Abstract: A method and apparatus for removing contaminants from the surface of water. An open-ended barricade is directed into and about a contaminant mass to channel the contaminant material to skimming apparatus which assists in collecting the material for recovery, storage and reuse. The process and apparatus is especially adaptable for use in naturally flowing bodies of water into which the apparatus is restrainably positioned to continuously and automatically remove the contaminant material. A scoop member, collection apparatus, and transporting circuit recovers the contaminant material for subsequent reuse while leaving the body of water free from contamination.

Abstract: A readily deployable barrier apron is used with contaminant recovery systems to encompass contaminant material or to channel such material to collection devices. An upper apron member which is impenetrable has a lower penetrable member attached. Deployment devices such as hinging segments or spooling rolls of such apron barrier are utilized with an uprighting construction to provide for a quickly deployable, ready to use, and easy to control barrier construction for such uses as the containment of oil spills.