The remnants of bon fires, bottles, beer cans, oyster shells and random home appliances piled up outside the garbage can at Sandy Beach are a frustrating problem for local residents who make continuous efforts to keep the beach clean.
Senior Bylaw Officer Bonny Brokenshire says that despite the work of the community stewards and seasonal parks crew taking care of the beach, the removal of this garbage is costing taxpayers. She also says it is only one of the problems plaguing Sandy Beach.
“On February 11, Bylaw Services was notified by an Island resident that a visible sheen was evident in Mannion Bay close to Sandy Beach. Upon investigation it was evident that diesel fuel was leaking from a capsized vessel,” says Brokenshire. “A citizen had already contacted the province, but there was no response. I called the Spill Reporting line and stated the urgency of the matter as Sandy Beach has been identified as a suitable forage fish spawning area. Surf smelt and Pacific sand lance spawn during this time of year.”
The Coast Guard arrived two days later soon after a tide change. At that time a sheen was no longer visible.
“They said sorry, but there’s no leakage now it must all be drained out,” says Brokenshire. “They did tour around Mannion Bay afterwards, taking photos of all the boats, writing down names and the k-numbers on the hull. I appreciate the fact that they came out.”
Bowen Island Municipality is now working with Transport Canada to obtain removal authorization of this vessel. The estimated cost will be approximately $2000 which does not take into consideration the environmental costs of the spill.
Brokenshire says that while much will be determined with the unveiling of councils strategic plan, the revitalization of the beach could go a long way in protecting it.
“We need the community to want to use this area again” says Brokenshire. “Ideas like bringing in picnic tables, building a play structure, and sea wall restoration like they’ve done along the shoreline in West Vancouver could be a big help.”
