Sunken vessel leads to petroleum spill.
Observation by Michael Sloan:
The M/V Rustler sank in big November storm and has leaked petroleum/oil into Nome Small Boat Harbor since this time. Both the City of Nome and US Coast Guard (USCG) have been involved, and the USCG has given the owner until August 15, 2012, to remedy the situation or face daily pollution fines. The sunken/leaky vessel is located only 50'-75' from a popular subsistence area for tomcod and salmon fishing, and there is concern about impacts on subsistence resources.
Update from Michael Sloan and LEO Editors:
The USCG has conducted an inspection and deemed the vessel to be sound and no longer presenting an environmental threat. The spill prevention booms have been removed.
Observations From Members 