ANCHORAGE, AK -- JANUARY 14, 1998 -- Alyeska Pipeline Service Company reported today that a response barge in Prince William Sound broke free from its mooring early this morning and was grounded on a nearby sandy beach. The barge was recovered today at 11:30 a.m. during high tide. Three people were on board the barge at the time of the incident; no one was injured. No fuel was released as a result of this incident. At this time, it is believed that the hull of the barge was not seriously damaged. The U.S. Coast Guard will inspect the barge today to determine if it will remain in service. An investigation is underway as to the cause of the situation.

The barge, owned and operated by Crowley Marine Services, is stationed in Port Etches near Hinchenbrook Entrance and stores oil spill response equipment for the area. The Gulf Service, a deep water response tug stationed near the barge, was standing at watch for a laden outbound tanker when the incident occurred.

This barge is one of six oil spill response barges stationed in Prince William Sound. The equipment stored on the barge is required as part of the Prince William Sound Tanker Spill Prevention and Response Plan. Alyeska is working to provide alternate sources of equipment for the Port Etches area if the barge does not remain in service. Tankers loaded at the Valdez Marine Terminal will not be allowed to depart until the required oil spill response equipment is available. Two tankers are scheduled to depart the Marine Terminal at 10:00 p.m. today.

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