The state Department of Ecology was advising boaters to steer clear of a diesel fuel spill Wednesday near Bellingham.

The spill, which occurred off the shore of Boulevard Park in Bellingham Bay, was reported shortly before 1 p.m. by kayakers in the area. A thin, silvery sheen about a half-mile long and 200 feet wide was seen stretching along the shore from Taylor Dock at the south end of the park to the north end of the park. The sheen was touching the shore in places, prompting the warning from ecology for boaters and park visitors to avoid contact with the oil.

Oil spilled in water forms oily patches that spread out quickly. Small amounts of oil can create slicks or sheens that cover many acres of the water’s surface.

Ecology spill responders were on the scene Wednesday afternoon to determine the source and volume of the spill.