Main Street spill response update

Clean up and monitoring continued throughout the weekend in response to spilled contaminants that flowed from an old industrial site into the District of Squamish storm water system. The spill and its impact became evident and was reported by residents November 15. As of November 18, the materials were no longer migrating from the source site at Cleveland Avenue and Main Street into the District’s storm water system. Excavation work at the source site on Friday led to the discovery of an underground oil tank that had two pathways into the storm water system. It is suspected that rain water had infiltrated the tank which displaced the lighter contents within.

With the source of the problem contained, the primary focus shifted to the storm water system and the collection pond at Main and Third, to ensure residual materials were collected.

• Camera work was completed through the affected section of storm water pipe to eliminate any other possible issues. The storm line was also flushed.
• Work continued on the pond to skim and suck material in the pond. The booms and absorbent socks remain in place and have been monitored throughout the weekend. The flap gate to the estuary has remained closed.
• Inspections have also been undertaken in the estuary to ensure there is very little or no evidence of material there. This work continues.

Looking forward, a 2018 budget request has been submitted for Council’s consideration that will help limit contaminants from entering the storm water collection pond. An oil-grit separator, with an approximate budget of $400,000, is proposed to be installed near the pond, which would prevent most contaminants from entering the pond. The 2018 proposed budget will be presented to Council December 11 and 12.

The District wishes to express its appreciation to all involved parties for a very swift response to this issue, which minimized the extent of the damage. The District will seek to recover costs of the cleanup, which will ultimately be pursued once the cleanup work is complete. Thank you also to the neighbouring residents who reported the issue to the appropriate authorities.

Earlier updates on this situation can be found on the District website here.

November 20, 2017