CITIZEN UPDATE II: DÁNEE VIRAGO SOUND

Thursday, March 12, 2020  

CITIZEN UPDATE II: DÁNEE VIRAGO SOUND 

The Haida Nation, Canadian Coast Guard, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Department of Fisheries and Oceans, the province are continuing to ensure a coordinated response to the Pacific Pearl in Dánee Virago Sound. The Response Team has identified public safety as a top priority. 

Weather, location and safe access continue to limit the response. Yesterday morning a commercial floatplane flew over the site and provided an updated location and status of the vessel. 

There was an estimated 1,000 gallons of diesel onboard the Pacific Pearl at the time of the incident and there has been some localized release. Diesel is non-persistent product; however, it can be harmful to seabirds, marine plants and other species. In high energy environments with strong wind and tide action, diesel should disperse and evaporate at rapid rates. Potential exposure to diesel and impacts on marine species will be monitored throughout the incident.   

A navigation warning has been announced as an aid to mariners and public are asked to remain a safe distance from the vessel and any associated debris.  

To report marine pollution, contact the Canadian Coast Guard’s 24-hour Pollution Reporting line: 1-800-889-8852 

Unified Command 

Robert Russ, Haida Lead & Protected Areas Manager, Council of the Haida Nation 
Jeff Brady, Deputy Superintendent, Environmental Response 

Updates will be provided as available and posted on CHN’s:  

• Website: haidanation.ca
• Facebook: Council of the Haida Nation 
• Twitter:  @CHN_haidanation