News Release
| Release Number: | 04-031 |
| Dated: | 2/23/2004 |
| Contact: | Matt Rabe, 503-808-4510 |
> > Portland, Ore . - The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is reporting a small oil spill from The Dalles Dam today.
Maintenance crews noticed an oil sheen below the dam's powerhouse at about 1 p.m. today as they were preparing one of the generating units for maintenance. Crews estimate fewer than 15 gallons were released into the Columbia River.
Crews have stopped the release of any additional oil.
The Corps notified federal, state and tribal officials, as well as downstream marinas operators and conservationists.
Maintenance crews were not able to contain the spill and allowed it to move downriver, where it is expected to dissipate.
The Corps is still in the process of upgrading its spill response procedures following a Jan. 15 mineral oil spill at The Dalles Dam. Those procedures include improved maintenance procedures, better spill response training and an expanded notification list.