Edwardsville oil spill: Wildlife personnel find 10 animals deceased, 14 more injured

Illinois Environmental Protection Agency officials report that about 163,800 gallons of oil were spilled Friday in Edwardsville. The leak entered into neighboring Cahokia Creek, and wildlife experts are onsite treating affected animals.

Officials with Marathon Pipe Line, the company that operates the line, reported that as of 8 a.m. Tuesday, approximately 11,075 barrels of water and oil mixture had been recovered from the Cahokia diversion channel. About 390 cubic yards of oily soil had also been removed.

How have animals been impacted by the spill?

MPL reported at 10 a.m. Tuesday seven ducks, one heron, one muskrat and one frog have been found deceased by wildlife rescue personnel. The crew is currently treating seven more ducks, one frog, one hawk, two beavers and three turtles.

What is being done to care for affected wildlife? How will other animals be kept from entering the scene?

The spill is being monitored 24 hours per day for impacted wildlife, according to MPL. Environmental remediation experts have brought resources and staff to the scene. The rescue center where affected wildlife is being treated has received a new heating unit and upgrades to water filtration and heating systems.

The MPL press release said the company is using “audible deterrent” to keep animals from entering the spill area. The company reported it is covering all expenses related to recovering and rehabilitating all affected wildlife, and volunteers are not needed at this time.

What should you do if you find wildlife affected by the spill?

Do not approach the animal, as it could be dangerous. Call 302-363-5086 to report the sighting.

This story was originally published March 15, 2022 at 11:19 AM.