The Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) and Steveston Harbour Authority (SHA) have found and stopped the source of a "significant diesel leak" in Steveston Harbour.
The leak had come from a vessel in the area, where a line in the engine room was spilling diesel into the vessel's bilge "at a fast rate," said Michelle Imbeau, CCG spokesperson. The bilge is the lowest inner part of a ship designed to collect excess water.
CCG and SHA found the vessel yesterday afternoon and they stopped more pollutants from entering the water by turning off and removing the bilge pump, which was pumping excess water — and leaked diesel — into the harbour.
According to Imbeau, CCG received a report of a diesel smell and sheen near Garry Point Park around 8:15 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 10.
"Due to the failing light on Aug. 10, a source could not be determined," said Imbeau. The source was finally located yesterday afternoon, on Aug. 12.
Over the past two days, CCG has also cleaned up more than 100 litres of spilled diesel with absorbent pads and booms.
Beaches at Garry Point Park are still closed and Richmondites should continue to stay back from shorelines, keep pets away from the water, and avoid swimming.
SHA and CCG will remain in contact over the weekend in case the situation changes. The owner of the leaking vessel has also been asked to clean the bilge.
