FREEHOLD – This week’s boat sinking a half mile off Manasquan Beach just north of Manasquan Inlet will not impact enjoyment of area beaches, thanks to the quick response by the U.S. Coast Guard, State Police and Emergency Management offices in Monmouth and Ocean counties.

 

The 70-foot Susan II, a clamming vessel home ported in Gloucester, MA, began taking on water early Wednesday morning as the three-man crew was departing for a fishing trip. All three men were rescued by the Coast Guard. The boat will remain were it lies until next week.

 

Emergency responders initially were concerned about the estimated 1,500 gallons of diesel fuel the vessel was carrying, but divers were able to quickly plug the fuel tank vents. Fuel leakage has been minimal and subsequent flyovers show very little sheen on the water.

 

“We were very fortunate that that weather is cooperating,” said Gary McTighe, acting director of Monmouth County’s Office of Emergency Management. “We flew over the beaches today from Mantoloking to Sea Girt and they all appear to be clean and ready for weekend visitors.”

   

Salvage crews are expected to remove the boat next week.

 

In addition to the county’s Office of Emergency Management, the Hazardous Materials Team from the Monmouth County Health Department responded along with personnel from the Department of Public Information, assisting federal and state responders and local officials.       

 

“I commend all of the emergency responders who acted quickly to prevent what could have been a very costly disaster on the biggest weekend at the Shore,” said Freeholder William C. Barham, liaison to the Office of Emergency Management. “Thanks to their efforts, residents and visitors alike  can go to the beaches as planned and without worry to enjoy the sun, sand and surf.”

 

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