PORT HADLOCK — It may look like a small boat is leaking oil near Naval Magazine Indian Island today, but it’s just a drill.
Workers at the base and from county agencies will practice their response to an oil spill from a small vessel.
During the exercise, people may see a small boat positioned in the water near the base’s ammunition pier that will simulate a damaged pleasure craft that has begun to leak oil.
People may also see a temporary floating barrier being set up around the boat to contain the simulated oil spill.
The annual exercise is not expected to impact the public’s normal activities, said Liane Nakahara, Navy spokeswoman, in a statement.
The Jefferson County Department of Emergency Management as well as county fire and rescue teams will participate in the exercise to practice response efforts between the Navy and the county, she said.
Navy Region Northwest Fire and Emergency Services “has a great working relationship with the two adjacent agencies, East Jefferson Fire-Rescue and Port Ludlow Fire and Rescue,” said Indian Island Station 91 Fire Capt. Glenn Samples.
“Part of the reason for this effective partnership is training and practicing together as a team,” he said.
The exercise will “verify the state’s geographical response plans for Indian Island’s environmental, port operations and harbor security program training in addition to the annual oil spill exercise requirement,” said Shawn Lightfritz, Indian Island installation training officer.
Said Cmdr. Gary Martin, Naval Magazine Indian Island commanding officer: “Routinely practicing for possible real-world water incidents keeps us ready to respond when necessary to protect that resource and all who use it.”
