The following is the text of a news release from the U.S. Coast Guard:
(WARRENTON, Ore.) — The Coast Guard has opened the Oil Spill Liability Trust Fund in the amount of $25,000 to minimize pollution potential from the 125-foot former research vessel Hero, which partially sank at the pier in Bay Center near Willapa Bay, Wash., on Monday.
The Oil Spill Liability Trust Fund was utilized to contract Global Diving and Salvage, resulting in the removal of more than 70 gallons of diesel fuel and lube oil from the vessel on Tuesday.
On Monday, Coast Guard Sector Columbia River personnel were notified of the sunken vessel. Coast Guard personnel alongside Washington Department of Ecology personnel responded to the assess any pollution risks. A light sheening was reported.
Response crews deployed sorbent booms and pads around the vessel to contain any residual product.
Coast Guard and the Department of Ecology personnel will continue to monitor the vessel for any further pollution.
