NORFOLK COUNTY, Ont. – December 21, 2017 – Two gas wells within Norfolk County’s borders are being monitored for the presence of hydrogen sulphide (H2S) with readings indicating no imminent health threat.
The Norfolk County Fire Department staff, in conjunction with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) and the Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change (MOECC), have been taking readings near 1925 Forestry Farm Road, at a gas well which is believed to be abandoned. The exact location of the source of the gas has not been determined, but appears to be under water. As a precautionary measure the area remains signed for awareness.
The MNRF and the MOECC have recently been monitoring an abandoned gas well on private property near Jaylin Crescent in Port Dover. The MOECC has obtained levels of zero and close to zero from the travelled portion of Jaylin Crescent. There is no reason to believe that this abandoned well poses any threat to human health based on all data to date.
“Staff and the ministries continue to explore the best options to remediate both wells,” said Marlene Miranda, General Manager, Health & Social Services Department.
“The priority remains the protection of the health and safety of the public,” said David Cribbs, County Manager.
Citizens who believe a well is leaking hydrogen sulphide should contact the Spills Action Centre of the Ontario Ministry of Environment by calling 1-800-268-6060 (toll-free) or 416-325-3000.
For more information about the risks of hydrogen sulphide, visit hnhu.org/health-topic/what-is-hydrogen-sulphide-h2s/ or visit www.norfolkcounty.ca/emergency.
