Gas Spill in Newburyport Poisons River and Sends EPA Scrambling

A gas tanker overturned in the town of  Newburyport Ma., spilling almost 10,000 gallons of fuel into storm drains and the Merrimack River.

In yet another fine example of why wind generated electrical power to electric vehicle recharging stations is a good thing, we bring you yet one more devastating fuel spill.

From the website:

Local and environmental officials have urged people to stay out of the water until they are notified the gas has evaporated.

The 10,000-gallon tanker nearly collided with a car that flipped into northbound traffic from a southbound lane. The tanker jackknifed and landed on its side about 9:15 a.m. yesterday morning. The accident occurred less than a mile from the Whittier Bridge and close to the Spring Lane pumping station, the city’s water treatment facility.

As of yesterday evening, city, state and federal officials were striving to minimize soil and water contamination in the area. Officials were concerned throughout the day about explosive fumes settling in the Laurel Road neighborhood and about gasoline spreading throughout the river grasslands.

The federal Environmental Protection Agency immediately deployed on-scene coordinators and cleanup contractors, who worked to secure a 500-foot perimeter in the river to keep boats away from the fuel floating on the surface.

According to an EPA press release, Mass DEP is continuing to deploy boats and boom material to the river where they are working to contain the gasoline. In addition, a Field Assessment and Support Team vehicle, known as a FAST vehicle, is monitoring air conditions and assessment activities.

The Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries is planning to conduct an assessment on potential impacts to shellfish resources.

Local officials concerned about Newburyport’s water supply have shut down a private well and sewage lift station near the site. The crash site is about 1,000 feet from two of the city’s wells, and about 1,300 feet from the city’s water treatment facility, but officials say the water supply is safe.

The EPA is also deploying additional cleanup contractors to assist with containment of fuel on the river and eventual cleanup of the Merrimack River and impacted coastal areas.

Ever heard of a wind spill, or dependence on foreign wind? Me neither.

Source: Eagle Tribune Image courtesy of GloucesterTimes