BUFFALO NY (WKBW). The U.S.S.S. Sullivans is causing environmental problems with oil leaking into the River.
Commander Lexia Littlejohn, U.S. Coast Guard Buffalo Sector, stated that the coast guard is working closely with the agencies on the scene to conduct this response in a safe but effective manner.
The ship is currently surrounded by yellow absorbent Booms to keep oil in the river. Crews continue to pump petroleum products for proper disposal.
Senator Chuck Schumer stated that oil removal costs will not fall in the city.
Schumer stated that this will be an expense. This shouldn’t be the park, county or city that has to pay.
Schumer stated that the Great Lakes Restoration Act will provide millions of dollars, so the costs won’t be too much of a burden.
Schumer stated that some money can be used to clean up oil spillages and keep the place in tip-top condition.
T&T Salvage, a wreck removal and salvage firm based in Texas, will also assist in anti-pollution efforts. It will work closely with coast guard.
Littlejohn said that T&T will provide us with details on the salvage plan. Once you have it all together, the coast guard will approve it.
The NYS Department of Environmental Conservation released the following statement:
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation’s Spill Responders continue to collaborate with the U.S. Coast Guard (City of Buffalo) in responding to the USS Sullivans. DEC staff will assist the contractor in the deployment and monitoring of booms to contain any oil. They will also supervise contractors in the recovery of oil from the water around the ship. DEC will continue to adapt to the States spill response in order to prevent any long-term impacts on the environment and to oversee the work up to the cleanup to ensure public health and safety.