Contaminated water believed spilled into Shuswap Lake prompts advisory

VERNON – Precautions are being taken after thousands of litres of water polluted with glue and fuel reportedly spilled into Shuswap Lake. 

The Ministry of Environment and Interior Health are currently following up on reports of a spill into Shuswap Lake, northeast of Canoe, near the shoreline of Canoe Forest Products, according to an advisory issued today, March 15.

“It is estimated that several thousands of litres of run-off water containing some glue and fuel products was washed into the lake,” the health authority says.

As a precaution, the City of Salmon Arm stopped use of their Shuswap Lake water intake and is using an alternate source.

“At this time, Interior Health is advising the public to avoid recreational use from 300 metres off the log booms at this portion of the lake, until it can be confirmed there is no risk to public health. This includes boating, fishing and swimming.”

Residents who have private water sources that draw from the lake in the affected area are advised to avoid use of the water.

According to the advisory, Interior Health is continuing to monitor the situation.

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