Cenovus Faces Questions Over Well Leak in Saskatchewan Amid Health Concerns

Cenovus Energy Inc. is facing concerns over a well leak at a thermal facility in Saskatchewan, with area residents reporting health issues such as headaches, watery eyes, and sore throats due to a strong stench. The company has stated it is working to resolve the leak, which has been releasing an odorous water vapour since early May, and is continuously monitoring air quality and nearby water bodies.

Cenovus Energy Inc. is under scrutiny following reports of a well leak at its Rush Lake thermal facility in western Saskatchewan. The leak, which has been releasing an odorous water vapor since early May, has caused health concerns among local residents who have reported symptoms such as headaches, watery eyes, and sore throats [1][2].

Mylan Tootoosis of Poundmaker Cree Nation expressed concern over the strong stench emanating from the facility, stating that it has permeated households and the local school. He highlighted the lack of formal communication and information sharing from Cenovus, demanding data on the situation [1][2].

In response, Cenovus has acknowledged the leak and is working to resolve it. The company believes the issue may be related to a problem with the well casing and has implemented measures to contain fluids onsite within berms to prevent them from entering waterways. Continuous monitoring of air quality and nearby water bodies has been conducted to ensure no environmental impact [1][2].

Saskatchewan's energy ministry has confirmed that the fluid being released is mostly muddy water and steam, with hydrogen sulfide gas present. While the gas has caused strong odors, monitoring work has detected no immediate risk to public health. However, the ministry does not know when the problem will be resolved and plans to conduct a review and outline remediation requirements once the situation is cleared [1][2].

Tootoosis has called for transparency and a third-party investigation into the incident, stating that some residents are referring to Rush Lake as "Hush Lake" due to the lack of answers. Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe has also mentioned that he has spoken with Cenovus representatives, who assured him that the company is working to contain the leak [1][2].

Cenovus Energy continues to manage the situation, with a community line available for residents with queries at 1-877-697-4480. The company is also collaborating with the Saskatchewan Ministry of Energy and Resources to conduct a full investigation into the cause of the incident [3].

References:

[1] https://www.prpeak.com/oil-gas-and-mining-news/resident-raises-concerns-with-cenovus-well-leak-in-saskatchewan-10837718
[2] https://www.coastreporter.net/the-mix/resident-raises-concerns-with-cenovus-well-leak-in-saskatchewan-10837773
[3] https://www.mylloydminsternow.com/77234/news/energy/oil/well-case-blamed-for-rush-lake-blowout/