CALGARY, Alberta, Aug. 03, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The AER has charged Syncrude Canada Ltd. for the deaths of 31 great blue herons found at a sump at the company’s Mildred Lake oil sands mine north of Fort McMurray in August 2015.    

The company has been charged with one count under the Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act for failing to store a hazardous substance in a manner that ensures that it does not come into direct contact with, or contaminate, animals. If convicted, Syncrude could face a financial penalty of up to $500,000.

The incident was reported to the AER on August 7, 2015.

The first court appearance is scheduled for September 27, 2017, in Fort McMurray, Alberta.

The Alberta Energy Regulator ensures the safe, efficient, orderly, and environmentally responsible development of hydrocarbon resources over their entire life cycle. This includes allocating and conserving water resources, managing public lands, and protecting the environment while providing economic benefits for all Albertans.

FOR BROADCAST USE:

The AER has charged Syncrude Canada Ltd. for the deaths of 31 great blue herons found at a sump at the company’s Mildred Lake oil sands mine north of Fort McMurray in August 2015.  If convicted, Syncrude could face a financial penalty of up to $500,000.

For more information, please contact:

Monica Hermary, AER Public Affairs
Phone: 403-860-2377
Email: monica.hermary@aer.ca 
Media line: 1-855-474-6356