According to the results of a federal investigation, the accident caused a puncture in the pipe of the 72-year-old oil pipeline. And although it’s called a small hole, the pressure inside was so high that it caused 182,000 gallons (4,345 barrels) of crude to leak out.

What is known about the event

According to the source, following the recent laws in favor of oil companies, operators increased the pressure in the pipes to pump more raw materials.

• we know that oil spill cost $4.7 million.
• It was claimed that the steel pipeline was “exposed due to loss of coating”.
• A worker clearing vegetation near the pipeline with a commercial lawnmower for the Mid-Valley Pipeline Company crashed into the structure and drilled a hole of about 18 cm.
• 3,300 barrels of oil arrived in the nearby town of Horse Creek.

The investigation further states that “the company has responded well to the incident”. Currently, most of the consequences of the accident that occurred in June have been eliminated. The cleanup involved digging the soil about six feet down and pumping oil from the creek with a hose. Weather conditions also affected the cleaning: It was noted that the drought helped to get over the leak more easily.

This is the second largest crude oil spill to date in Tennessee. It has already affected local water, soil and wildlife. Turtles, fish and some terrestrial animals are reported to be among the affected species. There is no threat to humans. A similar leak occurred in Tennessee in 1988.