PORT ALBERNI – October 8, 2025 - The City of Port Alberni is responding to an incident of environmental vandalism that occurred on the Somass Lands earlier this week.
On October 7, 2025, a hydraulic oil leak was discovered from plastic shipping totes that had been staged for transport off-site. It was determined that the valves on the totes had been deliberately opened, releasing hydraulic fluid into the surrounding area.
Thanks to the quick action of community members who noticed and promptly reported the spill, environmental response contractors were dispatched immediately. Their swift containment efforts ensured that the leak was confined within the on-site storm drain and oil separator system, preventing the release of fluids into the natural environment.
All hydraulic fluids and containers have since been removed, and site cleanup is now complete.
The City extends its gratitude to the public for their vigilance and cooperation in reporting the incident. The matter has been classified as an act of vandalism, and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) have opened an investigation.
Anyone with information related to this incident is asked to contact the Port Alberni RCMP at 250.723.2424 referencing RCMP File Number 2025-10730.