Environment 12-4

The Greka-Davis Tank Battery facilities at 5017 Zaca Station Road suffered another spill on 11/24.

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The Hazardous Materials Unit (HMU) specialist on scene estimated 350 to 400 barrels of crude oil and toxic-byproduct water spilled. Santa Barbara County Fire Department responded with one engine company, one HMU, and an investigator to determine the cause of the spill. Early results suggest mechanical problems or operator errors are to blame.

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The U.S. Forest Service will reduce wilderness fire restrictions on 12/5 due to recent precipitation and cool weather patterns that have made for a decreased possibility of forest fires. Also on 12/5, certain parts of the forest located in the Monterey Ranger District will be reopened to public access.

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This week’s survey of bacteria levels at Santa Barbara County beaches found all spots to be safe for swimmers except for Hammonds and Haskell’s beaches, which were revealed to have high bacteria levels. The public has consequently been issued warnings for these two beaches, meaning that swimmers should stay at least 50 yards away from creek mouths and storm drains near these areas