Fishing Boat Stranded

KALAMA, Wash. -- A fishing boat became stuck after striking some pilings in the Columbia River on Sunday morning, Coast Guard officials said.


The 42-foot fishing vessel was stuck on the wing dam in the Columbia River and the boat's captain wasn't able to re-float it.

No injuries or pollution was reported in the incident, but Coast Guard officials said it was a hazard that needed to be dealt with quickly due to the wreck's close proximity to a blue heron nesting area.


"Due to the potential consequences, including the threat of pollution, Coast Guard Sector Portland has arranged for commercial assistance to remove the vessel and take it to a place of safety," Lt. Cmdr. David Smith said.

A Coast Guard field team is at the scene along with responders from Northwest Underwater Construction. A safety zone has been established around the grounded vessel to facilitate response operations.