Office of Public Affairs
U.S. Coast Guard Thirteenth District

Date: May 6, 2008
Contact: Kim Schmanke, Ecology media relations
Phone: (360) 407-6239 

COAST GUARD, ECOLOGY RESPOND TO OYSTER BOAT SINKING

OLYMPIA - The Coast Guard and Washington Department of Ecology are responding to a sunken oyster-harvesting vessel in Grays Harbor, Wash.

The 50-foot oyster dredge Bay Point sank this morning at the Coast Seafoods dock at 58 Old Westport Road near the mouth of the Johns River. The vessel is owned by Coast Seafoods.

Based on information from the company, the vessel has the potential to carry 350 gallons of diesel and hydraulic oil on board. Both of the fuel tanks are underwater. According to Ecology's lead responder, Doug Stolz, it looks as though environmental damage is minimal.

The sinking occurred in an ecologically-sensitive area, with important fish and wildlife stock and commercial shellfish operations. Officials on scene have engaged a team of specialists who can assess potential shoreline impacts.

Coast Seafoods has hired contractors to contain the spill and to attempt to salvage the vessel.  

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U.S. Coast Guard, when things are at their worst, we're at our best.