Underwater survey of sunken barge finds no evidence of leaking oil or fuel

By Tina Comeau

THE VANGUARD

NovaNewsNow.com

An underwater survey of the sunken barge/dredge Shovelmaster conducted over the weekend found no evidence of leaking fuel or oil, which, according to Atlantic Towing Limited, is consistent with Coast Guard reports of no fuel sheens seen on the water’s surface since Thursday of last week.

The Nov. 30 survey, conducted with the use of a state-of-the-art remotely operated vehicle (ROV), was commissioned by Harbour Development, the operator of the barge/dredge.

The barge/dredge capsized in waters off Yarmouth on Nov. 19, while en route to Halifax, after departing from Saint John, N.B.

While under tow the massive structure sank about 80 kilometres south of Yarmouth on Nov. 22. At the time it sank it had 70,000 litres of diesel fuel, 1,135 litres of hydraulic fluid and 757 litres of waste oil on board. A few days after the sinking officials patrolling the site by air reported a slick on the surface, although it was felt the fuel, suspected to be diesel, would evaporate quickly.

At a depth of approximately 475 feet last Sunday, the ROV conducted an inspection of the hull and surrounding areas. The one-and-a-half hour inspection viewed the barge/dredge from several positions. The survey found no evidence of leaking fuel or oil.

In full cooperation with government agencies, Harbour Development will review the entire underwater video with the government agencies of the Regional Environmental Emergency Team (REET).

Fishermen have been warned to stay away from the area.