Residents Told not to Harvest or Eat Fish and Shellfish from Cove West of Cooks Landfill

Health and environmental authorities have issued a precautionary advisory warning residents not to harvest, consume or sell fish and shellfish from a cove west of Cook’s Landfill, in the vicinity of Hermitage Bay, following the discovery of a petroleum-like sheen on the water’s surface.

The advisory was jointly issued by the Central Board of Health within the Ministry of Health, Wellness, Environment and Civil Service Affairs, and the Fisheries Division under the Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries and Blue Economy. Officials described the measure as necessary to protect public health and marine life while investigations continue.

Reports of the sheen were first received at approximately 8:38 a.m. on Thursday, February 12, when the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force Coast Guard was alerted to an oily film in the waters off Hermitage Bay extending toward Pelican Point. Coast Guard officers, along with representatives from the West Indies Oil Company (WIOC), responded promptly to assess the situation at sea, while landside inspections were conducted by public health officials.

Preliminary assessments indicate that the substance is consistent with petroleum-based contamination. Authorities said the sheen itself is not recoverable and is expected to dissipate naturally. Early indications suggest the possible source may be seepage from the nearby Cook’s Landfill, although investigations are ongoing to determine the exact origin.

While current wind and wave conditions appear to be pushing the material away from the shoreline, officials cautioned that marine organisms within the affected cove may still be at risk. As a result, residents are strongly advised not to fish in the area or collect and distribute any seafood harvested there until further notice.

The National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) has been partially activated, with members of the Marine Pollution Plan Executive Committee including the Environment Division, Fisheries Division, Port Authority and APUA, monitoring developments closely. Aerial surveillance has also been conducted to determine the extent of the sheen.

Authorities are urging the public to comply fully with the advisory in the interest of health and safety. Anyone who observes unusual marine conditions or petroleum residue in the affected area is asked to contact the Coast Guard immediately using the designated emergency numbers. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.