GN reports heating fuel spill in Baker Lake

A cleanup is underway after nearly 100 litres of heating fuel was spilled earlier this month in Baker Lake.

The spill occurred April 4 and the Government of Nunavut became aware of the situation on April 9.

Transportation and Infrastructure Nunavut published a public service announcement about the situation about one week after that, on April 15.

“An estimated 96 litres of fuel spilled as a result of human error while filling a fuel delivery truck,” said Greg Belanger, spokesperson for the department, in the announcement.

The spill occurred at Baker Lake’s tank farm, downstream from the Baker Lake water treatment plant’s raw water intake. Hydrocarbon screening is a routine part of water testing in the community, the announcement noted, but hydrocarbon monitoring efforts are being increased.

“Water sample analysis of both raw and treated drinking water is completed by a qualified independent laboratory,” the announcement said.

“Test results are provided directly to the drinking water regulator, the Department of Health, who is actively monitoring and ensuring the safety of the community drinking water supply.”

Baker Lake is currently under a boil water advisory that was put in place Feb. 26. People are being asked to continue to follow this advisory.

The amount of fuel spilled is roughly enough to fill the gas tank on a mid-sized Dodge Ram pickup truck.

The contractor responsible for the incident — who is not named in the announcement — is working under the direction of the Department of Environment to contain the spill and remediate the area. The Petroleum Products Division has also dispatched an environmental specialist to help with the cleanup, the announcement said.