JUNEAU, Alaska— The abatement process is complete and destruction is slated to begin next week.
Absolute Services was subcontracted to complete the abatement of the Tug Challenger while moored at the A.J. Dock. Throughout the week, they successfully removed all oil and hazardous materials found on board, to include asbestos and lead paint.
Once deemed safe for entry, Global Diving and Salvage, Inc. commenced cleanup inside the vessel. This involved cutting ventilation holes for fuel tanks, steam cleaning and debris removal in preparation for the next and final phase of removal.
“We are pleased to see the oil and hazardous materials safely removed from our waters,” said Cmdr Marc Burd, incident commander, “Moving forward, being good stewards of the waterway and the environment will remain a major priority during the destruction phase of the removal.”
A final dead ship tow is scheduled to commence early next week. The Tug will be brought ashore and broken down by the destruction crew throughout next week. The vessel segments will then be disposed of in accordance with the approved disposal plan.
For more information on the Tug Challenger Removal, please contact the Joint Information Center at 907-463-2498.