A pipeline leak in central Alberta has sent 40-thousand litres of crude oil into a creek that feeds into the North Saskatchewan River, the source of Edmonton’s water supply.

Calgary-based Bonterra says it discovered the rupture into Washout Creek on Thursday, and has placed additional booms where the creek meets the river as an extra precaution.

The company says it’s removing the oil with booms and vacuums, and cleanup and recovery is expected to continue for the next three weeks.

(C.P)