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Update on New Jersey Transit Diesel Spill
In the early morning of January 12, a major diesel fuel leak occurred at the NJ Transit bus garage in Washington Township. Approximately 26,000 gallons of diesel fuel leaked into Grenloch Lake and through the Blackwood Lake waterways, affecting both Washington Township and neighboring Camden County. Fire and emergency service crews deployed special absorbent materials and a private contractor, Clean Venture, was immediately retained by NJ Transit to contain the spill and begin the clean-up work.
According to the N.J. Department of Environmental Protection and the Gloucester County Health Department, there is no threat to public drinking water, nor is there any public health threat to residential areas. However, officials are asking that residents stay clear of the Grenloch Lake and Blackwood Lake areas until further notice. Some wildlife in the area of the lakes have been affected. If any residents observe an injured bird or other animal, do not attempt to assist the animal. For your safety, please contact Gloucester County Animal Control at 856-881-2828.
Due to this diesel spill, the Grenloch Lake Fishing Pier and the Grenloch Dog Park will be closed until further notice. Thank you for your patience. Any further questions regarding the spill should be directed to NJ Transit at 856-401-2307 or to the help line at 1-800-626-7433. For detailed day-by-day updates, please read our news feed stories listed to the right of this column.