Platform Irene; Vandenberg Air Force Base, California

Vandenberg Air Force Base, California | 1997-Sep-29

Initial Notification: At approximately 2330 on September 9, 1997, Platform Irene, offshore near Point Arguello, California, reported a spill from its 20-inch pipeline. This pipeline connects the platform to the shoreline terminal at Point Arguello. Platform Irene is operated by the Torch Operating Company for Nueva Energy (Houston). The release was caused by a fracture in a weld near a flange at a depth of about 33 fathoms. The amount released was originally reported as 2,900 barrels, which was the potential amount in the pipeline at the time the weld broke. This amount was revised after overflights and other observations were conducted to between 200 and 500 barrels. The oil was Monterey crude mixed with the drilling and pumping waters. Skimming vessels from the Clean Seas Cooperative, MSRC and from the Fisherman's Oilspill Response Team were contracted for on-water collection. The RP also alerted dispersant aircraft, but they were not used. The RP assumed the major role in the response, with Federal agencies providing assistance and oversight. Other federal participation included, USFWS for bird impacts, NOAA National Marine Santuaries provided air and on-water observation platforms, and Vandenberg Air Force Base (AFB), the landowners of the impacted areas. USCG district 11. Keyword: Clean Seas Cooperative.