CLEANING UP IN KAMSACK

Released on November 8, 2001

A major environmental clean up project got underway in Kamsack today.



More than a million dollars will be spent cleaning up contamination on the

site of the old Northern Petroleum Refinery in Kamsack. The refinery

closed down in the 1970s after nearly 60 years of operation. During this

period, operating practices and small spills contaminated the soil and

groundwater on the property.



"This project is a challenge from the past," Environment and Resource

Management Minister Buckley Belanger said. "It is a reflection of the

commitment the people of Kamsack and the province have to environmental

stewardship and the health and safety of their families, friends and

neighbours. This is an example of how commitment, consultation and co-

operation can accomplish a lot."



The project is being cost-shared by three partners. The town will manage

the project and contribute equipment and staff. International Comfort

Products Corporation contributed $425,000 on behalf of a now defunct

subsidiary of a company bought by International Comfort Products

Corporation. The province is using its Centenary Fund to contribute

$605,000.



"The commitment shown here today will only help to improve the quality of

life, the environment, and most of all the safety and health of our future

generations," Kamsack Mayor Pamela Nykolaishen said. "This is how

different levels of government can help, do help and will continue to

help. Together we can do anything we put our minds to."



The clean up project is expected to take between three and five years.



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For more information, contact:



Jim Brandt Jackie Lamarre-Neriuoka

Environment and Resource Management Town of Kamsack

Saskatoon Kamsack

Phone: (306) 933-6544 Phone: (306) 542-2155