Possible Contamination in Parshallville Under Investigation

A possible contamination leak into Ore Creek in Parshallville that occurred on June 19 is currently being investigated by officials in Livingston County.

Some of the field procedures and data collections practices of the Enbridge Corporation are being called into question, according to a letter to Parshallville residents from County Commissioner Dave Domas.

According to the letter, a contractor, Pricision Piping, conducted a procedure on the new oil transmission line that resulted in residue being discharged into Ore creek with "the water surface causing a sort of fountain like display accompaned by loud banging."

Domas explained to residents that while the permit construction for the project was "lengthy and complex," due to the incident reported, "it seems in this case they missed a few things."

"I have been in direct contact with the DEQ; their field staff is currently investigating this matter; and I have offered any assistance they may need," Domas wrote. "Their report should be complete within the next two weeks and will be sent to me at that time whereupon it will be distributed to any and all who wish a copy."

According to a Facebook post from Hartland Township, residents had contacted the township on June 18 with reports of "loud sounds coming from the Parshallville area." 

"We've learned that Enbridge is installing a pipe under the wetlands along Linden Road," The Hartland Township Facebook post read. "There will likely also be a strong odor association with the installation. The township is not a part of this project, but you can contact Enbridge directly for any additional information."

Hartland Township also informed the public with their post that the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) was onsite overseeing this work.

A YouTube video provided via email from the National Wildlife federation shows the discharge was off Linden Rd, a quarter mile north of Parshallville Rd.