Work to remove leftover contaminants from the Ellwood Marine Terminal tanks and associated pipelines is underway and anticipated to end early next week. The Ellwood Marine Terminal is on the University of California property just east of Goleta’s Ellwood Mesa.
The facility was part of Venoco, Inc.’s crude oil operation, but has not been used since 2012. The university has since taken the lead to ensure the facility is decommissioned and contaminants are removed.
As part of the effort, the tanks will be degassed and pressure washed, with all liquids removed by a vacuum truck. Contaminants will be transported to a permitted disposal/recycling facility offsite.
The clean-up also includes degassing a portion of the pipeline leading from the decommissioned tanks. Access to the pipeline will take place at a vault located on Goleta city property, at the southeastern portion of Ellwood Mesa.
The proposed project is permitted by the California Coastal Commission and includes safety controls to prevent spills. The project does not involve any tree or vegetation removal and will not adversely impact any sensitive biological resources.
Recent surveys determined no monarch butterflies or nesting birds are in the vicinity of the planned work. There will be no grading, excavation, or ground disturbance to de-gas and remove sludge from the tanks and pipeline. Beach access and recreational trails at Ellwood Mesa will remain open during the work.
Direct questions or concerns about the project to George Thomson, parks and open space manager, 805-961-7578 or gthomson@cityofgoleta.org.