Balls of tar were found along the waterline of Long Beach, and the coast guard is still trying to determine the source of the oil.

The oil stretched across an area of about ¼ mile. Local surfers who were trying to take advantage of the unusually warm Thanksgiving weather were concerned when they found a sticky black substance on their boots and surfboards.

State environmental officials say the oil type indicates that it came from a commercial ship that likely passed by the area. They say if the oil doesn?t spread, it should only take a few hours to clean up the mess. However, they fear that some birds and wildlife may have already ingested the contaminated water.

Long Beach officials say the beach will remain open while the cleanup continues.

The Coast Guard is checking to see if any ships passed the area on Thursday. If the owner of the ship is determined, he or she will face stiff fines, officials say.