Weir Creek; New York City, NY

New York City, NY | 2004-Sep-30

Initial Notification: On 29 September 2004 at 1515, the US Coast Guard Activities New York (ACTNY) was notified of a mystery oil spill in Weir Creek originating from a sewer outfall. Upon investigation by ACTNY and NYC Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) personnel, the source of the spill was identified as an apartment complex about three miles inland. The discharge came from a heating oil tank in the basement of an apartment building. Approximately 3,400 gallons of number 6 fuel oil discharged from a hole in the return fuel line between the boiler and the storage tank. NYCDEP traced discharge from outfall in Weir Creek through sewer line to floor drain in basement of apartment building. The on-scene weather was partly cloudy, wind 17 mph from the north; air temperature 64 degrees F, sea state 1 foot. ACTNY opened the OSLTF and hired a cleanup contractor. Once a Responsible Party (RP) was identified they took over the cleanup cost. The contractor initially deployed containment and sorbent boom at the mouth of the outfall and around the Creek entrance. Federal and state supervision of the RP and contractor was supplied by the USCG and NYS Department of Environmental Conservation.