Fuel oil spill in Minden Hills: contaminated water

An undated stock image of a fuel spill (Alex Quezada/Pexels).

A drinking water advisory in effect for a Minden Hills area.

Officials say furnace oil leaked out from private property over the weekend.

The Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP) is on scene and is working with the property owner to contain the spill on South Lake.

The ministry has confirmed that an oil sheen is present on the lake’s surface. Due to changing wind conditions, the location of the oil sheen is shifting and cannot be fully contained.

Authorities say boiling the water will not make it safe.

Many properties on South Lake draw water directly from the lake. As a precaution, Lakelands Public Health is issuing a drinking water advisory for affected residents.

Do Not Use Lake Water

Residents and cottage owners drawing water from South Lake are advised not to use the water for:

• Drinking
• Cooking or food preparation
• Brushing teeth
• Washing fruits and vegetables
• Bathing or showering
• Dishwashing
• Boiling the water will not make it safe.
• Use bottled water or an alternative safe drinking water from a source not affected by this advisory.

Ongoing Response

MECP, the Township of Minden Hills, and Lakelands Public Health are actively monitoring the situation. Local agencies, including the OPP, have also received inquiries from concerned residents.

The advisory will remain in effect until further notice. Residents will be informed when it is safe to resume normal water use.

Stay Informed

For updates and additional information, please visit: LakelandsPH.ca/BWA or contact Lakelands Public Health at 1-844-575-4567.