PRINCE ALBERT, Sask. – A Husky Energy (TSX:HSE) pipeline spilled up to 250,000 litres of oil mixed with a lighter hydrocarbon called a diluent into the North Saskatchewan River near Maidstone almost two weeks ago. Here are some details updated Tuesday.
Emergencies
The Rural Municipality of Prince Albert, the City of Prince Albert, the Rural Municipality of Buckland and the Muskoday First Nation remained under states of emergency Tuesday. The declaration gives communities special powers to implement emergency measures. For example, Prince Albert passed an emergency conservation bylaw with a fine of $1,400 for residents and businesses who do things like wash cars or water grass.
Shut Down
The cities of North Battleford, Prince Albert and Melfort shut down their water intakes from the North Saskatchewan River because of the oil spill and are using backup reservoirs. North Battleford and Prince Albert are also building temporary pipelines to other water sources. Other communities are also affected because they either buy water from the cities or rely on that infrastructure system.
Drinking Water
The Rural Municipality of Prince Albert, the Rural Municipality of Buckland and the Rural Municipality of Duck Lake have drinking water advisories in place. Melfort issued a boil-water advisory July 26 when it switched from the river as a water source to an old reservoir. Melfort lifted that boil-water advisory July 28 when the backup reservoir water tested OK.
Clean Up
About 133,000 litres of oil have been recovered. More than 1,200 water samples have been taken. Interim findings of 256 sample results were to be shared with affected communities Tuesday and made public Wednesday.