News Feature                   For Immediate Release

May 4, 2005

Lake Huron Mineral Oil Spill Cleared

Medical Officer of Health Hazel Lynn is pleased to advise that the mineral oil spill into Lake Huron (April 15) is now cleared.  Recreational use of power boats and other water activities will no longer expose people to risk from the mineral oil and may be resumed.

The Public Health Unit, Ministry of the Environment and Bruce Power monitored the cleanup with aerial surveillance, boat surveillance and shoreline inspections.   During the past 36 hours, no mineral oil was sighted on land, water or from the air.  Drinking water sources were monitored throughout the event and no mineral oil was found. 

During the past weeks of coastal water monitoring it has become evident that there are other sources of oil pollution on the coastline.  Small amounts of gasoline or oil were seen spreading from boat launching areas on the coast, as well as leakage of what appears to be heating oil from a cottage.  These are under investigation. 

Dr. Lynn says, “Please be responsible about oil spills.  Inspect your oil storage tanks regularly to prevent leakage and take extra precautions when filling boat engine gas tanks.  Every citizen has a duty to report such spills to the Ministry of the Environment through the Spills Action Centre.  The phone number is 1-800-268-6060.   By taking these actions, together we can keep our lake clean and safe.”

Dr. Lynn thanks the many people who have worked long hours during the past weeks to monitor and clean up the lake.

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For more information:

Dr. Hazel Lynn

Medical Officer of Health

Grey Bruce Health Unit

(519) 376-9420 or 1-800-263-3456