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: | 3 March |
|---|---|
| Location: | 3 Miles North of Gray's Harbor, WA |
| Source: | Barge Paula Lee |
| Material: | No. 2 Diesel |
| Severity: | Potential Medium |
| Quantity Discharged: | None |
| Quantity in Water: | None |
| Body of Water Affected: | Pacific Ocean |
| Federal On-Scene Coordinator: | MSO Portland, OR |
At approximately 3:15 P.M. on March 3, the 250 foot long crane barge PAULA LEE grounded approximately three miles north of Grays Harbor, Washington. The barge, carrying approximately 6,000 gallons of diesel fuel, was being towed into harbor by the ocean-going tug AMERICAN CHALLENGER when it broke loose. No injuries were reported.Thus far, 6,000-gallons of diesel fuel have been removed from the barge. The remainder of the fuel at the bottom of the tank will be removed on March 5.
Dutra Marine Inc., the barge’s owner, will remove the tug from the beach at approximately noon on March 5. There has been no report of a release of diesel from the barge. Currently, the full extent of damage to the barge is not known. Once the barge is safely refloated and moved to safe waters, it will be inspected for damage.