Fuel spill threatens Vancouver whales

Scientists and environmentalists are concerned that a diesel spill that occurred Monday near Vancouver Island could threaten the habitat of killer whales that frequent the area.

At least two pods of orca whales were seen in the Robson Bight area after a barge overturned and dumped a loaded diesel truck into the water near an ecological reserve off northern Vancouver Island.

It was not known how much fuel the truck was carrying, but a fuel slick of more than a mile long was reported.

"There couldn't have a been a worse time and a worse place for this to happen," said Jennifer Lash, executive director of Living Oceans environmental group. "This is when there's whales all over the place up here and particularly in that exact spot."

A clean-up crew hired by the barge owner brought equipment to Robson Bight on Monday night. Environmental officials also convened an emergency team of provincial and federal agencies to determine how to assist in the cleanup, said Chris LaRock, of Environment Canada.