Barge Patricia Sheridan; Charleston Harbor, South Carolina

Charleston Harbor, South Carolina | 1995-Oct-12

Initial Notification: MSO Charleston was notified on October 12, 1995, that the hopper barge Patricia Sheridan had intentionally grounded due to an extreme list, supposedly developed by a shift in the cargo. The barge was transiting from New York to Corpus Christi with a load of dredge spoils. The barge was also carrying approximately 300 gallons of diesel fuel. Upon grounding, the barge came to rest on a sand bottom in 36 feet of water. The barge was resting on its port side with a 45-degree list. The barge has three holds. During the grounding two hatch covers came off the #2 hold, releasing some of the dredge spoils. The total cargo was approximately 12,000 tons of mud with 30 percent in the #1 hold, 30 percent in the #3 hold, and 40 percent in the #2 hold. This initial release, estimated to be 40 percent of the #2 hold and continued exchange of seawater into all compartments, created a visible plume of mud at the grounding site. USCG district 7. Keyword: NAVSUPSALV.