March 5, 2020, Simcoe, ON – Norfolk County is taking action on an ongoing public health issue by implementing a plan that will mitigate leaking hydrogen sulphide from an abandoned gas well on Forestry Farm Road.
Work is expected to begin this week on the installation of a multilevel groundwater monitoring system at the well site, part of a plan developed by scientists from the University of Waterloo and engineering consultants Geofirma.
The special instrument will give researchers the opportunity to gather data and study the area’s hydrogeology.
The future plan also includes the drilling of a relief well and the construction of a water treatment system on County land in the area of McDowell Road East and Forestry Farm Road.
The protection of the health and safety of the public remains Norfolk County’s top priority, however little research into the effects of long-term exposure to hydrogen sulphide exists.
Hydrogen sulphide occurs naturally, in areas such as wetlands and sulfur springs. Exposure to low concentrations may irritate the eyes, nose and throat and cause headaches and other health issues. Please contact your medical provider if you are experiencing symptoms.
If you notice a rotten egg scent near your home and suspect hydrogen sulphide, contact the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks’ Spills Action Centre at 416-325-3000, 1-800-268-6060 (toll-free), or 1-855-889-5775 (TYY).
