PUBLIC NOTICE

In accordance with the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (33 USC 2714(c)), the motor vessel WESTERN SEA was struck by a cargo barge in the vicinity of the Knowles Head anchorage in Valdez, AK, on May 12, 2026.  As a result of the collision, the WESTERN SEA discharged approximately 140,000 barrels of bunker fuel into the Prince William Sound.  Fairwater Holding, LLC, the owner/operator of the WESTERN SEA is no longer accepting claims for uncompensated damages and removal costs resulting from their oil spill.  As such, the National Pollution Funds Center is now accepting claims for certain uncompensated damages and removal costs in place of Fairwater Holdings, LLC.

Removal costs and damages that may be compensated include removal costs performed in accordance with the National Contingency Plan; damage to natural resources; damage to or loss of real or personal property; loss of subsistence use of natural resources; loss of government revenues; loss of profits and earnings capacity; and increased cost of public services.  

Claims should be in writing, signed by the claimant, for a specified amount; and include all evidence to support the damages. Claims presented may include claims for short-term damages representing less than the full amount to which the claimant may be entitled. It should be noted that payment of such a claim shall not preclude recovery for damages not reflected in the paid or settled partial claims.  

Claims should be submitted electronically to npfc@potomacwave.com. 

Alternatively, claims may be mailed to the following address:

CG National Pollution Funds Center: Claims

US Coast Guard Stop 7605

2703 Martin Luther King Jr Ave SE

Washington, DC 20593-7605

Questions can be directed to the NPFC Claims Call line at (877) 664-5044, between the hours of 7 AM and 4 PM (AKDT) Mondays – Fridays, except holidays.