Beach contamination found on Maury Island

Preserve Our Islands received word from the Department of Ecology that they have completed the cleanup of the orange petroleum based grease  balls/globs that were discovered washed ashore on Maury Island beaches. However, there may still be pocket areas that were undetected so if you  see any please report them 1-800-OILS-911 and to Preserve Our Islands at info@preserveourislands.org

The community owes a tremendous amount of thanks to Ecology and the Coast guard for their lightning fast response and diligence in  completing the cleanup quickly - before the tide cycles could cause more contamination or move the grease balls back into the water. In total the  contamination was found to cover approximately 2.5 miles of shoreline- from the light house at Point Robinson to the Gold Beach/former Glacier  area.

Amazingly, Ecology was also able to determine both the actual material identification and the party responsible for the release. The  contaminant was found to be a product called Neptune slip coat, which is used to lubricate rails when launching large ships. J.M. Martinac  Shipbuilding - located in Commencement Bay, was determined to have been the party responsible for the spill, which occurred on January 25th. The company took immediate responsibility for their actions and will cover the expense for the cleanup. News release from Ecology is below.
http://www.ecy.wa.gov/news/2013/070.html
<http://www.ecy.wa.gov/news/2013/070.html>
Amy Carey
Preserve Our Islands