EPA Region 7 on-scene coordinators (OSCs) and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) have completed the recovery of discharged oil in Mill Creek from the pipeline rupture near Washington, Kansas.
The leak happened on Dec. 8th, 2022, spilling an estimated 14,000 barrels of oil spilled into Mill Creek.
Officials said that while additional response-related tasks are ongoing–such as the disposal of oil-impacted soil and sediment, response-generated waste, and the restoration of lands impacted by the response–the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) has authorized TC Energy to begin restoration work in Mill Creek under Nationwide Permit 27: Aquatic Habitat Restoration, Enhancement, and Establishment Activities.
Through this permit, the restoration of Mill Creek will allow for the creek to be restored to its original condition, form and functions, as well as include enhancement activities that will result in a net gain in aquatic resource functions and services.
EPA and KDHE will continue to monitor the cleanup and restoration of the site and the impacted segments of Mill Creek. KDHE will also oversee the decommissioning of the water treatment facilities, monitor the water quality, work with USACE on restoration efforts, and work with the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks to evaluate the impacts on wildlife in the area. Monitoring of the surface and groundwater will also be conducted by KDHE.
