Prince Edward County says cleanup and monitoring efforts continue following a diesel fuel spill that contaminated Marsh Creek and parts of Picton Bay earlier this month.
The County provided an update Thursday on remediation work connected to the May 5 spill, which officials say originated near the intersection of Picton Main Street and Bowery Street.
According to the County, crews immediately deployed absorbent booms along Marsh Creek and near the Picton Bay outflow once staff were notified of the contamination.
Additional cleanup measures included pressure washing and cleaning affected catch basins, along with skimming fuel sheen from several areas of the creek and bay.
Officials say inspections completed May 13 found most of the contamination appears to have been removed, absorbed or dissipated.
Environmental samples and additional surface water testing are continuing to confirm those observations as part of the ongoing response.
The County says absorbent booms are expected to be removed in the coming days pending contractor availability, noting the approach has been endorsed by Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks staff.
Testing conducted during the incident confirmed the contaminant was diesel fuel.
Officials also stressed that drinking water supplied through the Picton Water Treatment Plant remains safe for consumption, with ongoing monitoring continuing throughout the cleanup process.
The Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks is continuing to investigate the cause of the spill.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the ministry directly.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
