Abstract: Apparatus and associated methods of operation for the collection, separation and recovery of a contaminant from a body of water are provided which include as an essential element a collection tank which receives ingested liquids such as oil and water from one or more intake devices. The level of oil/water within the tank is controlled by means of pressurized gas, preferably air, which is selectively introduced into the tank, above the oil/water collection therein. The compressed air may also be utilized to remove the collected oil and to transmit the oil to storage.