The City of Grande Prairie continues to respond to a petroleum hydrocarbon release in the Bear River between Maskwoteh Park and the Grande Prairie Museum & Heritage Village.

The release was reported by a resident on Friday evening. City crews responded immediately alongside the Grande Prairie Fire Department and the Hazardous Materials (HazMat) Team. The release is contained and cleanup efforts continue. The City is working in coordination with Alberta Environment and Protected Areas.

There is no danger to the public. Residents are asked to keep children and pets out of the water in the affected area while cleanup continues and to give crews space to work safely.

The only anticipated public impact is brief, intermittent closures of the pedestrian bridge near the Grande Prairie Museum & Heritage Village while equipment is moved through the area. Cleanup is expected to continue through the week.

Stormwater flows untreated into local waterways, including the Bear River. Help protect our waterways by properly disposing of chemicals, fuels, oils and other harmful materials. Learn more about the City’s drainage and stormwater system: cityofgp.com/roads-transportation/drainage.

See something? Report it.

The City thanks the resident who reported the release. Prompt reporting helps crews respond quickly and reduce potential environmental impacts.

If you observe a suspected environmental incident:

• Contact AccessGP by calling 311 (or 780-538-0300 from outside city limits) during regular business hours or submit a report through the AccessGP Portal at https://access.cityofgp.com/ using  Environmental Incidents form AccessGP | Environmental Incidents. 
• Report environmental emergencies, incidents or complaints to the Government of Alberta's 24-hour Energy and Environmental Response Line by calling 1-800-222-6514 (toll-free in Alberta) or 780-422-4505 from outside Alberta.
• Call 911 only if there is an immediate threat to public safety or if emergency assistance is required.