Grounded ship has 25-foot gash

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) -- A 623-foot bulk carrier ran aground Monday morning in a narrow part of the Columbia River near Cathlamet.

The U.S. Coast Guard says the vessel loaded with grain was heading west with a river pilot still onboard when it ran into trouble early Monday. Two tug boats were on the scene to keep it stabilized.

Inspections revealed a 25-foot gash in the hull with water in two compartments; inspectors also found a large rock in one compartment.

"The cooperation between federal and state representatives continues to ensure the safety of the environment and the safety of the crew aboard the motor vessel Sparna," Capt. Dan Travers, commander Coast Guard Sector Columbia River, said Tuesday. "Although there has been no pollution aspect to this point, we have prepared and have people in place to respond to the worst case scenario."

A Coast Guard overflight Monday confirmed no pollution. Another overflight was scheduled for Wednesday.

Two tug boats – the PJ Brix and Pacific Escort remained on scene with the Sparna to help maintain its position. The Columbia River waterway remains open to all traffic, but the Captain of the Port may need to limit deep-draft commercial traffic once the Sparna begins its transit up river for repair.

The Sparna is fully loaded with grain in its cargo holds, and is carrying 218,380 gallons of high sulfur fuel and 39,380 gallons of marine diesel.

Eagle staff updated this report.