Officials Say 100 Litres Of “Weathered” Diesel Fuel Spilled Into Sturgeon Lake As Crews Continue Clean-Up

KAWARTHA LAKES-Approximately 100 litres of weathered diesel fuel spilled into Sturgeon Lake recenlty according to officials. The source remains unknown and experts continue to analyze a series of tests that were conducted to help determine the source.

On March 30, 2023, there was a fuel spill into Sturgeon Lake from Thurstonia Park near Dunsford. Since that time, the City has been working with authorities to contain, cleanup and mitigate the effects of the spill.

“The health and safety of residents who use the lake for drinking water is our top priority, alongside limiting environmental damage.” said the City of Kawartha Lakes in a press release.

On March 30 at approximately 10:30pm fuel odours from a culvert were reported to Kawartha Lakes Fire Services. A fuel spill was discovered and Fire Services immediately installed an absorbent boom in an attempt to contain the spill. The Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP) was notified, and an inspector attended the spill the following day. Kawartha Lakes’ Public Works department retained an environmental consultant and cleanup contractor. 

Kawartha 411 News was first to report on the spill on April 1. Read our story and see video here: https://www.kawartha411.ca/2023/04/01/fuel-spill-cleanup-underway-on-sturgeon-lake/

The spill was from Dock# 06-212 to 06-176 and officials used marine booms that are sectioned off with absorbable booms extending to the shore from each dock. In between sections, imbiber beads are being used to absorb any sheen or films. 

On April 3, the Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge (HKPR) District Health Unit issued a Drinking Water Advisory (DWA) for those that draw their water directly from Sturgeon Lake. Impacted residents were hand delivered the DWA notice; approximately 30 homes were affected. On April 4, the HKPR District Health Unit issued a press release to notify the general public of the spill.

On April 13, the City and GHD submitted a proposal to MECP to flush, clean and restore the shoreline. On April 18, the MECP approved our submitted proposal. 

The City says they have been able to contain the affected shoreline area, extract all of the substances released and prevent any spread of the spill while they continue to investigate the source. Residents say the containment area has expanded greatly since the spill was first found. 

We’re coordinating with MECP to facilitate the reopening of the shore as soon as possible. Flushing and cleaning is scheduled to start on April 19 and last two to three days (weather depending). Water sample tests will determine when it is appropriate to open the shoreline. 

The Health Unit will notify residents as soon as it is safe to use the water. In the interim, a Drinking Water Advisory (DWA) remains in effect.

The City says it is currently sourcing a supply of potable water for the homes identified in the DWA. Further details to follow when available.