UPDATE: The city says that response activities are now complete. Containment booms and bird deterrents have been removed from the river, and residents may resume recreational activities in the river and the surrounding area.
Grande Prairie city crews are continuing to respond to the petroleum hydrocarbon release in the Bear River.
According to the city, the release was first reported by a resident on July 24. City crews responded immediately alongside the fire department and the Hazardous Materials (HazMat) Team. The city added that a preliminary analysis indicated that the substance was weathered diesel or hydraulic oil.
Crews continue to complete cleanup and remediation work in the affected area between Maskwoteh Park and the Museum.
According to officials, the exact source and volume of the release remains unknown. Officials add that most stormwater in the city flows untreated from streets and properties into storm ponds or local waterways, meaning substances entering catch basins and roadside drains can quickly reach the Bear River.
There continues to be no immediate risk to the public, and residents are asked to continue avoiding recreation in the affected area and keep children and pets out of the water until final laboratory results are received and the containment booms have been removed.
