A dozen turtles, frogs and other animals recovered from oil spill by Smackover

LITTLE ROCK (KATV) — A host of reptiles and other animals were released by members of a response team into the Ouachita River yesterday.

The release stems from an oil spill that occurred recently. Team members were able to recover and release the animals after they were cleaned and assessed by professional oil recovery contractors.

Cleanup efforts are proceeding, as the spill which reached portions of Holmes Creek and Smackover Creek took place on June 15.

Arkansas Game and Fish Commission says the spill came about due to a manifold which was leaking from the Martin Operating Partners facility, releasing an estimated 2,500 barrels of crude oil.

The public is encouraged to continue boating, and other recreation. According to the Arkansas Department of Health, no evidence shows that a possible risk to public health from chemicals that may be circulating in the air from the spill.

The Environmental Protection Agency is the head of the oil spill cleanup effort. Updates are available here.

Volatile organic compounds may be circulating, and have an associated odor, but it does not indicate a certain risk from inhalation.

AFGC advises all anglers and boaters that the entrance to Smackover Creek from the Ouachita River is blocked with a containment boom.

The public will have no access to the Creek, in an effort to maintain public safety.

Questions or concerns about fish or wildlife consumption advisories, and even general health-related questions should be sent to the Arkansas Department of health at ADH.TS@arkansas.gov.