quantity in Water: | Unknown |
| Body of Water Affected: | Mississippi River: Mile Marker 130 |
| Federal On-Scene Coordinator: | Marine Safety Office New Orleans, LA |
SITUATION: On Monday, March 20, 1997, the National Response Center received two reports involving an estimated 140 to 160 wayward barges on the Mississippi River between MM115 and MM130. Some of the barges are reported as striking loading docks in Hahnville, LA. The first involved a release of Anhydrous Ammonia, and the second involved a release of Sodium Hydroxide. All the hazardous material released at this time is reported as being from the loading docks(residual in the transfer lines). After further investigation, only 43 barges have broken free from the CGB Fleet(MM132). At the present moment all barges are accounted for and pose no hazard to navigation. Twelve tugboats from area fleets were used to roundup wayward barges and some remain on scene performing salvage operations. The Mississippi River has been reopened with restrictions and a no wake zone has been established near all salvage operations. MSO New Orleans continues to monitor the situation. CASE CLOSED THIS UNIT.