Cause of Port Oil Spill Remains Unknown

PORT MANATEE — One week after a major oil spill was discovered in waters off of Port Manatee, SeaPort Manatee Executive Director Carlos Buqueras says that the cause of the spill remains unknown.

“The Coast Guard has inspected every area of the port, yet to date has been unable to identify the origin of the material. As part of the Coast Guard’s ongoing investigation, its officers have collected samples for type-testing, and we are hopeful its investigation will soon reveal the source," said Buqueras in a statement to the press Thursday.

“Like several ports in Florida, SeaPort Manatee was closed during Hurricane Idalia. On Thursday, Aug. 31, a few days after Hurricane Idalia made landfall, SeaPort Manatee was inspected by the U.S. Coast Guard as part of its normal inspection process required before a port can reopen its shipping lanes," said Buqueras. "SeaPort Manatee received an 'all clear' from the Coast Guard, and shipping traffic resumed. On the morning of Aug. 31, the port noticed a visible discoloration within the port’s basin and notified the National Response Center. The Coast Guard inspected and didn’t set any restrictions on vessel operations."

TBT previously reported that the Coast Guard worked through the weekend to remove the oily debris. So far, the U.S. Coast Guard has removed at least 19,000 gallons of contaminated water.

“Preserving the environment is among our top priorities, which is why we have fully continued partnering with the Coast Guard," said Buqueras. "We have also encouraged tenant businesses at the port to cooperate with the Coast Guard."

The director added that the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration conducted an endangered species analysis of the area and reported no fish or wildlife is affected at this time.

"We are committed to being as transparent as possible with the public and will share new details as we learn them," said Buqueras.

Congressman Vern Buchanan's office issued a statement later the same day, announcing that the Congressman would tour the area with the U.S. Coast Guard and Buqueras on Friday.