Operators responsible for monitoring a pipeline noticed a pressure drop at 1:20 am, 12 h after restarting the pumps after a power outage due to storm. The underground pipeline ruptured and crude oil contaminated soil, groundwater and 21 km from the Pine River. This pollution threatens the water supply of the town of Chetwynd 100 km downstream. The water dispenser fills up its reservoirs in order to have a buffer of 4 to 6 weeks of consumption. Agents of pipeline shut the valves of the pipeline at 2:15 am.
In the end, 985 m³ of crude oil were spilled: 450 m³ were pumped back from the river, 415 m³ of soil were removed and 80 cubic meters have been lost. The cost of cleaning is $ 30 million Canadian dollars (22.4 million euros in August 2000). Pollution has killed fish, insects and wild animals. Beaver dams were also soiled
The pipeline, built in 1962, had been inspected before being sold and no defects were detected.