Boat Sinks Amid Stormy Weather At Petaluma Harbor, Spills Fuel

PETALUMA, CA — Cleanup of a fuel spill was continuing Thursday after a boat sank at the Petaluma Marina and 5 gallons of gasoline was released into the Petaluma River.

The Petaluma Fire Department was dispatched at 11:41 a.m. Wednesday to the Petaluma Marina at 781 Baywood Drive where it was reported a vessel was taking on water.

Two engine companies and Petaluma Fire Department’s spill response trailer responded and found the boat was taking on water because of the stormy weather conditions. As a result, it was sinking and leaking fuel and liquid from its bilge into the surrounding water, Acting Petaluma FD Battalion Chief Jude Prokop said in a news release.

"Using the department’s inflatable rescue boat, and working during peak wind and rain, crews were able to quickly deploy containment booms and absorbent socks to keep hazardous materials from spreading into the Petaluma River Watershed," Prokop said.

"This event is a great example of how important water training exercises are, not only for rescue but for working in unfavorable conditions."

Petaluma Fire Department notified the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, the U.S. Coast Guard and the Environmental Protection Agency about the incident.

According to a hazardous materials spill report filed and posted on the Cal OES website, there was a release of 5 gallons of gasoline into the Petaluma River but the spill was stopped and contained.

There were no injuries to any firefighters during the incident.

"The Harbor Master is working with the vessel owner to start recovery and cleanup efforts," Prokop said. "The Petaluma Fire Department wishes to thank the Harbor Master for quickly alerting us to the situation, allowing for a swift response."