SITREP ONE
7 February, 2000
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: | 5 February |
|---|---|
| Location: | Philadelphia, PA |
| Source: | Sun Pipeline |
| Material: | Crude Oil |
| Severity: | Major |
| Quantity Discharged: | 10,000 Gallons |
| Quantity in Water: | Unknown |
| Body of Water Affected: | Darby Creek |
| Federal On-Scene Coordinator: | MSO Philadelphia |
On February 5, the NRC received a report from Sun Pipeline Co. of an oil spill from their 24 inch pipeline at the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge in Philadelphia, PA. The flow of oil was stopped and the line was depressurized. EPA III arrived on scene with Sun Pipline Co. and clean up contractors. It was discovered that over 10,000 gallons of crude oil had been released from the pipeline into an area of the refuge known as the impoundment. This area is environmentally sensitive and a habitat for various species. The oil has migrated into the waters of the impoundment, which drains into Darby Creek, a tributary of the Delaware River. Approximately 13,000 gallons of oil/water mixture have been removed. The remaining product in the pipeline is being removed and the oil on the surface of the impoundment is being skimmed and removed. Local media interest is high. Plans are to continue oil removal and to protect the area from further environmental impact. CASE PENDS.