Date: 9.17.19 Contact: Joint Information Center (912) 944-7122
The Unified Command continues to evaluate the salvage plan and the process to remove pollutants from the Golden Ray. The protection of the public, response crews, and the environment remains a crucial focus.
“This is a complex incident and we are taking every possible step to protect the community and the environment, while ensuring the safety of our responders.” Chris Graff, Gallagher Marine Systems Incident Commander.
PUBLIC HEALTH AND SAFETY
Specialists are actively monitoring air quality around the vessel and surrounding areas. No impacts on air quality have been detected to date. A water-quality monitoring plan is being finalized, and members of the public are encouraged to monitor the Department of Public Health website for any advisories that may be in effect.
ENVIRONMENT
Response teams are assessing the effectiveness of pollution mitigation strategies, such as boom and other absorbent materials, to remove pollutants in the event a discharge. As of now, there are approximately 170 responders attached to the Unified Command and 26 vessels assisting in the response. Environmental inspection teams are continuously scanning the shoreline by air, boat and foot, looking for evidence of oil. 5,300 feet of boom have been deployed surrounding Bird Island, and 18,000 feet of boom is strategically staged for use as needed.
ECONOMIC
Commercial traffic in the Port of Brunswick has resumed on a case by case basis. A claims number has been established for those who have been affected by the incident: (888) 850-8486.