MarAd: Calif. Ghost Ships are Safe

The U.S. Maritime Administration (MarAd) says World War II-era ships are safe to move from Suisun Bay, Calif., to Texas scrap yards, a report said. The U.S. Department of Transportation six years ago found the 77 ghost ship at Walnut Creek, Calif., 'an immediate environmental threat.' However, acting Maritime Administration Director Julie Nelson last week insisted the ships are safe enough to move. Nelson`s visit was in response to a request by Knight Ridder reporters who were refused permission by the Maritime Administration to tour the Suisun Bay fleet, the Contra Costa (Calif.) Times reported. MarAd says ships in Virginia`s James River are a higher removal priority. Source: United Press International