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EPA Responds To Pipeline Spill Near Lockport, Illinois

Release Date: 12/14/2010
Contact Information: Anne Rowan, 312-353-9391, rowan.anne@epa.gov

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
No. 10-OPA151

Chicago, Ill. (December 14, 2010) - Earlier today, U.S. EPA responded to an oil release from a pipeline near Lockport, Ill. Although the spill appears to be largely contained, EPA will continue around-the-clock operations to clean up the affected area.

EPA is working closely with local and state responders to assess the spill’s impact on nearby wetlands. The Agency is also monitoring air quality to assess any potential impacts on the health and safety of workers and residents.

In addition, EPA today issued a Notice of Federal Interest to the pipeline operator, Buckeye Partners, L.P. The pipeline is owned by West Shore Pipe Line Co.

At approximately 7 a.m. this morning, local fire officials received a complaint about petroleum odors. Buckeye shut down the pipeline by 8 a.m. Early estimates indicate that 21,000 gallons of oil may have been released as a result of the spill.

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