CATSKILL – An oil sheen spotted on the Catskill Creek was traced to a boat that was 90 percent submerged in the water.
State environmental conservation officers patrolling on the Catskill Creek and Hudson River were alerted by a marina owner that he noticed the oil sheen about a quarter-mile up the creek and located a vessel tied to a dock that was virtually completely submerged. The boat was leaking fluids, sending a bright, multi-colored sheen down Catskill Creek.
The officers requested assistance from DEC’s Spill Response unit and worked together to contain the spill to the area immediately around the vessel.
The boat sank as a result of rainwater coupled with a failed bilge pump and was removed from the creek later that night on August 23.
DEC encourages boat owners to check on their boats frequently to ensure everything is in working order.
The boat owner is responsible for water pollution cleanup and vessel removal in these types of incidents.
