Authorities warn against shellfish and groundfish fishing in Burrard Inlet after oil spill

The Department of Fisheries and Oceans is closing some local waters to fishing of all shellfish and groundfish species in light of last week’s fuel spill in English Bay.

The area shut down is easterly of a line drawn between Point Grey to Point Atkinson to the westerly side of the Lions Gate Bridge.

The warning is effective as of Tuesday and until further notice.

The department says it is a “precautionary” measure.

Hundreds of litres of bunker fuel leaked from MV Marathassa into the waters of English Bay last Thursday, but officials now say it may be days, or possibly weeks, before they know exactly how much leaked from the vessel. It is believed the spill is completely contained and 80 per cent of the oil has been recovered.

READ MORE: ‘90 per cent of the job is done’ but beaches remain closed following English Bay spill

In the hours after the oil spill, Vancouverites were told to avoid touching the toxic oil and stay out of the water. The warnings are still active.

But Vancouver Coastal Health says there is no risk to the general public from the oily substance washing up on some Vancouver beaches. Only people who come in direct contact with the oil may see adverse effects, such as dermatitis, nausea and headache.

The city says a claims line has now been set up by the responsible party for those impacted by the spill. To register a claim, call 1-844-616-1440.