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.
| Occurrence Date: | 25 February |
|---|---|
| Location: | Simmsport, LA |
| Source: | Gasoline Barges |
| Material: | Gasoline |
| Severity: | Potential Major |
| Quantity Discharged: | None |
| Quantity in Water: | None |
| Body of Water Affected: | Atchafalaya River |
| Federal On-Scene Coordinator: | MSO New Orleans |
On February 25, 2000 the M/V MELINDA BRENT, with four gasoline barges allided with a Railroad bridge on the Atchafalaya River. The bridge was not damaged. Two of the barges caught fire and a third was venting flames. The barges were cut loose as a safety precaution. The barges traveled approximately nine miles before becoming caught up in an eddy current at a bend in the River at mile marker 14.5. The fire was extinguished on February 26th by William Fire Hazard and Control. The barges were taken to a local facility for lightering. The total cargo remaining was 74,000 barrels. An estimated 252,000 gallons were consumed by the fire. A small portion of gasoline was released to the water unconsumed. the material evaporated on its own. CASE CLOSED.