Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Esquimalt is continuing ongoing efforts to survey and remove historical unexploded explosive ordinance (UXO) at a military training area near the Galloping Goose Trail in Metchosin.
The work is intended to support divestment of the Mary Hill property, reduce safety risks and remove sources of environmental contamination. UXOs are military explosives that did not explode or function as intended.
UXO contractors will be visible working in the northern zones of the property and along a portion of the Galloping Goose Trail. The work should have minimal to no impacts on the public travelling on the Galloping Goose Trail, however, vehicles and equipment will be stationed along the trail.
CFB Esquimalt is reminding the public that unauthorized access to the Mary Hill training area is prohibited and trespassing is against the law and dangerous. Trespassing disrupts the project as contractors must pause work until they can confirm there are no unauthorized persons in the area.
The Mary Hill training area is located in Metchosin near Pedder Bay, adjacent to the William Head Institution. The Royal Canadian Navy has used the property for military training since the 1930s and UXOs that remain onsite present a serious safety risk. The property is currently used by the Canadian Armed Forces and other agencies for a variety of dry training that does not include the use of any type of ammunition. These activities may occur day and night, on all days of the year, including weekends and holidays.
Only trained professionals can determine if a munition item is dangerous or not; any unknown object could be UXO and should not be touched or investigated. If you see something that looks like it may be UXO: Don鈥檛 touch it; turn around and leave the area; and call 911 or local police. 鈥�
