The Raising of the Zodiac Light

While owned by Greg Smith, the Zodiac Light sank at her berth at Haisla (Kitimat Village) in February of 2018. This vessel was salvaged by Wainwright Marine and Adams Diving, under contract by the Canadian Coast Guard Environmental Response. The vessel was deconstructed and disposed several months later by Wainwright Marine in Prince Rupert BC. Marine incidents of this nature are always sad with the loss of the vessel.

The Zodiac Light at the start of the recovery process. (Photo by Ron MacDonald (CCG).)

The Nauticapedia states that the Zodiac Light (ON 198627) "was built in 1955 at Dollarton by Matsumoto & Sons Shipyards Ltd. 58.3’ x 17.8’ x 7.2’ (17.77m x 5.43m x 2.19m) with a wood hull 61.08gt 41.53rt. She was originally powered by a 190bhp diesel engine by Murphy Diesel Co., Milwaukee WI USA. Repowered in 1968 with a 325bhp turbo-charged diesel engine by Caterpillar Tractor Corp."

The Nauticapedia states that "In 1955–1968 she was owned by Andrew C. Christiansen (MO), New Westminster BC. In 1968–1969 she was owned by Olaf J. Wick (MO), North Surrey BC. In 1969–1977 she was owned by Wick Fishing Ltd., Vancouver BC. In 1977–1986 she was owned by Reginald R. Smith, Kitimat BC. In 1987–1997 she was owned by Hannah E. Smith, Kitimat BC. In 2001–2020 she was owned by Greg Smith, Kitimat BC."

The Zodiac Light (Photo by Ron MacDonald (CCG).)

The recovery of the vessel requires the participation of several specialists and some big equipment. Bringing the vessel up without causing more environmental and infrastructure damage is the goal of the operation.

The Zodiac Light (Photo by Ron MacDonald (CCG).)

I am the Senior Response Officer (Environmental Response) for the Canadian Coast Guard in Prince Rupert BC. The Canadian Coast Guard Environmental Response program aims to reduce the impact of marine pollution spills on: public safety; the economy; the environment and culturally significant sites. We oversee the response to spills from ships and unknown sources in Canadian waters. To stay prepared for emergency response, we maintain a national plan that outlines how to respond to spills and have specialized response teams in each region of Canada. We participate in national and international spill response exercises; develop and maintain joint emergency plans with Canadian response partners, coastal communities and other nations.