Bulk Carrier Manitowoc Spills Diesel Fuel into Lake Michigan, Clean Up Crews on Scene in Manistee

Update 8/4/23:

The U.S. Coast Guard and the Oil Spill Removal Organization are on scene near Manistee, Michigan cleaning up a diesel fuel spill that occurred Wednesday afternoon. The coast guard most recent observations of the spill note that the fuel has covered an area two miles ling by three quarters of a mile wide. The closest fuel has been observed to shore is approximately half a mile off the coast from the Portage Point Woods Preserve.

The motor vessel Manitowoc reported a leak in its starboard fuel tank Wednesday. Temporary repairs have since been made, and the ship is no longer actively spilling fuel. The hole in the vessel’s tank was repaired using an epoxy plug.

The U.S coast guard is responding to a diesel fuel spill in Lake Michigan off the coast from Manistee, Michigan. At approximately 3 pm yesterday afternoon the Coast Guard responded to reports of the motor vessel, Manitowoc, spilling diesel fuel into Lake Michigan, approximately one and half miles off the coast.

Find a full copy of the U.S. Coast Guard’s updated release here.

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The 612 foot bulk carrier reported a hull breach on its starboard diesel tank. The vessel has been anchored off shore, northwest of the Manistee River. A red slick was observed to be 1.6 miles in length and 200 yards wide, projecting to the northeast from the vessel within a few hours of reporting. A diesel spill response team is on scene actively working to contain the fuel. And the vessel is no longer leaking fuel, with temporary repairs made to plug the hole.

In response to the spill a unified command made of local, state and national organizations has been set up to oversee the direct containment and clean up of fuel. There is no known impact to beaches at this time. However diesel fuel can present significant health hazards.  The public is asked to call 231 723 6241to confirm sightings of diesel fuel at the beach.

You can find the U.S. Coast Guard full release here.