Cleanup and containment operations remain underway along a 17-mile stretch of the Los Angeles River following a pipeline rupture that released at least 2,400 gallons of crude oil. The incident occurred after a construction crew laying a fiber optic line struck the pipeline, which transports oil from Kern County to the Port of Long Beach, at approximately 3 a.m. Last Friday.
The spill, which originated near the intersection of East Cesar Chavez and North Eastern avenues in East Los Angeles, resulted in oil entering local storm drains and reaching the river. While immediate public safety concerns have been resolved, according to California Department of Fish and Wildlife spokesman Eric Laughlin, the environmental impact remains a primary focus for the Unified Command, which includes the EPA, the Los Angeles County Fire Department, and the pipeline operator, Pacific Pipeline Systems.
Environmental and Remediation Efforts
The Oiled Wildlife Care Network has been activated to manage the recovery and care of affected animals. As of Thursday, incident commanders reported that 100 birds have been recovered alive, while eight were found dead. Officials noted that some of these birds may not have been suffering from the effects of the oil spill.
Containment booms and oil-absorbing pads have been deployed at multiple points downstream to address the sheening and product, which as of Thursday morning, remained contained north of the Pacific Coast Highway bridge. While the intersection near the spill site has reopened following surface cleaning, long-term soil remediation is expected to take place under the oversight of the Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board.
Ongoing Impact and Next Steps
It remains unclear how long the cleanup process will take or when the pipeline will be fully repaired and returned to service. Future soil remediation work will be scheduled with an emphasis on minimizing disruptions to local residents and businesses. Impacted businesses are encouraged to file a claim by contacting 877-817-5465.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should the public do if they spot an oiled bird?
Members of the public are advised not to attempt to rescue the birds themselves. Instead, they should report sightings to the Oiled Wildlife Care Network by calling 1-877-UCD-OWCN (1-877-823-6926).
Is the intersection at East Cesar Chavez and North Eastern avenues open?
Yes, the roads have been reopened following an examination of the soil conditions and the cleaning of affected surfaces, including the sidewalks.
Who is managing the response to the spill?
A Unified Command is in charge of the response, consisting of representatives from the EPA, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Office of Spill Prevention and Response, the Los Angeles County Fire Department, and the pipeline operator, Pacific Pipeline Systems.
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