Energy regulator charges Syncrude in great blue herons deaths
PHOTO: Supplied. Tailings drain into a pond at the Syncrude oilsands mine facility near Fort McMurray, Alta., Wednesday, July 9, 2008. The Alberta Energy Regulator says it is investigating reports that approximately 30 blue herons have died at an oilsands site. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jeff McIntosh
Calgary-based Syncrude is facing an environmental charge in connection with the deaths of 31 great blue herons at a company work site.
The incident happened two years ago.
The dead birds were discovered at a sump at the company’s Mildred Lake oil sands mine, north of Fort McMurray.
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The Alberta Energy Regulator laid the charge under the province’s Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act.
If convicted, the company could face a fine of up to $500,000.
The first court appearance is scheduled for Sept. 27.