Seems the boat's owner had inadvertently spilled a seemingly insiginifcant amount of hydraulic fluid into the bay, and now it was toxic cleanup time.
Then it was time to write up citations, sign a bunch of papers and start staring at Federal fines.
Maybe it doesn't seem like a big deal, but Federal regulations state that if you're fueling up your boat and spill just the slightest amount of diesel, gasoline or any petroleum-based product over the side, if your spill leaves a visible film on the water's surface, you're in violation of a Federal law and subject to a minimum $5000 [five thousand] dollar fine.
Minimum.
Think what the fine might be for spilling enough hydraulic fluid to warrant a toxic clean-up and the personal attention of 3 stern-looking EPA officials. Rumor has it the figure could soar well into five figures.
Doesn't matter if the spill was the result of carelessness, ignorance or an accident. Doesn't matter if the owner's got an explanation or a reasonable-sounding excuse ... just as it doesn't matter if the boat's owner thinks the penalty is excessive or unfair.
I've got an insurance policy for any fuel or oil that spills from my boat, to make sure the penalty is paid on my behalf. Fuel-spill coverage is openly available for the asking.
Surely this pour soul had a friend or a concerned neighbor who'd already told him about it?
