La. oil discharge cleaned up

NEW ORLEANS - The Coast Guard reports that clean-up operations at an abandoned wellhead near Venice, La., which occurred March 20, was completed March 22. Hilcorp Energy reported that the source of the oil discharge had been secured. There was no discrepancies or significant sheening reported. About 168 gallons of crude oil was collected during the clean-up. Initially, CG members arrived on scene and reported an estimated 840 gallons of crude oil in the water. Hilcorp contracted CUDD Well Control, OMI Environmental Solutions, and Clean Gulf Associates to conduct response operations. Boom, sorbent material, and skimming vessels were used to reduce the spread of oil and collect oil from the water’s surface. The Coast Guard conducted an overflight March 22 to assess the situation. The cause of the incident is under investigation. (Coast Guard 03/23/17)