On June 23, 2016 at approximately 0530 hrs., a 10” pipeline owned by Crimson Pipeline with Aera Energy crude oil ruptured at Hall Canyon in Ventura, CA. The oil leak flowed down the Prince Barranca. Ventura Fire Dept. constructed an earthen dam and prevented the oil from flowing any farther. The pipe was depressurized and the oil leak was stopped. Approximately 700 barrels or 29,400 gallons crude oil was released. The oil leak stretches approximately half a mile from the point of origin to the earthen dam. The crude oil was contained and no seepage was observed. The cause of the rupture is still under investigation. There was no threat to the ocean or other waterways and RP cleanup crews were on scene removing product by 0700 hrs.
OSC and START contract personnel were dispatched to the scene. The initial NRC and Cal OES reports suggested the discharge was as much as 5,000 barrels. While that estimate was revised down to approximately 700 barrels, continuation of the EPA response was deemed prudent. Approximately ½ mile of creek bed is impacted about 1.5 miles inland of the Ocean (EPA jurisdiction). A Coast Guard overflight has confirmed no discharge to the Ocean.
