By Don Urquhart, Times Chronicle
The Ministry of Environment and Parks has advised that the chemical spilled on Hwy. 3/Main St. from the Osoyoos Trestle Bridge west, while strong smelling, is not classified as a hazardous material and will be left as it is.
On June 18, a pail of what it said is a “lime sulfur mixture” was spilled by a vehicle traveling westbound along Main Street before turning left onto 85th St.
According to the report from the Ministry the person responsible for the spill paid for a street sweeper to clean it up the next day, however the material did not come off the pavement.
“The ministry has assessed potential response actions. Considering the proximity to watercourses and likely damage to pavement, additional response actions would not be advantageous,” it said adding that no further action will be taken. “The material and its smell is expected to erode naturally over time.”
Lime sulfur is primarily used in horticulture where it is used as a fungicide, insecticide, and miticide to protect fruit trees and ornamentals from overwintering pests. It is also used in veterinary care as a topical antiseptic dip for pets.
The parties involved include the Town of Osoyoos, Osoyoos Fire Department, Ministry of Environment and Parks (ENV), Emergency Management and Climate Readiness (EMCR), and the Ministry of Transportation and Transit (MOTT).
The statement indicated that no further updates are anticipated.
