On the afternoon of 14 July 2007, Explorer Pipline notified the National Response Center (NRC) of a Jet Fuel Spill from its 28-inch line located just east of Huntsville, Texas. The release was first noticied by a near-by resident who called 911. The jet fuel was reported to have entered Turkey Creek.
The PRP contractors continue the following activities: removal of product from the existing pipeline in preparation for replacing the damaged section of line; preparation of the new pipe for installation (welding, and pressure testing) and removal of free prodcut from Turkey Creek.
Representatives of the Department of Transportation (DOT) Office of Pipeline Safety are on-site monitoring the removal of the failed segment of pipeline and installation of the new segment.
Based on the most recent fly-over approximately 4 miles of Turkey Creek was impacted by the spill. Part of the recovery process is taking place on Texas Department of Crimal Justice (TDCJ) property. The PRP and its contractors are coordinating the recovery process with the TDCJ Representatives.
The PRP contractors have removed approximately 3810 barrels (~160,000 gallons) of free product from Turkey Creek. The product is currently being temporarily stored in Frac Tanks.
The PRP Contractors are washing the banks of Turkey Creek to remove residual Jet Fuel and consolidate the product into central areas to facilitate collection of the free product.
The PRP will continue to remove free product from Turkey Creek and the existing pipeline, and continue to prepare the pipeline for replacement.
EPA will continue to monitor the PRPs response activities.
The PRP, TCEQ, and the Walker County Special Utility District are working together to coordinate the resumption of public water supply service to the residential community. The PRP hopes to receive analytical data later today to support returning water service to the residents who have lost service.
During the intial release one residential property was contaminated by the Jet Fuel. A voluntary evacuation has been in-place with residents staying in local hotels.
Approximately 300 residents are currently with-out potable water. The PRP is working with the residents until the water supply can be restored. Potable water is being supplied by the PRP to residents until water service can be restored.
The EPA, TCEQ, Walker County Special Utility District have advised the PRP to establish a Toll Free Number for residents who may have questions or conerns associated with the spill.
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