OLYMPIA — The state Department of Ecology has ordered a fine of $16,500 from Olympic Tug & Barge of Seattle for spilling oil into Port Angeles Harbor last November.
The spill occurred when a company-owned fuel barge was overfilled while being loaded with fuel oil, Ecology said.
The agency determined the Nov. 7, 2012, heavy fuel oil spill occurred because of an error by the barge operator.
More than 1,700 gallons spilled to the deck of the barge, and nearly 50 gallons entered Port Angeles Harbor.
Olympic Tug & Barge immediately responded to the spill and notified federal and state authorities. The company may appeal the penalty to the Pollution Control Hearings Board within 30 days.
