PORT ANGELES — Public access to the Elwha River estuary remains open following the fuel spill that entered Indian Creek, the state Department of Ecology said.
A unified command, which consists of federal, tribal, state, local and company representatives, also confirmed that response efforts are not impacting the upcoming Paddle to Elwha event, which remains scheduled as planned by event organizers.
Sampling and monitoring efforts continue to be a part of the response, and the results don’t show any indication that fuel reached downstream habitats or nearshore areas, the Department of Ecology said.
As of 7 p.m. Wednesday, response operations were continuing at the spill location, with teams broadening their reach to support cleanup and monitoring efforts.
Shoreline, wildlife and aquatic habitat assessments were ongoing. The total volume of recovered fuel and extent of wildlife was still being determined, the Department of Ecology said.
So far, no effects to animals other than fish have been observed, the Department of Ecology said, although it did not have a confirmed count of affected fish. Fish collection and documentation are ongoing, the department said. To report oiled or injured wildlife, call 1-800-22-BIRDS. In addition, a claims number has been set up for the incident. If you believe that you or your property have been impacted by the spill, call the claims number at 360-660-1071 or email indiancreekinquiries@petrocard.com.
The unified command includes the federal Environmental Protection Agency, Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe, state Department of Ecology, Clallam County Sheriff’s Office and Petro-Card. Other responding agencies and contractors include the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, Clallam 2 Fire-Rescue, Focus Wildlife and Republic Services.
