Lewis County is asking residents to avoid swimming, wading or otherwise entering Olequa Creek at any point between Winlock and Vader after a confirmed diesel fuel spill.
According to the news release from Lewis Count Public Health and Social Services, the Washington state Department of Ecology responded to reports of oil sheen on the surface of Oleque Creek near the Winlock City Water Treatment Plant at 1209 SW Mayer Ave. on July 10.
After investigating the report, the department confirmed the spill and suspects its coming from an above-ground diesel storage tank located on a plot of land along Northwest King Road.
The health warning included with the news release advises residents to avoid contact with the creek water, keep pets and other animals away from the creek and report any oil sheen by calling 1-800-OILS-911.
According to the county, approximately 200 gallons of diesel fuel are unaccounted for, and contractors have arrived on the site to begin cleanup. It's as of now uncertain how much of the missing fuel entered the creek. Government officials say that up to a mile of the creek may be affected.
Lewis County Public Health says it will continue coordinating with the Department of Ecology to provide updates to the community as more information is made available. For questions, concerns or reports, call Lewis County Public Health and Social Services at 360-740-1223 or reach out by email at contact@lewiscountywa.gov.
