Three times more waterfowl died than previously thought in Alberta’s tailings ponds. Syncrude Canada Ltd., and the Alberta government, knew about the higher numbers but only recently released the information to the public.
It was originally reported that 500 ducks died in a Syncrude tailings pond in April 2008. New information, released by Syncrude Canada Ltd., now shows that more than three times that amount of ducks died – bringing the number closer to 1600.
The plight of the 500 drowned ducks made international headlines and drew criticism of the environmental consequences of the Alberta Oil Sands from around the world.
The new death toll figures have also drawn criticism from environmental groups that question why the higher numbers were kept secret for so long and how Syncrude Canada Ltd., and all the oil companies working in the area, can prevent more birds from drowning in the tailings ponds.
Local and migratory birds are attracted to the open pools of water, not realizing until it is too late that the ponds are filled with a thick, gooey substance (residual bitumen) that quickly coats their feathers and causes them to sink and drown.
New measures to prevent the drowning of more birds include noise devices and water cannons. The 1600 birds died because Syncrude Canada Ltd. was not operating their water cannons in severe weather.
Syncrude Canada Ltd., the largest company in the area, has been charged with depositing" a substance harmful to migratory birds in waters or an area frequented by birds”, reported the Calgary Herald. The company may face a maximum fine of up to $500,000 under Alberta law. Federal law allows for a slightly smaller fine and up to six months in prison.
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