Research by a University of Victoria graduate student is highlighting the problem of relatively small but frequent oil spills in B.C. coastal waters.

Norma Serra-Sogas examined the results of aerial surveys conducted along the West Coast by Transport Canada and Environment Canada between 1998 and 2007.

Based on the data, the geography student identified Barkley Sound, the Johnstone Strait, and the Scott Islands as important ecological areas vulnerable to the spills, which range in volume from one litre to 1,000 litres.

Serra-Sogas also identified factors that relate to a higher likelihood of spills. They include: proximity to shore, frequency of marine traffic, and the presence of boat-docking facilities.

Although the individual spills may seem relatively small, Serra-Sogas said they can be a problem if they are frequent.

In a phone interview today (July 23) with the Straight, she said her findings may be “shocking to people that don’t really think we have any problems in B.C.”