SEATTLE — Crews are working to clean up gallons of diesel fuel that spilled into Lake Union after a tugboat that someone was living on sank on Saturday afternoon.
No one was on board the boat when it started to sink around 4 p.m. on Saturday. It is unclear what caused the boat to sink, according to officials.
A submerged tugboat was modified into a home, but it has been moored at a slip along Lake Union for several years.
A spokesperson for the Department of Ecology said 100-plus gallons of marine diesel were spilled near Gas Works Park.
Ecology officials credited the marina for its quick thinking – both soft and hard booms were placed around the perimeter of the spill to limit its spread.
“What’s nice about oil on water is that as long as you can coral it – it’s above the water, so you can coral it really easily and keep it from spreading as long as you act quickly enough," said Agustina Cartagena-McLean, Department of Ecology official.
Another big concern is the impact on the wildlife. A special wildlife rehab team was brought on to monitor waterfowl and other affected wildlife. Two geese, a mallard and a coot were spotted with oil residue. Ecology officials said to call 1-800-22BIRDS if you spot any wildlife with oil on them.
Contractors have pumped off 400 gallons of oily water from the vessel’s tanks and cabin and removed fuel from inside the boom surrounding the vessel.
Crews are expected to remain in the area for cleanup.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
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