Algoma Steel provides community update regarding spill
by CM Staff
The company's technical advisors estimate Algoma spilled 1000 to 1250 litres of oil into the St. Mary's River.
SAULT STE. MARIE — Algoma Steel Group Inc. has released an update to the community and neighbouring stakeholders regarding the accidental release of lubricant oil into the St. Mary’s River, which occurred on June 9.
The company says it continues to work with authorities to mitigate any possible impact to the environment.
“We are maintaining an open dialogue with our stakeholders and have extended an offer to the Village of Echo Bay to cover the cost of purchasing and transporting water to their community on an interim basis,” reads the statement from Algoma Steel.
Algoma Steel also says that while the sheen has dissipated and is no longer visible, they will continue to sample and monitor on the waterway. The company’s technical assessment of the incident will carry on as they work to identify and implement appropriate controls to prevent future incidents.
Technical advisors of Algoma Steel have assisted the company in estimating how much oil the company discharged into the river from their water treatment plant. They’ve assessed this amount to be in the range of 1000 litres to 1250 litres. They have provided their findings and methods to the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks.
“This event certainly did not live up to the high standard we set for ourselves. I assure you the entire Algoma team has felt the weight of this incident’s impact on our community. We are focused on mitigating any possible impact and are grateful for the collaboration with all parties involved as we work together to do what needs to be done to protect the environment,” said Algoma Steel CEO Michael Garcia in a statement.
