Water sampling is being conducted at the seep site as well. Excavation of the pipeline began yesterday. A second hole is being excavated 50 feet south of the rupture. The purpose of the two holes is to gain access to the pipeline on either side of the damaged section of pipe. The pipe will be cut, then capped, isolating the damaged section of the pipe.
Work continues to develop a plan to excavate the damaged section of the pipe.
It has been determined that a 20-inch water pipe located above the damaged section of the pipeline will need to be removed before excavation of the ruptured pipe can begin. Thermal scanning of the soil for hot spots continues where appropriate. Work continues to execute a water sampling plan to determine the extent of possible exposure to natural resources in Whatcom Creek and Bellingham Bay. Shoreline and stream assessment and sampling continue to determine the extent of contamination and erosion potential of the shoreline. Work is continuing to determine the impact to fish and wildlife.