South Lake Spill Response Update
Shoreline assessment and aerial survey show no visible fuel product beyond the contained area (
(May 11, 2026) – Lakelands Public Health shares update on the drinking water advisory sent on April 21 for the residents and cottage owners on South Lake.
The Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP) technical support staff have completed an aerial survey of South Lake, the spill site and surrounding shorelines. Based on the findings in videos, photos and visual observations, no free product or fuel sheen was identified in the water or along the shoreline beyond the contained area immediately in front of the property and adjacent properties to the spill site.
The spill site area is currently contained by absorbent socks, pads and sea booms and samples continue to be collected from inside and outside the boomed area. To date, no impacts have been observed beyond the sea boom.
The cleanup remains ongoing and all containment measures will remain in place until cleanup activities are complete, and recovery of product will continue as needed.
Residents and cottage owners may return to their normal water usage routine.
Stay Informed
For updates and additional information, please visit: LakelandsPH.ca/BWA or contact Lakelands Public Health at 1-844-575-4567.
-30-
Media Contact
Ashley Ann Beaulac, SCMP©, B.A. Hons
Communications Manager
Lakelands Public Health
media@lakelandsph.ca
About Lakelands Public Health
Lakelands Public Health is the public health agency that is proud to serve Alderville, Curve Lake and Hiawatha First Nations, the Urban Indigenous Community, the Counties of Haliburton, Northumberland, Cities of Kawartha Lakes and Peterborough City and County. It is through our relationships and valued partnerships that Lakelands Public Health strives to protect health, prevent illness, injury, all while promoting overall well-being for all who live, work and learn in the region.
Established through the voluntary merger of the Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge District Health Unit and Peterborough Public Health, Lakelands Public Health combines local knowledge, public health expertise, and a strong community focus to deliver programs and services that respond to local needs. These include infectious disease prevention and control, healthy living initiatives, environmental health, school and family health programs, and emergency preparedness. For more information, visit LakelandsPH.ca.
Contact Our Team
We’re here to help. Reach out and we’ll respond as quickly as possible.