Welcome to Skagit County

June 26, 2013

Guemes Island Ferry Adopts New Technology to Reduce Black Smoke and Other Emissions

SKAGIT COUNTY —The Skagit County Ferry Operations Division is pleased to announce that its ferry, the M/V Guemes, has substantially lowered its engine exhaust carbon footprint after installing UltraBurn® Combustion Catalyst Systems provided by Emissions Technology, Inc. on its two main propulsion engines and its generator. All three systems have been in operation since April of this year.

Emissions test results completed in May showed a reduction in black smoke of more than 42%, and an average reduction in exhaust gases of 13%. The dramatic reduction in black smoke was observed by ferry customers and staff who now enjoy a cleaner transit to and from beautiful Guemes Island. Captain Rachel Beck, Ferry Operations Division Manager, explains that UltraBurn® technology works by improving combustion efficiency and, thus, increasing the power in diesel engines which may result in further environmental benefits by improving the fuel economy of the ferry.

Skagit County’s Ferry Operations Division is part of the Skagit County Public Works Department and is responsible for the maintenance and operation of the Guemes Island Ferry. Skagit County’s mission statement is to be recognized as a premier county in Washington State for providing professional leadership, operational excellence, timely assistance, and maximum efficiency in service delivery to its customers.

The final Emissions Evaluation Report is available at www.skagitcounty.net/ferry.