Image: The containment and clean up effort is underway at Abbotsford's Stoney Creek following a chemical spill that has killed more than one thousand fish. / City of Abbotsford / X (Twitter)

By Fraser Valley Today Staff

Environment

More than one thousand fish killed following chemical spill in Abbotsford

Jul 8, 2024 | 2:11 PM

ABBOTSFORD — More than a thousand fish have been killed in Stoney Creek following the accidental release of a fire-fighting chemical into a storm drain, which subsequently flowed into the creek.

The City of Abbotsford reported becoming aware of the spill late on July 3, prompting the activation of its Emergency Operations Centre the following day. Quantum Murray Environmental, a Canadian environmental and industrial services company, was contracted by the city to manage the containment and clean-up operation.

In a social media update posted Monday (Jul. 8), officials stated that representatives from the Semá:th First Nation, Stó:lō Guardians, Lower Fraser Fisheries Alliance and environmental consultants GHD conducted a fish salvage over three days to remove fish from the contaminated waters. A total of 1,198 fish were collected and relocated to fresh water. Another 1,048 dead fish were removed from the creek and disposed of.

To mitigate the contamination, Quantum Murray Environmental established a water treatment system that channels polluted water through a treatment process before returning it to the creek. Over 211,000 gallons of water have been treated. Comprehensive testing of fish, sediment, water, and surrounding vegetation is ongoing to ensure effective containment of any residual contaminants.

While the clean-up effort continues, the City has urged park visitors to remain on designated paths and keep pets on a leash to prevent them from drinking the creek water. Signage has been posted throughout the park, and Park Ambassadors are on site to guide visitors during the clean-up.

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In its post on social media, the City expressed its gratitude for the support of First Nations and other partners who have been instrumental in the remediation process.