Information bulletin
For immediate release
ESQUIMALT, BC—On Saturday, January 18, a resident contacted the provincial spill hotline to report an unidentified spill in Gorge Creek.
Esquimalt staff mobilized quickly to arrive on site with response materials to manage spill’s spread. While the spill material is some type of hydrocarbon, it is yet unclear if it is kerosene, heating fuel, or some other type of gas.
Gorge Creek runs adjacent to Esquimalt Gorge Park and flows into the Gorge Waterway. The mouth of the creek is an estuarine area and bird sanctuary. Controlling the spread and determining the source of the spill is high priority for the Township due to the sensitive nature of the area.
There are watershed outflow points that empty from neighbouring residential areas into the creek. An investigation of those outflow points as well as surrounding water infrastructure did not indicate that the source of the spill came through Township pipes. Engineering and Public Works staff are continuing to work with Ministry of Environment & Climate Change staff to determine the source of the spill and prevent additional contamination.
Visitors to the creek may notice several oil-absorbing booms in the water and near the shore. The tidal nature of the Gorge Waterway leads to fluctuating water levels on the banks as well as water mixing up and down stream; a pattern that would not normally occur in typical creek. This poses an extra layer of complexity when strategically placing booms to trap the oil.
There are several watershed outflows in Esquimalt that empty into shorelines around the Township. Residents and businesses are reminded to avoid allowing chemicals and other materials into catch basins and drains.
Residents are asked to respect the fencing around the creek to avoid further disruption. Anyone spotting a spill, or notice the risk of one occurring, are asked to report it immediately by calling 1-800-663-3456.
More information
- More information about proper chemical disposal
- What to do with an oil tank in Esquimalt
- Esquimalt’s watershed map
- Government of BC Report a Spill program
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Contact information
Tara Zajac
Communications Manager
250-414-7122