Water Advisory Along West Shore of St. Joseph Island

Wed, Jul 30, 2025

 

NOTE: This advisory does not apply to the Township of St. Joseph / Richard’s Landing municipal drinking water system. There is no concern relating to this system at this time.

Algoma Public Health is advising users of the St. Marys River along the western shore of St. Joseph Island that an oil spill has been reported along the St. Marys River.  Please be advised that if you notice a sheen on the river and your drinking water intake is located in the St. Marys River downstream of Sailor’s Encampment to the southern end of the west shore and/or you have a well close to the shoreline, there may be a risk of contamination resulting from this spill. 

 

Additionally, we advise you not to use the St. Marys River for recreational purposes if a sheen is present (i.e. swimming, kayaking, fishing) until further information is provided. 

 

For those affected by this advisory, please follow the guidance outlined below:

 

• Do not drink, swim, bathe, or shower with this water
• Use alternative water sources such as bottled water or from the municipal drinking water system
• Restrict pet and livestock access to the water

It is recommended that you monitor your shoreline at your property for any signs of oil contamination, including odors and oily sheens on the surface of the water. To report a spill, contact the Ministry of Environment, Conservation, and Parks – Spills Action Centre at 1-800-268-6060.

This advisory will remain in effect until further information is available. Please follow the media and Algoma Public Health’s website for any changes or additions to this advisory as it continues to be monitored.

For questions regarding this advisory, please contact Algoma Public Health at 705-759-5286.