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No harbour pollution found after reports of Esquimalt spill: Canadian Coast Guard

Non-recoverable sheen reported at entrance to Westbay Marine Village
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The Canadian Coast Guard says a non-recoverable sheen reported at the entrance to Westbay Marine Village in Esquimalt was likely a one-time bilge release. (Google Maps)

The Canadian Coast Guard says what was reported as an oil spill in the Westbay Marine Village was likely a one-time bilge release.

The Township of Esquimalt confirmed a visitor in the area spotted what appeared to be oil or other hydrocarbon material in the waters off Esquimalt Tuesday night. After checking nearby outfalls, crews eliminated the municipality’s pipes as a potential source.

The Township noted tides and winds may have moved the spill and due to marine location. A spokesperson for the Coast Guard confirmed a non-recoverable sheen was observed at the entrance to the marina Tuesday evening.

On Wednesday a National Aerial Surveillance Program overflight searched the area and did not observe any pollution in the marine environment, according to the Canadian Coast Guard. No source has been determined and the spill is suspected to be a one-time bilge release, which means bilge water is released into the open sea and coastal areas while the ship was in operation.

Anyone who spots a spill or notices the risk of one occurring is asked to report it by calling 1-800-663-3456.

READ ALSO: Province offers expertise to help Esquimalt clean up Gorge oil spill


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