Fuel Spill Update From The Ministry Of Environment

The Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks has directly provided the following update:

Surface water sampling results for the contaminants of concern related to the jet fuel spill continue to be stable and below protective surface water guidelines in Aberfoyle Creek and Mill Creek south of the point of loss.

Areas of sheen and a slight jet fuel odour are being observed at certain locations in Mill Creek upstream of Wellington Road 35 Creek crossing.

Ongoing Activities:

The consultant continues to conduct visual creek assessments, which includes observing and documenting the presence of sheen and/or liquid phase hydrocarbons, jet fuel odour, and wildlife.

The consultant continues to conduct surface water monitoring and sampling at key locations upstream and downstream from the point of loss in the Aberfoyle Creek and Mill Creek.

Wildlife:

There continues to be no observed impacted fish or wildlife associated with the jet fuel spill to date.

Recent observations include:

Healthy amphibians and reptiles are being observed at the Concession 2 Creek crossing.

Migratory birds including Canada geese and mallard ducks are being observed at locations along Mill Creek.

Fish showing no signs of visible distress are being observed between Concession 2 and Wellington Road 35 Creek crossings.

A large number of active juvenile fish are being observed in Mill Creek in the area of the private dam (Grandy Lane in Cambridge).

Upcoming Activities:

As reported, surface water sampling results remain stable and below protective surface water guidelines downstream of the point of loss in Aberfoyle Creek and Mill Creek, in an abundance of caution, the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks will be conducting surface water and sediment sampling in areas in Shades Mill Reservoir and will be conducting a fish study within Mill Creek.

The consultant is in the process of finalizing the Shoreline Clean up Assessment Technique (SCAT) survey results and developing a treatment plan to be reviewed by the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks.

The consultant’s ecotoxicologist will be providing an assessment on fisheries and fish health in Aberfoyle Creek and Mill Creek.

Any questions regarding this update are to be directed to:

Lynette Armour, Provincial Officer at 519.826.4759 or 1.800.265.8658

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