EPA sending experts to Hawaii for molasses spill

[Reader]

http://www.centurylink.net/news/rea...p-epa_sending_experts_to_hawaii_for_molass-ap

HONOLULU (AP) — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is sending two spill experts to Hawaii to help clean up some 1,400 tons of molasses that spilled into Honolulu Harbor this week..........

Crews have collected about 2,000 dead fish near the harbor.


Short article.....

 

[montana_16]

Is there ANYTHING humans haven't messed up?!?

 

[Show Me]

Its a sticky situation.

How do you clean 1400 tons of molasses out of the harbor?

 

[Reader]

Its a sticky situation.

How do you clean 1400 tons of molasses out of the harbor?

According to this article, it looks like they will just have to try and experiment with it because what works for oil spills will not work for the molasses. They are not even sure why it is killing the fish because molasses is not toxic.

Hawaii receiving federal aid and funds for molasses spill

http://www.hawaiinewsnow.com/story/23425661/epa-sending-assistance-to-honolulu-after-molasses-spill

According to EPA officials, molasses spills can be technically challenging to contain and clean up, as methods used on oil spills such as floating booms and skimming to contain the liquid are ineffective.

The State has also requested assistance from the U.S. Coast Guard, which makes Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) funding available for expenses related to this spill. The Coast Guard will coordinate the response, with direct involvement from the State of Hawai‘i, the EPA, and NOAA..........

Federal officials cautioned that there is very little precedent on how to proceed. Due to the nature of molasses, skimming and normal oxygenation techniques may not work. EPA described a possible strategy of deploying what are known as "air curtains"—long air bubbler tubes—in the most sensitive areas affected, but it is uncertain how effective this strategy will be.