Contributed by Chalmette Refining —PBF Energy
On the evening of Dec. 27, a leak of diesel fuel occurred on the Collins Pipeline crossing private property near Meraux. Clean-up crews have recovered approximately 7,700 barrels of diesel fuel from the site, which is being recycled at the refinery. On-water liquid recovery activities have been completed.
We are continuing to work cooperatively with the landowner and other agency partners, such as Louisiana Oil Spill Coordinators Office, Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality, PHSMA, Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF), US Fish & Wildlife (USFW), Department of Transportation, and the St. Bernard Levee District.
We are continuing to work with LDWF to collect and rehabilitate any impacted wildlife. Wildlife Response Services (WRS) has been hired to establish a wildlife rehabilitation center and oversee the care of all impacted wildlife. All live animals collected are undergoing an intake exam where their condition is established and a specific treatment plan is developed for each animal in conjunction with the LDWF state wildlife veterinarian. Once the animals have been stabilized, they undergo a wash process to remove any external oiling. Following the wash process, all animals are reexamined to ensure they are clean and healthy prior to their release.
In coordination with LDWF, we are utilizing propane scare cannons to keep migratory birds away from the remediation site for their safety. Propane scare cannons release a blast of air creating a sound similar to a gunshot without shooting any type of projectile. Propane scare cannons have been shown to be the most effective way to haze migratory birds from an area. The scare cannons have been redirected at the site to help minimize any impact to nearby residents. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.
