Cleanup is underway after a petroleum hydrocarbon release was reported in the Bear River in Grande Prairie, Alberta on Friday, July 24, 2026. The spill, located between Maskwoteh Park and the Grande Prairie Museum & Heritage Village in Muskoseepi Park, was reported by a resident that evening, and crews have since contained it.
The City of Grande Prairie says there is no danger to the public. However, people are being asked to keep children and pets out of the water in the affected area while work continues through the week of July 27. The city also asks residents to give cleanup crews space to work safely.
The Grande Prairie Fire Department and its Hazardous Materials (HazMat) Team are coordinating the response alongside Alberta Environment and Protected Areas. City crews responded immediately after the resident’s report, which the city says enabled a quick response and reduced potential environmental impacts.
The only anticipated disruption for the public is brief, intermittent closures of the pedestrian bridge near the Grande Prairie Museum & Heritage Village as equipment is moved through the area. Maskwoteh Park, at the north end of the affected section, features 900 metres of trails, picnic areas, and three playgrounds, and is a popular spot for families.
The city is using the incident to remind residents that stormwater flows untreated into local waterways, including the Bear River. People are encouraged to properly dispose of chemicals, fuels, oils, and other harmful materials to help protect the environment.
