Transport Canada says crews are not expected to start refloating the grounded barge off of Quadra Island before this weekend.
According to Transport Canada, work is ongoing to attempt to refloat the barge at the earliest opportunity, but the opportunity is not set to be before the weekend.
Annie Joannette, spokesperson with Transport Canada, said they are ensuring that the salvage contractor is aware of the bathymetry (the measurement of underwater depth), environment and tidal currents in Discovery Passage and is taking these into account in developing their plan.
The barge, called the “Nana Provider,” ran aground and compromised its hull north of Cape Mudge on Saturday. The barge is registered in the U.S. and belongs to Alaska Marine Lines, whose parent company is Lynden Logistic.
The tugboat that was towing the barge was the U.S. -registered “Polar King.” It was not damaged and the six people aboard the tug were not injured.
There are three rail cars with product on the barge. One rail car is carrying compressed CO2 and the others contain a corrosion inhibitor.
All other containers and rail cars were empty, as is the hull of the barge.
Transport Canada said once the barge is refloated, it will be towed to a facility in nearby Campbell River for repairs if necessary. Transport Canada is looking into the circumstances surrounding the grounding of the barge.
The Canadian Coast Guard said it will continue to be on the water to protect the public and environment in the event that the situation changes. The coast guard has said there is no sign of any marine pollution.
Vessels in the area are asked to keep a safe distance of just over 300 metres away to avoid interfering with assessment and salvage efforts.
With files from The Canadian Press
CHEK News
