The Toquaht Bay marina, campground and boat launch will remain closed until further notice.

The area was closed in March after tests found levels of arsenic, cobalt and selenium that exceed safety standards laid out in B.C.'s contaminated sites regulation and could pose a health threat. Further testing also found high iron levels in the soil, which also pose a health risk. The Vancouver Island Health Authority's medical health officer recommended the closure.

With the marina closure in place, the Toquaht Nation has set up a temporary kayak launch near the community of Macoah. No camping facilities are available at this location. Parking fees are $10 per vehicle per night. Kayak launch fees are $20 per person.

With the closure of the Toquaht boat launch, the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations continues to explore options for a new boat launch.

VIHA is completing a detailed risk assessment and site investigation. A report on these findings is expected in the New Year. Meanwhile, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency's shellfish sanitation program is reviewing shellfish samples collected from Toquaht Bay and will report its findings later this summer.

Learn More:

Information updates will be available at: www.toquahtbay.com

Media Contacts:

Brennan Clarke
Media Relations
Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations
250 356-5261

Valerie Wilson
Vancouver Island Health Authority
250 739-6303

Gary Johnsen
Toquaht Marina and Campground Ltd.
250 726-8349