Charges laid regarding October 2013 Apache Zama City pipeline spill

Calgary, Alberta (Oct 19, 2015)… Apache Canada Ltd. has been charged with seven counts for contraventions of the Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act, the Public Lands Act, and the Pipeline Act.

The charges follow an October 25, 2013 pipeline spill of approximately 1,800 m3 of produced water impacting an area of over 3.8 ha 33 km northwest of Zama City, Alberta. First appearance is scheduled for December 7, 2015, in High Level Provincial Court.

On July 7, 2015, the AER directed Apache to take steps necessary to address issues with its internal pipeline management system. The AER issued the maximum administrative penalty of $16,500 and four orders. The AER news release on this matter can be found here: http://www.aer.ca/about-aer/media-centre/news-releases/news-release-2015-07-07.

The AER continues its investigation into one additional Apache incident, which may be subject to further enforcement action. Failure to adhere to all terms of the AER orders will result in further enforcement.

The Alberta Energy Regulator ensures the safe, efficient, orderly, and environmentally responsible development of hydrocarbon resources over their entire life cycle. This includes allocating and conserving water resources, managing public lands, and protecting the environment while providing economic benefits for all Albertans.

Backgrounder: Apache pipeline spill and AER investigation process explained
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In addition, Apache Canada Ltd. has been charged with seven counts for contraventions of the Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act, Public Lands Act, and the Pipeline Act after one of the company’s pipelines spilled approximately 1,800 m3 of produced water impacting an area of over 3.8 ha approximately 33 km northeast of Zama City, Alberta on October 25, 2013.

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For more information, please contact:
Ryan Bartlett, AER Public Affairs
Phone: 403-297-3268
E-mail: ryan.bartlett@aer.ca
Media line: 1-855-474-6356

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