State and Federal Agencies Respond to Swamped Houseboat Incident
Owls Head, Maine – State and federal agencies mobilized on Friday following an incident earlier in the week involving the houseboat Endeavor, which swamped while being towed for repairs. The incident occurred on Tuesday when the Endeavor was being towed by a lobster boat, owned by a sternman of the boat’s owner.
According to the Maine Marine Patrol, the owner intended to ground the houseboat for maintenance. Jeff Nichols, a spokesperson for the Department, clarified that the Endeavor had not been abandoned and no violations had occurred that would prompt enforcement actions. The Maine Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and the U.S. Coast Guard reported to the scene to manage any potential fuel leaks.
DEP staff and Coast Guard spill response personnel arrived early Friday, deploying sorbent and containment booms around the boat to address leakage concerns. "Our investigation is ongoing," stated DEP spokesperson David Madore, emphasizing the collaboration between DEP, the Department of Marine Resources (DMR), and the Coast Guard.
The Endeavor had been docked at the Sail, Power and Steam Museum for several years before needing space for another vessel. The previous owner had modified the fishing trawler to resemble a houseboat, and recent owner Dylan McClure was set to repair the leaking cement hull when the towing mishap occurred.
Local shipyards are currently at full capacity, prompting the owner to consider DIY repairs. The situation reflects broader concerns in Owls Head, grappling with abandoned boats along its shores, highlighted by past incidents where communities banded together for removals.
The investigation remains open as agencies work to assess and mitigate the situation.
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