Park reopens after oil sheen cleanup

ST. MARIES - After four days of oil cleanup efforts, the St. Maries Fire Protection District reopened Aqua Park's boat launch, beach and the St. Joe River.

It's just in time for Paul Bunyan Days and Labor Day weekend.

Swimming at the park is still not recommended. Crews will continue to monitor conditions through the weekend and clear any remaining pockets of oil.

"Our community's safety and environmental protection is our top priority," said St. Maries Fire Protection District Chief, Larry Naccarato. "We are happy to see the oil sheen has dissipated significantly and we will continue to monitor the water to ensure safety."

Naccarato said local and regional agencies collaborated to expedite the cleanup for the busy weekend.

Floating booms were used along the river to absorb oil residue that was reported in the water and along the beach Monday.

While the river water is now safe for boat traffic, signs have been posted along the beach to warn campers of swimming risks.

The source of the oil has not been identified, but was likely motor oil or grease. The sheen was visible on more than 1.5 miles of the river.

There were no visible impacts to fish and wildlife due to the sheen, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

If anyone saw any suspicious activity near Aqua Park on Sunday, Aug. 30, contact St. Maries Police at 245-5102.