Algoma Public Health says that if you are downstream from Algoma Steel, you should not drink, swim, bathe or bathe in river water.
Algoma Public Health (APH) has issued a public advisory warning to residents downstream of Algoma Steel not to consume, swim or bathe in water extracted from the St. Mary’s River after an oil spill earlier today.
Wells located near the shoreline can also be polluted.
The Sault Ste. Marie’s municipal drinking water system was not affected by the incident, the APH said in a statement.
The river should also not be used for recreational purposes, such as kayaking and fishing, until additional information is provided.
The full text of the APH press release follows:
NOTE: This advice does not apply to Sault Ste. Marie Municipal Drinking Water System. There are currently no concerns about this system.
The Public Health Algoma notifies all St. Mary’s River users that an oil spill has been reported and it has been confirmed that it is entering the St. Mary’s River. Please note that if your drinking water intake is located in the St. Mary’s River downstream (east) of Algoma Steel Inc. and Great Lakes Power and / or you have a well dug near the shoreline, there may be a risk of contamination as a result of this spill.
In addition, we advise you not to use the St. Mary’s River for recreational purposes (ie swimming, kayaking, fishing) at this time until additional information is provided.
For those affected by this advice, please follow the instructions below:
- Do not drink, swim, bathe or bathe in this water
- Use alternative water sources such as bottled water or the municipal drinking water system
- Restrict the access of pets and livestock to the water
The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MOECC) is currently monitoring and rehabilitating.
It is advisable to monitor your shoreline in your property for signs of oil contamination, including odors and greasy shine on the water surface, up to and including Echo Bay. To report a concern, please contact the MOECC Spill Response Center at 1-800-268-6060.
This warning will remain in effect until the samples confirm the safety of the water and Algoma Public Health has revoked the warning. Please follow the media and the Algoma Public Health website for any changes or additions to this advice as it continues to be monitored.
For questions about this advice, please contact Algoma Public Health at: 705-759-5286.
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