Tue 16 Sep 2008, 11:05 GMT

Contaminated fuel off California coast


Local firm claims incident is the result of a refinery delivery mix-up.



Two Harbors, located at the Isthmus of Catalina Island, says it has learned that unleaded fuel with excessive levels (approximately 40 percent) of ethanol was sold to its customers during the period from August 30 - 8:00am to September 3rd 10am.

The excessive level of ethanol is claimed to have been the result of the local refinery delivering a load of what was supposed to be unleaded fuel but was in fact 100% ethanol. When this was then mixed with the existing unleaded fuel in the Two Harbors storage tanks it is said to have created a fuel mixture with approximately 40 percent ethanol.

Ann Luchau, Two Harbors Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer, is advising anyone who purchased fuel at Two Harbors during these dates to contact Two Harbors Enterprises to assist in having the fuel in their tanks switched out.

Luchau added, “Upon learning of this mistaken delivery, Two Harbors immediately ceased sales and had flushed its tanks to make sure our supply is no longer contaminated. The fuel mixture does not pose a health or safety risk to people, but could effect the performance of boats."

Two Harbors says it regrets this incident and plans to work closely with its customers to remedy the situation.

Those concerned are urged to call Two Harbors representatives Laura Mc Elroy on +1 310 510 4219 or Ann Luchau on +1 310 510 4204.


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