A new spill response vessel is now in operation at Westport Marina in Washington, expanding the port’s ability to respond to environmental incidents during the busy commercial fishing season.
The vessel was acquired through a Department of Ecology (DOE) Spills Prevention, Preparedness and Response Grant awarded in autumn 2024. Following a competitive bid process, the Port of Grays Harbor selected Silverback Marine of Tacoma, Washington, to construct the vessel. It was delivered in May 2025.
Designed for efficiency and safety, the medium-sized work barge features a flat deck running from bow to stern and a central cabin that optimises visibility. The vessel also includes a 115 HP engine, offering improved steering and manoeuvrability. These features are expected to reduce response times during incidents on the water.
Westport Marina Operations Manager Jeremy Plummer stated: “The operations team at the marina often serves as first responders to a variety of incidents, including oil spills. For this reason, we are incredibly grateful to our partners at DOE’s Spill Response division for this generous grant.”
The vessel has already proven useful to both year-round staff and seasonal hires, arriving just in time for the peak summer season when vessel traffic increases significantly.
Located on Washington’s outer coast, Westport Marina is home to the state’s largest commercial fishing fleet. Vessels ranging from 11 to over 30-metres (35 to over 100-feet) call at the marina to offload seafood as well as to refuel, restock supplies and seek safe harbour.
While the vessel represents a step forward in response preparedness, it also aligns with ongoing investments at the marina. The Port of Grays Harbor is currently moving ahead with a phased modernisation plan focused on replacing ageing dock infrastructure and improving access for vessels and workers.
