Based on coverage from CBC, CTV, TimesColonist.
A barge carrying cargo containers is currently in distress off the coast of British Columbia, near the community of Bella Bella. The Canadian Coast Guard reported that the Malolo tugboat, en route from Alaska to Seattle, alerted them to the situation on Monday. The barge, which is taking on water, has been moved to a safer location near Matthew Island, just off Fisher Channel. The Heiltsuk Nation's emergency response team is closely monitoring the situation.
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Barge's Cargo and Environmental Concerns
The barge is loaded with refrigerated containers, dry goods, and diesel fuel for the refrigeration units. Despite assurances from Transport Canada that there is no pollution reported, the Heiltsuk Nation is concerned about the lack of transparency regarding the barge's full contents. William Housty, director of the Heiltsuk Integrated Resource Management Department, emphasized the importance of knowing what is on board to prepare for any potential environmental impacts.
In response to the situation, precautionary measures have been taken, including deploying an oil boom around the mouths of three salmon creeks to protect ecologically sensitive areas. The Heiltsuk Nation has also stationed their emergency response team to monitor the barge overnight.
Historical Context and Ongoing Risks
This incident has reignited concerns about marine traffic and environmental risks in the region. The Heiltsuk Nation recalls the 2016 sinking of the tugboat Nathan E. Stewart, which resulted in a significant oil spill in the area. The community is still dealing with the aftermath of that disaster, which polluted over 1,500 acres of their territory.
The current situation also coincides with discussions about potentially amending the federal oil tanker ban on B.C.'s northern coast. The Heiltsuk Nation has voiced strong opposition to any exemptions that would increase tanker traffic, citing the ongoing marine emergency as evidence of the risks involved.
Response and Future Actions
Efforts are underway to stabilize the barge and prevent further damage. Alaska Marine Lines, the barge operator, plans to transfer some cargo to a secondary barge to lighten the load. This operation is expected to begin shortly, with welders and crane operators arriving on the scene.
The Canadian Coast Guard, along with the Heiltsuk Nation and other stakeholders, continues to monitor the situation closely. Pollution response equipment is on standby, ready to be deployed if necessary. The barge owner will be responsible for any costs related to cleanup or repairs.
As the situation develops, the Heiltsuk Nation remains vigilant, advocating for greater transparency and stricter regulations to protect their waters from future incidents.
