Imperial Oil is temporarily shutting down production at Kearl Lake after a pipeline spill south of Fort McMurray.
Inter Pipeline detected a leak in one of their systems on Saturday near the Fort McMurray International Airport.
There they found around 90 m3 of diluent on the ground which was approximately 80 metres from a wetland and one km from the Clearwater River.
Imperial Oil says the facility is ready to ramp up to full production once the pipeline leak is fixed.
Meanwhile, the Alberta Energy Regulator says it’s unknown if there are any impacts on fish and wildlife.
Floating containment booms have also been placed in the wetland to help limit the diluent from spreading.
Wildlife deterrents have also been put in place.
AER staff are on-site evaluating the release and monitoring the cleanup efforts to ensure all safety and environmental requirements are met.
People living and working around the area may notice an odour, however, there is no risk to public safety.
Inter Pipeline is also asking residents to avoid using the trails around Saprae Creek for the time being as heavy machinery is being used in the area.
