What happened in Ventura County regarding an oil spill?

Approximately 420 gallons of crude oil spilled into a remote waterway near Ojai, Ventura County, impacting a tributary of Sisar Creek.

Who is responsible for the Ojai oil spill?

Carbon California, the operator of the damaged storage tank, has been designated the responsible party for the spill.

How is the oil spill cleanup near Ojai progressing?

Cleanup crews are using booms and pumping to recover oil, but an approaching storm and difficult terrain are complicating the operation.

Home / Environment / Oil Spill Threatens Remote California Creek Ahead of Storm

Oil Spill Threatens Remote California Creek Ahead of Storm

20 Nov, 2025

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Summary

Roughly 420 gallons of crude oil spilled into a remote tributary.
Cleanup efforts are racing against an approaching storm.
The spill occurred in a wooded area near Ojai, Ventura County.

Oil Spill Threatens Remote California Creek Ahead of Storm

A significant oil spill has occurred in a remote, wooded area of Ventura County, California, where approximately 420 gallons of crude oil contaminated a tributary of Sisar Creek near Ojai. Cleanup operations commenced on Wednesday, with crews working diligently to mitigate the environmental impact before severe weather arrives.

The spill originated from a damaged storage tank owned by Carbon California. The company is cooperating with state and local agencies, including the Environmental Protection Agency and the Ventura County Sheriff's Department, in a unified command to address the incident. Responders are using absorbent booms and pumping to remove the oil from the waterway.