JUNEAU, Alaska – Coast Guard Marine Safety Detachment Dutch Harbor personnel responded to a report of a vessel sinking in Unalaska Bay Thursday.

Coast Guard 17th District watchstanders received the report that the 68-foot landing craft Joshua had begun to sink at its mooring at approximately 10 a.m., and directed MSD investigators to respond.

After arriving on scene, MSD personnel met with the vessel’s owner and determined that approximately 10 gallons of diesel fuel had been discharged while it was sinking.

The responsible party deployed a containment boom around the vessel and had divers secure fuel vents to minimize environmental impact.

MSD personnel are continuing to work with the responsible party, and will monitor efforts to refloat the vessel on Friday.

“Responding to oil spills and ensuring proper steps are being taken to protect the environment is one of the Coast Guard’s primary missions,” said Lt. James Fothergill, supervisor of Marine Safety Detachment Dutch Harbor. “The port sees a lot of traffic, and we are here to help keep both mariners and the waters they travel on safe.”

The cause of the sinking is under investigation.

Source: USCG