Officials: Corpus Christi Bay oil spill larger than first estimated; 3 animals affected

A U.S. Coast Guard MJ-65 helicopter is seen in this January 2022 file photo.
Annie Rice/Caller-Times File

Corpus Christi Caller Times
January 1, 2023

An oil spill in Corpus Christi Bay that originated from a pipe failure at Flint Hills Resources’ Ingleside crude oil terminal is larger than originally estimated, a spokesperson said Friday.

An analysis completed on Friday showed that 335 barrels, or 14,000 gallons, of light crude oil was released, according to a statement from Flint Hills. The original estimate was 90 barrels, or 3,800 gallons, based on an assessment of the material that was discovered near the docks on Ingleside Bay on Dec. 24. 

A U.S. Coast Guard spokesperson initially said no impacts to wildlife had been reported, but Flint Hills said Friday that two dead birds were found in the area and one turtle has been treated for potential exposure.

Ingleside on the Bay Coastal Watch Association, a local advocacy group, issued a statement Thursday questioning transparency around the spill and urging the involved entities to inform the public about risks, recovery efforts and the effects on the environment.

On Dec. 29, U.S. Coast Guard and Texas General Land Office officials notified Flint Hills of an area at North Beach, Corpus Christi, and at the north-northwest portion of Corpus Christi Bay where material was discovered. 

“Flint Hills has mobilized resources, assessed the area, and is taking steps to recover material from the impacted areas,” the company’s statement read. “Crews also remain on site at Ingleside, where those cleanup efforts continue.”

More than 17,000 feet of boom and 3,000 feet of absorbent pads have been deployed to protect sensitive habitat and shoreline. Additional boom will be deployed as necessary, the statement said.

The cause of the incident is still under investigation. Flint Hills spokesperson Andy Saenz previously told the Caller-Times that weather conditions are the primary theory.

Flint Hills Resources Ingleside Dock 5 remains idled.

Flint Hills is working with the U.S. Coast Guard, Texas General Land Office and the Port of Corpus Christi Authority, the statement said.

The public can report claims by calling 1-800-254-1122.