The following is the text of a press release issued by the U.S. Coast Guard:
(ASTORIA, Ore.) — A 600-foot bulk carrier ran aground near Sauvie Island, Ore., Saturday. The Columbia River Bar Pilots notified Coast Guard Sector Columbia River, Ore., that the motor vessel Armeria ran aground at 3 a.m. while hauling grain.
Three tugs were hired by the shipping agent to remove the vessel at high tide at approximately 8:30 a.m.
There have been no reports of pollution or damage to the vessel. However, a Coast Guard inspection team from Marine Safety Unit Portland, Ore., boarded the Armeria and will examine it when it reaches Vancouver, Wash.
“Our primary concern is with ensuring there is no threat to the environment,” said Capt. Len Tumbarello, Deputy Commander of Sector Columbia River.
