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Nanaimo Oil Spill: Wildlife and Environment at Risk
8 Jan
Summary
- Oil spill detected near Nanaimo's Duke Point Ferry Terminal on Jan. 5.
- Estimates range from 350 to 1,600 liters of oil sheen on the water.
- A private business handling used oil recycling is the suspected source.
An oil spill was reported near Nanaimo, British Columbia's Duke Point Ferry Terminal on the afternoon of January 5th, raising significant concerns for the surrounding marine environment and its wildlife. City staff discovered oily residue in a storm drain, tracing the spill's origin to a private business that handles used oil and battery recycling.
Transport Canada flight estimations revealed between 350 and 1,600 liters of oil sheen on the water between Duke Point and Mudge Island. Residents observed the spill's effects nearly three kilometers away, noting a strong diesel smell in an area known for its rich marine life, including orcas, sea lions, otters, and seals.
The Ministry of Environment has taken the lead in coordinating cleanup efforts, which are currently underway. While shipbuilder Seaspan assisted with deploying containment booms and absorbent pads, they confirmed the spill did not originate from their operations. The private company responsible has engaged an environmental consultant for the cleanup, though potential penalties for the spill have not yet been announced.
