For Immediate Release
CALGARY, Alberta (June 7, 2012) – At approximately 8:40 p.m. MST on June 7, 2012, the Plains Midstream Canada 24-hour control centre in Olds, Alberta was notified by SPOG (Sundre Petroleum Operators Group) of a light sour crude oil release into Jackson Creek, a tributary of the Red Deer River near Sundre, AB.
Immediately upon receiving notification of the release, Plains' pipeline operations in the area were shut down and valves were closed to isolate area pipelines. The affected pipeline was not flowing oil at the time of the release.
Plains is working closely with the Energy Resources Conservation Board, Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development, Alberta Heath Services and emergency responders. Plains has air monitoring equipment in place and will continue to monitor air quality; Plains is also working with Alberta Health Services to monitor water quality.
Plains' first priorities are to ensure the safety of community members and workers, and to minimize environmental impacts. Emergency crews were dispatched to the area and response efforts are underway.
Light sour crude oil has a strong petroleum odour but this odour does not pose a health or safety risk to the public. Plains is monitoring air and water quality closely and will notify residents of any changes. Preliminary estimates suggest a volume of approximately 1,000-3,000 barrels of crude oil were released. Aircraft are being dispatched to survey the scene. The cause of the pipeline release is under investigation. This is preliminary news advisory and updates will be provided as further information becomes available. The next media update is planned for mid-morning on Friday, June 8. For information contact:Plains Midstream Canada Media Relations 1-866-754-7422 media@plainsmidstream.com Plains Midstream Canada is wholly owned subsidiary of Plains All American Pipeline (NYSE: PAA) |