Recovery efforts for the Sistersville ferry tugboat began last week, drawing assistance from multiple agencies and private companies working together to secure the site and contain environmental hazards.

Clean Harbors led the response to the leaking diesel fuel, overseeing containment operations on the water. The New Martinsville Fire Department provided a boat to deploy containment booms around the stranded tug, while the Tyler County Office of Emergency Management supplied additional booms to help prevent the spread of fuel along the river.

The Monroe County Sheriff’s Dive Team played a key role in securing tow lines to the vessel, assisting crews from Westfall Towing in an attempt to pull the tugboat to shore. Recovered fuel was collected by HEPACO and transported safely to an approved disposal site.

All operations were conducted under the supervision of the U.S. Coast Guard, which provided guidance and recovery planning throughout the process.

Despite coordinated efforts, crews were unable to move the tugboat after it became lodged in the riverbed. However, officials report that fuel containment efforts were successful, and the area remains stable and safe as it awaits the next phase of recovery.

Once the tugboat is successfully lifted onto a barge, it will be transported to Bell Harbor for a full damage assessment and necessary repairs.