The Department of National Defence will conduct a surface and subsurface scanning program on the Goose Spit Defence lands through mid-December.

The DND says the work is necessary to ensure there are no residual military-related hazards, such as unexploded ordnance, or UXO, in the area.

Temporary safety zones have been established around active work locations. The zones may extend up to 60 metres from ongoing field activities and will be marked by warning signs at key access points and around the perimeter.

Everyone accessing the area is being asked to watch for signage and be prepared to alter their route. That includes Canadian Armed Forces personnel, K’ómoks First Nation members using the DND access roadway and members of the public walking along the beach adjacent to the DND lands on Goose Spit.

Officials say the program is precautionary and intended to improve the department’s understanding of current site conditions.

There is no evidence confirming the historical use of dud-producing ammunition on Goose Spit. However, records from the Second World War and the years immediately following are incomplete.

The DND describes the program as a fact-finding effort to determine whether any residual risks exist and whether future risk-management measures may be necessary.