he B.C. Energy Regulator is investigating a produced-water pipeline leak west of Dawson Creek after a release entered a nearby stream on private land last month.
According to the B.C. Energy Regulator, the incident was reported July 14 and occurred about 26 kilometres west of Dawson Creek near Arras.
The regulator said the leak originated from a produced-water pipeline operated by Murphy Oil Corporation. Produced water flowed downslope from the pipeline and entered a nearby non-fish-bearing stream.
Containment measures have since been put in place and remediation work is ongoing.
In a statement to Vista Radio News, the regulator said it has been actively overseeing the company’s response.
“The BC Energy Regulator (BCER) is investigating an incident reported on July 14, 2026, related to the release of produced water on private land, approximately 26 km west of Dawson Creek. A leak occurred from a produced water pipeline operated by Murphy Oil Corporation. The produced water flowed downslope and entered an adjacent non-fish bearing stream.”
The regulator added crews remain focused on containing and cleaning up the release.
“Containment measures are in place and remediation is underway. The BCER has been on site and continues to monitor the company’s response.”
The regulator said it could not provide additional details because the investigation remains active.
“Since this is an active investigation, this is all the information we will be releasing at this time. Please contact Murphy Oil Corporation for further information.”
Produced water is a byproduct of oil and gas production and can contain salts, hydrocarbons and other naturally occurring substances that require specialized handling and disposal.
In a statement to Vista Radio News, Murphy Oil said it responded immediately after identifying the release and notified regulators.
“Murphy is responding to a produced water release from a pipeline on private land in the Tupper Montney West field. The incident was reported by Murphy to the appropriate regulatory authorities, and the affected pipeline was isolated and drained.”
The company said environmental monitoring and cleanup efforts remain underway.
“Murphy continues environmental monitoring and remediation activities while working closely with the BC Energy Regulator and private landowners.”
The incident first came to public attention after reports of a cleanup operation in the area. However, the regulator has not confirmed the extent of the release beyond the information provided during the ongoing investigation.
Neither Murphy Oil nor the regulator has released information about the cause of the pipeline leak or the volume of produced water involved.
The regulator has not said when its investigation is expected to be completed.
