In collaboration with Transport Canada, Surfrider Vancouver Island, and Black Ball Ferry Line, Prince of Whales led a successful cleanup of the Gorge Waterway in an effort to protect and preserve the health of the region's marine environments.
On May 11, the teams removed 241.3 kilograms – or 532 pounds – of debris from the shoreline and in the water. Prince of Whales and Black Ball’s crew collected 90.5 kilograms, including nearly 14 kilos of rope and several heavy, hard-to-reach items. Transport Canada’s team focused on more elusive pollutants, removing around 24.3 kilograms of foam.
“As stewards of the Salish Sea, we feel a deep responsibility to lead by example when it comes to environmental protection,” said Elspeth McGillivray, general manager at Prince of Whales, in a news release. “This cleanup is just one of many ways we live out our commitment to conservation and community.”
This year’s effort builds on the success of last summer’s cleanup, which took place in July 2024, and removed 380 kilograms of garbage from Victoria’s Inner Harbour and Gorge area. Items collected ranged from tires and appliances to plastic wrappers, foam, and discarded textiles.
"The collaboration with Surfrider Foundation Vancouver Island and Transport Canada has once again proven the power of partnership in tackling environmental challenges," noted the release. "We are immensely grateful to everyone who rolled up their sleeves to help, from the marine operations teams to the staff and volunteers who gave their time and energy to this cause."
