Photo: Akira Hojo on Unsplash.com

By Laura Durenberger-Grunow - Boreal Community Media - September 3, 2025

On September 2, 2025, at approximately 11 a.m., an oil spill occurred at the Duluth Harbor dock wall. Cleanup operations are currently in progress.

According to a press release from the U.S. Coast Guard Great Lakes District, the spill involved diesel oil and happened during a fuel transfer to a tank on a vessel. The cause of the spill is still under investigation. The Coast Guard Marine Safety Unit Duluth is working with the vessel and local vacuum truck services in order to conduct the cleanup.

The estimated quantity of the spill is between 15 and 30 gallons, with the source secured. The Coast Guard stated that this estimate is preliminary and may be revised as the assessment continues.

Immediately upon discovering the spill, the vessel initiated its response plan. Current efforts are focused on containing and recovering the spilled oil, with members of the Coast Guard on the scene. The environmental impact of the spill is still being assessed.

The press release stated, "The Coast Guard is committed to ensuring the safety of the marine environment and preventing future occurrences."

At this time, the port remains open and operational. The public is requested to stay clear of the area until cleanup operations have been completed.