Environment Addressing Diesel Fuel in Watercourse

Staff at the Department of Environment are working with the person responsible to clean up diesel fuel in the Shubie Canal between Lake Charles and Lake William in Dartmouth.

A motor vehicle collision on Highway 107 on Monday, Aug. 8, caused about 300 gallons of diesel fuel to spill from a tractor trailer.

Sand and absorbent materials were placed on the road to contain the spill, but heavy rain and the volume of fuel led to an undetermined amount entering the Shubie Canal and some nearby still water.

Containment booms are in place and staff remain on site to monitor the situation. Environment Canada is assisting with evaluation of the areas downstream from the spill to determine the level of impact.

Anyone who draws drinking water from Lake William should watch for changes in odour or colour and test their water if these changes occur. There are no registered drinking water supplies in the area.

Health risks are low for recreational use of water in the area, but people should avoid swimming if there is a sheen on the water or an oil odour. Physical contact with the contaminated water may cause skin irritation.

The Department of Environment will issue updates on the situation as more information becomes available.