(Tribune News Service) — Cleanup efforts are underway following an “unexpected discharge” of about 1,800 gallons of diesel fuel at the Naval Construction Battalion Center in Gulfport, Miss., according to a press release issued Tuesday night.

The “unexpected” discharge occurred three days earlier, on Saturday, in NCBC’s microgrid system, which is composed of solar panels and backup generators.

“Immediate measures were taken to contain the discharged fuel, and comprehensive cleanup efforts are actively ongoing,” the release said.

“Installation officials have assured base personnel, their families, and the surrounding community that the spill was quickly contained and immediate steps were taken to mitigate any environmental impact,” according to NCBC.

Contractors trained in oil spill removal responded within 24 hours to start the cleanup that officials say has been contained to the grounds.

“There is no anticipated risk to the quality of potable water, nor is there expected to be any impact on base residents,” the release said.

An investigation is underway to determine the cause of the “inadvertent discharge” to prevent future incidents.

Members of the Navy’s On-Sceen Coordinator Program arrived to head up the cleanup operation and evaluate the site for any environmental, safety or health impacts.

The NCBC is working with state officials to ensure the clean-up response meets all state and federal requirements, the release said.

(c)2024 The Sun Herald (Biloxi, Miss.)

Visit www.sunherald.com

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.