Once-bountiful fishery collapses as oil leak persists in Newfoundland bay
ST. JOHN’S, N.L. — The oil has been seeping for about three years — sometimes in drops, sometimes leaving large slicks — fouling a scenic area in western Newfoundland once known for its scallop fishing.
Concerned residents near Shoal Point in Port au Port Bay have tried everything from news releases to photos and video of the bubbling leak from an abandoned exploration well, trying to spur a permanent fix.
“If there was a leak in St. John’s harbour, the coast guard would probably jump on it within hours,” said Bob Diamond of the Port au Port Bay Fishery Committee.
“We don’t really know the impact it’s having. But we know that oil and water and fish and tourism don’t mix.”