Update 2: Coast Guard, ADEC to oversee hoisting of Powhatan in Sitka, Alaska

News Release

June 9, 2017 U.S. Coast Guard 17th District Contact: Coast Guard Sector Juneau Office: (907) 463-2835 Cell: (907) 463-2980

JUNEAU, Alaska – Coast Guard and Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation personnel will oversee the hoisting of the tug Powhatan in Starrigavan Bay, Sunday.

 

Samson Tug and Barge contracted Alaska Commercial Divers and Pacific Pile & Marine to raise and dispose of the tug.

 

A heavy lifting crane barge from Seattle arrived Saturday and crews have placed rigging and lifting chain around the sunken tug Powhatan to prepare for hoisting. Once hoisted, Powhatan will be dewatered and any oil or hazardous materials on board will be removed. Southeast Alaska Petroleum Response Organization remains on scene to maintain boom and immediately respond to any pollution concerns. A 400-yard no-wake-zone remains in effect around the lifting operations. Coast Guard Auxiliary members from Sitka will conduct patrols for public safety Sunday.

 

"Our top priorities are to protect public health and safety, and to limit environmental impacts," said Capt. Shannan Greene, Federal On-scene Coordinator, Coast Guard Sector Juneau. "The Coast Guard remains committed to the safety of the operation and to ensuring the tug is recovered as efficiently as possible. Preventative measures are in place for pollution mitigation."

 

After hoisting is complete, the tug will be placed on a barge and brought to Seattle for final disposal.

 

Weather forecast for Sunday is a light wind less than 5 mph, seas 1 foot, and a chance of rain.