No Spill Too Small

Frequent small oil spills represent a chronic pollution threat around the world. Here in BC, University of Victoria master’s candidate Norma Serra-Sogas has identified factors that can predict oil pollution risk off Canada’s west coast.
        Using oil spill observations during surveillance flights by Transport Canada between 1998 and 2007, Serra-Sogas has identified particular areas of higher likelihood for oil spills from engine residue, tank washing, bilge water and even “mystery” leaks that have no confirmed source. These areas are: Johnstone Strait; the Sunshine Coast; the Fraser River belt; and concentrated marine areas surrounding higher density urban areas such as Nanaimo, Victoria and Vancouver.
        “Compared to what’s happening in the Gulf of Mexico, these spills are relatively small, usually between one litre and 1,000 litres,” says Serra-Sogas. “But small amounts of oil spilled regularly year-round will have a big impact. In fact, less than 10 millilitres of oil can coat a seabird’s feathers enough to eventually kill it.”
        Serra-Sogas conducted her analysis at UVic’s Coastal and Ocean Resource Analysis Lab under the supervision of UVic marine environmental scientist Dr. Rosaline Canessa whose research team focuses on coastal resource management and the use of spatial technologies to support marine planning. Canessa shared supervision with UVic adjunct professor Dr. Patrick O’Hara, a biologist researcher with Environment Canada’s Canadian Wildlife Service.
        Environment Canada and Transport Canada monitor and enforce pollution regulations within Canadian waters. The National Aerial Surveillance Program (NASP) collects evidence of oil spilling off BC’s coast. For more information, visit http://www.tc.gc.ca/eng/marinesafety/oep-ers-nasp-2195.htm.

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