Over 400 gallons of diesel spilled into Willamette River
PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — The Coast Guard says more than 400 gallons of diesel were spilled into the Willamette River north of Portland.
Authorities say the spill happened on Monday at about 5 a.m. near the Kinder Morgan Bulk Terminal in Vancouver, Wash. The spill came from a fuel barge and was caused by a tank overfill.
The barge is owned by Kirby Offshore Marine, which has contracted an oil spill response company to handle the clean up. A temporary floating barrier — called a boom — and absorbent pads have been placed around the spill site. Officials are also investigating down river for possible residual pollution.
Coast Guard inspectors are monitoring the situation and "working to ensure minimal impact to the environment."