The Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation (ADEC) has reopened the public comment period for Alyeska’s Pipeline Oil Spill Contingency Plan. Alyeska provided the agency with additional information and the public is being given the opportunity to review and comment on the new information. The extension of the public comment period means that Alyeska and ADEC will need additional time to finalize the plan. An extension to the existing plan is necessary until the new plan is finalized.

A back-up compressor malfunctioned on two “Trane” refrigeration units near Pump Station 12 on Monday, August 17. The compressor’s motor sustained damage and released 130 pounds of Freon. No injuries occurred. An investigation into the incident is underway. Other refrigeration units remain operational and the damaged compressor is being replaced by Pump Station 12 crews and a manufacturer’s representative.