Sooke prevents river contamination after main break

SOOKE, B.C. — The environmental impact from a broken sanitary force main in Sooke was mitigated due to quick response, city officials say.

“Their timely response resulted in the best possible outcome,” said Jeff Carter, director of operations for the city, of the crews that worked to contain the break. “They did a truly remarkable job.”

In a press release, Carter explained that immediate action taken to minimize any potential environmental impact proved successful. Environment Canada has indicated no additional testing in the area is required.

Emergency repair work was done on Jan. 15 at the south end of Phillips Road Bridge when the break occurred. At the time the city feared the spill may contaminate DeMamiel Creek and Sooke River. They activated the district’s spill response protocol which included notifying provincial authorities and local First Nations groups.

When the break was discovered, Sooke Fire immediately responded with absorbent pads to limit any potential spill into the waterways. Crews then worked to repair the main.