PITTSBURGH — The Department of Environemntal Protection has announced a notice of violation against Shell Pipeline following a spill near Raccoon Creek.
Below is the full statement as sent to Channel 11 from the DEP:
Below is the full statement from Shell:
"Safety and environmental stewardship is at the core of Shell's operating philosophy. We're committed to working closely with Pa. DEP, Ambridge Water Authority, Beaver County Conservation District and other stakeholders during construction and eventually, operation. This includes a comprehensive plan for testing of nearby water supplies before and after construction.
On July 22, due to heavy rain, an accidental release of boring fluid occurred at a Falcon pipeline construction site on a horizontal directional drill (HDD) pad in Beaver County.
Shell Pipeline Company LP immediately stopped operations and activated its emergency response team to contain and respond to the incident. Of the 500 gallons of fluids that were released, it is estimated that approximately 30 gallons impacted the wetland beneath the pad and entered the stream.
Local and state agencies were notified as required. Shell is working closely with the Beaver County Conservation District in the response. Pa DEP, which acknowledged Shell's transparency in reporting the incident, has authorized resumption of work at the site.
The boring fluid is a non-toxic mixture of water and clay and is primarily used to keep the drilling bit cool and remove cuttings from the bore hole.
Shell's primary focus is the safety and health of people, for the protection of the environment and to minimize any impact as a result of this event. We are committed to the safe and thorough investigation and response to this incident."
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