The B.C. Energy Regulator has ordered NorthRiver Midstream Inc. to undertake additional environmental investigation work at the McMahon facility near Taylor.
The regulator is citing concerns about potential contaminant migration and the need for a more complete understanding of groundwater conditions at the site.
The order, issued July 21, requires NorthRiver Midstream to complete additional soil and groundwater sampling and submit a detailed investigation report by Dec. 31, 2026.
According to the regulator, the work is necessary to better characterize groundwater flow conditions, hydraulic gradients and potential contaminant migration pathways around the facility.
The McMahon facility, located adjacent to the Peace River near Taylor, has operated since 1957 and includes legacy infrastructure from previous refinery operations, including an earthen flare pit and oil-water separator.
Regulatory oversight of the site transferred from the Ministry of Environment to the BC Energy Regulator in 2021.
The regulator said available monitoring data and historical records suggest hydrocarbon contamination could be present in both soil and groundwater at the site.
Following a review of historical records and environmental information, the BC Energy Regulator determined additional investigation is required to better understand whether contaminants may have migrated, or could migrate, toward a nearby area known as the Weir Area.
Under the order, NorthRiver Midstream must drill additional boreholes and install new groundwater monitoring wells.
Soil and groundwater samples are to be analyzed for a range of potential contaminants, including petroleum hydrocarbons, benzene, volatile organic compounds, dissolved metals and salinity parameters.
All field work must be completed by Oct. 31, 2026.
The regulator noted that uncertainty remains regarding groundwater flow direction between the flare pits and the Weir Area, raising concerns about potential pathways for contaminant migration.
The order states that more than 800 litres of non-aqueous phase liquid have been recovered from groundwater monitoring wells in the Weir Area since contamination was first identified there in 2000.
In issuing the order, the BC Energy Regulator said it is satisfied the additional investigation is necessary to assess potential environmental impacts and determine whether contaminants are affecting, or could affect, the environment.
The regulator said the McMahon facility is located approximately three kilometres downstream from municipal water intakes and that it is not aware of any evidence suggesting drinking water has been impacted by contamination at the site.
Once NorthRiver submits its investigation report, BC Energy Regulator technical staff will review the findings to determine any further steps needed to ensure the site meets environmental protection and public safety standards.