A Squamish vessel that was an issue in Howe Sound years ago, is finally going to be dismantled.
On Jan. 6, Fisheries Minister Bernadette Jordan, announced in a news release that the Coast Guard is taking action to remove the MV Spudnik from where it has been beached for five years, and that work has begun to prevent any long-term impacts on the local environment.
Locals will recall that the former 1945 U.S. Navy landing ship MV Spudnik was moored in Howe Sound for more than a year starting in 2013.
As the Spudnik spun out of control, the Coast Guard responded and a tug was hired to tow the vessel to Amix’s Facility on the Fraser River where it was cleaned of diesel fuel and lube oil.
Since then, the MV Spudnik has remained on the Fraser River, at various locations near the Pattullo Bridge.
The Coast Guard and its contractors have conducted regular site visits, and then initiated a detailed vessel assessment, a spokesperson for the Coast Guard told The Chief on Tuesday.
Regarding ownership, the Coast Guard is unaware of any new owners.
"And as the owner has not responded to any of the Coast Guard's requests, we are taking action to remove the MV Spudnik from the Fraser River... and permanently resolve the threat posed by the vessel before there is long-term damage to the environment and a risk to public safety," an emailed statement from the Coast Guard read.
The vessel was inspected recently and it was determined that there are imminent risks of pollution, hull corrosion, possible sinking and fire, the release states.
Currently, naval architects, salvage crews and safety specialists are inspecting the Spudnik to figure out the best option to safely remove it from the water.
Removal is slated to be complete in the spring.
The Coast Guard will monitor the cleanup and removal process, and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, the release states.
The Chief was unable to connect with the owners prior to press deadline.
