Crews haul contaminated soil out of Padden Creek as cleanup efforts continue

Crews are actively removing contaminated soil from Padden Creek as cleanup efforts continue after a diesel fuel spill. The Unified Command, led by the Washington Department of Ecology, reports the removal of 13 truckloads of contaminated material since the response began. The spill released over 670 gallons of diesel, resulting in the death of six fish, but authorities confirmed that no fuel reached Bellingham Bay. Bellingham Public Works Director Joel Pfundt stated that the city has replaced the faulty pump responsible for the spill and enhanced secondary containment measures at all pump locations. These changes may set a new standard for future city restoration projects.

A stop work order on the fish passage project remains in effect until all contaminated soil is removed. The incident underscores the importance of environmental safety in local infrastructure projects. Soil samples will help determine the timeline for completing the excavation.