Sat Jul 19 07:37:47 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and rewritten news article based on the provided text, designed to fit within the editorial style of *The Hindu*:
**Summary:**
A tanker truck accident on July 18, 2025, on US 101 in Washington State resulted in a fuel spill into Indian Creek, a tributary of a river recently restored for salmon runs after dam removal. The spill, involving an estimated unknown quantity of diesel and gasoline, has prompted environmental concerns, road closures, and a temporary shutdown of Port Angeles’ water treatment plant. Governor Bob Ferguson’s office is monitoring the situation, with concerns focused on the impact on the salmon population.
**News Article:**
**Fuel Spill Threatens Restored Salmon Habitat in Washington State**
*Washington, July 19, 2025* – A tanker truck accident on US 101 near the Olympic Peninsula in Washington State has resulted in a significant fuel spill into Indian Creek, a tributary of a vital river system undergoing ecological restoration. The incident, which occurred on Friday, July 18, 2025, has raised serious concerns about the potential impact on the region’s recently revived salmon population and local water supplies.
According to the Washington State Department of Transportation, the crash involving the tanker, capable of carrying thousands of gallons of fuel, has led to the closure of a section of US 101, with no immediate estimate for reopening.
“The truck is actively leaking, and crews are working to contain the spill,” read a statement from Governor Bob Ferguson’s office. While the exact amount of fuel released is still being assessed, authorities are scrambling to mitigate the environmental damage.
The incident is particularly alarming given the years of effort dedicated to restoring the Elwha River, into which Indian Creek flows. The removal of two dams on the Elwha over a decade ago, a project championed by the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe, opened up approximately 70 miles of habitat for salmon and steelhead.
“This spill is nothing short of heartbreaking for local tribes and other Washingtonians who rely on clean, healthy rivers and streams for their food and livelihoods,” Governor Ferguson said in a statement. He is planning to visit the affected area in the coming days to assess the damage firsthand.
Further compounding the issue, the city of Port Angeles, which draws its water from the Elwha River, has temporarily shut down its water treatment processing operations. Residents have been urged to conserve water as the city relies on reservoir reserves.
The accident serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of ecosystems and the need for stringent safety measures in areas with significant environmental value. Authorities are investigating the cause of the crash and assessing the long-term consequences of the fuel spill.
First Piper 