The City of Regina continues to investigate the discharge of hydrocarbon from the Co-op refinery Complex into the wastewater treatment facility.
The discharge took place May 22nd when wind swept up oil sediments in a pond that led to sludge going into the city’s sewer system. The hydrocarbons have been isolated to lagoons around the city, with testing underway at Wascana Creek and downstream water bodies.
When asked about the delay in notifying the public, the city’s director of water, waste and environment Kurtis Doney said the city notified the Water Security Agency as soon as hydrocarbons were found in the wastewater treatment system.
“We then collected samples, and when we received the samples late last week, we discussed the situation with the Water Security Agency and were directed by the Water Security Agency late on Friday, May 29, to inform downstream users.”
Doney said clean up is still underway at the wastewater treatment plant.
“We don’t have any detailed information on what was released as far as a quantity at the refinery, however we are in the process of cleaning up the wastewater at the lagoons in the city of Regina.
“The city of Regina is working through a full investigation, which includes keeping track of all of our costs, and we will be continuing that investigation and looking to recupe any costs.”
However, the city said there is no significant risk to the public at this time.
