Police are investigating after a tugboat spilled diesel into Masset Harbour on Monday afternoon.
A diesel sheen about 50 metres wide spread around 1 p.m. from one of two tugboats that were being used to install floats by CB Island Fisheries and the Village of Masset wharf. A crew member said the trouble may have been a failed bilge pump, and the spill might amount to tens of litres.
The diesel was carried west along Masset Inlet by the falling tide.
Both tugboats were briefly docked at the North Arm fuel dock, where police, firefighters, and staff trained in spill management responded.
Staff tried using absorbent pads to soak up the diesel that had collected in the calm water around the wharf, but they found it unrecoverable.
Police say the responsible vessel has been identified, and they are still investigating what caused it to spill. The spill was also reported to the Canadian Coast Guard.
Anyone with information is asked to call Masset RCMP at 250-626-3991.