A government spokesperson said cleanup of an oil spill along the North Saskatchewan River will be put on hold due to an anticipated rise in water levels.
Wes Kotyk with the Saskatchewan Environment Ministry said heavy rainfall in Alberta means water flows are expected to rise up to two metres starting this weekend.
READ MORE: North Saskatchewan River peaks overnight in Edmonton, but high water dangers remain
But Kotyk said there’s enough time to complete the shore cleanup before the water starts to freeze in October.
The government said there have been 144 confirmed wildlife deaths, including 51 aquatic species, since a Husky Energy (TSX:HSE) pipeline leaked last month near Maidstone, Sask.
READ MORE: Flood damage not expected on North Saskatchewan River
Meanwhile, the province’s Water Security Agency said one sample out of 120 taken from the river did not meet drinking water guidelines.
That sample was taken five centimetres below the surface of the river at North Battleford.
READ MORE: Prince Albert gets $5M from Husky for oil spill cleanup
The agency said 16 samples showed amounts of chemicals that exceed guidelines for the protection of aquatic life.
It also took sediment samples and found hydrocarbons at some sites.
READ MORE: Water restrictions lifted in Prince Albert, Sask. after North Sask. River oil spill
The city of Prince Albert lifted water restrictions on Wednesday. Officials said they are confident there is ample supply from two temporary water lines.
A leak found in one of the hoses is not expected to change the situation for now, agency spokesman Sam Ferris said Thursday.
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